States » SouthPosted at: Oct 22 2026 5:51PM


CSIR-CCMB scientists discover new ‘Viral Alarm Switch’ in human cells

Hyderabad, Oct 22 (UNI) Scientists at the CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR-CCMB), Hyderabad, have discovered a key mechanism through which human cells detect viral infections and activate the body's immune defence system.
The study, led by Dr Santosh Chauhan’s group, identifies DZIP3 as a dual-action protein that detects viral RNA and activates immune defence mechanisms. The findings have been published in The EMBO Journal.
According to the researchers, DZIP3 changes its shape when it detects viral RNA inside a cell and moves to the mitochondria, where it activates key immune proteins. This triggers the release of Type I interferons, which help prevent viruses from multiplying.
The team demonstrated that this pathway provides protection against several disease-causing viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, Chikungunya and Japanese Encephalitis.
Dr Chauhan, Senior Principal Scientist at CSIR-CCMB, said the discovery deepens the understanding of human immunity and could open avenues for developing broad-spectrum antiviral therapies. The team is now working on small-molecule drug candidates to enhance DZIP3 activity and strengthen the body's natural antiviral response.
Dr Rinku Sahu was the first author of the study, which involved collaborators from national and international institutions. The research was funded by the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India.
UNI VV CDS
Tags: #CSIR-CCMB scientists discover new ‘Viral Alarm Switch’ in human cells
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