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ISSN (Print): 1381-6128
ISSN (Online): 1873-4286

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Research Article

An In-silico Approach to Design and Validate siRNA against Monkeypox Virus

Author(s): Kishore Dhotre, Anwesha Banerjee, Debashree Dass, Vijay Nema and Anupam Mukherjee*

Volume 29, Issue 38, 2023

Published on: 07 December, 2023

Page: [3060 - 3072] Pages: 13

DOI: 10.2174/0113816128275065231103063935

Price: $65

Abstract

Introduction: The monkeypox virus has emerged as an uncommon zoonotic infection. The recent outbreak of MPXV in Europe and abroad in 2022 presented a major threat to individuals at risk. At present, no specific MPXV vaccinations or medications are available.

Methods: In this study, we predicted the most effective siRNA against the conserved region of the MPXV and validated the activity by performing molecular docking studies.

Results: Ultimately, the most efficient siRNA molecule was shortlisted against the envelope protein gene (B6R) based on its toxicity, effectivity, thermodynamic stability, molecular interaction, and molecular dynamics simulations (MD) with the Human Argonaute 2 protein.

Conclusion: Thus, the strategy may offer a platform for the development of potential antiviral RNA therapeutics that target MPXV at the genomic level.

Keywords: Monkeypox, small interfering RNA, RNAi, molecular docking, therapeutics, zoonotic infection.

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