RESEARCH: EBOLA
FOLDING PROJECT #16455 PROFILE

This project looks at a special part of the Ebola virus that helps it hide from our immune system. Scientists made a fake version of this part (F239A) that can't work properly. Understanding how this fake version works could help us design drugs to stop the real virus.

This project simulates the F239A mutant of the immune inhibitory domain from the Ebola virus viral protein 35 (VP35), which is critical for viral infection.

This protein helps the virus escape detection inside human cells.

The F239A mutant being simulated here is unable to interact with other viral components such as RNA.

This makes its dynamics of particular interest such that if we can design a drug to affect protein function similarly to this mutation, we may be able to counteract the virus's effect.

Ebola virus

A severe, often fatal illness in humans characterized by fever, bleeding, and organ failure.

Ebola virus is a highly contagious and dangerous pathogen that causes a deadly hemorrhagic fever. It spreads through contact with infected bodily fluids and can lead to widespread tissue damage and death.

viral protein 35

A protein produced by the Ebola virus that plays a role in viral replication and immune evasion.

Viral Protein 35 (VP35) is essential for the Ebola virus's ability to replicate and spread within the body. It helps the virus evade the host's immune system by interfering with cellular signaling pathways.

F239A mutant

A genetically modified version of the Ebola virus protein 35 with a specific amino acid substitution.

The F239A mutant is a laboratory-created version of VP35 where the amino acid phenylalanine (F) at position 239 is replaced by alanine (A). This change affects the protein's function and ability to interact with other viral components.

RNA

Ribonucleic acid

RNA is a type of nucleic acid that plays a crucial role in protein synthesis. It carries genetic information from DNA to ribosomes, where proteins are assembled.

Drug

A substance used for the treatment, prevention, or diagnosis of disease.

Drugs are chemical compounds designed to interact with specific targets in the body to produce a desired therapeutic effect. They can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, from infections to chronic diseases.