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CSIR-CCMB scientists identify DZIP3 protein as viral alarm switch
Researchers at the CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR-CCMB) in Hyderabad, India, have discovered a mechanism in human cells used to detect and combat viral infections. The study, led by Dr. Santosh Chauhan and published in The EMBO Journal, identifies a protein called DZIP3 that functions as a dual-action sensor and activator for the immune system.
When DZIP3 detects viral RNA within a cell, it undergoes a shape change to activate itself. The protein then moves to the mitochondria, where it tags and activates major immune defense proteins. This process triggers the production of Type-I interferons, which work to block viral multiplication.
The research team demonstrated that this pathway offers broad protection against several viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, Chikungunya, and Japanese Encephalitis. Following this discovery, the group is working to develop small-molecule drug candidates designed to target and boost DZIP3 activity to enhance natural antiviral immunity.
Entities
CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology · Hyderabad · Santosh Chauhan · The EMBO Journal
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] The DZIP3 pathway triggers the production of Type-I interferons. desitalkchicago.com · www.deccanchronicle.com · www.news18.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] The research team is developing small-molecule drug candidates to boost DZIP3 activity. desitalkchicago.com · www.deccanchronicle.com · www.news18.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Dr. Santosh Chauhan is a Senior Principal Scientist at CSIR-CCMB. desitalkchicago.com · www.deccanchronicle.com · www.news18.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Activated DZIP3 moves to the mitochondria to tag and activate immune defense proteins. desitalkchicago.com · www.deccanchronicle.com · www.news18.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] DZIP3 detects viral RNA and changes shape to activate itself. desitalkchicago.com · www.deccanchronicle.com · www.news18.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] The protein DZIP3 acts as an early-warning sensor and activator for the human immune system. desitalkchicago.com · www.deccanchronicle.com · www.news18.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] The discovered pathway provides protection against SARS-CoV-2, Chikungunya, and Japanese Encephalitis. desitalkchicago.com · www.deccanchronicle.com · www.news18.com