Protein shape shift reveals how the mpox virus begins replicating
Researchers at Harvard Medical School have identified how two mpox virus proteins change shape to trigger viral replication. This structural discovery, aided by AI-powered tools, provides a new target for developing antiviral treatments for mpox and related pathogens.
Why it matters
Understanding the molecular mechanisms of viral replication is a crucial step in creating effective medical countermeasures against emerging infectious diseases.
edited by Lisa Lock , reviewed by Robert Egan
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Add as preferred source Colorized transmission electron micrograph of mpox virus particles (teal) in an infected cell (brown). Credit NIAID The way two mpox virus proteins change shape as they bind together acts like a switch that starts the process of viral replication, a study led by researchers at the Blavatnik Institute at Harvard Medical School reveals. This kind of detailed structural information promises to help scientists, armed with a new generation of AI-powered virtual screening tools, target their search for ways to inhibit viral replication, treat mpox and related diseases, and prepare for emerging pathogens.
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