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News: CSIR-CCMB researchers discovered how human cells detect viruses and activate immune defences before pathogens multiply.
About DZIP3 – Viral Alarm Switch
- The DZIP3 (DAZ Interacting Zinc Finger Protein 3) is a protein found in human cells.
- It detects viral RNA and activates cellular immune defences.
- Working Mechanism:
- Viral Detection: When DZIP3 encounters viral RNA inside a cell, it changes shape and becomes active.
- Movement: The activated protein moves to the mitochondria, the cell’s energy-producing structures.
- Protein Activation: DZIP3 tags and activates major immune defence proteins there.
- Immune Alarm: This triggers Type-I interferons, defensive molecules that help stop viruses from multiplying.
- Application:
- Drug Development: Researchers are developing small-molecule drug candidates to boost DZIP3 activity and strengthen the body’s natural antiviral immunity.
- Broad-Spectrum Therapies: Targeting DZIP3 could help develop broad-spectrum antiviral therapies against emerging viral threats.
- Viral Protection: The discovered pathway offers protection against several disease-causing viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, chikungunya and Japanese encephalitis viruses.
