Project 1 is led by Dr. Mark Denison at Vanderbilt University and is focused on developing new inhibitors of coronavirus proteases. This enzyme class acts like molecular scissors, cutting proteins into smaller pieces to aid in viral replication and infection.
Project 1 studies multiple coronaviruses in the hopes of developing an antiviral with broad-spectrum activity across the family. This includes SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), MERS (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome), SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome), and NL63 (common cold).
Project 1 is focused on PLPro (nsp3-Papain-Like Protease) and MPro (Main Protease or np5-3CLPro), which play vital roles in the replication of coronaviruses. Both PLpro and MPro cleave viral polyproteins into functional components required for viral replication. PLPro may also help inactivate critical components of the host immune response.
Team
