Common drugs may help dangerous viruses spread through the body
A surprising discovery reveals that widely used anti-inflammatory drugs may unintentionally help dangerous viruses spread through the body. Scientists found that JAK inhibitors, prescribed for rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory diseases, can weaken a crucial immune defense against influenza, COVID-19, and other infections. By suppressing genes that normally fight viruses, these medications may leave…
Key points
- NTNU researchers found JAK inhibitor anti-inflammatory drugs can help viruses spread more easily in the body.
- Viruses affected include Rift Valley fever virus, influenza A, adenovirus and SARS-CoV-2.
- The drugs suppress an immune signalling pathway that protects healthy cells from viral attacks.
Scientists at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) have found that a widely used class of anti-inflammatory drugs, called Janus kinase inhibitors or JAKs, may make it easier for certain viruses to infect cells and spread through the body. The study was published in NAR Molecular Medicine.
According to the researchers, the drugs suppress an important immune signalling pathway that helps protect healthy cells from viral attacks. The viruses that more easily affect the body with the help of these drugs include Rift Valley fever virus, influenza A, adenovirus and SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.
How the drugs interfere
JAK inhibitors are often prescribed for autoimmune diseases and inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. The team found that these drugs, including baricitinib, can reduce the activity of genes involved in fighting viral infections.
The scientists combined advanced virology methods with gene expression analysis and organoid technology, using cells from the lungs, eyes and brain along with miniature organ models grown in the laboratory.
They can help viruses spread more easily in the body
— Denis Kainov
What researchers recommend
The results suggest healthcare professionals should exercise caution when prescribing JAK inhibitors during periods of increased viral transmission, especially for patients with latent or active viral infections. The researchers also note the drugs' immune-suppressing effects could help in laboratory research to develop vaccines or evaluate antiviral medications.
They call for further studies to understand optimal use, particularly during outbreaks or pandemics.
