Question

Imagine you are a researcher trying to design a new antiviral drug. 1. Select and describe a stage of replication or molecular part of a virus that you would want to try and target with this drug. (a generic DNA or RNA virus is acceptable, but make it clear which you are using) 2. Describe why that stage of replication or virion molecule is a good target for both stopping the viral growth cycle and limiting toxicity to the host. (there are likely to be multiple correct answers possible, 5-6 sentences maximum)

Answer 1

1.Replication of viral genome

Target: Nucleic acid synthesis.

The virus gets multiplied in the host cells.DNA virus replicates by using the hosts proteins and enzymes ,it then transcribed to mRNA,so called messenger RNA ,it then is used for protein synthesis.The viral mRNA also makes viral capsids and enzymes in host and makes new virions.

2.It does not destroy the virus,but it prevents the viral load from increasing and makes the host to neutralize it through innate immunity.