Researchers from The University of Osaka have developed a novel reverse genetics system to study norovirus, the leading cause of gastroenteritis. This efficient system can generate infectious viral particles by simply injecting viral genetic material into zebrafish embryos. They were able to alter the genetic material to create modified viruses, enabling the evaluation of antiviral drugs and novel vaccine development. The advances provided by this new system will have a significant effect on public health.

A new study led by Iowa State University researchers shows the mammary glands of pigs, sheep, goats, beef cattle, alpacas and humans are biologically suitable to be infected by H5N1 avian influenza, which has so far affected mostly poultry and dairy cattle.