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xChapter 9 The Nucleocapsid Protein of the SARS Coronavirus: Structure, Function and Therapeutic Potential Milan Surjit and Sunil K. Lal Abstract As in other coronaviruses, the nucleocapsid protein is one of the core components of the SARS coronavirus (CoV). It oligomerizes to form a closed capsule, inside which the genomic RNA is securely stored thus providing the SARS-CoV genome with its first line of defense from the harsh conditions of the host environment and aiding in replication and propagation of the virus. In addition to this function, several reports have suggested that the SARS-CoV nucleocapsid protein modulates various host cellular processes, so as to make the internal milieu of the host more conducive for survival of the virus. This article will analyze and discuss the available literature regarding these different properties of the nucleo- capsid protein. Towards the end of the article, we will also discuss some recent reports regarding the possible clinically relevant use of the nucleocapsid protein, as a candidate diagnostic tool and vaccine against SARS-CoV infection. 9.1 Introduction By definition, nucleocapsid is a viral protein coat that surrounds the genome (either DNA or RNA). Nucleocapsid protein is the major constituent of a viral nucleocap- sid. It is capable of associating with itself and with the genome, thus packaging the genome inside a closed cavity. In some viruses, nucleocapsid protein may also be assisted by other viral cofactors to form the capsid. However, in coronaviruses (including SARS-CoV), the nucleocapsid protein alone is capable of forming the capsid. The primary advantage of the virus for encoding the nucleocapsid protein is that the latter encloses and protects the viral genome from coming into direct contact with the harsh environment in the host. In fact, in some simple viruses S.K. Lal (*) Virology Group, ICGEB, P. O. Box: 10504, Aruna Asaf Ali Road, New Delhi 110067, India e-mail:
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