Viral protein kinase

Viral protein kinases are enzymes encoded by viruses (notably large DNA viruses such as herpesviruses and poxviruses) that catalyze the transfer of a phosphate group from ATP to select serine, threonine, or tyrosine residues of protein substrates. Viral kinases (such as UL13, US3, UL97, U69, BGLF4, and ORF36) play crucial roles in the viral life cycle, including phosphorylation of both viral and host proteins to regulate DNA replication, virion assembly, immune evasion, and cell cycle control. Several are targets of approved or experimental antiviral drugs and have roles in pathogenesis of infection-associated diseases, including certain cancers. The category "viral protein kinase" is generic and encompasses multiple specific enzymes, so more precise identification (e.g., "HCMV UL97 protein kinase") is preferred for structured pharmaceutical work.

Other names

Viral serine/threonine protein kinaseViral kinaseHerpesviral protein kinaseCHPK (Conserved herpesvirus protein kinase; in herpesviruses, specific names include UL13, US3, UL97, U69, BGLF4, ORF36 depending on virus)

Inhibition of viral protein kinases blocks phosphorylation events essential for viral replication and assembly Inhibition can disrupt activation/protection of viral or host cell proteins needed for virus survival