Lethal mutagenesis of viruses

Lethal mutagenesis aims at extinguishing viruses by increased mutagenesis prompted by virus-specific mutagenic agents, mainly nucleoside analogues. It is derived from the error threshold relationship of quasispecies theory, and it is slowly finding its way towards a clinical application. We summarize the current situation of research in this field of antiviral therapy.

► Antiviral therapy meets with the problem of great adaptability of RNA viruses. ► An alternative approach to classic therapy is lethal mutagenesis of viruses. ► Lethal mutagenesis is based on the concept of achieving virus extinction by excess of mutations. ► This review summarizes the state-of-the art of this new antiviral strategy. ► The need to design new antiviral protocols based on lethal mutagenesis is emphasized. ► Major challenges for this field of reserach are suggested.