The SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid Protein and Its Role in Viral Structure, Biological Functions, and a Potential Target for Drug or Vaccine Mitigation

Viruses. 2021 Jun 10;13(6):1115. doi: 10.3390/v13061115.

Abstract

The impact of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) on the world is still expanding. Thus, there is an urgent need to better understand this novel virus and find a way to control its spread. Like other coronaviruses, the nucleocapsid (N) protein is one of the most crucial structural components of SARS-CoV-2. This protein shares 90% homology with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus N protein, implying functional significance. Based on the evolutionary conservation of the N protein in coronavirus, we reviewed the currently available knowledge regarding the SARS-CoV-2 N protein in terms of structure, biological functions, and clinical application as a drug target or vaccine candidate.

Keywords: SARS-CoV-2; biological function; nucleocapsid protein; structure; vaccine.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antiviral Agents / pharmacology
  • COVID-19 / prevention & control
  • COVID-19 Vaccines / immunology*
  • Coronavirus Nucleocapsid Proteins / immunology
  • Coronavirus Nucleocapsid Proteins / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Mice
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations
  • SARS-CoV-2 / chemistry*
  • SARS-CoV-2 / drug effects
  • SARS-CoV-2 / immunology
  • SARS-CoV-2 / metabolism*
  • Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus / immunology

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents
  • COVID-19 Vaccines
  • Coronavirus Nucleocapsid Proteins
  • Pharmaceutical Preparations
  • Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus