This would make of NS2B a possible viroporin, causing changes in membrane permeability during DENV infection. Multiple studies have demonstrated the ability of the NS2B protein to oligomerize, producing pore-like structures, and modifying the permeability membranes. While the N and C termini of NS2B are located in the cytoplasm, the central region contains alpha-helical transmembrane domains responsible for the NS2B membrane association. Non-structural protein 2B is a 15-kDa hydrophobic protein that acts as a cofactor of the NS3 protease.