This research paper reveals five cryo-EM structures of tomato spotted wilt orthotospovirus (TSWV) RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), including apo, RNA-bound, and ribavirin-bound states. A flexible loop (motif F) acts as a sensor for viral RNA, adapting to form a catalytic center. A ten-base RNA 'hook' triggers conformational changes, activating RdRp. Ribavirin disrupts hook binding and catalytic core formation, inhibiting the polymerase. This study provides structural insights into plant bunyavirus RdRp activation and inhibition, aiding in the development of antiviral pesticides.
Publisher
Nature Plants
Published On
Mar 05, 2025
Authors
Jia Li, Lei Cao, Yaqian Zhao, Jinghan Shen, Lei Wang, Mingfeng Feng, Min Zhu, Yonghao Ye, Richard Kormelink, Xiaorong Tao, Xiangxi Wang
