Host cellular pathways involved in viral protein maturation and replication

Host cellular pathways involved in viral protein maturation and replication encompass the complex network of endogenous cellular mechanisms that viruses exploit to reproduce and spread (Heaton, 2017, Journal of Virology). This includes the recruitment of host cell receptors for entry, the utilization of host proteases such as TMPRSS2 or furin for the proteolytic processing of viral polyproteins, and the hijacking of the endoplasmic reticulum and Golgi apparatus for protein folding and glycosylation (Hoffmann et al., 2020, Cell). Additionally, viruses rely on host ribosomes and molecular chaperones to ensure the correct synthesis and assembly of viral components. Targeting these host-dependent steps, a strategy known as host-directed therapy, offers a potential advantage in overcoming viral mutational resistance, as the host's genetic landscape is relatively stable compared to the rapidly evolving viral genome (Kaufmann et al., 2018, Nature Reviews Drug Discovery). However, the primary challenge in modulating these pathways lies in achieving therapeutic efficacy without disrupting the essential physiological roles these processes play in maintaining host cell homeostasis. Drugs like camostat mesylate and maraviroc exemplify this approach by targeting host proteases and receptors, respectively, to prevent viral progression (NIH, 2021). Research into these pathways is critical for developing broad-spectrum antivirals that can address emerging viral threats.

Other names

Host-virus interaction pathwaysHost-directed targetsViral replication machineryHost factors for viral infection

Inhibition of host-mediated proteolytic cleavage, blocking of viral entry via host receptors, and interference with host-assisted viral protein folding and assembly (Kaufmann et al., 2018, Nature Reviews Drug Discovery; Hoffmann et al., 2020, Cell).