Nucleocapsid Protein (N protein)

The nucleocapsid protein (N protein) is a structural protein found in many viruses, including coronaviruses such as SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2. It plays a central role in the viral life cycle by packaging the viral RNA genome into ribonucleoprotein complexes, facilitating virion assembly, and modulating various aspects of host cell biology. The N protein typically consists of two main structured domains: an N-terminal domain (NTD) responsible for RNA binding and a C-terminal domain (CTD) capable of self-association and RNA binding. These domains are connected by an intrinsically disordered region (IDR) containing a serine/arginine-rich motif. The N protein undergoes several post-translational modifications, including phosphorylation and arginine methylation. It interacts with multiple host cell proteins, potentially modulating immune responses or cellular signaling pathways during infection. Due to its conserved structure and critical functions, the N protein is considered a promising antiviral drug target, with potential for small molecules to inhibit its RNA-binding activity or oligomerization interfaces. It is also a highly immunogenic antigen used in diagnostic assays.

Other names

SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid proteinSARS-CoV nucleocapsid protein

Inhibition of RNA binding, inhibition of oligomerization