The Secret Weapon Against Viruses: Evolution

Rose Barrett

A recent article in The New York Times, Using a Virus’s Knack for Mutating to Wipe It Out, written by Carl Zimmer and published on January 4, 2010, offers new information on the eradication of viruses. It is available online.

This article discusses recent developments regarding the concept of “lethal mutagenesis.” This is a potential new method of treating viruses with drugs that increase the rate of mutation. Although current treatments are often effective, scientists are always in search of improved techniques. The article states, as we know from class, that viruses mutate very quickly in comparison with other living things. These mutations can enable the virus to evolve so that it can infect its host more effectively. However, while some mutations result in increased strength, most are fatal or at least slow growth. The idea behind lethal mutagenesis is that increased mutations will result in the defeat of the virus, as the number of harmful mutations also increases. A geneticist at the University of Washington has already shown that this method can be successful, eliminating an HIV infection in vitro ten years ago. However, concerns about negative side effects on patients have slowed any growth in support this method might have had. Viruses affect people universally, but with the help of lethal mutagenesis, it is possible that more effective treatments can be developed.

This article is extremely optimistic about the future of lethal mutagenesis. Zimmer chooses to cite Dr. Domingo, who is also hopeful, saying, “Dr. Domingo, who has been studying mutation rates in viruses for more than three decades, the latest results suggest lethal mutagenesis will become a medical reality—at least someday.” His choice to end the article on the confidence of Dr. Domingo shows his faith in the method. Zimmer does recognize other bias, however, covering the negative aspects of the treatment, but he seems to believe that these will be overcome at some point.

The author of this article, Carl Zimmer, is a science writer who has contributed to numerous reputable sources, including The New York Times, National Geographic, Time, and Popular Science. He also lectures at Yale University. Zimmer supplies numerous quotes and citations of factual material to support his statements. Although he seems to be in favor of advance in the treatment, he presents views opposing it as well. There is bias present in favor of lethal mutagenesis, but it is not an editorial, as Zimmer chooses to use the words of other scientists rather than his own opinions. The article is informative and engaging, and presents a balanced view of arguments for and against further testing.

I found this article to be very interesting because the treatment could completely revolutionize the way viruses are treated. I appreciated the heavy integration of quotes and data to support the information. The article was especially interesting because we have learned so much about antibiotics. Antibiotics slow growth of pathogens directly, while mutation-increasing drugs cause pathogens to eliminate themselves through a process that is meant to make them more powerful. Lethal mutagenesis seems to be a promising new field, and I believe scientists should proceed with caution to test it.