Influenza Neuraminidase Protein

Influenza neuraminidase is a surface glycoprotein enzyme found on the influenza virus. It plays a critical role in the viral life cycle by enabling the release of newly formed virus particles from infected host cells, thereby facilitating the spread of infection within the host. It acts as an exosialidase (EC 3.2.1.18), cleaving α-ketosidic linkages between sialic acid and adjacent sugar residues on glycoproteins and glycolipids at cell surfaces or viral proteins. Neuraminidase is an established target for antiviral drugs like oseltamivir and zanamivir. Resistance can develop through mutations such as H274Y substitution in NA; ongoing surveillance for resistance mutations is essential for effective treatment strategies.

Competitive inhibition of neuraminidase enzyme activity, preventing viral release from infected cells.