Indian Scientists Discover Protein That Helps Human Cells Fight Viruses
What Happened
Researchers at Hyderabad's CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology identified DZIP3, a protein that detects viral RNA and helps activate immune defences. Their study, published in The EMBO Journal on October 21, 2026, found that DZIP3 strengthens antiviral signalling involving RIG-I and MAVS. Experiments demonstrated protective activity against viruses including SARS-CoV-2, chikungunya, influenza A and Japanese encephalitis
Key Takeaways
The discovery improves understanding of how human cells detect and resist viral infections. Researchers are exploring drugs targeting DZIP3, but no treatment has yet been demonstrated to work in patients.