Targeting Viral Methyltransferases: An Approach to Antiviral Treatment for ssRNA Viruses

Viruses. 2022 Feb 12;14(2):379. doi: 10.3390/v14020379.

Abstract

Methyltransferase enzymes have been associated with different processes within cells and viruses. Specifically, within viruses, methyltransferases are used to form the 5'cap-0 structure for optimal evasion of the host innate immune system. In this paper, we seek to discuss the various methyltransferases that exist within single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) viruses along with their respective inhibitors. Additionally, the importance of motifs such as the KDKE tetrad and glycine-rich motif in the catalytic activity of methyltransferases is discussed.

Keywords: KDKE tetrad; methyltransferase; methyltransferase inhibitors.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antiviral Agents / chemistry
  • Antiviral Agents / pharmacology
  • Catalysis
  • Enzyme Inhibitors / chemistry
  • Enzyme Inhibitors / pharmacology
  • Humans
  • Immune Evasion*
  • Methyltransferases / chemistry*
  • Methyltransferases / genetics*
  • RNA Viruses / enzymology*
  • RNA Viruses / genetics
  • Virus Replication

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents
  • Enzyme Inhibitors
  • Methyltransferases