Making us Stronger from the Inside

      Most traditional antivirals target the virus themselves by partially inhibiting their methods of reproducing.  However, a new study has found a way to help boost our natural immunity, boosting the protective capabilities of our cells.  Researchers at the Washington University School of Medicine were able to find a drug that is capable of boosting our natural immunity through an automated screening technique capable of screening large quantities at the same time.  The researchers screened 2,240 compounds and found 64 that helps to enhance our natural response to viral infections.  These drugs do this by enhancing cells' interferon system.  Out of these drugs, the most notable one found was idarubicin, a drug normally used to treat for cancer by preventing cells from dividing.  I think that this discovery is amazing, as it allows for a more broader view for finding antivirals, that not only target the viruses, but our own cells and so that we can be more protected and ready against viral invasions.