VPg

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

VPg or Viral Protein genome-linked is a protein that is covalently linked to the 5' end of the viral genome. It is found in picornaviruses, caliciviruses, and potyviruses. VPg plays a crucial role in the replication of the viral genome and is essential for infectivity.

Structure[edit | edit source]

The structure of VPg varies among different virus families. In picornaviruses, VPg is a small protein of about 22-24 amino acids. In caliciviruses, it is slightly larger, consisting of approximately 124-132 amino acids. In potyviruses, VPg is a much larger protein, containing about 2000-3000 amino acids.

Function[edit | edit source]

VPg plays a crucial role in the replication of the viral genome. It acts as a primer for RNA synthesis, binding to the viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase and initiating the synthesis of new viral RNA. In addition, VPg is essential for the infectivity of the virus. It is thought to aid in the recognition of the viral genome by the host cell machinery, facilitating the translation of the viral proteins.

Role in Disease[edit | edit source]

Given its essential role in viral replication and infectivity, VPg is a potential target for antiviral drugs. Inhibitors of VPg could potentially block the replication of the virus, preventing the spread of infection.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

VPg Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD