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Updated: Jun 4, 2026
08:46
Implementation of In Vitro Drug Resistance Assays: Maximizing the Potential for Uncovering Clinically Relevant Resistance Mechanisms
Published on: December 9, 2015
HATs on for drug resistance
Jeremy P Kamil1, Donald M Coen
1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport, 71130, USA. jkamil@lsuhsc.edu
Cell Host & Microbe
|February 16, 2011
Summary
Mutations in the human cytomegalovirus UL27 gene confer resistance to a UL97 inhibitor. The UL27 protein destabilizes Tip60, revealing new mechanisms for antiviral resistance and viral cell cycle control.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Drug Discovery
Background:
- Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a significant pathogen.
- The viral protein kinase UL97 is a target for antiviral drugs.
- Drug resistance is a major challenge in treating HCMV infections.
Discussion:
- Mutations in the UL27 gene of HCMV confer resistance to a specific UL97 inhibitor.
- The UL27 protein plays a role in viral pathogenesis and host-pathogen interactions.
- Understanding UL27's function is crucial for developing effective antiviral strategies.
Key Insights:
- The UL27 protein destabilizes the Tip60 histone acetyltransferase.
- This interaction suggests a novel mechanism for antiviral drug resistance.
- UL27 may be involved in the viral regulation of the host cell cycle.
Outlook:
- Further research into the UL27-Tip60 interaction could lead to new therapeutic targets.
- Investigating UL27's role in cell cycle regulation may uncover new avenues for antiviral development.
- This study opens new perspectives for understanding viral evasion mechanisms.
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