The minimalist architectures of viroporins and their therapeutic implications

摘要: Many viral genomes encode small, integral membrane proteins that form homo-oligomeric channels in membrane, and they transport protons, cations, other molecules across the barrier to aid various steps of entry maturation. These proteins, collectively named viroporins, are crucial for pathogenicity. In past five years, structures obtained by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), X-ray crystallography, electron microscopy (EM) showed viroporins often adopt minimalist architectures achieve their functions. A number small have been identified interfere with channel activities thereby inhibit infection, making potential drug targets therapeutic intervention. The known inhibition mechanisms differ significantly from each other, but some common principles shared between them. This review article summarizes recent developments structural investigation antiviral compounds. is part a Special Issue entitled: Viral Membrane Proteins-Channels Cellular Networking.