Influenza virus nucleoprotein (A) (NP)

Influenza A virus nucleoprotein (NP) is the principal structural protein that binds and encapsidates viral RNA to form the ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complex required for transcription and replication in the infected cell nucleus[3][5][9]. NP exhibits strong RNA binding and self-oligomerization activities, forming a scaffold for viral polymerase and guiding genome replication[1][3][9]. NP possesses nuclear localization signals for active import of vRNPs to the host cell nucleus, interacts with multiple viral and host factors (notably PB1 and PB2 polymerase subunits)[4], and is strictly required for productive infection and virion formation. Structural studies reveal NP as a core component present in oligomeric (trimeric, tetrameric, or ring-like) configurations, each binding and protecting viral genome segments[6][8][9]. NP is considered a potential antiviral target due to its conservation and centrality in the viral lifecycle, although no approved therapeutics directly target NP as of now[5]. Detection of NP antigen is widely used in influenza diagnostic assays due to its abundance in infected cells[5][9]. If you need precise sequence information, in vitro function, or structural data for this protein, further specialized sources such as UniProt or the PDB should be consulted.

Other names

NPInfluenza A nucleoproteinInfluenza A NPNucleoprotein (NP)Viral NP

Inhibition of NP oligomerization or RNA binding, thereby preventing proper ribonucleoprotein assembly and viral replication; blockade of NP nuclear import, reducing replication.