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Matrix-2 (M2) is a proton-selective ion channel protein encoded by influenza.A transmembrane region, anintracellular C-terminal domain, and an extracellular N-terminal domain comprise the M2 protein unit in influenza. At the transmembrane segment, the pore of the ion channels generates.

The influenza M2 protein is a transmembrane protein that helps the virus build a proton channel in its envelope. In the virus, the M2 protein transports the H⁺ ion. The M2 protein equilibrates the ion concentration across the viral membrane in viruses. It regulates viral replication and virus entrance, accumulating and releasing the electrochemical gradient in host cell sub-cellular components.

Anti-influenza virus medications that target the M2 protein are called anti-influenza virus drugs. It possesses a particular M2- channel blocker.Amantadine and rimantadine are the major anti-influenza virus drugs. The drug's two distinct locations directly impede proton flow.

The influenza virus is the most common cause of seasonal flu. The creation of novel drugs is guided by inhibitors that block the M2 channel and the pathways that can lead to viral infection. On the other hand, the medicine should be tailored to the mutant M2 ion channel protein's target.

Hence,the matrix proteins serve as a connection or a bridge between nucleocapsids/cores and the envelope during viral formation.