Hongping Dong

TL;DR: It is demonstrated that a West Nile virus mutant that lacks 2′-O MTase activity was attenuated in wild-type primary cells and mice but was pathogenic in the absence of type I interferon (IFN) signalling, and suggested an evolutionary explanation for 2-O methylation of cellular mRNA: to distinguish self from non-self RNA.

TL;DR: The results demonstrate that the N-7 methylation activity is essential for the WNV life cycle and, thus, methyltransferase represents a novel target for flavivirus therapy.

TL;DR: A critical role for the flavivirus MTase in viral reproduction is demonstrated and this domain is underscore this domain as a potential target for antiviral therapy.

TL;DR: The knowledge accumulated during the past decade has provided a better rationale for ongoing dengue drug discovery and it is optimistic that this continuous, concerted effort will lead to an effective d Dengue therapy.

TL;DR: The strategies discussed in this report should be applicable to antiviral development of other viruses, including dengue virus and other flaviviruses.