Book excerpt: Viral Polymerases: Structures, Functions and Roles as Antiviral Drug Targets presents in-depth study information on the structure and functions of polymerases and their roles in the lifecycle of viruses, and as drug targets. Viral polymerases constitute a vital component in the lifecycle of many viruses, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis viruses, influenza virus, and several others. They are essentially required for the replication of viruses. Thus, the polymerases that can be found in viruses (called viral polymerases) represent favorable targets for the design and development of antiviral drugs. - Provides comprehensive, state-of-the-art coverage on virus infections, the virus lifecycle, and mechanisms of polymerase inhibition - Analyzes the structure-activity relationships of inhibitors of each viral polymerase - Presents a consistent and comprehensive coverage of all aspects of viral polymerases, including structure, function and their role as antiviral drug targets