Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp (for RNA-dependent RNA polymerase), nsp12 (nonstructural protein 12))

SARS-CoV-2 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp, also known as nonstructural protein 12 or nsp12) is a key viral enzyme responsible for synthesizing viral RNA by copying the viral genome. It forms the core of the viral replication-transcription complex in coronaviruses. RdRp, assisted by associated cofactors (nsp7 and nsp8), drives viral RNA production and genome replication. It is a primary therapeutic target for small-molecule antiviral drugs and RNA interference strategies because its inhibition halts viral replication. Drugs and nucleotide analog inhibitors such as remdesivir act by being incorporated into nascent viral RNA, causing premature termination. Additional direct inhibitors can target the nucleotide binding sites or related capping mechanisms essential for mRNA stability. RNA interference strategies utilize small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) to degrade viral RNA directly, preventing replication and viral protein synthesis.

Other names

SARS-CoV-2 RdRpSARS-CoV-2 polymerasecoronavirus RNA polymerasensp12

Nucleotide analogs: Act as chain terminators during RNA synthesis (e.g., remdesivir, ddhCTP block RNA chain elongation by incorporation into the growing strand and preventing further extension). RNA interference: siRNAs target viral RNA for degradation, preventing translation and replication. Enzyme inhibitors: Direct enzyme inhibition, such as disruption of polymerase or capping activity.