New research has revealed a large group of viruses, including human pathogens, can create proteins using both virus and human DNA. When researchers analyzed the genetic difference and protein synthesis abilities of a group of viruses known as segmented negative-strand RNA viruses, or sNSVs, they found a type of human pathogens can code for new proteins by coupling host and viral series. Viruses can’t produce their own proteins. To sustain and replicate, a virus infects a host and turns it into a factory for producing more copies of itself. Researchers believe their research will clarify new ways of attacking viruses with drugs and vaccines, and potentially assist the effort to prevent future pandemics and epidemics.