How does Zika virus affect our neural cells?

New research, published recently in Scientific Reports, has demonstrated that infection with Zika virus interferes with a wide array of cellular interactions, including genes responsible for cell division and neural differentiation. The findings have presented many cellular targets which could lead to opportunities for drug design. The association between microcephaly and Zika has been reported previously; however, little is known about the cellular mechanisms that lead to microcephaly and other neural complications of Zika infection. Author Stevens Rehen, from the D' Or Institute for Research and Education (Brazil), explained: "Elucidating the foundations of Zika virus infection is crucial in order...