Definition of Antivirus

An antivirus such as Tamiflu is a drug that selectively destroys a host cell's parasite. Its mechanism of action depends on its selectivity and specificity on the target virus. Several successful clinical trials and genetic engineering breakthroughs have helped clinicians better understand the mechanisms of antivirus drugs.

Virus

• Viruses are described as "biological entities" because they are parasites that make use of cellular machinery and energy sources to invade the cells of its host. The cellular invasion causes viral diseases that can only be treated by killing the parasite with antiviral drug therapies.

Antivirus

• An antivirus drug is designed to kill the parasitic viruses that damage the cellular components of its host. In the mid-1980s, an in-depth research of the structure of viruses led to a better understanding of ways to create better anti-viral drug architecture.

Purpose

• According to MicrobiologyBytes, the purpose of designing a drug architecture is to prevent invasive agents that hinder a cell's natural function. Antivirus experts aims to prepare the right drug that will eliminate the parasite before its host develops a resistance from the medicine.

Mechanism of Action

• An antivirus is designed in a sophisticated manner wherein it selectively destroys the cells of a parasite without harming the hosts' cells. Its mechanism of action is dependent on high specificity, and its effectiveness is measured on how long it destroys the target.

Application

• According to the Rega Institute for Medical Research in Leuven, Belgium, an anti-virus is applied mostly to patients with antivirus diseases, such as the AH1-N1 patients. Another application of antivirus drugs is to genetically modify a plant's genetic material so that it will have immunity from pets and other factors.