What does NS1 do in dengue?

NS1 (Non-Structural Protein 1) is a protein produced by the dengue virus during the early stages of infection. In dengue, the NS1 protein is released into the bloodstream, where it can be detected by the NS1 antigen test. The presence of NS1 antigen in the blood is an important marker for diagnosing dengue infection. NS1 is believed to play a role in the pathogenesis of dengue by modulating the immune response and contributing to vascular leakage, which is a characteristic feature of severe dengue. The detection of NS1 antigen helps healthcare professionals confirm the diagnosis of dengue and determine appropriate treatment and management strategies.