neuraminidase

/ ˌnjʊərəˈmɪnɪdeɪz /

noun

1. any of various enzymes, found esp in viruses, that catalyse the breakdown of glucosides containing neuraminic acid, an amino sugar

Word History and Origins

Origin of neuraminidase¹

C20: from neuramin ( ic acid ) (from neuro- + amine + -ic ) + -ide + -ase

Example Sentences

"It binds and inhibits viral neuraminidase expressed on both free virus particles and virus-infected cells," he said.

From Science Daily

Type A influenza viruses such as H5N1 are characterized by the combination of two proteins on their surface: hemagglutinin, which can be one of 18 types numbered H1 to H18, and neuraminidase, numbered N1 to N11.

From Salon

Small-molecule drugs that block neuraminidase, a major surface glycoprotein of the influenza virus, can help treat early infection, but they provide limited benefit when the infection is more severe, and they are generally less effective in treating influenza B infections.

From Science Daily

The “N” stands for neuraminidase.

From Los Angeles Times

He says "using not only hemagglutinin but also neuraminidase antigens to create vaccines is important because it translates into broader immunity and companies will be able to create more doses with less materials. That's critical for not only the flu but also potential outbreaks like what we saw with COVID-19. There is still much work to be done in fully testing and validating this flu technology, but at this point these early results are quite promising."

From Science Daily