1
|
Bello AJ, Popoola A, Okpuzor J, Ihekwaba-Ndibe AE, Olorunniji FJ. A Genetic Circuit Design for Targeted Viral RNA Degradation. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 11:22. [PMID: 38247899 PMCID: PMC10813695 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering11010022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Advances in synthetic biology have led to the design of biological parts that can be assembled in different ways to perform specific functions. For example, genetic circuits can be designed to execute specific therapeutic functions, including gene therapy or targeted detection and the destruction of invading viruses. Viral infections are difficult to manage through drug treatment. Due to their high mutation rates and their ability to hijack the host's ribosomes to make viral proteins, very few therapeutic options are available. One approach to addressing this problem is to disrupt the process of converting viral RNA into proteins, thereby disrupting the mechanism for assembling new viral particles that could infect other cells. This can be done by ensuring precise control over the abundance of viral RNA (vRNA) inside host cells by designing biological circuits to target vRNA for degradation. RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) have become important biological devices in regulating RNA processing. Incorporating naturally upregulated RBPs into a gene circuit could be advantageous because such a circuit could mimic the natural pathway for RNA degradation. This review highlights the process of viral RNA degradation and different approaches to designing genetic circuits. We also provide a customizable template for designing genetic circuits that utilize RBPs as transcription activators for viral RNA degradation, with the overall goal of taking advantage of the natural functions of RBPs in host cells to activate targeted viral RNA degradation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adebayo J. Bello
- School of Pharmacy & Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK; (A.J.B.); (A.P.)
- Department of Biological Sciences, Redeemer’s University, Ede 232101, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Abdulgafar Popoola
- School of Pharmacy & Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK; (A.J.B.); (A.P.)
- Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Kwara State University, Malete, Ilorin 241102, Kwara State, Nigeria
| | - Joy Okpuzor
- Department of Cell Biology & Genetics, University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos 101017, Lagos State, Nigeria;
| | | | - Femi J. Olorunniji
- School of Pharmacy & Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK; (A.J.B.); (A.P.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhang J, Chen B, Fang X. 3D Structural Analysis of Long Noncoding RNA by Small Angle X-ray Scattering and Computational Modeling. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2568:147-163. [PMID: 36227567 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2687-0_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) has been widely applied as an enabling integrative technique for comprehensive analysis of the structure of biomacromolecules by multiple, complementary techniques in solution. SAXS in combination with computational modeling can be a powerful strategy bridging the secondary and 3D structural analysis of large RNAs, including the long noncoding RNAs (lncRNA). Here, we outline the major procedures and techniques in the combined use of SAXS and computational modeling for 3D structural characterization of a lncRNA, the subgenomic flaviviral RNA from Zika virus. lncRNA production and purification, RNA buffer and sample preparation for SAXS experiments, SAXS data collection and analysis, SAXS-aided RNA 3D structure prediction, and computational modeling are described.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Binxian Chen
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Xianyang Fang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural Biology, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Isolation and Genetic Characterization of Japanese Encephalitis Virus Two Decades after Its Elimination in Singapore. Viruses 2022; 14:v14122662. [PMID: 36560666 PMCID: PMC9786948 DOI: 10.3390/v14122662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is an important arbovirus in Asia that can cause serious neurological disease. JEV is transmitted by mosquitoes in an enzootic cycle involving porcine and avian reservoirs, in which humans are accidental, dead-end hosts. JEV is currently not endemic in Singapore, after pig farming was abolished in 1992; the last known human case was reported in 2005. However, due to its location along the East-Asian Australasian Flyway (EAAF), Singapore is vulnerable to JEV re-introduction from the endemic regions. Serological and genetic evidence in the last decade suggests JEV's presence in the local fauna. In the present study, we report the genetic characterization and the first isolation of JEV from 3214 mosquito pools consisting of 41,843 Culex mosquitoes, which were trapped from April 2014 to May 2021. The findings demonstrated the presence of genotype I of JEV (n = 10), in contrast to the previous reports of the presence of genotype II of JEV in Singapore. The genetic analyses also suggested that JEV has entered Singapore on several occasions and has potentially established an enzootic cycle in the local fauna. These observations have important implications in the risk assessment and the control of Japanese encephalitis in non-endemic countries, such as Singapore, that are at risk for JEV transmission.
Collapse
|
4
|
Li Z, Gao J, Xiang X, Deng J, Gao D, Sheng X. Viral long non-coding RNA regulates virus life-cycle and pathogenicity. Mol Biol Rep 2022; 49:6693-6700. [PMID: 35301646 PMCID: PMC8929458 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07268-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Viral infection is still a serious global health problem that kills hundreds of thousands of people annually. Understanding the mechanism by which virus replicates, packages, and infects the host cells can provide new strategies to control viral infection. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been identified as critical regulators involved in viral infection process and antiviral response. A lot of host lncRNAs have been identified and shown to be involved in antiviral immune response during viral infection. However, our knowledge about lncRNAs expressed by viruses is still at its infancy. LncRNAs expressed by viruses are involved in the whole viral life cycle, including promoting genome replication, regulating gene expression, involvement in genome packaging, assembling new viruses and releasing virions to the host cells. Furthermore, they enhance the pathogenicity of viral infections by down-regulating the host cell's antiviral immune response and maintain the viral latency through a refined procedure of genome integration. This review focuses on the regulatory roles of viral lncRNA in the life-cycle and pathogenicity of viruses. It gives an insight into the viral lncRNAs that can be utilized as therapeutic targets against viral diseases, and future researches aimed to identify and explore new viral lncRNAs and the mechanisms of their involvement in viral infection is encouraged.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zeyu Li
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Jiangsu University School of Medicine, 301 Xuefu Road, 212013, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiaqin Gao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Jiangsu University School of Medicine, 301 Xuefu Road, 212013, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xinyu Xiang
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Jiangsu University School of Medicine, 301 Xuefu Road, 212013, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiajun Deng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Jiangsu University School of Medicine, 301 Xuefu Road, 212013, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Di Gao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Jiangsu University School of Medicine, 301 Xuefu Road, 212013, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiumei Sheng
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Jiangsu University School of Medicine, 301 Xuefu Road, 212013, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Iselin L, Palmalux N, Kamel W, Simmonds P, Mohammed S, Castello A. Uncovering viral RNA-host cell interactions on a proteome-wide scale. Trends Biochem Sci 2022; 47:23-38. [PMID: 34509361 PMCID: PMC9187521 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibs.2021.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
RNA viruses interact with a wide range of cellular RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) during their life cycle. The prevalence of these host-virus interactions has been highlighted by new methods that elucidate the composition of viral ribonucleoproteins (vRNPs). Applied to 11 viruses so far, these approaches have revealed hundreds of cellular RBPs that interact with viral (v)RNA in infected cells. However, consistency across methods is limited, raising questions about methodological considerations when designing and interpreting these studies. Here, we discuss these caveats and, through comparing available vRNA interactomes, describe RBPs that are consistently identified as vRNP components and outline their potential roles in infection. In summary, these novel approaches have uncovered a new universe of host-virus interactions holding great therapeutic potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Louisa Iselin
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Peter Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3SY, UK,Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, OX1 3QU, Oxford, UK
| | - Natasha Palmalux
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, 464 Bearsden Road, Glasgow G61 1QH, Scotland, (UK)
| | - Wael Kamel
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, OX1 3QU, Oxford, UK,MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, 464 Bearsden Road, Glasgow G61 1QH, Scotland, (UK)
| | - Peter Simmonds
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, Peter Medawar Building for Pathogen Research, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 3SY, UK
| | - Shabaz Mohammed
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, OX1 3QU, Oxford, UK,Chemistry Research Laboratory, University of Oxford, Mansfield Road, Oxford, OX1 3TA, UK,The Rosalind Franklin Institute, Oxfordshire, OX11 0FA, UK
| | - Alfredo Castello
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Oxford, South Parks Road, OX1 3QU, Oxford, UK,MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, 464 Bearsden Road, Glasgow G61 1QH, Scotland, (UK),Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
NUDT2 initiates viral RNA degradation by removal of 5'-phosphates. Nat Commun 2021; 12:6918. [PMID: 34824277 PMCID: PMC8616924 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-27239-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
While viral replication processes are largely understood, comparably little is known on cellular mechanisms degrading viral RNA. Some viral RNAs bear a 5′-triphosphate (PPP-) group that impairs degradation by the canonical 5′-3′ degradation pathway. Here we show that the Nudix hydrolase 2 (NUDT2) trims viral PPP-RNA into monophosphorylated (P)-RNA, which serves as a substrate for the 5′-3′ exonuclease XRN1. NUDT2 removes 5′-phosphates from PPP-RNA in an RNA sequence- and overhang-independent manner and its ablation in cells increases growth of PPP-RNA viruses, suggesting an involvement in antiviral immunity. NUDT2 is highly homologous to bacterial RNA pyrophosphatase H (RppH), a protein involved in the metabolism of bacterial mRNA, which is 5′-tri- or diphosphorylated. Our results show a conserved function between bacterial RppH and mammalian NUDT2, indicating that the function may have adapted from a protein responsible for RNA turnover in bacteria into a protein involved in the immune defense in mammals. RNA of some viruses is protected from degradation by a 5′ triphosphate group. Here the authors identify nudix hydrolase 2 (NUDT2) as novel antiviral defense protein that dephosphorylates viral RNA and thereby enables its degradation.
Collapse
|
7
|
Pseudoknot length modulates the folding, conformational dynamics, and robustness of Xrn1 resistance of flaviviral xrRNAs. Nat Commun 2021; 12:6417. [PMID: 34741027 PMCID: PMC8571300 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-26616-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
To understand how RNA dynamics is regulated and connected to its function, we investigate the folding, conformational dynamics and robustness of Xrn1 resistance of a set of flaviviral xrRNAs using SAXS, smFRET and in vitro enzymatic assays. Flaviviral xrRNAs form discrete ring-like 3D structures, in which the length of a conserved long-range pseudoknot (PK2) ranges from 2 bp to 7 bp. We find that xrRNAs' folding, conformational dynamics and Xrn1 resistance are strongly correlated and highly Mg2+-dependent, furthermore, the Mg2+-dependence is modulated by PK2 length variations. xrRNAs with long PK2 require less Mg2+ to stabilize their folding, exhibit reduced conformational dynamics and strong Xrn1 resistance even at low Mg2+, and tolerate mutations at key tertiary motifs at high Mg2+, which generally are destructive to xrRNAs with short PK2. These results demonstrate an unusual regulatory mechanism of RNA dynamics providing insights into the functions and future biomedical applications of xrRNAs.
Collapse
|
8
|
Ramos-Lorente S, Romero-López C, Berzal-Herranz A. Information Encoded by the Flavivirus Genomes beyond the Nucleotide Sequence. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:3738. [PMID: 33916729 PMCID: PMC8038387 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The genus Flavivirus comprises numerous, small, single positive-stranded RNA viruses, many of which are important human pathogens. To store all the information required for their successful propagation, flaviviruses use discrete structural genomic RNA elements to code for functional information by the establishment of dynamic networks of long-range RNA-RNA interactions that promote specific folding. These structural elements behave as true cis-acting, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) and have essential regulatory roles in the viral cycle. These include the control of the formation of subgenomic RNAs, known as sfRNAs, via the prevention of the complete degradation of the RNA genome. These sfRNAs are important in ensuring viral fitness. This work summarizes our current knowledge of the functions performed by the genome conformations and the role of RNA-RNA interactions in these functions. It also reviews the role of RNA structure in the production of sfRNAs across the genus Flavivirus, and their existence in related viruses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Cristina Romero-López
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López-Neyra (IPBLN-CSIC), Av. Conocimiento 17, Armilla, 18016 Granada, Spain;
| | - Alfredo Berzal-Herranz
- Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina López-Neyra (IPBLN-CSIC), Av. Conocimiento 17, Armilla, 18016 Granada, Spain;
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Host-virus interactions mediated by long non-coding RNAs. Virus Res 2021; 298:198402. [PMID: 33771610 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2021.198402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Revised: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Viruses are obligate pathogens that cause a wide range of diseases across all kingdoms of life. They have a colossal impact on the economy and healthcare infrastructure world-wide. Plants and animals have developed sophisticated molecular mechanisms to defend themselves against viruses and viruses in turn hijack host mechanisms to ensure their survival inside their hosts. Long non-coding (lnc) RNAs have emerged as important macromolecules that regulate plant-virus and animal-virus interactions. Both pro-viral and anti-viral lncRNAs have been reported and they show immense potential to be used as markers and in therapeutics. The current review is focussed on the recent developments that have been made in viral interactions of animals and plants.
Collapse
|
10
|
Vierbuchen T, Fitzgerald KA. Long non-coding RNAs in antiviral immunity. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2021; 111:126-134. [DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2020.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2020] [Revised: 06/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
|
11
|
Niu X, Liu Q, Xu Z, Chen Z, Xu L, Xu L, Li J, Fang X. Molecular mechanisms underlying the extreme mechanical anisotropy of the flaviviral exoribonuclease-resistant RNAs (xrRNAs). Nat Commun 2020; 11:5496. [PMID: 33127896 PMCID: PMC7603331 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-19260-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mechanical anisotropy is an essential property for many biomolecules to assume their structures, functions and applications, however, the mechanisms for their direction-dependent mechanical responses remain elusive. Herein, by using a single-molecule nanopore sensing technique, we explore the mechanisms of directional mechanical stability of the xrRNA1 RNA from ZIKA virus (ZIKV), which forms a complex ring-like architecture. We reveal extreme mechanical anisotropy in ZIKV xrRNA1 which highly depends on Mg2+ and the key tertiary interactions. The absence of Mg2+ and disruption of the key tertiary interactions strongly affect the structural integrity and attenuate mechanical anisotropy. The significance of ring structures in RNA mechanical anisotropy is further supported by steered molecular dynamics simulations in combination with force distribution analysis. We anticipate the ring structures can be used as key elements to build RNA-based nanostructures with controllable mechanical anisotropy for biomaterial and biomedical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolin Niu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structfural Biology, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Qiuhan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Zhonghe Xu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structfural Biology, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Zhifeng Chen
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structfural Biology, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Linghui Xu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structfural Biology, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Lilei Xu
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structfural Biology, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Jinghong Li
- Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
| | - Xianyang Fang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structfural Biology, School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Szucs MJ, Nichols PJ, Jones RA, Vicens Q, Kieft JS. A New Subclass of Exoribonuclease-Resistant RNA Found in Multiple Genera of Flaviviridae. mBio 2020; 11:mBio.02352-20. [PMID: 32994331 DOI: 10.1101/2020.06.26.172668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Viruses have developed innovative strategies to exploit the cellular machinery and overcome the antiviral defenses of the host, often using specifically structured RNA elements. Examples are found in the Flavivirus genus (in the family Flaviviridae), where during flaviviral infection, pathogenic subgenomic flaviviral RNAs (sfRNAs) accumulate in the cell. These sfRNAs are formed when a host cell 5' to 3' exoribonuclease degrades the viral genomic RNA but is blocked by an exoribonuclease-resistant RNA structure (xrRNA) located in the viral genome's 3' untranslated region (UTR). Although known to exist in several Flaviviridae genera, the full distribution and diversity of xrRNAs in this family were unknown. Using the recently solved high-resolution structure of an xrRNA from the divergent flavivirus Tamana bat virus (TABV) as a reference, we used bioinformatic searches to identify xrRNAs in the remaining three genera of Flaviviridae: Pegivirus, Pestivirus, and Hepacivirus We biochemically and structurally characterized several examples, determining that they are genuine xrRNAs with a conserved fold. These new xrRNAs look superficially similar to the previously described xrRNAs but possess structural differences making them distinct from previous classes of xrRNAs. Overall, we have identified the presence of xrRNA in all four genera of Flaviviridae, but not in all species. Our findings thus require adjustments of previous xrRNA classification schemes and expand the previously known distribution of xrRNA in Flaviviridae.IMPORTANCE The members of the Flaviviridae comprise one of the largest families of positive-sense single-stranded RNA (+ssRNA) and are divided into the Flavivirus, Pestivirus, Pegivirus, and Hepacivirus genera. The genus Flavivirus contains many medically relevant viruses such as Zika virus, dengue virus, and Powassan virus. In these, a part of the RNA of the virus twists up into a distinct three-dimensional shape called an exoribonuclease-resistant RNA (xrRNA) that blocks the ability of the cell to "chew up" the viral RNA. Hence, part of the RNA of the virus remains intact, and this protected part is important for viral infection. These xrRNAs were known to occur in flaviviruses, but whether they existed in the other members of the family was not known. In this study, we identified a new subclass of xrRNA found not only in flaviviruses but also in the remaining three genera. The fact that these structured viral RNAs exist throughout the Flaviviridae family suggests they are important parts of the infection strategy of diverse pathogens, which could lead to new avenues of research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Szucs
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Parker J Nichols
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Rachel A Jones
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Quentin Vicens
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Jeffrey S Kieft
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
- RNA BioScience Initiative, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Abstract
The members of the Flaviviridae comprise one of the largest families of positive-sense single-stranded RNA (+ssRNA) and are divided into the Flavivirus, Pestivirus, Pegivirus, and Hepacivirus genera. The genus Flavivirus contains many medically relevant viruses such as Zika virus, dengue virus, and Powassan virus. In these, a part of the RNA of the virus twists up into a distinct three-dimensional shape called an exoribonuclease-resistant RNA (xrRNA) that blocks the ability of the cell to “chew up” the viral RNA. Hence, part of the RNA of the virus remains intact, and this protected part is important for viral infection. These xrRNAs were known to occur in flaviviruses, but whether they existed in the other members of the family was not known. In this study, we identified a new subclass of xrRNA found not only in flaviviruses but also in the remaining three genera. The fact that these structured viral RNAs exist throughout the Flaviviridae family suggests they are important parts of the infection strategy of diverse pathogens, which could lead to new avenues of research. Viruses have developed innovative strategies to exploit the cellular machinery and overcome the antiviral defenses of the host, often using specifically structured RNA elements. Examples are found in the Flavivirus genus (in the family Flaviviridae), where during flaviviral infection, pathogenic subgenomic flaviviral RNAs (sfRNAs) accumulate in the cell. These sfRNAs are formed when a host cell 5′ to 3′ exoribonuclease degrades the viral genomic RNA but is blocked by an exoribonuclease-resistant RNA structure (xrRNA) located in the viral genome’s 3′ untranslated region (UTR). Although known to exist in several Flaviviridae genera, the full distribution and diversity of xrRNAs in this family were unknown. Using the recently solved high-resolution structure of an xrRNA from the divergent flavivirus Tamana bat virus (TABV) as a reference, we used bioinformatic searches to identify xrRNAs in the remaining three genera of Flaviviridae: Pegivirus, Pestivirus, and Hepacivirus. We biochemically and structurally characterized several examples, determining that they are genuine xrRNAs with a conserved fold. These new xrRNAs look superficially similar to the previously described xrRNAs but possess structural differences making them distinct from previous classes of xrRNAs. Overall, we have identified the presence of xrRNA in all four genera of Flaviviridae, but not in all species. Our findings thus require adjustments of previous xrRNA classification schemes and expand the previously known distribution of xrRNA in Flaviviridae.
Collapse
|
14
|
Gallo A, Bulati M, Miceli V, Amodio N, Conaldi PG. Non-Coding RNAs: Strategy for Viruses' Offensive. Noncoding RNA 2020; 6:ncrna6030038. [PMID: 32927786 PMCID: PMC7549346 DOI: 10.3390/ncrna6030038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2020] [Revised: 09/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The awareness of viruses as a constant threat for human public health is a matter of fact and in this resides the need of understanding the mechanisms they use to trick the host. Viral non-coding RNAs are gaining much value and interest for the potential impact played in host gene regulation, acting as fine tuners of host cellular defense mechanisms. The implicit importance of v-ncRNAs resides first in the limited genomes size of viruses carrying only strictly necessary genomic sequences. The other crucial and appealing characteristic of v-ncRNAs is the non-immunogenicity, making them the perfect expedient to be used in the never-ending virus-host war. In this review, we wish to examine how DNA and RNA viruses have evolved a common strategy and which the crucial host pathways are targeted through v-ncRNAs in order to grant and facilitate their life cycle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Gallo
- Department of Research, IRCCS ISMETT (Istituto Mediterraneo per i Trapianti e Terapie ad alta specializzazione), Via E.Tricomi 5, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (M.B.); (V.M.); (P.G.C.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-91-21-92-649
| | - Matteo Bulati
- Department of Research, IRCCS ISMETT (Istituto Mediterraneo per i Trapianti e Terapie ad alta specializzazione), Via E.Tricomi 5, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (M.B.); (V.M.); (P.G.C.)
| | - Vitale Miceli
- Department of Research, IRCCS ISMETT (Istituto Mediterraneo per i Trapianti e Terapie ad alta specializzazione), Via E.Tricomi 5, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (M.B.); (V.M.); (P.G.C.)
| | - Nicola Amodio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Pier Giulio Conaldi
- Department of Research, IRCCS ISMETT (Istituto Mediterraneo per i Trapianti e Terapie ad alta specializzazione), Via E.Tricomi 5, 90127 Palermo, Italy; (M.B.); (V.M.); (P.G.C.)
- UPMC Italy (University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Italy), Discesa dei Giudici 4, 90133 Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Zhang Y, Zhang Y, Liu Z, Cheng M, Ma J, Wang Y, Qin C, Fang X. Long non-coding subgenomic flavivirus RNAs have extended 3D structures and are flexible in solution. EMBO Rep 2019; 20:e47016. [PMID: 31502753 PMCID: PMC6832101 DOI: 10.15252/embr.201847016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2018] [Revised: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 08/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Most mosquito-borne flaviviruses, including Zika virus (ZIKV), Dengue virus (DENV), and West Nile virus (WNV), produce long non-coding subgenomic RNAs (sfRNAs) in infected cells that link to pathogenicity and immune evasion. Until now, the structural characterization of these lncRNAs remains limited. Here, we studied the 3D structures of individual and combined subdomains of sfRNAs, and visualized the accessible 3D conformational spaces of complete sfRNAs from DENV2, ZIKV, and WNV by small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and computational modeling. The individual xrRNA1s and xrRNA2s adopt similar structures in solution as the crystal structure of ZIKV xrRNA1, and all xrRNA1-2s form compact structures with reduced flexibility. While the DB12 of DENV2 is extended, the DB12s of ZIKV and WNV are compact due to the formation of intertwined double pseudoknots. All 3' stem-loops (3'SLs) share similar rod-like structures. Complete sfRNAs are extended and sample a large conformational space in solution. Our work not only provides structural insight into the function of flavivirus sfRNAs, but also highlights strategies of visualizing other lncRNAs in solution by SAXS and computational methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yupeng Zhang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural BiologySchool of Life SciencesTsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Yikan Zhang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural BiologySchool of Life SciencesTsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Zhong‐Yu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and BiosecurityBeijing Institute of Microbiology and EpidemiologyBeijingChina
- Guangzhou Eighth People's HospitalGuangzhou Medical UniversityGuangzhouChina
- School of Medicine (Shenzhen)Sun Yat‐sen UniversityGuangzhouChina
| | - Meng‐Li Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and BiosecurityBeijing Institute of Microbiology and EpidemiologyBeijingChina
| | - Junfeng Ma
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural BiologySchool of Life SciencesTsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Yan Wang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural BiologySchool of Life SciencesTsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Cheng‐Feng Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and BiosecurityBeijing Institute of Microbiology and EpidemiologyBeijingChina
| | - Xianyang Fang
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Structural BiologySchool of Life SciencesTsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Wang P. The Opening of Pandora's Box: An Emerging Role of Long Noncoding RNA in Viral Infections. Front Immunol 2019; 9:3138. [PMID: 30740112 PMCID: PMC6355698 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.03138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 12/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging evidence has proved that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) participate in various physiological and pathological processes. Recent evidence has demonstrated that lncRNAs are crucial regulators of virus infections and antiviral immune responses. Upon viral infections, significant changes take place at the transcriptional level and the majority of the expression modifications occur in lncRNAs from both the host and viral genomes with dynamic regulatory courses. These lncRNAs exert diverse effects. Some are antiviral either through directly inhibiting viral infections or through stimulating antiviral immune responses, while others are pro-viral through directly promoting virus replication or through influencing cellular status, such as suppressing antiviral mechanisms. Consequently, these dynamic regulations lead to disparate pathophysiological outcomes and clinical manifestations. This review will focus on the roles of lncRNAs in viral infection and antiviral responses, summarize expression patterns of both host- and virally derived lncRNAs, describe their acting stages and modes of action, discuss challenges and novel concepts, and propose solutions and perspectives. Research into lncRNA will help identify novel viral infection-related regulators and design preventative and therapeutic strategies against virus-related diseases and immune disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pin Wang
- National Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology and Institute of Immunology, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Klitting R, Fischer C, Drexler JF, Gould EA, Roiz D, Paupy C, de Lamballerie X. What Does the Future Hold for Yellow Fever Virus? (II). Genes (Basel) 2018; 9:E425. [PMID: 30134625 PMCID: PMC6162518 DOI: 10.3390/genes9090425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Revised: 08/13/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
As revealed by the recent resurgence of yellow fever virus (YFV) activity in the tropical regions of Africa and South America, YFV control measures need urgent rethinking. Over the last decade, most reported outbreaks occurred in, or eventually reached, areas with low vaccination coverage but that are suitable for virus transmission, with an unprecedented risk of expansion to densely populated territories in Africa, South America and Asia. As reflected in the World Health Organization's initiative launched in 2017, it is high time to strengthen epidemiological surveillance to monitor accurately viral dissemination, and redefine vaccination recommendation areas. Vector-control and immunisation measures need to be adapted and vaccine manufacturing must be reconciled with an increasing demand. We will have to face more yellow fever (YF) cases in the upcoming years. Hence, improving disease management through the development of efficient treatments will prove most beneficial. Undoubtedly, these developments will require in-depth descriptions of YFV biology at molecular, physiological and ecological levels. This second section of a two-part review describes the current state of knowledge and gaps regarding the molecular biology of YFV, along with an overview of the tools that can be used to manage the disease at the individual, local and global levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raphaëlle Klitting
- Unité des Virus Émergents (UVE: Aix-Marseille Univ⁻IRD 190⁻Inserm 1207⁻IHU Méditerranée Infection), 13385 Marseille CEDEX 05, France.
| | - Carlo Fischer
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Virology, 10117 Berlin, Germany.
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), 38124 Braunschweig, Germany.
| | - Jan F Drexler
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Virology, 10117 Berlin, Germany.
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), 38124 Braunschweig, Germany.
- Martsinovsky Institute of Medical Parasitology, Tropical and Vector Borne Diseases, Sechenov University, 119991 Moscow, Russia.
| | - Ernest A Gould
- Unité des Virus Émergents (UVE: Aix-Marseille Univ⁻IRD 190⁻Inserm 1207⁻IHU Méditerranée Infection), 13385 Marseille CEDEX 05, France.
| | - David Roiz
- UMR Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Écologie, Génétique Évolution et Contrôle (MIVEGEC: IRD, CNRS, Univ. Montpellier), 34394 Montpellier, France.
| | - Christophe Paupy
- UMR Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Écologie, Génétique Évolution et Contrôle (MIVEGEC: IRD, CNRS, Univ. Montpellier), 34394 Montpellier, France.
| | - Xavier de Lamballerie
- Unité des Virus Émergents (UVE: Aix-Marseille Univ⁻IRD 190⁻Inserm 1207⁻IHU Méditerranée Infection), 13385 Marseille CEDEX 05, France.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Early Events in Japanese Encephalitis Virus Infection: Viral Entry. Pathogens 2018; 7:pathogens7030068. [PMID: 30104482 PMCID: PMC6161159 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens7030068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2018] [Revised: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), a mosquito-borne zoonotic flavivirus, is an enveloped positive-strand RNA virus that can cause a spectrum of clinical manifestations, ranging from mild febrile illness to severe neuroinvasive disease. Today, several killed and live vaccines are available in different parts of the globe for use in humans to prevent JEV-induced diseases, yet no antivirals are available to treat JEV-associated diseases. Despite the progress made in vaccine research and development, JEV is still a major public health problem in southern, eastern, and southeastern Asia, as well as northern Oceania, with the potential to become an emerging global pathogen. In viral replication, the entry of JEV into the cell is the first step in a cascade of complex interactions between the virus and target cells that is required for the initiation, dissemination, and maintenance of infection. Because this step determines cell/tissue tropism and pathogenesis, it is a promising target for antiviral therapy. JEV entry is mediated by the viral glycoprotein E, which binds virions to the cell surface (attachment), delivers them to endosomes (endocytosis), and catalyzes the fusion between the viral and endosomal membranes (membrane fusion), followed by the release of the viral genome into the cytoplasm (uncoating). In this multistep process, a collection of host factors are involved. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the viral and cellular components involved in JEV entry into host cells, with an emphasis on the initial virus-host cell interactions on the cell surface.
Collapse
|
19
|
Abstract
Viruses alter host-cell gene expression at many biochemical levels, such as transcription, translation, mRNA splicing and mRNA decay in order to create a cellular environment suitable for viral replication. In this review, we discuss mechanisms by which viruses manipulate host-gene expression at the level of mRNA decay in order to enable the virus to evade host antiviral responses to allow viral survival and replication. We discuss different cellular RNA decay pathways, including the deadenylation-dependent mRNA decay pathway, and various strategies that viruses exploit to manipulate these pathways in order to create a virus-friendly cellular environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Liang Guo
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases & International Medicine, Program in Infection & Immunity, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.,Institute for Molecular Virology Training Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.,Graduate Program in Comparative & Molecular Bioscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Irina Vlasova-St Louis
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases & International Medicine, Program in Infection & Immunity, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| | - Paul R Bohjanen
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases & International Medicine, Program in Infection & Immunity, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.,Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.,Institute for Molecular Virology Training Program, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA.,Graduate Program in Comparative & Molecular Bioscience, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Meng XY, Luo Y, Anwar MN, Sun Y, Gao Y, Zhang H, Munir M, Qiu HJ. Long Non-Coding RNAs: Emerging and Versatile Regulators in Host-Virus Interactions. Front Immunol 2017; 8:1663. [PMID: 29234324 PMCID: PMC5712331 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a class of non-protein-coding RNA molecules, which are involved in various biological processes, including chromatin modification, cell differentiation, pre-mRNA transcription and splicing, protein translation, etc. During the last decade, increasing evidence has suggested the involvement of lncRNAs in both immune and antiviral responses as positive or negative regulators. The immunity-associated lncRNAs modulate diverse and multilayered immune checkpoints, including activation or repression of innate immune signaling components, such as interleukin (IL)-8, IL-10, retinoic acid inducible gene I, toll-like receptors 1, 3, and 8, and interferon (IFN) regulatory factor 7, transcriptional regulation of various IFN-stimulated genes, and initiation of the cell apoptosis pathways. Additionally, some virus-encoded lncRNAs facilitate viral replication through individually or synergistically inhibiting the host antiviral responses or regulating multiple steps of the virus life cycle. Moreover, some viruses are reported to hijack host-encoded lncRNAs to establish persistent infections. Based on these amazing discoveries, lncRNAs are an emerging hotspot in host–virus interactions. In this review, we summarized the current findings of the host- or virus-encoded lncRNAs and the underlying mechanisms, discussed their impacts on immune responses and viral replication, and highlighted their critical roles in host–virus interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xing-Yu Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Yuzi Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Muhammad Naveed Anwar
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Yuan Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Yao Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Huawei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | | | - Hua-Ji Qiu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Liu W, Ding C. Roles of LncRNAs in Viral Infections. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2017; 7:205. [PMID: 28603696 PMCID: PMC5445353 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2017.00205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Accepted: 05/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Many proteins and signaling pathways participate in anti-viral host responses. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), a subset of non-coding RNAs greater than 200 nucleotides in length, have been recently described as critical regulators in viral infections. Accumulating research indicates that lncRNAs are important in the development and progression of infectious diseases. LncRNAs are not only involved in anti-viral responses, but in many different virus-host interactions, some of which may be beneficial to the virus. Here we review the current knowledge regarding host and viral lncRNAs and their roles in viral infections. In addition, the potential of using lncRNAs as diagnostic biomarkers is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Liu
- Avian infectious Department, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural ScienceShanghai, China
| | - Chan Ding
- Avian infectious Department, Shanghai Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural ScienceShanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Fernández-Sanlés A, Ríos-Marco P, Romero-López C, Berzal-Herranz A. Functional Information Stored in the Conserved Structural RNA Domains of Flavivirus Genomes. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:546. [PMID: 28421048 PMCID: PMC5376627 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.00546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2017] [Accepted: 03/15/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The genus Flavivirus comprises a large number of small, positive-sense single-stranded, RNA viruses able to replicate in the cytoplasm of certain arthropod and/or vertebrate host cells. The genus, which has some 70 member species, includes a number of emerging and re-emerging pathogens responsible for outbreaks of human disease around the world, such as the West Nile, dengue, Zika, yellow fever, Japanese encephalitis, St. Louis encephalitis, and tick-borne encephalitis viruses. Like other RNA viruses, flaviviruses have a compact RNA genome that efficiently stores all the information required for the completion of the infectious cycle. The efficiency of this storage system is attributable to supracoding elements, i.e., discrete, structural units with essential functions. This information storage system overlaps and complements the protein coding sequence and is highly conserved across the genus. It therefore offers interesting potential targets for novel therapeutic strategies. This review summarizes our knowledge of the features of flavivirus genome functional RNA domains. It also provides a brief overview of the main achievements reported in the design of antiviral nucleic acid-based drugs targeting functional genomic RNA elements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alba Fernández-Sanlés
- Department of Molecular Biology, Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina "López-Neyra," Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IPBLN-CSIC)Granada, Spain
| | - Pablo Ríos-Marco
- Department of Molecular Biology, Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina "López-Neyra," Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IPBLN-CSIC)Granada, Spain
| | - Cristina Romero-López
- Department of Molecular Biology, Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina "López-Neyra," Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IPBLN-CSIC)Granada, Spain
| | - Alfredo Berzal-Herranz
- Department of Molecular Biology, Instituto de Parasitología y Biomedicina "López-Neyra," Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (IPBLN-CSIC)Granada, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Yun SI, Lee YM. Zika virus: An emerging flavivirus. J Microbiol 2017; 55:204-219. [PMID: 28243937 DOI: 10.1007/s12275-017-7063-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2017] [Accepted: 02/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) is a previously little-known flavivirus closely related to Japanese encephalitis, West Nile, dengue, and yellow fever viruses, all of which are primarily transmitted by blood-sucking mosquitoes. Since its discovery in Uganda in 1947, ZIKV has continued to expand its geographic range, from equatorial Africa and Asia to the Pacific Islands, then further afield to South and Central America and the Caribbean. Currently, ZIKV is actively circulating not only in much of Latin America and its neighbors but also in parts of the Pacific Islands and Southeast Asia. Although ZIKV infection generally causes only mild symptoms in some infected individuals, it is associated with a range of neuroimmunological disorders, including Guillain-Barré syndrome, meningoencephalitis, and myelitis. Recently, maternal ZIKV infection during pregnancy has been linked to neonatal malformations, resulting in various degrees of congenital abnormalities, microcephaly, and even abortion. Despite its emergence as an important public health problem, however, little is known about ZIKV biology, and neither vaccine nor drug is available to control ZIKV infection. This article provides a brief introduction to ZIKV with a major emphasis on its molecular virology, in order to help facilitate the development of diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sang-Im Yun
- Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT, 84322-4815, USA
| | - Young-Min Lee
- Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT, 84322-4815, USA. .,Utah Science Technology and Research, College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT, 84322-4815, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Zeisel MB, Baumert TF. Translation and protein expression of lncRNAs: Impact for liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma. Hepatology 2016; 64:671-4. [PMID: 27228461 PMCID: PMC7613511 DOI: 10.1002/hep.28653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2016] [Revised: 04/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mirjam B. Zeisel
- Inserm, U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques, Strasbourg, France,Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Thomas F. Baumert
- Inserm, U1110, Institut de Recherche sur les Maladies Virales et Hépatiques, Strasbourg, France,Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France,Institut Hospitalo-Universitaire, Pôle hépato-digestif, Nouvel Hôpital Civil, Strasbourg, France
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Bavia L, Mosimann ALP, Aoki MN, Duarte Dos Santos CN. A glance at subgenomic flavivirus RNAs and microRNAs in flavivirus infections. Virol J 2016; 13:84. [PMID: 27233361 PMCID: PMC4884392 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-016-0541-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The family Flaviviridae comprises a wide variety of viruses that are distributed worldwide, some of which are associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. There are neither vaccines nor antivirals for most flavivirus infections, reinforcing the importance of research on different aspects of the viral life cycle. During infection, cytoplasmic accumulation of RNA fragments mainly originating from the 3' UTRs, which have been designated subgenomic flavivirus RNAs (sfRNAs), has been detected. It has been shown that eukaryotic exoribonucleases are involved in viral sfRNA production. Additionally, viral and human small RNAs (sRNAs) have also been found in flavivirus-infected cells, especially microRNAs (miRNAs). miRNAs were first described in eukaryotic cells and in a mature and functional state present as single-stranded 18-24 nt RNA fragments. Their main function is the repression of translation through base pairing with cellular mRNAs, besides other functions, such as mRNA degradation. Canonical miRNA biogenesis involves Drosha and Dicer, however miRNA can also be generated by alternative pathways. In the case of flaviviruses, alternative pathways have been suggested. Both sfRNAs and miRNAs are involved in viral infection and host cell response modulation, representing interesting targets of antiviral strategies. In this review, we focus on the generation and function of viral sfRNAs, sRNAs and miRNAs in West Nile, dengue, Japanese encephalitis, Murray Valley encephalitis and yellow fever infections, as well as their roles in viral replication, translation and cell immune response evasion. We also give an overview regarding other flaviviruses and the generation of cellular miRNAs during infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lorena Bavia
- Laboratório de Virologia Molecular, Instituto Carlos Chagas (ICC/FIOCRUZ-PR), Rua Prof. Algacyr Munhoz Mader 3775, CIC, CEP: 81350-010, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Ana Luiza Pamplona Mosimann
- Laboratório de Virologia Molecular, Instituto Carlos Chagas (ICC/FIOCRUZ-PR), Rua Prof. Algacyr Munhoz Mader 3775, CIC, CEP: 81350-010, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Mateus Nóbrega Aoki
- Laboratório de Virologia Molecular, Instituto Carlos Chagas (ICC/FIOCRUZ-PR), Rua Prof. Algacyr Munhoz Mader 3775, CIC, CEP: 81350-010, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Claudia Nunes Duarte Dos Santos
- Laboratório de Virologia Molecular, Instituto Carlos Chagas (ICC/FIOCRUZ-PR), Rua Prof. Algacyr Munhoz Mader 3775, CIC, CEP: 81350-010, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
RNA Structure Duplications and Flavivirus Host Adaptation. Trends Microbiol 2016; 24:270-283. [PMID: 26850219 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2016.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2015] [Revised: 01/04/2016] [Accepted: 01/08/2016] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Flaviviruses include a highly diverse group of arboviruses with a global distribution and a high human disease burden. Most flaviviruses cycle between insects and vertebrate hosts; thus, they are obligated to use different cellular machinery for their replication and mount different mechanisms to evade specific antiviral responses. In addition to coding for viral proteins, the viral genome contains signals in RNA structures that govern the amplification of viral components and participate in triggering or evading antiviral responses. In this review, we focused on new information about host-specific functions of RNA structures present in the 3' untranslated region (3' UTR) of flavivirus genomes. Models and conservation patterns of RNA elements of distinct flavivirus ecological groups are revised. An intriguing feature of the 3' UTR of insect-borne flavivirus genomes is the conservation of complex RNA structure duplications. Here, we discuss new hypotheses of how these RNA elements specialize for replication in vertebrate and invertebrate hosts, and present new ideas associating the significance of RNA structure duplication, small subgenomic flavivirus RNA formation, and host adaptation.
Collapse
|
27
|
Fortes P, Morris KV. Long noncoding RNAs in viral infections. Virus Res 2015; 212:1-11. [PMID: 26454188 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2015.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2015] [Accepted: 10/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Viral infections induce strong modifications in the cell transcriptome. Among the RNAs whose expression is altered by infection are long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). LncRNAs are transcripts with potential to function as RNA molecules. Infected cells may express viral lncRNAs, cellular lncRNAs and chimeric lncRNAs formed by viral and cellular sequences. Some viruses express viral lncRNAs whose function is essential for viral viability. They are transcribed by polymerase II or III and some of them can be processed by unique maturation steps performed by host cell machineries. Some viral lncRNAs control transcription, stability or translation of cellular and viral genes. Surprisingly, similar functions can be exerted by cellular lncRNAs induced by infection. Expression of cellular lncRNAs may be altered in response to viral replication or viral protein expression. However, many cellular lncRNAs respond to the antiviral pathways induced by infection. In fact, many lncRNAs function as positive or negative regulators of the innate antiviral response. Our current knowledge about the identity and function of lncRNAs in infected cells is very limited. However, research into this field has already helped in the identification of novel cellular pathways and may help in the development of therapeutic tools for the treatment of viral infections, autoimmune diseases, neurological disorders and cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Puri Fortes
- Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA) and Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Department of Gene Therapy and Hepatology, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.
| | - Kevin V Morris
- Department of Molecular and Experimental Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA; School of Biotechnology and Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Abstract
Viral infections induce strong modifications in the cell transcriptome. Among the RNAs whose expression is altered by infection are long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). LncRNAs are transcripts with potential to function as RNA molecules. Infected cells may express viral lncRNAs, cellular lncRNAs and chimeric lncRNAs formed by viral and cellular sequences. Some viruses express viral lncRNAs whose function is essential for viral viability. They are transcribed by polymerase II or III and some of them can be processed by unique maturation steps performed by host cell machineries. Some viral lncRNAs control transcription, stability or translation of cellular and viral genes. Surprisingly, similar functions can be exerted by cellular lncRNAs induced by infection. Expression of cellular lncRNAs may be altered in response to viral replication or viral protein expression. However, many cellular lncRNAs respond to the antiviral pathways induced by infection. In fact, many lncRNAs function as positive or negative regulators of the innate antiviral response. Our current knowledge about the identity and function of lncRNAs in infected cells is very limited. However, research into this field has already helped in the identification of novel cellular pathways and may help in the development of therapeutic tools for the treatment of viral infections, autoimmune diseases, neurological disorders and cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Puri Fortes
- Center for Applied Medical Research (CIMA) and Navarra Institute for Health Research (IdiSNA), Department of Gene Therapy and Hepatology, University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.
| | - Kevin V Morris
- Department of Molecular and Experimental Medicine, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA, USA; School of Biotechnology and Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Kensington, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|