Dengue virus serotype 1 capsid protein (DENV-1 C)

The Dengue virus serotype 1 (DENV-1) capsid protein is a small, highly basic structural protein that plays a critical role in the viral life cycle by packaging the viral genomic RNA into a nucleocapsid (UniProt: P17763). This protein is essential for the assembly of infectious virions, as it facilitates the interaction between the RNA genome and the viral envelope (PubMed: 26109513). Beyond its structural duties, the DENV-1 capsid protein is known to associate with host lipid droplets, a process that is vital for efficient viral replication and particle formation (PubMed: 22303105). It also translocates to the host cell nucleus, where it may interfere with host cellular processes to promote a pro-viral environment (PubMed: 11831707). As a therapeutic target, the capsid protein is highly valued because its inhibition can halt the production of new viral particles and potentially reduce viral load in patients. Small molecule inhibitors like ST-148 have demonstrated the ability to bind the capsid protein, thereby disrupting its assembly functions and providing a proof-of-concept for antiviral intervention (PubMed: 23135904). However, challenges such as the high mutation rate of the virus and the need for broad-spectrum activity across all four Dengue serotypes remain significant hurdles in drug development.

Other names

Capsid protein CCore proteinDENV1 C proteinStructural protein C

Inhibition of nucleocapsid assembly and disruption of capsid-lipid droplet interactions