Biomek FXP Laboratory Automation Workstation as a Tool for Discovering Targets and Compounds for Host-Directed Influenza Therapy

Influenza viruses (IVs) represent a major public health burden. The application note describes a study in which a siRNA library for cellular genes involved in viral multiplication to find factors which might be suitable candidates for host-directed therapy. Then, upon identification of relevant genes, chemical inhibitors of the target genes were screened for antiviral activity. To achieve the high throughput screening required, the Biomek FXP Laboratory Automation Workstation was enclosed in a BSL-2 or -3 safety cabinet. Using this strategy, the study identified several agents that inhibit IVs.