---
title: "Code cracked for infections by major group of viruses including common cold and polio"
description: "Researchers have identified and cracked a code used by some viruses in the assembly of their protective protein coats. The finding could lead to the development of novel anti-viral drugs."
date: "2015-02-07"
modified: "2015-08-13"
authors:
  - name: "MolecularMatt"
    link: "https://futurism.com/authors/molecularmatt"
url: "https://futurism.com/code-cracked-infections-major-group-viruses-including-common-cold-polio"
categories:
  - "Health & Medicine"
  - "Medical"
  - "Pathogens"
  - "Viruses"
tags:
  - "medical"
---

# Code cracked for infections by major group of viruses including common cold and polio

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- All viruses are composed of a genome and an encapsulating protein. The genome carries the virus’ genetic information and the capsid protein protects the genome from degrading enzymes inside the host cell.
- A critical step in viral replication is the assembly of the capsid protein; specifically, the process of folding the protein string around the viral genome. This process has remained a mystery to scientists because the virus does not carry any enzymes to aid in the process.
- The researchers found a code hidden within the virus genome which allows the RNA to act as an enzyme. The code causes the RNA to fold into a “secondary structure”, which creates a series of packaging signals to direct the folding of the protein around the genome. This discovery may lead to a new class of anti-viral drugs that disrupt the packaging signals, thus preventing assembly and replication.

## Author
Inspiring excitement and curiosity for #science. I report on #ScienceInTheNews from NYC!