Host cellular machinery for viral RNA replication

Host cellular machinery for viral RNA replication refers to the collection of host cell proteins, enzymes, and membrane structures that viruses, especially single-stranded RNA viruses (like coronaviruses and flaviviruses), exploit for their own RNA genome transcription and replication. These include the translation apparatus (ribosomes, initiation/elongation factors), membrane remodeling enzymes and proteins for creating replication organelles, chaperones for folding viral components, and enzymes involved in lipid metabolism necessary for new membrane generation. The reliance of viral replication on these host factors presents both a vulnerability for antiviral intervention and a significant challenge due to the risk of harming essential host processes.

Other names

Host factors for viral RNA replicationcellular machinery co-opted by viruseshost proteins in (positive-strand) RNA virus replicationhost cellular components required for RNA virus replication

Inhibition/disruption of host protein synthesis; Inhibition of host membrane remodeling; Inhibitors of lipid metabolism; Inhibition of host chaperone activity; General cytotoxic agents may also affect these processes.