The C-terminal regulatory domain is the RNA 5'-triphosphate sensor of RIG-I

The labyrinth of interactions of Epstein-Barr virus-encoded small RNAs

Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) is an oncogenic herpesvirus implicated in the pathogenesis of a number of human malignancies. However, the mechanism by which EBV leads to malignant transformation is not clear. A number of viral latent gene products, including non-protein coding small RNAs, are believed to be involved. Epstein-Barr virus-encoded RNA 1 (EBER1) and EBER2 are two such RNA molecules that are abundantly expressed (up to 10(7) copies) in all EBV-infected cells, but their function remains poorly understood. These polymerase III transcripts have extensive secondary structure and exist as ribonucleoproteins. An accumulating body of evidence suggests that EBERs play an important role, directly or indirectly, in EBV-induced oncogenesis. Here, we summarize the current understanding of the complex interactions of EBERs with various cellular factors and the potential pathways by which these small RNAs are able to influence EBV-infected cells to proliferate and to induce tumorigenesis. The exosome pathway is probably involved in the cellular excretion of EBERs and facilitating some of their biological effects.

Negative regulation of RIG-I-mediated innate antiviral signaling by SEC14L1

Retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I) is a key sensor for recognizing nucleic acids derived from RNA viruses and triggers beta interferon (IFN-β) production. Because of its important role in antiviral innate immunity, the activity of RIG-I must be tightly controlled. Here, we used yeast two-hybrid screening to identify a SEC14 family member, SEC14L1, as a RIG-I-associated negative regulator. Transfected SEC14L1 interacted with RIG-I, and endogenous SEC14L1 associated with RIG-I in a viral infection-inducible manner. Overexpression of SEC14L1 inhibited transcriptional activity of the IFN-β promoter induced by RIG-I but not TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1) and interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3). Knockdown of endogenous SEC14L1 in both HEK293T cells and HT1080 cells potentiated RIG-I and Sendai virus-triggered IFN-β production as well as attenuated the replication of Newcastle disease virus. SEC14L1 interacted with the N-terminal domain of RIG-I (RIG-I caspase activation and recruitment domain [RIG-I-CARD]) and competed with VISA/MAVS/IPS-1/Cardif for RIG-I-CARD binding. Domain mapping further indicated that the PRELI-MSF1 and CRAL-TRIO domains but not the GOLD domain of SEC14L1 are required for interaction and inhibitory function. These findings suggest that SEC14L1 functions as a novel negative regulator of RIG-I-mediated antiviral signaling by preventing RIG-I interaction with the downstream effector.

MAVS recruits multiple ubiquitin E3 ligases to activate antiviral signaling cascades

RNA virus infections are detected by the RIG-I family of receptors, which induce type-I interferons through the mitochondrial protein MAVS. MAVS forms large prion-like polymers that activate the cytosolic kinases IKK and TBK1, which in turn activate NF-κB and IRF3, respectively, to induce interferons. Here we show that MAVS polymers recruit several TRAF proteins, including TRAF2, TRAF5, and TRAF6, through distinct TRAF-binding motifs. Mutations of these motifs that disrupted MAVS binding to TRAFs abrogated its ability to activate IRF3. IRF3 activation was also abolished in cells lacking TRAF2, 5, and 6. These TRAF proteins promoted ubiquitination reactions that recruited NEMO to the MAVS signaling complex, leading to the activation of IKK and TBK1. These results delineate the mechanism of MAVS signaling and reveal that TRAF2, 5, and 6, which are normally associated with NF-κB activation, also play a crucial role in IRF3 activation in antiviral immune responses.

DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.00785.001

The innate immune system can detect and destroy viruses, bacteria and other pathogens that enter the human body. In particular, inside cells, viral RNA can bind to and activate a protein called RIG-I. This protein switches on another protein, called MAVS, which can activate other copies of itself. These MAVS molecules then aggregate together on the membrane of mitochondria and send a signal that leads to the production of small proteins, called cytokines, which stimulate an inflammatory response and ultimately neutralize the virus.

Although many of the proteins that are activated by MAVS in the innate immunity signaling pathway have been identified, precisely how MAVS transmits this signal is unknown. Now, Liu et al. explore how this protein can propagate signals in the innate immune response by monitoring activation of the transcription factors IRF3 and NF-κB, which transcribe cytokine genes.

Previous studies have suggested that a protein known as ubiquitin is needed to activate RIG-I, and that this protein collaborates with MAVS to signal through the innate immunity pathway. Liu et al. found that a group of proteins including TRAF2, TRAF5, TRAF6 and LUBAC relay the antiviral signal by binding to MAVS. These so-called ‘E3 ligases’ string ubiquitin together in chains called polyubiquitin, which is essential for activating signaling after, or downstream of, MAVS; however, the association of these E3 ligases with MAVS also requires that multiple copies of MAVS cluster together.

MAVS, the TRAF proteins and LUBAC collectively recruit other innate immunity pathway proteins to activate IRF3 and NF-κB, and thus transcription of the genes that control the innate immunity response. Together, these results show the intricate interplay of proteins needed to eliminate viruses from the body.

DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.00785.002

Targeting the viral Achilles' heel: recognition of 5'-triphosphate RNA in innate anti-viral defence

Some RNA virus genomes bear 5'-triphosphates, which can be recognized in the cytoplasm of infected cells by host proteins that mediate anti-viral immunity. Both the innate sensor RIG-I and the interferon-induced IFIT proteins bind to 5'-triphosphate viral RNAs. RIG-I signals for induction of interferons during RNA virus infection while IFITs sequester viral RNAs to exert an anti-viral effect. Notably, the structures of these proteins reveal both similarities and differences, which are suggestive of independent evolution towards ligand binding. 5'-triphosphates, which are absent from most RNAs in the cytosol of uninfected cells, are thus a marker of virus infection that is targeted by the innate immune system for both induction and execution of the anti-viral response.

Characterization of rotavirus RNAs that activate innate immune signaling through the RIG-I-like receptors

In mammalian cells, the first line of defense against viral pathogens is the innate immune response, which is characterized by induction of type I interferons (IFN) and other pro-inflammatory cytokines that establish an antiviral milieu both in infected cells and in neighboring uninfected cells. Rotavirus, a double-stranded RNA virus of the Reoviridae family, is the primary etiological agent of severe diarrhea in young children worldwide. Previous studies demonstrated that rotavirus replication induces a MAVS-dependent type I IFN response that involves both RIG-I and MDA5, two cytoplasmic viral RNA sensors. This study reports the isolation and characterization of rotavirus RNAs that activate IFN signaling. Using an in vitro approach with purified rotavirus double-layer particles, nascent single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) transcripts (termed in vitro ssRNA) were found to be potent IFN inducers. In addition, large RNAs isolated from rotavirus-infected cells six hours post-infection (termed in vivo 6 hr large RNAs), also activated IFN signaling, whereas a comparable large RNA fraction isolated from cells infected for only one hour lacked this stimulatory activity. Experiments using knockout murine embryonic fibroblasts showed that RIG-I is required for and MDA5 partly contributes to innate immune signaling by both in vitro ssRNA and in vivo 6 hr large RNAs. Enzymatic studies demonstrated that in vitro ssRNA and in vivo 6 hr large RNA samples contain uncapped RNAs with exposed 5’ phosphate groups. RNAs lacking 2’-O-methylated 5’ cap structures were also detected in the in vivo 6 hr large RNA sample. Taken together, our data provide strong evidence that the rotavirus VP3 enzyme, which encodes both guanylyltransferase and methyltransferase activities, is not completely efficient at either 5’ capping or 2’-O-methylation of the 5’ cap structures of viral transcripts, and in this way produces RNA patterns that activate innate immune signaling through the RIG-I-like receptors.

Chicken MDA5 senses short double-stranded RNA with implications for antiviral response against avian influenza viruses in chicken

Mammalian melanoma differentiation-associated gene-5 (MDA5) and retinoic acid-inducible gene-I (RIG-I) selectively sense double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) according to length, as well as various RNA viruses to induce an antiviral response. RIG-I, which plays a predominant role in the induction of antiviral responses against influenza virus infection, has been considered to be lacking in chicken, putting the function of chicken MDA5 (chMDA5) under the spotlight. Here, we show that chMDA5, unlike mammalian MDA5, preferentially senses shorter dsRNA synthetic analogues, poly(I:C), in chicken DF-1 fibroblasts. A requirement for caspase activation and recruitment domains for chMDA5-mediated chicken interferon beta (chIFNβ) induction and its interaction with mitochondrial antiviral signaling proteins were demonstrated. We also found that chMDA5 is involved in chIFNβ induction against avian influenza virus infection. Our findings imply that chMDA5 compensates in part the function of RIG-I in chicken, and highlights the importance of chMDA5 in the innate immune response in chicken.

ATPase-driven oligomerization of RIG-I on RNA allows optimal activation of type-I interferon

The cytosolic pathogen sensor RIG-I is activated by RNAs with exposed 5'-triphosphate (5'-ppp) and terminal double-stranded structures, such as those that are generated during viral infection. RIG-I has been shown to translocate on dsRNA in an ATP-dependent manner. However, the precise role of the ATPase activity in RIG-I activation remains unclear. Using in vitro-transcribed Sendai virus defective interfering RNA as a model ligand, we show that RIG-I oligomerizes on 5'-ppp dsRNA in an ATP hydrolysis-dependent and dsRNA length-dependent manner, which correlates with the strength of type-I interferon (IFN-I) activation. These results establish a clear role for the ligand-induced ATPase activity of RIG-I in the stimulation of the IFN response.

Structural mechanism of cytosolic DNA sensing by cGAS

Cytosolic DNA arising from intracellular bacteria or viral infections is a powerful pathogen-associated molecular pattern (PAMP) that leads to innate immune host defense by the production of type I interferon and inflammatory cytokines. Recognition of cytosolic DNA by the recently discovered cyclic-GMP-AMP (cGA) synthase (cGAS) induces the production of cGA to activate the stimulator of interferon genes (STING). Here we report the crystal structure of cGAS alone and in complex with DNA, ATP and GTP along with functional studies. Our results explain cGAS’ broad specificity DNA sensing, show how cGAS catalyzes di-nucleotide formation and indicate activation by a DNA-induced structural switch. cGAS possesses a remarkable structural similarity to the antiviral cytosolic dsRNA sensor 2’-5’oligoadenylate synthase (OAS1), but contains a unique zinc-thumb that recognizes B-form dsDNA. Our results mechanistically unify dsRNA and dsDNA innate immune sensing by OAS1 and cGAS nucleotidyl transferases.

Systems analysis of a RIG-I agonist inducing broad spectrum inhibition of virus infectivity

The RIG-I like receptor pathway is stimulated during RNA virus infection by interaction between cytosolic RIG-I and viral RNA structures that contain short hairpin dsRNA and 5′ triphosphate (5′ppp) terminal structure. In the present study, an RNA agonist of RIG-I was synthesized in vitro and shown to stimulate RIG-I-dependent antiviral responses at concentrations in the picomolar range. In human lung epithelial A549 cells, 5′pppRNA specifically stimulated multiple parameters of the innate antiviral response, including IRF3, IRF7 and STAT1 activation, and induction of inflammatory and interferon stimulated genes - hallmarks of a fully functional antiviral response. Evaluation of the magnitude and duration of gene expression by transcriptional profiling identified a robust, sustained and diversified antiviral and inflammatory response characterized by enhanced pathogen recognition and interferon (IFN) signaling. Bioinformatics analysis further identified a transcriptional signature uniquely induced by 5′pppRNA, and not by IFNα-2b, that included a constellation of IRF7 and NF-kB target genes capable of mobilizing multiple arms of the innate and adaptive immune response. Treatment of primary PBMCs or lung epithelial A549 cells with 5′pppRNA provided significant protection against a spectrum of RNA and DNA viruses. In C57Bl/6 mice, intravenous administration of 5′pppRNA protected animals from a lethal challenge with H1N1 Influenza, reduced virus titers in mouse lungs and protected animals from virus-induced pneumonia. Strikingly, the RIG-I-specific transcriptional response afforded partial protection from influenza challenge, even in the absence of type I interferon signaling. This systems approach provides transcriptional, biochemical, and in vivo analysis of the antiviral efficacy of 5′pppRNA and highlights the therapeutic potential associated with the use of RIG-I agonists as broad spectrum antiviral agents.

Development of safe and effective drugs that inhibit virus replication remains a challenge. Activation of natural host defense using interferon (IFN) therapy has proven an effective treatment of certain viral infections. As a distinct variation on this concept, we analyzed the capacity of small RNA molecules that mimic viral components to trigger the host antiviral response and to inhibit the replication of several pathogenic human viruses. Using gene expression profiling, we identified robust antiviral and inflammatory gene signatures after treatment with a 5′-triphosphate containing RNA (5′pppRNA), including an integrated set of genes that is not regulated by IFN treatment. Delivery of 5′pppRNA into lung epithelial cells in vitro stimulated a strong antiviral immune response that inhibited the multiplication of several viruses. In a murine model of influenza infection, inoculation of the agonist protected animals from a lethal challenge of H1N1 influenza and inhibited virus replication in mouse lungs during the first 24–48 h after infection. This report highlights the therapeutic potential of naturally derived RIG-I agonists as potent stimulators of the innate antiviral response, with the capacity to block the replication of diverse human pathogenic viruses.

Expression pattern of genes of RLR-mediated antiviral pathway in different-breed chicken response to Marek's disease virus infection

It has been known that the chicken's resistance to disease was affected by chicken's genetic background. And RLR-mediated antiviral pathway plays an important role in detection of viral RNA. However, little is known about the interaction of genetic background with RLR-mediated antiviral pathway in chicken against MDV infection. In this study, we adopted economic line-AA broilers and native Erlang mountainous chickens for being infected with MDV. Upon infection with MDV, the expression of MDA-5 was upregulated in two-breed chickens at 4, 7, and 21 d.p.i. It is indicated that MDA-5 might be involved in detecting MDV in chicken. Interestingly, the expression of IRF-3 and IFN-β genes was decreased in spleen and thymus of broilers at 21 d.p.i, but it was upregulated in immune tissues of Erlang mountainous chickens. And the genome load of MDV in spleen of broiler is significantly higher than that in Erlang mountainous chickens. Meanwhile, we observed that the death of broiler mainly also occurred in this phase. Collectively, these present results demonstrated that the expression patters of IRF-3 and IFN-β genes in chicken against MDV infection might be affected by the genetic background which sequently influence the resistance of chicken response to MDV.

DExD/H-box RNA helicases as mediators of anti-viral innate immunity and essential host factors for viral replication

Traditional functions of DExD/H-box helicases are concerned with RNA metabolism; they have been shown to play a part in nearly every cellular process that involves RNA. On the other hand, it is accepted that DexD/H-box helicases also engage in activities that do not require helicase activity. A number of DExD/H-box helicases have been shown to be involved in anti-viral immunity. The RIG-like helicases, RIG-I, mda5 and lgp2, act as important cytosolic pattern recognition receptors for viral RNA. Detection of viral nucleic acids by the RIG-like helicases or other anti-viral pattern recognition receptors leads to the induction of type I interferons and pro-inflammatory cytokines. More recently, additional DExD/H-box helicases have also been implicated to act as cytosolic sensors of viral nucleic acids, including DDX3, DDX41, DHX9, DDX60, DDX1 and DHX36. However, there is evidence that at least some of these helicases might have more downstream functions in pattern recognition receptor signalling pathways, as signalling adaptors or transcriptional regulators. In an interesting twist, a lot of DExD/H-box helicases have also been identified as essential host factors for the replication of different viruses, suggesting that viruses 'hijack' their RNA helicase activities for their benefit. Interestingly, DDX3, DDX1 and DHX9 are among the helicases that are required for the replication of a diverse range of viruses. This might suggest that these helicases are highly contested targets in the ongoing 'arms race' between viruses and the host immune system. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: The Biology of RNA helicases - Modulation for life.

USP4 positively regulates RIG-I-mediated antiviral response through deubiquitination and stabilization of RIG-I

Protein ubiquitination plays an essential role in the regulation of retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I) activation and the antiviral immune response. However, the function of the opposite process of deubiquitination in RIG-I activation remains elusive. In this study, we have identified the deubiquitinating enzyme ubiquitin-specific protease 4 (USP4) as a new regulator for RIG-I activation through deubiquitination and stabilization of RIG-I. USP4 expression was attenuated after virus-induced RIG-I activation. Overexpression of USP4 significantly enhanced RIG-I protein expression and RIG-I-triggered beta interferon (IFN-β) signaling and, at the same time, inhibited vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) replication. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) knockdown of USP4 expression had an opposite effect. Furthermore, USP4 was found to interact with RIG-I and remove K48-linked polyubiquitination chains from RIG-I. Therefore, we identified USP4 as a new positive regulator for RIG-I that acts through deubiquitinating K48-linked ubiquitin chains and stabilizing RIG-I.

RIG-I goes beyond naked recognition

It is currently unclear at which point during viral replication that RNA genomes are first recognized as nonself by the immune system. In this issue of Cell Host & Microbe, Weber et al. show that incoming nucleocapsid-bound genomes are sufficient to bind and activate innate immune sensors.

Conformational rearrangements of RIG-I receptor on formation of a multiprotein:dsRNA assembly

The retinoic acid inducible gene-I (RIG-I)-like family of receptors is positioned at the front line of our innate cellular defence system. RIG-I detects and binds to foreign duplex RNA in the cytoplasm of both immune and non-immune cells, and initiates the induction of type I interferons and pro-inflammatory cytokines. The mechanism of RIG-I activation by double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) involves a molecular rearrangement proposed to expose the N-terminal pair of caspase activation recruitment domains, enabling an interaction with interferon-beta promoter stimulator 1 (IPS-1) and thereby initiating downstream signalling. dsRNA is particularly stimulatory when longer than 20 bp, potentially through allowing binding of more than one RIG-I molecule. Here, we characterize full-length RIG-I and RIG-I subdomains combined with a stimulatory 29mer dsRNA using multi-angle light scattering and size-exclusion chromatography-coupled small-angle X-ray scattering, to build up a molecular model of RIG-I before and after the formation of a 2:1 protein:dsRNA assembly. We report the small-angle X-ray scattering-derived solution structure of the human apo-RIG-I and observe that on binding of RIG-I to dsRNA in a 2:1 ratio, the complex becomes highly extended and flexible. Hence, here we present the first model of the fully activated oligomeric RIG-I.

Admixture mapping in lupus identifies multiple functional variants within IFIH1 associated with apoptosis, inflammation, and autoantibody production

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an inflammatory autoimmune disease with a strong genetic component. African-Americans (AA) are at increased risk of SLE, but the genetic basis of this risk is largely unknown. To identify causal variants in SLE loci in AA, we performed admixture mapping followed by fine mapping in AA and European-Americans (EA). Through genome-wide admixture mapping in AA, we identified a strong SLE susceptibility locus at 2q22–24 (LOD = 6.28), and the admixture signal is associated with the European ancestry (ancestry risk ratio ∼1.5). Large-scale genotypic analysis on 19,726 individuals of African and European ancestry revealed three independently associated variants in the IFIH1 gene: an intronic variant, rs13023380 [P_meta = 5.20×10⁻¹⁴; odds ratio, 95% confidence interval = 0.82 (0.78–0.87)], and two missense variants, rs1990760 (Ala946Thr) [P_meta = 3.08×10⁻⁷; 0.88 (0.84–0.93)] and rs10930046 (Arg460His) [P_dom = 1.16×10⁻⁸; 0.70 (0.62–0.79)]. Both missense variants produced dramatic phenotypic changes in apoptosis and inflammation-related gene expression. We experimentally validated function of the intronic SNP by DNA electrophoresis, protein identification, and in vitro protein binding assays. DNA carrying the intronic risk allele rs13023380 showed reduced binding efficiency to a cellular protein complex including nucleolin and lupus autoantigen Ku70/80, and showed reduced transcriptional activity in vivo. Thus, in SLE patients, genetic susceptibility could create a biochemical imbalance that dysregulates nucleolin, Ku70/80, or other nucleic acid regulatory proteins. This could promote antibody hypermutation and auto-antibody generation, further destabilizing the cellular network. Together with molecular modeling, our results establish a distinct role for IFIH1 in apoptosis, inflammation, and autoantibody production, and explain the molecular basis of these three risk alleles for SLE pathogenesis.

African-Americans (AA) are at increased risk of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), but the genetic basis of this risk increase is largely unknown. We used admixture mapping to localize disease-causing genetic variants that differ in frequency across populations. This approach is advantageous for localizing susceptibility genes in recently admixed populations like AA. Our genome-wide admixture scan identified seven admixture signals, and we followed the best signal at 2q22–24 with fine-mapping, imputation-based association analysis and experimental validation. We identified two independent coding variants and a non-coding variant within the IFIH1 gene associated with SLE. Together with molecular modeling, our results establish a distinct role for IFIH1 in apoptosis, inflammation, and autoantibody production, and explain the molecular basis of these three risk alleles for SLE pathogenesis.

Reverse Genetics of Mononegavirales: The Rabies Virus Paradigm

The neurotropic rabies virus (RABV) is a prototype member of the Mononegavirales order of viruses and is the most significant human pathogen of the Rhabdoviridae family. A reverse genetics system for RABV was established almost 20 years ago, providing a paradigm for other Mononegavirales members as well. The availability of engineered recombinant viruses opened a new era to study common aspects of Mononegavirales biology and specific aspects of the unique lifestyle and pathogenesis of individual members. Above all, the knowledge gained has allowed engineering of beneficial biomedical tools such as viral vectors, vaccines, and tracers. In this chapter, the development of the classical rabies virus reverse genetics approach is described, and some of the most exciting biomedical applications for recombinant RABV and other Mononegavirales are briefly addressed.

Intracellular pathogen detection by RIG-I-like receptors

The RIG-I-like receptors (RLRs) RIG-I, MDA5, and LGP2 trigger innate immune responses against viral infections that serve to limit virus replication and to stimulate adaptive immunity. RLRs are cytosolic sensors for virus-derived RNA and thus responsible for intracellular immune surveillance against infection. RLR signaling requires the adapter protein MAVS to induce type I interferon, interferon-stimulated genes, and proinflammatory cytokines. This review focuses on the molecular and cell biological requirements for RLR signal transduction.

Structural basis for dsRNA recognition, filament formation, and antiviral signal activation by MDA5

MDA5, a viral double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) receptor, shares sequence similarity and signaling pathways with RIG-I yet plays essential functions in antiviral immunity through distinct specificity for viral RNA. Revealing the molecular basis for the functional divergence, we report here the crystal structure of MDA5 bound to dsRNA, which shows how, using the same domain architecture, MDA5 recognizes the internal duplex structure, whereas RIG-I recognizes the terminus of dsRNA. We further show that MDA5 uses direct protein-protein contacts to stack along dsRNA in a head-to-tail arrangement, and that the signaling domain (tandem CARD), which decorates the outside of the core MDA5 filament, also has an intrinsic propensity to oligomerize into an elongated structure that activates the signaling adaptor, MAVS. These data support a model in which MDA5 uses long dsRNA as a signaling platform to cooperatively assemble the core filament, which in turn promotes stochastic assembly of the tandem CARD oligomers for signaling.

LGP2 expression is enhanced by interferon regulatory factor 3 in olive flounder, Paralichthys olivaceus

In innate immunity, LGP2 (laboratory of genetics and physiology 2) plays a very important role in the production of type I interferon (IFN) through recognition of cytosolic viral RNA. Although viral infection or stimulation with double-strand RNA dramatically induces expression of the LGP2 gene, the underlying transcriptional mechanism has never been studied. Here, we cloned and characterized the 5′-upstream region (−1,337 bp) of the LGP2 gene in olive flounder (Paralichthys olivaceus). Numerous canonical motifs for IFN-regulatory factors (IRFs) were found in this region, and reporter assays identified a poly I:C-responsive promoter region (−506 to −398) that regulated LGP2 transcription. Transcriptional activity of the LGP2 promoter was strongly enhanced by IRF3, which bound to IRF3 motif #3 (−480). The LGP2 promoter was also responsive to viral infection in vitro. These results suggest that LGP2 transcriptional control is crucially involved to regulated by IRF3 function after viral infection or stimulation with poly I:C.

Duplex RNA activated ATPases (DRAs): platforms for RNA sensing, signaling and processing

Double-stranded RNAs are an important class of functional macromolecules in living systems. They are usually found as part of highly specialized intracellular machines that control diverse cellular events, ranging from virus replication, antiviral defense, RNA interference, to regulation of gene activities and genomic integrity. Within different intracellular machines, the RNA duplex is often found in association with specific RNA-dependent ATPases, including Dicer, RIG-I and DRH-3 proteins. These duplex RNA-activated ATPases represent an emerging group of motor proteins within the large and diverse super family 2 nucleic acid-dependent ATPases (which are historically defined as SF2 helicases). The duplex RNA-activated ATPases share characteristic molecular features for duplex RNA recognition, including motifs (e.g., motifs IIa and Vc) and an insertion domain (HEL2i), and they require double-strand RNA binding for their enzymatic activities. Proteins in this family undergo large conformational changes concomitant with RNA binding, ATP binding and ATP hydrolysis in order to achieve their functions, which include the release of signaling domains and the recruitment of partner proteins. The duplex RNA-activated ATPases represent a distinct and fascinating group of nanomechanical molecular motors that are essential for duplex RNA sensing and processing in diverse cellular pathways.

Structure and dynamics of the second CARD of human RIG-I provide mechanistic insights into regulation of RIG-I activation

RIG-I is a cytosolic sensor of viral RNA, comprised of two N-terminal CARDs followed by helicase and C-terminal regulatory domains (helicase-CTD). Viral RNA binds to the helicase-CTD and "exposes" the CARDs for downstream signaling. The role of the second CARD (CARD2) is essential as RIG-I activation requires dephosphorylation of Thr170 followed by ubiquitination at Lys172. Here, we present the solution structure and dynamics of human RIG-I CARD2. Surprisingly, we find that Thr170 is mostly buried. Parallel studies on the phosphomimetic T170E mutant suggest that the loss of function upon Thr170 phosphorylation is likely associated with changes in the CARD1-CARD2 interface that may prevent Lys172 ubiquitination and/or binding to free K63-linked polyubiquitin. We also demonstrate a strong interaction between CARD2 and the helicase-CTD, and show that mutations at the interface result in constitutive activation of RIG-I. Collectively, our data suggests a close interplay between phosphorylation, ubiquitination, and activation of human RIG-I, all mediated by CARD2.

A structure-based model of RIG-I activation

A series of high-resolution crystal structures of RIG-I and RIG-I:dsRNA cocrystals has recently been reported. Comparison of these structures provides considerable insight into how this innate immune pattern recognition receptor is activated upon detecting and binding a certain class of viral RNAs.

Visualizing the determinants of viral RNA recognition by innate immune sensor RIG-I

Retinoic acid inducible gene-I (RIG-I) is a key intracellular immune receptor for pathogenic RNAs, particularly from RNA viruses. Here, we report the crystal structure of human RIG-I bound to a 5' triphosphorylated RNA hairpin and ADP nucleotide at 2.8 Å resolution. The RNA ligand contains all structural features that are essential for optimal recognition by RIG-I, as it mimics the panhandle-like signatures within the genome of negative-stranded RNA viruses. RIG-I adopts an intermediate, semiclosed conformation in this product state of ATP hydrolysis. The structure of this complex allows us to visualize the first steps in RIG-I recognition and activation upon viral infection.

Enterovirus RNA in peripheral blood may be associated with the variants of rs1990760, a common type 1 diabetes associated polymorphism in IFIH1

Objective

Polymorphisms in the IFIH1 (common rs1990760 and four rare rs35667974, rs35337543, rs35744605, rs35732034) have been convincingly associated with type 1 diabetes. The encoded protein (interferon-induced helicase C domain-containing protein 1) senses double-stranded RNA during replication of Picornavirales, including Enterovirus, a genus suspected in the etiology of type 1 diabetes. We therefore investigated whether the polymorphisms are associated with differences in the frequency of enterovirus RNA in blood.

Research Design and Methods

The study included 1001 blood samples, each from a child participating in the Norwegian ‘Environmental Triggers of Type 1 Diabetes: the MIDIA study’. The enterovirus RNA was tested using qualitative semi-nested real-time reverse transcriptase PCR on RNA extracted from frozen cell packs after removal of plasma. Stool samples previously analyzed for enterovirus RNA were available in 417 children.

Results

The genotypes of IFIH1 rs1990760 were associated with different frequencies of enterovirus RNA in blood (7.0%, 14.4% and 9.5% bloods were enterovirus positive among children carrying the Ala/Ala, Ala/Thr and Thr/Thr genotypes, respectively, p = 0.012). This association remained essentially unchanged after adjustment for age and calendar year. The presence of enterovirus in the concomitantly sampled stool further increased the likelihood of enterovirus RNA in blood (odds ratio 2.40, CI 95% 1.13–4.70), but did not affect the association with IFIH1 rs1990760. The rare polymorphisms (individually, or pooled) were not significantly associated with enterovirus RNA in blood.

Conclusions

The common IFIH1 SNP may modify the frequency of enterovirus RNA in blood of healthy children. This effect can help explain the association of IFIH1 with type 1 diabetes.

Kinetic mechanism for viral dsRNA length discrimination by MDA5 filaments

The viral sensor MDA5 distinguishes between cellular and viral dsRNAs by length-dependent recognition in the range of ~0.5-7 kb. The ability to discriminate dsRNA length at this scale sets MDA5 apart from other dsRNA receptors of the immune system. We have shown previously that MDA5 forms filaments along dsRNA that disassemble upon ATP hydrolysis. Here, we demonstrate that filament formation alone is insufficient to explain its length specificity, because the intrinsic affinity of MDA5 for dsRNA depends only moderately on dsRNA length. Instead, MDA5 uses a combination of end disassembly and slow nucleation kinetics to "discard" short dsRNA rapidly and to suppress rebinding. In contrast, filaments on long dsRNA cycle between partial end disassembly and elongation, bypassing nucleation steps. MDA5 further uses this repetitive cycle of assembly and disassembly processes to repair filament discontinuities, which often are present because of multiple, internal nucleation events, and to generate longer, continuous filaments that more accurately reflect the length of the underlying dsRNA scaffold. Because the length of the continuous filament determines the stability of the MDA5-dsRNA interaction, the mechanism proposed here provides an explanation for how MDA5 uses filament assembly and disassembly dynamics to discriminate between self vs. nonself dsRNA.

The thermodynamic basis for viral RNA detection by the RIG-I innate immune sensor

RIG-I is a cytoplasmic surveillance protein that contributes to the earliest stages of the vertebrate innate immune response. The protein specifically recognizes 5'-triphosphorylated RNA structures that are released into the cell by viruses, such as influenza and hepatitis C. To understand the energetic basis for viral RNA recognition by RIG-I, we studied the binding of RIG-I domain variants to a family of dsRNA ligands. Thermodynamic analysis revealed that the isolated RIG-I domains each make important contributions to affinity and that they interact using different strategies. Covalent linkage between the domains enhances RNA ligand specificity while reducing overall binding affinity, thereby providing a mechanism for discriminating virus from host RNA.

5'-Triphosphate-short interfering RNA: potent inhibition of influenza A virus infection by gene silencing and RIG-I activation

Limited protection of current vaccines and antiviral drugs against influenza A virus infection underscores the urgent need for development of novel anti-influenza virus interventions. While short interfering RNA (siRNA) has been shown to be able to inhibit influenza virus infection in a gene-specific manner, activation of the retinoic acid-inducible gene I protein (RIG-I) pathway has an antiviral effect in a non-gene-specific mode. In this study, we designed and tested the anti-influenza virus effect of a short double-stranded RNA, designated 3p-mNP1496-siRNA, that possesses dual functions: an siRNA-targeting influenza NP gene and an agonist for RIG-I activation. This double-stranded siRNA possesses a triphosphate group at the 5' end of the sense strand and is blunt ended. Our study showed that 3p-mNP1496-siRNA could potently inhibit influenza A virus infection both in cell culture and in mice. The strong inhibition effect was attributed to its siRNA function as well as its ability to activate the RIG-I pathway. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report that the combination of siRNA and RIG-I pathway activation can synergistically inhibit influenza A virus infection. The development of such dual functional RNA molecules will greatly contribute to the arsenal of tools to combat not only influenza viruses but also other important viral pathogens.

Double-stranded RNA induces biphasic STAT1 phosphorylation by both type I interferon (IFN)-dependent and type I IFN-independent pathways

Upon viral infection, pattern recognition receptors sense viral nucleic acids, leading to the production of type I interferons (IFNs), which initiate antiviral activities. Type I IFNs bind to their cognate receptor, IFNAR, resulting in the activation of signal-transducing activators of transcription 1 (STAT1). Thus, it has long been thought that double-stranded RNA (dsRNA)-induced STAT1 phosphorylation is mediated by the transactivation of type I IFN signaling. Foreign RNA, such as viral RNA, in cells is sensed by the cytoplasmic sensors retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I) and melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 (MDA-5). In this study, we explored the molecular mechanism responsible for STAT1 phosphorylation in response to the sensing of dsRNA by cytosolic RNA sensors. Polyinosinic-poly(C) [poly(I:C)], a synthetic dsRNA that is sensed by both RIG-I and MDA-5, induces STAT1 phosphorylation. We found that the poly(I:C)-induced initial phosphorylation of STAT1 is dependent on the RIG-I pathway and that MDA-5 is not involved in STAT1 phosphorylation. Furthermore, pretreatment of the cells with neutralizing antibody targeting the IFN receptor suppressed the initial STAT1 phosphorylation in response to poly(I:C), suggesting that this initial phosphorylation event is predominantly type I IFN dependent. In contrast, neither the known RIG-I pathway nor type I IFN is involved in the late phosphorylation of STAT1. In addition, poly(I:C) stimulated STAT1 phosphorylation in type I IFN receptor-deficient U5A cells with delayed kinetics. Collectively, our study provides evidence of a comprehensive regulatory mechanism in which dsRNA induces STAT1 phosphorylation, indicating the importance of STAT1 in maintaining very tight regulation of the innate immune system.

Multi-level regulation of cellular recognition of viral dsRNA

Effective antiviral immunity depends on accurate recognition of viral RNAs by the innate immune system. Double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) often accumulates in virally infected cells and was initially considered a unique viral signature that was sufficient to initiate antiviral response through dsRNA receptors and dsRNA-dependent effectors such as Toll-like receptor 3, retinoic acid inducible gene-1, protein kinase RNA-activated and oligoadenylate synthetase. However, dsRNA is also present in many cellular RNAs, raising a question of how these receptors and effectors discriminate between viral and cellular dsRNAs. Accumulating evidence suggests that innate immune sensors detect not only dsRNA structure but also other and often multiple features of RNA such as length, sequence, cellular location, post-transcriptional processing and modification, which are divergent between viral and cellular RNAs. This review summarizes recent findings on the substrate specificities of a few selected dsRNA-dependent effectors and receptors, which have revealed more complex mechanisms involved in cellular discrimination between self and non-self RNA.

IFNγ inhibits the cytosolic replication of Shigella flexneri via the cytoplasmic RNA sensor RIG-I

The activation of host cells by interferon gamma (IFNγ) is essential for inhibiting the intracellular replication of most microbial pathogens. Although significant advances have been made in identifying IFNγ-dependent host factors that suppress intracellular bacteria, little is known about how IFNγ enables cells to recognize, or restrict, the growth of pathogens that replicate in the host cytoplasm. The replication of the cytosolic bacterial pathogen Shigella flexneri is significantly inhibited in IFNγ-stimulated cells, however the specific mechanisms that mediate this inhibition have remained elusive. We found that S. flexneri efficiently invades IFNγ-activated mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) and escapes from the vacuole, suggesting that IFNγ acts by blocking S. flexneri replication in the cytosol. This restriction on cytosolic growth was dependent on interferon regulatory factor 1 (IRF1), an IFNγ-inducible transcription factor capable of inducing IFNγ-mediated cell-autonomous immunity. To identify host factors that restrict S. flexneri growth, we used whole genome microarrays to identify mammalian genes whose expression in S. flexneri-infected cells is controlled by IFNγ and IRF1. Among the genes we identified was the pattern recognition receptor (PRR) retanoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I), a cytoplasmic sensor of foreign RNA that had not been previously known to play a role in S. flexneri infection. We found that RIG-I and its downstream signaling adaptor mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein (MAVS)—but not cytosolic Nod-like receptors (NLRs)—are critically important for IFNγ-mediated S. flexneri growth restriction. The recently described RNA polymerase III pathway, which transcribes foreign cytosolic DNA into the RIG-I ligand 5′-triphosphate RNA, appeared to be involved in this restriction. The finding that RIG-I responds to S. flexneri infection during the IFNγ response extends the range of PRRs that are capable of recognizing this bacterium. Additionally, these findings expand our understanding of how IFNγ recognizes, and ultimately restricts, bacterial pathogens within host cells.

Shigella flexneri, the major cause of bacillary dysentery worldwide, invades and replicates within the cytoplasm of intestinal epithelial cells, where it disseminates to neighboring cells and ultimately increases the likelihood of transmission to uninfected hosts. A hallmark of the mammalian immune system is its ability to inhibit the growth of such intracellular pathogens by upregulating intracellular resistance mechanisms in response to the cytokine IFNγ. We found that in non-myeloid host cells stimulated with IFNγ S. flexneri remains able to invade the cells efficiently and gain access to the host cytoplasm. Once in the cytoplasm of IFγ-activated cells, the RIG-I/ MAVS immunosurveillance pathway is activated, enabling the stimulated host cells to inhibit S. flexneri replication. Interestingly, RIG-I only played a minor role in the cellular response to this pathogen in the absence of IFNγ, suggesting that the IFNγ response ensures the recognition of the infection through an immunosurveillance pathway that is otherwise dispensable for controlling S. flexneri growth. Together, these findings implicate the RIG-I pathway as a crucial component in the cellular response to this devastating bacterial pathogen.

Uridine composition of the poly-U/UC tract of HCV RNA defines non-self recognition by RIG-I

Viral infection of mammalian cells triggers the innate immune response through non-self recognition of pathogen associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) in viral nucleic acid. Accurate PAMP discrimination is essential to avoid self recognition that can generate autoimmunity, and therefore should be facilitated by the presence of multiple motifs in a PAMP that mark it as non-self. Hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA is recognized as non-self by RIG-I through the presence of a 5'-triphosphate (5'-ppp) on the viral RNA in association with a 3' poly-U/UC tract. Here we define the HCV PAMP and the criteria for RIG-I non-self discrimination of HCV by examining the RNA structure-function attributes that impart PAMP function to the poly-U/UC tract. We found that the 34 nucleotide poly-uridine "core" of this sequence tract was essential for RIG-I activation, and that interspersed ribocytosine nucleotides between poly-U sequences in the RNA were required to achieve optimal RIG-I signal induction. 5'-ppp poly-U/UC RNA variants that stimulated strong RIG-I activation efficiently bound purified RIG-I protein in vitro, and RNA interaction with both the repressor domain and helicase domain of RIG-I was required to activate signaling. When appended to 5'-ppp RNA that lacks PAMP activity, the poly-U/UC U-core sequence conferred non-self recognition of the RNA and innate immune signaling by RIG-I. Importantly, HCV poly-U/UC RNA variants that strongly activated RIG-I signaling triggered potent anti-HCV responses in vitro and hepatic innate immune responses in vivo using a mouse model of PAMP signaling. These studies define a multi-motif PAMP signature of non-self recognition by RIG-I that incorporates a 5'-ppp with poly-uridine sequence composition and length. This HCV PAMP motif drives potent RIG-I signaling to induce the innate immune response to infection. Our studies define a basis of non-self discrimination by RIG-I and offer insights into the antiviral therapeutic potential of targeted RIG-I signaling activation.

Functional characterizations of RIG-I to GCRV and viral/bacterial PAMPs in grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella

Background

RIG-I (retinoic acid inducible gene-I) is one of the key cytosolic pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) for detecting nucleotide pathogen associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) and mediating the induction of type I interferon and inflammatory cytokines in innate immune response. Though the mechanism is well characterized in mammals, the study of the accurate function of RIG-I in teleosts is still in its infancy.

Methodology/Principal Findings

To clarify the functional characterizations of RIG-I in grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella (CiRIG-I), six representative overexpression plasmids were constructed and transfected into C. idella kidney (CIK) cell lines to obtain stably expressing recombinant proteins, respectively. A virus titer test and 96-well plate staining assay showed that all constructs exhibited the antiviral activity somewhat. The quantitative real-time RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) demonstrated that mRNA expressions of CiIPS-1, CiIFN-I and CiMx2 were regulated by not only virus (GCRV) or viral PAMP (poly(IC)) challenge but also bacterial PAMPs (LPS and PGN) stimulation in the steadily transfected cells. The results showed that the full-length CiRIG-I played a key role in RLR pathway. The repressor domain (RD) exerted an inhibitory function of the signaling channel under all utilized challenges. Caspase activation and recruitment domains (CARDs) showed a positive role in GCRV and poly(I:C) challenge. Helicase motifs were crucial for the signaling pathway upon LPS and PGN stimulation. Interestingly, ΔCARDs (CARDs deleted) showed postive modulation in RIG-I signal transduction.

Conclusions/Significance

The results provided some novel insights into RIG-I sensing with a strikingly broad regulation in teleosts, responding not only to the dsRNA virus or synthetic dsRNA but also bacterial PAMPs.

Superfamily 2 helicases

Superfamily 2 helicases are involved in all aspects of RNA metabolism, and many steps in DNA metabolism. This review focuses on the basic mechanistic, structural and biological properties of each of the families of helicases within superfamily 2. There are ten separate families of helicases within superfamily 2, each playing specific roles in nucleic acid metabolism. The mechanisms of action are diverse, as well as the effect on the nucleic acid. Some families translocate on single-stranded nucleic acid and unwind duplexes, some unwind double-stranded nucleic acids without translocation, and some translocate on double-stranded or single-stranded nucleic acids without unwinding.

The mitochondrial targeting chaperone 14-3-3ε regulates a RIG-I translocon that mediates membrane association and innate antiviral immunity

RIG-I is a cytosolic pathogen recognition receptor that initiates immune responses against RNA viruses. Upon viral RNA recognition, antiviral signaling requires RIG-I redistribution from the cytosol to membranes where it binds the adaptor protein, MAVS. Here we identify the mitochondrial targeting chaperone protein, 14-3-3ε, as a RIG-I-binding partner and essential component of a translocation complex or "translocon" containing RIG-I, 14-3-3ε, and the TRIM25 ubiquitin ligase. The RIG-I translocon directs RIG-I redistribution from the cytosol to membranes where it mediates MAVS-dependent innate immune signaling during acute RNA virus infection. 14-3-3ε is essential for the stable interaction of RIG-I with TRIM25, which facilitates RIG-I ubiquitination and initiation of innate immunity against hepatitis C virus and other pathogenic RNA viruses. Our results define 14-3-3ε as a key component of a RIG-I translocon required for innate antiviral immunity.

Structural insights into RNA recognition and activation of RIG-I-like receptors

RIG-I like receptors (RLR) that recognize non-self RNA play critical roles in activating host innate immune pathways in response to viral infections. Not surprisingly, RLRs and their associated signaling networks are also targeted by numerous antagonists that facilitate viral pathogenesis. Although the role of RLRs in orchestrating antiviral signaling has been recognized for some time, our knowledge of the complex regulatory mechanisms that control signaling through these key molecules is incomplete. A series of recent structural studies shed new light into the structural basis for dsRNA recognition and activation of RLRs. Collectively, these studies suggest that the repression of RLRs is facilitated by a cis element that makes multiple contacts with domains within the helicase and that RNA binding initiated by the C-terminal RNA binding domain is important for ATP hydrolysis and release of the CARD domain containing signaling module from the repressed conformation. These studies also highlight potential differences between RIG-I and MDA5, two RLR members. Together with previous studies, these new results bring us a step closer to uncovering the complex regulatory process of a key protein that protects host cells from invading pathogens.

The 3' untranslated regions of influenza genomic sequences are 5'PPP-independent ligands for RIG-I

Retinoic acid inducible gene-I (RIG-I) is a key regulator of antiviral immunity. RIG-I is generally thought to be activated by ssRNA species containing a 5'-triphosphate (PPP) group or by unphosphorylated dsRNA up to ~300 bp in length. However, it is not yet clear how changes in the length, nucleotide sequence, secondary structure, and 5' end modification affect the abilities of these ligands to bind and activate RIG-I. To further investigate these parameters in the context of naturally occurring ligands, we examined RNA sequences derived from the 5' and 3' untranslated regions (UTR) of the influenza virus NS1 gene segment. As expected, RIG-I-dependent interferon-β (IFN-β) induction by sequences from the 5' UTR of the influenza cRNA or its complement (26 nt in length) required the presence of a 5'PPP group. In contrast, activation of RIG-I by the 3' UTR cRNA sequence or its complement (172 nt) exhibited only a partial 5'PPP-dependence, as capping the 5' end or treatment with CIP showed a modest reduction in RIG-I activation. Furthermore, induction of IFN-β by a smaller, U/A-rich region within the 3' UTR was completely 5'PPP-independent. Our findings demonstrated that RNA sequence, length, and secondary structure all contributed to whether or not the 5'PPP moiety is needed for interferon induction by RIG-I.

Emerging role of ubiquitination in antiviral RIG-I signaling

Detection of viruses by the innate immune system involves the action of specialized pattern recognition receptors. Intracellular RIG-I receptors sense the presence of viral nucleic acids in infected cells and trigger signaling pathways that lead to the production of proinflammatory and antiviral proteins. Over the past few years, posttranslational modification of RIG-I and downstream signaling proteins by different types of ubiquitination has been found to be a key event in the regulation of RIG-I-induced NF-κB and interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) activation. Multiple ubiquitin ligases, deubiquitinases, and ubiquitin binding scaffold proteins contribute to both positive and negative regulation of the RIG-I-induced antiviral immune response. A better understanding of the function and activity of these proteins might eventually lead to the development of novel therapeutic approaches for management of viral diseases.

MDA5 cooperatively forms dimers and ATP-sensitive filaments upon binding double-stranded RNA

Melanoma differentiation-associated gene-5 (MDA5) detects viral double-stranded RNA in the cytoplasm. RNA binding induces MDA5 to activate the signalling adaptor MAVS through interactions between the caspase recruitment domains (CARDs) of the two proteins. The molecular mechanism of MDA5 signalling is not well understood. Here, we show that MDA5 cooperatively binds short RNA ligands as a dimer with a 16-18-basepair footprint. A crystal structure of the MDA5 helicase-insert domain demonstrates an evolutionary relationship with the archaeal Hef helicases. In X-ray solution structures, the CARDs in unliganded MDA5 are flexible, and RNA binds on one side of an asymmetric MDA5 dimer, bridging the two subunits. On longer RNA, full-length and CARD-deleted MDA5 constructs assemble into ATP-sensitive filaments. We propose a signalling model in which the CARDs on MDA5-RNA filaments nucleate the assembly of MAVS filaments with the same polymeric geometry.

Conventional protein kinase C-α (PKC-α) and PKC-β negatively regulate RIG-I antiviral signal transduction

Retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I) is a key sensor for viral RNA in the cytosol, and it initiates a signaling cascade that leads to the establishment of an interferon (IFN)-mediated antiviral state. Because of its integral role in immune signaling, RIG-I activity must be precisely controlled. Recent studies have shown that RIG-I CARD-dependent signaling function is regulated by the dynamic balance between phosphorylation and TRIM25-induced K₆₃-linked ubiquitination. While ubiquitination of RIG-I is critical for RIG-I's ability to induce an antiviral IFN response, phosphorylation of RIG-I at S₈ or T₁₇₀ suppresses RIG-I signal-transducing activity under normal conditions. Here, we not only further define the roles of S₈ and T₁₇₀ phosphorylation for controlling RIG-I activity but also identify conventional protein kinase C-α (PKC-α) and PKC-β as important negative regulators of the RIG-I signaling pathway. Mutational analysis indicated that while the phosphorylation of S₈ or T₁₇₀ potently inhibits RIG-I downstream signaling, the dephosphorylation of RIG-I at both residues is necessary for optimal TRIM25 binding and ubiquitination-mediated RIG-I activation. Furthermore, exogenous expression, gene silencing, and specific inhibitor treatment demonstrated that PKC-α/β are the primary kinases responsible for RIG-I S₈ and T₁₇₀ phosphorylation. Coimmunoprecipitation showed that PKC-α/β interact with RIG-I under normal conditions, leading to its phosphorylation, which suppresses TRIM25 binding, RIG-I CARD ubiquitination, and thereby RIG-I-mediated IFN induction. PKC-α/β double-knockdown cells exhibited markedly decreased S₈/T₁₇₀ phosphorylation levels of RIG-I and resistance to infection by vesicular stomatitis virus. Thus, these findings demonstrate that PKC-α/β-induced RIG-I phosphorylation is a critical regulatory mechanism for controlling RIG-I antiviral signal transduction under normal conditions.

Stochastic expression of the interferon-β gene

The analysis of stochastic interferon-beta gene expression in virus-infected mammalian cells reveals that the levels of components required for virtually every step in the virus induction pathway are limiting.

Virus infection of mammalian cells induces the production of high levels of type I interferons (IFNα and β), cytokines that orchestrate antiviral innate and adaptive immunity. Previous studies have shown that only a fraction of the infected cells produce IFN. However, the mechanisms responsible for this stochastic expression are poorly understood. Here we report an in depth analysis of IFN-expressing and non-expressing mouse cells infected with Sendai virus. Mouse embryonic fibroblasts in which an internal ribosome entry site/yellow fluorescent protein gene was inserted downstream from the endogenous IFNβ gene were used to distinguish between the two cell types, and they were isolated from each other using fluorescence-activated cell sorting methods. Analysis of the separated cells revealed that stochastic IFNβ expression is a consequence of cell-to-cell variability in the levels and/or activities of limiting components at every level of the virus induction process, ranging from viral replication and expression, to the sensing of viral RNA by host factors, to activation of the signaling pathway, to the levels of activated transcription factors. We propose that this highly complex stochastic IFNβ gene expression evolved to optimize both the level and distribution of type I IFNs in response to virus infection.

Eukaryotic cells can respond to extracellular signals by triggering the activation of specific genes. Viral infection of mammalian cells, for example, induces a high level of expression of type I interferons (IFNα and β), proteins required for antiviral immunity that protects cells from the infection. Previous studies have shown that the expression of the IFNβ gene is stochastic, and under optimal conditions only a fraction of the infected cells express the IFNβ gene. At present neither the mechanisms nor functions of this interesting phenomenon are well understood. We have addressed this question by analyzing IFN-expressing and non-expressing mouse cells that were infected with the highly transmissible Sendai virus. We show that stochastic IFNβ gene expression is a consequence of cell-to-cell differences in limiting levels and/or activities of virus components at every level of the virus induction process, from viral replication to expression. These differences include the sensing of viral RNA by host factors, the activation of the signaling pathway, and the levels of activated transcription factors. Our findings reveal the complexity of the regulatory mechanisms controlling stochastic IFNβ gene expression. We propose that the stochastic expression of IFN allows for an even distribution of IFN, thus avoiding over-expression of IFN in infected cells.

Regulation of cell signaling and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus

In order to successfully survive in host and persistent infection, porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) utilized sophisticated mechanisms to suppress or escape from the host' innate and adaptive immune systems, and then changed host gene expression. Signaling pathways play a pivotal role in the regulation of diverse biological processes. Once signaling pathways are activated by a variety of different stimuli, immune responses will be triggered by the activation of chemokines, transcription factors, and inflammatory cytokines to adjust the aggressive replication and dissemination of viruses. PRRSV infection is able to get many signaling pathways activation that facilitates distinct cell functions to modulate immune responses. In addition, the cross-talk of cell signaling pathways also can regulate PRRSV replication and also is present in this review by recent finding.

Molecular mechanics of RNA translocases

Historically, research on RNA helicase and translocation enzymes has seemed like a footnote to the extraordinary progress in studies on DNA-remodeling enzymes. However, during the past decade, the rising wave of activity in RNA science has engendered intense interest in the behaviors of specialized motor enzymes that remodel RNA molecules. Functional, mechanistic, and structural investigations of these RNA enzymes have begun to reveal the molecular basis for their key roles in RNA metabolism and signaling. In this chapter, we highlight the structural and mechanistic similarities among monomeric RNA translocase enzymes, while emphasizing the many divergent characteristics that have caused this enzyme family to become one of the most important in metabolism and gene expression.

RIG-I-like receptors: cytoplasmic sensors for non-self RNA

Viral infection results in the generation of non-self RNA species in the cells, which is recognized by retinoic acid inducible gene-I-like receptors (RLRs), and initiates innate antiviral responses, including the production of proinflammatory cytokines and type I interferon. In this review, we summarize reports on virus-specificity of RLRs, structures of non-self RNA patterns, structural biology of RLRs, and the signaling adapter molecules involved in antiviral innate immunity.

Recognition of nucleic acids by pattern-recognition receptors and its relevance in autoimmunity

Summary:  Host cells trigger signals for innate immune responses upon recognition of conserved structures in microbial pathogens. Nucleic acids, which are critical components for inheriting genetic information in all species including pathogens, are key structures sensed by the innate immune system. The corresponding receptors for foreign nucleic acids include members of Toll‐like receptors, RIG‐I‐like receptors, and intracellular DNA sensors. While nucleic acid recognition by these receptors is required for host defense against the pathogen, there is a potential risk to the host of self‐nucleic acids recognition, thus precipitating autoimmune and autoinflammatory diseases. In this review, we discuss the roles of nucleic acid‐sensing receptors in guarding against pathogen invasion, discriminating between self and non‐self, and contributing to autoimmunity and autoinflammatory diseases.

Cooperative assembly and dynamic disassembly of MDA5 filaments for viral dsRNA recognition

MDA5, an RIG-I-like helicase, is a conserved cytoplasmic viral RNA sensor, which recognizes dsRNA from a wide-range of viruses in a length-dependent manner. It has been proposed that MDA5 forms higher-order structures upon viral dsRNA recognition or during antiviral signaling, however the organization and nature of this proposed oligomeric state is unknown. We report here that MDA5 cooperatively assembles into a filamentous oligomer composed of a repeating segmental arrangement of MDA5 dimers along the length of dsRNA. Binding of MDA5 to dsRNA stimulates its ATP hydrolysis activity with little coordination between neighboring molecules within a filament. Individual ATP hydrolysis in turn renders an intrinsic kinetic instability to the MDA5 filament, triggering dissociation of MDA5 from dsRNA at a rate inversely proportional to the filament length. These results suggest a previously unrecognized role of ATP hydrolysis in control of filament assembly and disassembly processes, thereby autoregulating the interaction of MDA5 with dsRNA, and provides a potential basis for dsRNA length-dependent antiviral signaling.