Researchers have long understood that certain viruses and bacteria initiate infections by initially attaching to sugar molecules present on the cell surfaces lining the sinuses and throats of mammals, including humans. For example, viral particles can bind to these molecules, known as sialic acids, or SAs, in a manner similar to keys fitting into locks.
Now, a new study in infant mice shows that keeping DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02203-23
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