Host translation factor

Host translation factors are proteins in eukaryotic cells that facilitate the multi-step process of protein synthesis (translation) by aiding the initiation, elongation, and termination of mRNA-directed polypeptide chain formation[3][5][9]. The primary families include initiation factors (eIFs), elongation factors (eEFs), and release/termination factors (eRFs), each with multiple subtypes and roles[7]. These factors are essential for normal gene expression, cell viability, and response to environmental stimuli. Because viruses rely on host translation factors to synthesize their own proteins, various viral proteins specifically inhibit or hijack host translation factors to subvert cellular machinery and promote infection[1][2][7]. Certain translation factors are studied as potential therapeutic targets in cancer and infectious diseases, but broad-spectrum inhibition leads to major safety challenges, given the essential, non-redundant function of these proteins in all cells.

Other names

Translation factorEukaryotic translation factorProtein synthesis factor

Inhibition of translation initiation or elongation, usually by binding to or inactivating specific translation factors such as eIF4A or the ribosome[1][5][7]