Proteolysis is a key process in virus replication

Proteases were amongst the first enzymes to be isolated and crystallized, and the discovery of their existence in viruses and the realization of the vital role they play has given a new lease of life to one of the oldest topics in biochemistry. Already we have seen the discovery of new variations on well-studied reaction mechanisms and there is the promise of others to come that may be totally novel. When this is allied to the prospect of developing the knowledge which is beginning to accrue into a much needed antiviral therapy, it is clear that viral proteases and their key role in viral replication will be an increasing focus of attention for some time to come.