The genome organisation of Hepatitis c virus. One open reading frame encodes a polyprotein of 3010 amino acids. This protein is cut by viral and cell enzymes to active proteins. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
I’ve previously mentioned rational drug design on this site and I would like to take a moment to expand on this concept and current applications of this technology. In essence, rational drug design targets specific steps in the known biological processes of pathogens that are distinct from normal host functions. A great example of this idea are the new protease inhibitors for Hepatitis C, Boceprevir (Merck) and Telaprevir (Vertex). These agents target a specific function of the HCV serine protease (NS3/4A), rendering it non-functional. When this protease is active it shuts down the antiviral signaling and response in infected host cells1. By blocking this function the cell can once again sense HCV replication and activate multiple antiviral responses to limit and clear the infection, thereby allowing your own body to mount an effective defense against this virus. Continue reading
