Zaire ebolavirus Polymerase Cofactor VP35 (VP35)

VP35 is a multifunctional protein encoded by the Zaire ebolavirus (EBOV). It plays essential roles in both viral replication and immune evasion, making it a critical factor for EBOV pathogenicity. VP35 acts as an essential cofactor for the viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase complex, required for efficient transcription and replication of the viral genome. VP35 suppresses host innate immune responses by multiple mechanisms including inhibiting production of type I interferons (IFN-α/β), binding double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) shielding it from detection by host sensors, and blocking phosphorylation and activation of interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3).

Disrupting either function (polymerase cofactor activity or immune evasion) could significantly impair EBOV replication or enhance host clearance mechanisms