DDX39A Protein Unwinds Viral RNA, Slows Parkinson’s-Linked Clumps
GS3Economy · S&T · Environment · Security· Biotechnology & health research· Prelims·
Molecular biology and biotechnology: understanding protein-mediated cellular responses to viral infections.
Why in news
Scientists at CSIR-CCMB discovered that the DDX39A protein acts as a defense mechanism by unwinding viral RNA to slow the formation of alpha-synuclein clumps linked to Parkinson’s disease.
Background
Researchers at the CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) identified that RNA viruses (influenza and SARS-CoV-2) accelerate alpha-synuclein aggregation. The DDX39A protein moves into the cytoplasm during infection to unwind viral RNA structures and mitigate protein clumping.
Facts for Prelims
- S&TDDX39A: A protein that moves into the cytoplasm to unwind viral RNA structures during infection.
- FactAlpha-synuclein aggregation: A molecular change linked to the development of Parkinson’s disease.
- BodyCSIR-CCMB: The research was conducted at the CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology.
- S&TViral triggers: Influenza and SARS-CoV-2 are identified as RNA viruses that can trigger Parkinson's-linked molecular changes.
Prelims practice question
With reference to the DDX39A protein and its role in cellular defense, consider the following statements:
- Influenza and SARS-CoV-2 are identified as RNA viruses that can trigger Parkinson's-linked molecular changes.
- The DDX39A protein acts as a defense mechanism to slow the formation of alpha-synuclein clumps.
- The DDX39A protein moves into the nucleus to unwind viral RNA structures.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- (a)1 only
- (b)3 only
- (c)1 and 2 only
- (d)2 and 3 only
Show answer
Answer: (c) 1 and 2 only — Statements 1 and 2 are correct. Statement 3 is incorrect: The protein moves into the cytoplasm during infection.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the potential of identifying protein-mediated cellular responses to viral infections in developing targeted therapies for neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson’s disease.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Mechanistic insight: Identifying DDX39A as a natural cellular defense against protein aggregation
- Therapeutic potential: Leveraging protein-RNA interaction pathways to treat neurodegeneration
- Viral-Neurological link: Addressing the cross-over between infectious diseases and chronic neurological conditions
Keywords: Alpha-synuclein aggregation · Neurodegenerative disorders · Viral RNA · Cytoplasmic response · Molecular biology
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