Viral nucleic acid polymerase (null)

Viral nucleic acid polymerases are enzymes encoded by viruses to catalyze the replication or transcription of viral genomes[1][4][7]. They include RNA-dependent RNA polymerases (RdRP) for RNA viruses, DNA-dependent DNA polymerases for DNA viruses, and reverse transcriptase for retroviruses[5][7]. These polymerases typically possess a “right-hand” structural motif with palm, fingers, and thumb domains essential for catalysis and nucleotide selection[1][5]. Due to their central role in viral genome replication, they are prominent antiviral drug targets, and many nucleotide/nucleoside analogue inhibitors—including remdesivir, favipiravir, sofosbuvir, and tenofovir—have been developed to disrupt their function[2][4][6][7]. Structural features and fidelity of these enzymes influence viral mutation rates and, consequently, resistance and adaptation[3][5]. Safety challenges include ensuring selectivity over host polymerases and the potential for resistance mutations[2][7]. Monitoring polymerase gene mutations and viral load are important for patient selection and efficacy assessment.

Other names

Viral polymeraseViral RNA polymeraseViral DNA polymeraseRdRP (for RNA-dependent RNA polymerase)Reverse transcriptase (for retroviruses)

Inhibition of nucleic acid synthesis, Chain termination (nucleoside/nucleotide analogues), Allosteric inhibition, Induction of lethal mutagenesis