Why is PLpro a Significant Target for Drug Development?
Targeting PLpro is critical in the development of antiviral therapies, especially against coronaviruses like SARS-CoV-2. Inhibiting this enzyme can prevent the virus from processing its polyprotein, thereby halting replication. Additionally, PLpro modifies host cell proteins through deubiquitination and deISGylation, processes that help the virus evade the immune response. Therefore, PLpro inhibitors could both block viral replication and enhance the host immune response.
