Science & Tech 23 October 2026
CSIR-CCMB Scientists Discover New 'Viral Alarm Switch' DZIP3 in Human Cells
Why in the News?
Scientists at the CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (**CSIR-CCMB**), Hyderabad, have discovered a critical dual-action protein mechanism that acts as a **‘viral alarm switch’** in human cells to detect and combat viral infections.
Key Features / Major Points:
- Research Team & Publication: Led by **Dr. Santosh Chauhan** (Senior Principal Scientist) with Dr. Rinku Sahu as first author, the groundbreaking study has been published in ***The EMBO Journal***.
- Mechanism of DZIP3 Protein: The team identified a protein named **DZIP3** that acts as an early warning sensor. Upon detecting viral RNA inside a cell, DZIP3 activates and migrates to the **mitochondria** (the cell's powerhouses).
- Immune Trigger: At the mitochondria, DZIP3 tags and activates core defence proteins, triggering the release of **Type-I interferons** that halt viral replication.
- Broad Spectrum Protection: Demonstrated efficacy against multiple pathogenic viruses, including **SARS-CoV-2, Chikungunya, and Japanese Encephalitis**.
- Therapeutic Potential: The team is working on small-molecule drug candidates to artificially boost DZIP3 activity for broad-spectrum antiviral treatments against emerging threats.
- Funding: Supported and funded by the **Department of Biotechnology (DBT)**, Ministry of Science and Technology.
Static GK Facts:
- CSIR-CCMB (Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology): Established - 1977 | Location - **Hyderabad, Telangana** (Functions under CSIR).
- CSIR (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research): Established - September 26, 1942 | Ex-Officio President - **Prime Minister of India**.
- Mitochondria: Commonly known as the "Powerhouse of the Cell," responsible for producing cellular energy in the form of ATP.
- Department of Biotechnology (DBT): Nodal agency for promoting biotechnology in India under the Ministry of Science and Technology.
One-Liner Quiz (All Competitive Exams):
Q: Which premier Indian research institute discovered the dual-action 'DZIP3' protein acting as a viral alarm switch?
A: CSIR-CCMB (Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology, Hyderabad)
Q: To which cellular organelle does the DZIP3 protein migrate after detecting viral RNA inside the host cell?
A: Mitochondria
Q: Where is the CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR-CCMB) headquartered?
A: Hyderabad, Telangana
Q: Who serves as the Ex-Officio President of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)?
A: Prime Minister of India
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