CCMB scientists discover key protein

Can trigger antiviral therapies 

metro india news I hyderabad

Scientists at the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research - Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR-CCMB), Hyderabad, have discovered how a human protein called DZIP3 detects viral RNA and activates the body's immune response, opening up new possibilities for developing broad-spectrum antiviral therapies.

The research, led by Dr. Santosh Chauhan’s group, reveals that DZIP3 acts as an early-warning sensor, detecting viral genetic material and activating key immune defence proteins. The findings have been published in "The EMBO Journal".

The study found that upon detecting viral RNA, DZIP3 changes its shape and moves to the mitochondria, the cell’s energy-producing structures. There, it activates immune defence mechanisms that trigger the release of Type I interferons, which help prevent viruses from multiplying.

The team demonstrated that this pathway offers protection against several disease-causing viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, Chikungunya and Japanese Encephalitis.

Building on the discovery, the researchers are developing small-molecule drug candidates to enhance DZIP3 activity and strengthen the body’s natural antiviral defences.

Dr. Chauhan, Senior Principal Scientist at CSIR-CCMB and lead author, said the discovery deepens understanding of human immunity and could pave the way for broad-spectrum treatments against emerging viral threats.

Dr. Rinku Sahu was the first author of the study, which involved collaborators from national and international institutions. The research was funded by the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India.