DDX3 is a DEAD-box group protein (RNA helicase family). It is involved in several cellular activities, including innate immunity, viral reproduction, and tumorgenesis (Kukhanova, 2020). DDX3 unwinds various forms of dsRNA, both 5' - 3' and 3' - 5'. It requires ATP and Mg²+ to unwind and releases RNA via ATP hydrolysis.
In some viruses such as HIV, DDX3 enables viral replication, while in others (such as Dengue), it has an anti-viral effect. The RNA helicase has similar effects on some cancer studies, wherein one type DDX3 is a tumor suppressor, while in another it acts as an enhancer. These qualities make DDX3 an interesting target for treating a variety of diseases.
The Transcreener ADP2 DDX3 Assay is an excellent tool for researchers examining the therapeutic effects of DDX3.