Influenza virus nucleoprotein (NP)

Influenza virus nucleoprotein (NP) is a major structural protein essential for the influenza virus life cycle. It encapsidates the viral RNA genome to form ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complexes, protecting the genome and regulating critical steps in transcription and replication. NP interacts directly with the viral RNA polymerase subunits (PB1, PB2) and is required for the switch between viral RNA transcription and replication. NP self-associates through defined protein-protein interfaces (notably a tail loop), forming rod-shaped, flexible RNP structures that are necessary for genome stability and function. NP also contains nuclear localization signals for import of the viral genome into the host nucleus, where replication occurs. Owing to its essential and conserved role, NP is an attractive antiviral target and is broadly used as a diagnostic antigen for influenza infection

Other names

Influenza nucleoproteinviral nucleoproteinNP protein

Most drug candidates act by inhibiting NP oligomerization or RNA binding, disrupting viral RNP assembly and genome replication