Sensing of viral Z-RNA by ZBP1 Ghent University
Viruses are the smallest lifeform on earth and in order to replicate they need to deliver their genetic material under the form of nucleic acid, RNA or DNA, inside the host cell. Our immune system exploits this by using sensors which specifically recognize viral nucleic acids. However, our cells are packed with RNA and DNA molecules and how these sensors tell the difference between our own nucleic acid and that of a virus is a key question. ...