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G-quadruplexes in the monkeypox virus are potential antiviral targets
Lu Lv1,2,3, Leiliang Zhang1,2,3
1Department of Infectious Diseases, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China.
Journal of Medical Virology
|November 11, 2022
Summary
Researchers found G-quadruplexes (GQs) in the monkeypox virus (MPXV) genome. Targeting these structures with specific molecules offers a potential new antiviral therapy for MPXV infections.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Biophysics
Background:
- Monkeypox virus (MPXV) poses a significant global health threat, necessitating urgent identification of novel therapeutic targets.
- G-quadruplex (GQ) structures are recognized as promising targets for antiviral strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and characteristics of G-quadruplexes within the MPXV genome.
- To evaluate the potential of GQ-binding ligands as therapeutic agents against MPXV.
Main Methods:
- Utilized biophysical experiments to characterize MPXV-encoded GQs.
- Assessed the binding and stabilization effects of GQ ligands (BRACO-19, pyridostatin, TMPyP4) on MPXV GQs.
- Evaluated the impact of GQ ligands on MPXV gene transcription and viral replication.
Main Results:
- Confirmed the formation potential of G-quadruplexes in the MPXV genome.
- Demonstrated that GQ ligands inhibit the transcription of MPXV GQ sequences.
- Showed that BRACO-19 and TMPyP4 can inhibit vaccinia virus replication.
Conclusions:
- Established the existence of MPXV G-quadruplexes.
- Reinforced the potential of GQs as novel antiviral targets.
- Suggested that targeting MPXV GQs with specific ligands could be a viable therapeutic approach.
