ARF4-mediated intracellular transport as a broad-spectrum antiviral target

This research article identifies the host protein ARF4 as a critical factor that various RNA viruses, including Zika, influenza, and SARS-CoV-2, exploit to mature and exit host cells. The study demonstrates that when ARF4 is absent, viral particles are misdirected to lysosomes for destruction rather than being secreted, effectively halting the spread of infection. To capitalize on this mechanism, scientists developed a specific peptide named ARF4TP-4 that prevents the virus from utilizing this cellular transport pathway. Testing in animal models revealed that this antiviral peptide significantly lowers viral loads and prevents organ damage without causing toxic side effects. Ultimately, the findings suggest that targeting intracellular transport through ARF4 represents a powerful, broad-spectrum strategy to combat emerging viral threats and drug-resistant strains.