3D map of SARS virus drawn up

Scientists from Europe and China have completed a gene analysis of eight different strains of the SARS virus protein and defined the 3-D protein structure of each, it was announced on November 2.

The scientists also found naturally occurring SARS antibodies present in Chinese herbal medicines and some fruits such as the Chinese gooseberry.

Rolf Hilgenfeld, a professor from the University of Lubeck in Germany said that the scientists have also screened out 24 kinds of anti-viral active compounds. The medicine being researched will be useful for other viruses as well as SARS.

By People's Daily Online