Virus internalisation

Virus internalisation is the process by which viruses enter host cells after initially attaching to the cell surface. This step is essential for viral infection, as it allows the virus to deliver its genetic material into the host cell, initiating replication and subsequent stages of the viral life cycle. Mechanisms include endocytosis (clathrin-mediated, caveolin-mediated, macropinocytosis, lipid raft-dependent pathways) and direct membrane fusion. Blocking this step prevents viral replication entirely, making it a critical control point in infection and a target for antiviral strategies.

Inhibition of viral entry through blocking receptor binding, fusion, or endocytosis