MEMPHIS, Jan. 26 (UPI) -- St. Jude Children's Research Hospital scientists say they have completed the first large-scale study of bird flu virus genomes.
The researchers at the Memphis, Tenn., hospital said their work has doubled the amount of genetic information available on the genes and proteins of the viruses.
The scientists say the results of the project could lead to major insights into the bird flu virus known as H5N1 -- the deadly avian virus currently infecting humans in Asia and Eastern Europe. Experts fear the avian flu virus could mutate and cause a worldwide pandemic.
"These studies provide the first fundamental insight into the evolution of influenza viruses in nature -- the source of all influenza viruses that affect humans, domestic animals and birds," said Robert Webster, a co-author of the study.
"This information is a true gold mine, and we are inviting all of the miners to help us unlock the secrets of influenza," Webster added.
The research is published in the Jan. 27 issue of the journal Science.
