Forced Evolution: Can We Mutate Viruses To Death?
Tuesday, November 11, 2008 - 09:35
in Biology & Nature
Can scientists create a designer drug that forces viruses to mutate themselves out of existence? A new study by bioengineers could help make it happen. The study offers the most comprehensive mathematical analysis to date of the mechanisms that drive evolution in viruses and bacteria, and it could help scientists who are looking to add "lethal mutagenesis" to medicine's disease-fighting arsenal.