(IMAGE) Université de Genève Caption Possible mechanism of action of a drug targeting the SARS-CoV-2 Nsp1. In infected cells, Nsp1 blocks the ribosome’s mRNA channel by acting as a «cork» that prevents the expression of the host’s mRNA. The binding of a ligand to the proposed cryptic pocket highlighted in purple could prevent the Nsp1-mediated blockage and, ultimately, recover the ribosome’s ability to initiate the mRNA translation. Credit © Creative Commons Usage Restrictions none License Original content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.