A bioshield against influenza virus infection by commensal bacteria secreting antiviral peptide.

Avian influenza is caused by influenza viruses such as the influenza A virus. In 1997 in Hong Kong, the avian influenza viruses were found to cross the species barrier to infect human beings and cause respiratory illness and death. H5N1 viruses later reemerged in Asia with human cases of infection, of which more than 50% were fatal. We proposed to genetically engineer naturally occurring bacteria to provide protection against influenza A virus infection by secreting a peptide that interferes with viral attachment. Introduction and colonisation of these genetically modified bacteria in the oral mucosa and respiratory tract would provide a natural bioshield for uninfected individuals and protection against influenza A virus.