Abstract: The present invention relates to human microRNA targets in HIV genome and a method of identification thereof. Using multiple software targets to six human microRNAs [miRNAs] were discovered in the net, vpr, env, and I vif genes. The miRNAs were identified as hsa-miR-29a, hsa-miR-29b, hsa-miR-29c, hsa-mir-149, hsa-mir-324-5p, hsa-mir-378. These miRNAs or its homologues can be used as therapeutics against HIV infection. The invention further relates to a novel strategy to target genes of HIV-1 by human microRNAs, or its homologues, to inactivate or block HIV activity. The computational approach towards identification of human miRNA targets in the HIV genome and the variation in the microRNA levels was further validated experimentally.

Abstract: The present invention relates to targets for Human microRNAs in Avian Influenza Virus (H5N1) Genome and provides specific miRNA targets against H5N1 virus. Existing therapies for Avian flu are of limited use primarily due to genetic re-assortment of the viral genome, generating novel proteins, and thus escaping immune response. In animal models, baculovirus-derived recombinant H5 vaccines were immunogenic and protective, but results in humans were disappointing even when using high doses. Currently, two classes of drugs are available with antiviral activity against influenza viruses: inhibitors of the M2 ion channel, amantadine and rimantadine, and inhibitors of neuraminidase, oseltamivir, and zanamivir. There is paucity of information regarding effectiveness of these drugs in H5N1 infection. These drugs are also well known to have side effects like neurotoxicity. Thus there exists a need to develop alternate therapy for targeting the Avian flu virus (H5N1).

Abstract: The present invention relates to targets for Human microRNAs in Avian Influenza Virus (H5N1) Genome and provides specific miRNA targets against H5N1 virus. Existing therapies for Avian flu are of limited use primarily due to genetic re-assortment of the viral genome, generating novel proteins, and thus escaping immune response. In animal models, baculovirus-derived recombinant H5 vaccines were immunogenic and protective, but results in humans were disappointing even when using high doses. Currently, two classes of drugs are available with antiviral activity against influenza viruses: inhibitors of the M2 ion channel, amantadine and rimantadine, and inhibitors of neuraminidase, oseltamivir, and zanamivir. There is paucity of information regarding effectiveness of these drugs in H5N1 infection. These drugs are also well known to have side effects like neurotoxicity. Thus there exists a need to develop alternate therapy for targeting the Avian flu virus (H5N1).

Abstract: The present invention relates to human microRNA targets in HIV genome and a method of identification thereof. Using multiple software targets to six human microRNAs [miRNAs] were discovered in the net, vpr, env, and I vif genes. The miRNAs were identified as hsa-miR-29a, hsa-miR-29b, hsa-miR-29c, hsa-mir-149, hsa-mir-324-5p, hsa-mir-378. These miRNAs or its homologues can be used as therapeutics against HIV infection. The invention further relates to a novel strategy to target genes of HIV-1 by human microRNAs, or its homologues, to inactivate or block HIV activity. The computational approach towards identification of human miRNA targets in the HIV genome and the variation in the microRNA levels was further validated experimentally.