Picornavirus 3C-a protease ensuring virus replication and subverting host responses

The protease 3C is encoded by all known picornaviruses, and the structural features related to its protease andRNA-binding activities are conserved; these contribute to the cleavage of viral polyproteins and the assembly of the viral RNA replication complex during virus replication. Furthermore, 3C performs functions in the host cell through its interaction with host proteins. For instance, 3C has been shown to selectively `hijack' host factors involved in gene expression, promoting picornavirus replication, and to inactivate key factors in innate immunity signaling pathways, inhibiting the production of interferon and inflammatory cytokines. Importantly, 3C maintains virus infection by subtly subverting host cell death and modifying critical molecules in host organelles. This Review focuses on the molecular mechanisms through which 3C mediates physiological processes involved in virus-host interaction, thus highlighting the picornavirus-mediated pathogenesis caused by 3C.

Automated summary

Protease 3C, encoded by all known picornaviruses, plays crucial roles in viral replication by cleaving viral polyproteins and assembling the viral RNA replication complex. It also interacts with host proteins to promote viral replication and inhibit host immune responses, ultimately contributing to picornavirus-mediated pathogenesis.