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September 3, 2026npj VirusesOpen Access

Host RNA-binding proteins as broad-spectrum targets for antiviral therapy

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Why the study?

Targeting host RNA-binding proteins could provide broad-spectrum antiviral activity with lower resistance risk, but translation requires balancing antiviral effects with preserving essential host functions.

Design

Review

Key result

Targeting host RNA-binding proteins offers a promising strategy for broad-spectrum antiviral therapies with a high barrier to viral resistance, though host toxicity remains a clinical challenge.

Authors

SBSagnik Biswas

Discussion

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Overview

Supports host RBP-targeted antivirals for broad-spectrum use; leaves open toxicity mitigation before clinical translation.

Key Points

  • Evaluate the therapeutic potential, clinical challenges, and future development pathways of targeting host RNA-binding proteins for broad-spectrum antiviral intervention.
  • Synthesized current literature on the dual roles of host RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) in facilitating viral replication and mediating host antiviral defense.
  • Assessed pharmacological strategies directing therapies toward host RBPs and examined the cellular trade-offs between antiviral efficacy and host toxicity.
  • Host RBPs serve as critical regulators that viruses co-opt to replicate, while specific host RBPs act as restriction factors that trigger innate immune responses.
  • Therapies aimed at host RBPs offer broad-spectrum activity across multiple viral families and demonstrate a lower barrier to the development of viral resistance.
  • Successful clinical translation depends on developing targeted strategies that inhibit viral-supportive RBP functions while sparing essential physiological host processes.

PICO

P
Population
Viral infections
I
Intervention / Comparator
Host RNA-binding protein (RBP) targeted antivirals

Host RNA-binding proteins represent a viable target for broad-spectrum antiviral therapies, potentially offering a higher barrier to viral resistance compared to direct-acting antivirals.

Limitations

  • Translating this approach into clinical use requires balancing antiviral activity with the preservation of essential host functions.
  • Potential for drug-induced toxicity due to the essential physiological roles of host RNA-binding proteins.

Cite This Study

Sagnik Biswas (2026) conducted a review in Viral infections. Host RNA-binding protein (RBP) targeted antivirals was evaluated. Targeting host RNA-binding proteins offers a promising strategy for broad-spectrum antiviral therapies with a high barrier to viral resistance, though host toxicity remains a clinical challenge.

synapsesocial.com/papers/6a993612636c6408cfa7edbehttps://doi.org/10.1038/s44298-026-00234-0
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