AUTHOR=Melano Ivonne , Lo Yan-Chung , Su Wen-Chi 

TITLE=Characterization of host substrates of SARS-CoV-2 main protease

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Microbiology

VOLUME=Volume 14 - 2023

YEAR=2023

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/microbiology/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2023.1251705

DOI=10.3389/fmicb.2023.1251705

ISSN=1664-302X

ABSTRACT=The main protease (M pro ) plays a crucial role in coronavirus, as it cleaves viral polyproteins and host cellular proteins to ensure successful replication. In this review, we discuss the preference in the recognition sequence of M pro based on sequence-based studies and structural information and highlight the recent advances in computational and experimental approaches that have aided in discovering novel M pro substrates. In addition, we provide an overview of the current understanding of M pro host substrates and their implications for viral replication and pathogenesis. As M pro has emerged as a promising target for the development of antiviral drugs, further insight into its substrate specificity may contribute to the design of specific inhibitors.