Methods and Current Trends in Determination of Neuraminidase Activity and Evaluation of Neuraminidase Inhibitors

This review focuses on the methods and current trends in determination of neuraminidases (NAs) activity and evaluation of neuraminidase inhibitors (NAIs) by means of biochemical assays. These methods can be used, in principle, for any type of sialidase, with regard to substrate specificity and optimal conditions for enzymatic reaction. Considering the range of organisms producing sialidases, this review omits cell-based assays (plaque assays and study of cytopathic effect) and animal model studies, which are reviewed elsewhere concerning specific organisms. The present review also provides the brief introductory survey of role of sialic acids and neuraminidases, but main focus is on the methods of determining neuraminidase activity and evaluating neuraminidase inhibitors. The future prospect of improvement in analytical techniques regarding the enzymatic activity of sialidases is briefly outlined.