Cryo-electron microscopy revealed the structural basis of SARS-CoV-2 ribosomal frameshifting, establishing it as a potential target for antiviral intervention.
The study reveals the structural mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 ribosomal frameshifting and establishes it as a viable target for antiviral intervention.
Programmed ribosomal frameshifting is a key event during translation of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) RNA genome that allows synthesis of the viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase and downstream proteins. Here, we present the cryo-electron microscopy structure of a translating mammalian ribosome primed for frameshifting on the viral RNA. The viral RNA adopts a pseudoknot structure that lodges at the entry to the ribosomal messenger RNA (mRNA) channel to generate tension in the mRNA and promote frameshifting, whereas the nascent viral polyprotein forms distinct interactions with the ribosomal tunnel. Biochemical experiments validate the structural observations and reveal mechanistic and regulatory features that influence frameshifting efficiency. Finally, we compare compounds previously shown to reduce frameshifting with respect to their ability to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 replication, establishing coronavirus frameshifting as a target for antiviral intervention.
Bhatt et al. (Thu,) conducted a other in SARS-CoV-2. Cryo-electron microscopy revealed the structural basis of SARS-CoV-2 ribosomal frameshifting, establishing it as a potential target for antiviral intervention.