New directions in the multifunctionality of RNA viruses: insights from the rabies virus P-protein

Abstract

RNA viruses have compact genomes that typically encode only a few proteins, but these viruses orchestrate complex replication cycles while concurrently exercising control over multiple aspects of the biology of the infected host cell, including the evasion of antiviral responses. Central to this functional diversity is the evolution of multifunctional proteins, which integrate diverse roles in replication and host subversion through structural, regulatory, and spatial versatility. The rabies virus P-protein exemplifies these principles. In addition to serving as an essential cofactor and chaperone in viral transcription and replication, the P-protein also antagonizes type I interferon respon..