NS5B

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

NS5B is a RNA-dependent RNA polymerase that is encoded by the NS5B gene. It is a vital component of the Hepatitis C virus (HCV) replication complex and plays a crucial role in the replication of the HCV genome.

Structure[edit | edit source]

NS5B is a 65-kDa protein that consists of 591 amino acids. It has a unique structure that resembles a right hand, with fingers, palm, and thumb subdomains. The active site of the enzyme is located in the palm subdomain, while the fingers and thumb subdomains are involved in the binding of RNA.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of NS5B is to catalyze the synthesis of new RNA strands from the HCV RNA template. This process is known as RNA replication. NS5B has a high error rate, which contributes to the high genetic variability of HCV.

Role in Disease[edit | edit source]

Due to its essential role in HCV replication, NS5B is a major target for antiviral drugs. Inhibitors of NS5B, known as NS5B inhibitors, are used in the treatment of Hepatitis C.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]




NS5B Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD