Enzyme stopping Covid-19 ?

[url]https://innovationorigins.com/is-an-enzyme-the-key-to-eradicating-the-sars-cov-2-virus/[/url] or https://innovationorigins.com/is-an-enzyme-the-key-to-eradicating-the-sars-cov-2-virus/ ;

A protein domain called NiRAN

Coronaviruses have genetic material consisting of RNA, which is amplified by an RNA polymerase as part of replication (virus propagation). Polymerases are enzymes found in all living organisms and are important for replication. Unlike other viruses, the RNA polymerases of coronaviruses have an additional protein domain called NiRAN. This is found exclusively in viruses of the order Nidovirales, to which the coronaviruses also belong.

In their study, the research group has now been able to show that this additional domain is essential for viral replication. “It catalyzes a chemical modification called protein Nmylation,” the researchers explain. “In this process, the RNA polymerase interacts by means of its NiRAN domain with another protein of the viral replication-transcription complex, transferring a nucleoside monophosphate (NMP) derived from the splitting of a nucleoside triphosphate (NTP).”

A possible focus for development of new antiviral drugs

In their study, the scientists also explored the target molecule of this NMPylation: The NMP is transferred to a small viral RNA-binding protein called nsp9, they said. This enzymatic reaction occurs very specifically, they reported, and the amino acid residues involved are conserved among all known coronaviruses.

“Our data provide experimental evidence that both NiRAN activity and specific nsp9 NMPylation are essential for coronavirus replication,” Prof. Ziebuhr said. “The study provides an excellent basis for functional studies of other nidovirus NMPylation activities and offers a potential target for the development of new antiviral drugs.”

DJ-We may have to find new ways to deal with all kind of variants of Covid19 at once. Stopping reproduction of the corona-virus in cells may be such a new way.