NSP4C
NSP4C is a non-structural protein found in rotaviruses, a common cause of gastroenteritis in young children. It is a viral protein that plays a crucial role in the replication cycle of the rotavirus within host cells. Unlike structural proteins that form the outer layers of the virus, NSP4C is an internal component. Its primary function is to act as an endoplasmic reticulum receptor for the rotavirus core, facilitating the assembly and budding of new viral particles. NSP4C is also known to induce calcium signaling within infected cells, which can lead to cellular dysfunction and contribute to the symptoms of diarrhea associated with rotavirus infection. Research into NSP4C has provided valuable insights into the pathogenesis of rotavirus disease and has been a target for the development of antiviral therapies and vaccines. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of NSP4C's interaction with cellular machinery is key to controlling rotavirus infections.