Viral enzymes are proteins produced by viruses that play crucial roles in their life cycle. These enzymes help the virus to replicate its genetic material, assemble new virus particles, and evade the host's immune system. Common types of viral enzymes include polymerases, which synthesize RNA or DNA, and proteases, which help in processing viral proteins. These enzymes are essential for the virus to infect host cells and propagate. Understanding viral enzymes is important for developing antiviral drugs, as targeting these enzymes can inhibit the virus's ability to reproduce and spread, ultimately helping to control viral infections.