First complete structure of Flu virus key machine revealed

Scientists were looking to understand and prevent the influenza virus now have a much more encompassing view, thanks to the first complete structure of one of the flu virus’ key machines. The complete structure allows researchers to understand how the polymerase uses host cell RNA (red) to kick-start the production of viral messenger RNA. The structure, obtained by scientists at EMBL Grenoble, allows researchers to finally understand how the machine works as a whole, and could prove instrumental in designing new drugs to treat serious flu infections and combat flu pandemics.