NP variants - affecting LLPS

R203K/G204R

(Zhao Li NatCom 2021 pmid: 33837182) higher propensity to undergo LLPS and a greater effect on IFN inhibition. By screening the chemicals known to interfere with N-RNA binding in other viruses, we find that (-)-gallocatechin gallate (GCG), a polyphenol from green tea, disrupts the LLPS of N and inhibits SARS-CoV-2 replication.

• mutation has no effect on mortality
• mutations found in 37% of the genomes
• NP dependent reduction of IFN production is stronger