Viral mRNA 2′-O-methyltransferase

Viral mRNA 2′-O-methyltransferase is an enzyme encoded by many viruses that catalyzes the transfer of a methyl group to the ribose 2′-hydroxyl position of the first nucleotide adjacent to the cap structure at the 5' end of viral mRNAs. This modification, known as cap1 (m7GpppNm), is critical for evading host innate immune responses and ensuring efficient translation of viral proteins. By converting cap0 to cap1, it prevents recognition by host pattern recognition receptors like IFIT family proteins and Mda5, thus suppressing antiviral responses. Inhibiting this enzyme is a potential antiviral therapeutic strategy.

Other names

mRNA Cap 2´-O-Methyltransferase2'-O-methyltransferaseCap1 methyltransferase

Inhibition of viral mRNA 2′-O-methyltransferase