Structural and Functional Motifs in Influenza Virus RNAs

Analysis of NS2-dependent effects on influenza PB1 segment extends replication requirements beyond the canonical promoter

Influenza A virus encodes conserved promoter sequences. Using minimal replication assays-transfections with viral polymerase, nucleoprotein, and a genomic template-these sequences were identified as 13nt at the 5' end of the genomic RNA (U13) and 12nt at the 3' end (U12). Other than the fourth 3' nucleotide, the U12 and U13 sequences are identical between all eight RNA molecules of the segmented influenza A genome. However, individual segments can exhibit different dynamics during infection. Influenza NS2, which modulates transcription and replication differentially between genomic segments, may provide an explanation. Here, we assess how internal sequences of two genomic segments, HA and PB1, contribute to NS2-dependent replication and map such interactions down to individual nucleotides in PB1. We find that the expression of NS2 significantly alters sequence requirements for efficient replication beyond the identical U12 and U13 sequences, providing a potential mechanism for segment-specific replication dynamics across the influenza genome.

Influenza a Virus Detection at the Human-Swine Interface in US Midwest Swine Farms

This study evaluated influenza A virus (IAV) detection and genetic diversity over time, specifically at the human-swine interface in breeding and nursery farms. Active surveillance was performed monthly in five swine farms in the Midwest United States targeting the employees, the prewean piglets at sow farms, and the same cohort of piglets in downstream nurseries. In addition, information was collected at enrollment for each employee and farm to assess production management practices, IAV vaccination status, diagnostic procedures, and biosecurity. Farm employee and swine samples were screened by IAV reverse transcription real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-rtPCR), followed by IAV subtyping RT-rtPCR and whole genome sequencing on PCR-positive samples. This study showed higher positivity of IAV RNA detection in nursery pigs compared to prewean pigs, and more whole genome sequences were also obtained in the nursery phase. Surveillance of farm employees revealed two detections of H3N2 representing the 2022-2023 human IAV season, confirming the presence of influenza in farm employees while present at work, and thus highlighting the importance of biosecurity measures at the human-swine interface. This study highlights the importance of routine active surveillance to understand the dynamics of IAV at the farm level in both farm employees and swine.

Utilizing machine learning and hemagglutinin sequences to identify likely hosts of influenza H3Nx viruses

Influenza is a disease that represents both a public health and agricultural risk with pandemic potential. Among the subtypes of influenza A virus, H3 influenza virus can infect many avian and mammalian species and is therefore a virus of interest to human and veterinary public health. The primary goal of this study was to train and validate classifiers for the identification of the most likely host species using the hemagglutinin gene segment of H3 viruses. A five-step process was implemented, which included training four machine learning classifiers, testing the classifiers on the validation dataset, and further exploration of the best-performing model on three additional datasets. The gradient boosting machine classifier showed the highest host-classification accuracy with a 98.0 % (95 % CI [97.01, 98.73]) correct classification rate on an independent validation dataset. The classifications were further analyzed using the predicted probability score which highlighted sequences of particular interest. These sequences were both correctly and incorrectly classified sequences that showed considerable predicted probability for multiple hosts. This showed the potential of using these classifiers for rapid sequence classification and highlighting sequences of interest. Additionally, the classifiers were tested on a separate swine dataset composed of H3N2 sequences from 1998 to 2003 from the United States of America, and a separate canine dataset composed of canine H3N2 sequences of avian origin. These two datasets were utilized to look at the applications of predicted probability and host convergence over time. Lastly, the classifiers were used on an independent dataset of environmental sequences to explore the host identification of environmental sequences. The results of these classifiers show the potential for machine learning to be used as a host identification technique for viruses of unknown origin on a species-specific level.

Efficient genome replication in influenza A virus requires NS2 and sequence beyond the canonical promoter

Influenza A virus encodes promoters in both the sense and antisense orientations. These support the generation of new genomes, antigenomes, and mRNA transcripts. Using minimal replication assays-transfections with viral polymerase, nucleoprotein, and a genomic template-the influenza promoter sequences were identified as 13nt at the 5' end of the viral genomic RNA (U13) and 12nt at the 3' end (U12). Other than the fourth 3' nucleotide, the U12 and U13 sequences are identical between all eight RNA molecules that comprise the segmented influenza genome. Despite possessing identical promoters, individual segments can exhibit different transcriptional dynamics during infection. However flu promoter sequences were defined in experiments without influenza NS2, a protein which modulates transcription and replication differentially between genomic segments. This suggests that the identity of the "complete" promoter may depend on NS2. Here we assess how internal sequences of two genomic segments, HA and PB1, may contribute to NS2-dependent replication as well as map such interactions down to individual nucleotides in PB1. We find that the expression of NS2 significantly alters sequence requirements for efficient replication beyond the identical U12 and U13 sequence, providing a mechanism for the divergent replication and transcription dynamics across the influenza A virus genome.

Regulation viral RNA transcription and replication by higher-order RNA structures within the nsp1 coding region of MERS coronavirus

Coronavirus (CoV) possesses numerous functional cis-acting elements in its positive-strand genomic RNA. Although most of these RNA structures participate in viral replication, the functions of RNA structures in the genomic RNA of CoV in viral replication remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the functions of the higher-order RNA stem-loop (SL) structures SL5B, SL5C, and SL5D in the ORF1a coding region of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) in viral replication. Our approach, using reverse genetics of a bacterial artificial chromosome system, revealed that SL5B and SL5C play essential roles in the discontinuous transcription of MERS-CoV. In silico analyses predicted that SL5C interacts with a bulged stem-loop (BSL) in the 3' untranslated region, suggesting that the RNA structure of SL5C is important for viral RNA transcription. Conversely, SL5D did not affect transcription, but mediated the synthesis of positive-strand genomic RNA. Additionally, the RNA secondary structure of SL5 in the revertant virus of the SL5D mutant was similar to that of the wild-type, indicating that the RNA structure of SL5D can finely tune RNA replication in MERS-CoV. Our data indicate novel regulatory mechanisms of viral RNA transcription and replication by higher-order RNA structures in the MERS-CoV genomic RNA.

Modeling of the brain-lung axis using organoids in traumatic brain injury: an updated review

Clinical outcome after traumatic brain injury (TBI) is closely associated conditions of other organs, especially lungs as well as degree of brain injury. Even if there is no direct lung damage, severe brain injury can enhance sympathetic tones on blood vessels and vascular resistance, resulting in neurogenic pulmonary edema. Conversely, lung damage can worsen brain damage by dysregulating immunity. These findings suggest the importance of brain-lung axis interactions in TBI. However, little research has been conducted on the topic. An advanced disease model using stem cell technology may be an alternative for investigating the brain and lungs simultaneously but separately, as they can be potential candidates for improving the clinical outcomes of TBI.In this review, we describe the importance of brain-lung axis interactions in TBI by focusing on the concepts and reproducibility of brain and lung organoids in vitro. We also summarize recent research using pluripotent stem cell-derived brain organoids and their preclinical applications in various brain disease conditions and explore how they mimic the brain-lung axis. Reviewing the current status and discussing the limitations and potential perspectives in organoid research may offer a better understanding of pathophysiological interactions between the brain and lung after TBI.

Multiple functions of the nonstructural protein 3D in picornavirus infection

3D polymerase, also known as RNA-dependent RNA polymerase, is encoded by all known picornaviruses, and their structures are highly conserved. In the process of picornavirus replication, 3D polymerase facilitates the assembly of replication complexes and directly catalyzes the synthesis of viral RNA. The nuclear localization signal carried by picornavirus 3D polymerase, combined with its ability to interact with other viral proteins, viral RNA and cellular proteins, indicate that its noncatalytic role is equally important in viral infections. Recent studies have shown that 3D polymerase has multiple effects on host cell biological functions, including inducing cell cycle arrest, regulating host cell translation, inducing autophagy, evading immune responses, and triggering inflammasome formation. Thus, 3D polymerase would be a very valuable target for the development of antiviral therapies. This review summarizes current studies on the structure of 3D polymerase and its regulation of host cell responses, thereby improving the understanding of picornavirus-mediated pathogenesis caused by 3D polymerase.

Structural Impact of the Interaction of the Influenza A Virus Nucleoprotein with Genomic RNA Segments

Influenza A viruses (IAVs) possess a segmented genome consisting of eight viral RNAs (vRNAs) associated with multiple copies of viral nucleoprotein (NP) and a viral polymerase complex. Despite the crucial role of RNA structure in IAV replication, the impact of NP binding on vRNA structure is not well understood. In this study, we employed SHAPE chemical probing to compare the structure of NS and M vRNAs of WSN IAV in various states: before the addition of NP, in complex with NP, and after the removal of NP. Comparison of the RNA structures before the addition of NP and after its removal reveals that NP, while introducing limited changes, remodels local structures in both vRNAs and long-range interactions in the NS vRNA, suggesting a potentially biologically relevant RNA chaperone activity. In contrast, NP significantly alters the structure of vRNAs in vRNA/NP complexes, though incorporating experimental data into RNA secondary structure prediction proved challenging. Finally, our results suggest that NP not only binds single-stranded RNA but also helices with interruptions, such as bulges or small internal loops, with a preference for G-poor and C/U-rich regions.

Role of the viral polymerase during adaptation of influenza A viruses to new hosts

As a group, influenza-A viruses (IAV) infect a wide range of animal hosts, however, they are constrained to infecting selected host species by species-specific interactions between the host and virus, that are required for efficient replication of the viral RNA genome. When IAV cross the species barrier, they acquire mutations in the viral genome to enable interactions with the new host factors, or to compensate for their loss. The viral polymerase genes polymerase basic 1, polymerase basic 2, and polymerase-acidic are important sites of host adaptation. In this review, we discuss why the viral polymerase is so vital to the process of host adaptation, look at some of the known viral mutations, and host factors involved in adaptation, particularly of avian IAV to mammalian hosts.

Sequential disruption of SPLASH-identified vRNA-vRNA interactions challenges their role in influenza A virus genome packaging

A fundamental step in the influenza A virus (IAV) replication cycle is the coordinated packaging of eight distinct genomic RNA segments (i.e. vRNAs) into a viral particle. Although this process is thought to be controlled by specific vRNA-vRNA interactions between the genome segments, few functional interactions have been validated. Recently, a large number of potentially functional vRNA-vRNA interactions have been detected in purified virions using the RNA interactome capture method SPLASH. However, their functional significance in coordinated genome packaging remains largely unclear. Here, we show by systematic mutational analysis that mutant A/SC35M (H7N7) viruses lacking several prominent SPLASH-identified vRNA-vRNA interactions involving the HA segment package the eight genome segments as efficiently as the wild-type virus. We therefore propose that the vRNA-vRNA interactions identified by SPLASH in IAV particles are not necessarily critical for the genome packaging process, leaving the underlying molecular mechanism elusive.

In vitro and in silico studies of the antiviral activity of polyhydrated fullerenes against influenza A (H1N1) virus

As of today, influenza viruses remain a relevant target for the development of antiviral compounds due to their rapid evolution and acquisition of the resistance to existing drugs. Fullerene derivatives have already shown the ability to successfully interact with viruses, and polyhydrated fullerenes (or fullerenols) are particularly attractive due to their compatibility with biological fluids and low toxicity. Therefore, the goal of this work was to study the effect of two batches of a mixture of polyhydrated fullerenes with a mass ratio of 78.1% C₆₀/C₇₀ and 21.9% C₇₆/C₇₈/C₈₄ on the influenza A (H1N1) virus. It was determined that the mixture of fullerenols, along with the low toxicity, showed high antiviral activity with a decrease in the viral infectious titer up to 4 orders of magnitude. In addition, studied fullerenols did not affect the hemagglutination process and did not show any significant prophylactic activity. With the help of molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation, the likely target of fullerenols' action was determined-the binding site of the RNA primer of the viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerase. Therefore, we assume that the high antiviral effect of polyhydrated fullerenes on influenza A virus is related to their interaction with the viral RNA polymerase.

Advanced fluorescence microscopy in respiratory virus cell biology

Respiratory viruses are a major public health burden across all age groups around the globe, and are associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. They can be transmitted by multiple routes, including physical contact or droplets and aerosols, resulting in efficient spreading within the human population. Investigations of the cell biology of virus replication are thus of utmost importance to gain a better understanding of virus-induced pathogenicity and the development of antiviral countermeasures. Light and fluorescence microscopy techniques have revolutionized investigations of the cell biology of virus infection by allowing the study of the localization and dynamics of viral or cellular components directly in infected cells. Advanced microscopy including high- and super-resolution microscopy techniques available today can visualize biological processes at the single-virus and even single-molecule level, thus opening a unique view on virus infection. We will highlight how fluorescence microscopy has supported investigations on virus cell biology by focusing on three major respiratory viruses: respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), Influenza A virus (IAV) and SARS-CoV-2. We will review our current knowledge of virus replication and highlight how fluorescence microscopy has helped to improve our state of understanding. We will start by introducing major imaging and labeling modalities and conclude the chapter with a perspective discussion on remaining challenges and potential opportunities.

In vivo secondary structural analysis of Influenza A virus genomic RNA

Influenza A virus (IAV) is a respiratory virus that causes epidemics and pandemics. Knowledge of IAV RNA secondary structure in vivo is crucial for a better understanding of virus biology. Moreover, it is a fundament for the development of new RNA-targeting antivirals. Chemical RNA mapping using selective 2'-hydroxyl acylation analyzed by primer extension (SHAPE) coupled with Mutational Profiling (MaP) allows for the thorough examination of secondary structures in low-abundance RNAs in their biological context. So far, the method has been used for analyzing the RNA secondary structures of several viruses including SARS-CoV-2 in virio and in cellulo. Here, we used SHAPE-MaP and dimethyl sulfate mutational profiling with sequencing (DMS-MaPseq) for genome-wide secondary structure analysis of viral RNA (vRNA) of the pandemic influenza A/California/04/2009 (H1N1) strain in both in virio and in cellulo environments. Experimental data allowed the prediction of the secondary structures of all eight vRNA segments in virio and, for the first time, the structures of vRNA5, 7, and 8 in cellulo. We conducted a comprehensive structural analysis of the proposed vRNA structures to reveal the motifs predicted with the highest accuracy. We also performed a base-pairs conservation analysis of the predicted vRNA structures and revealed many highly conserved vRNA motifs among the IAVs. The structural motifs presented herein are potential candidates for new IAV antiviral strategies.

Archaeal Kink-Turn Binding Protein Mediates Inhibition of Orthomyxovirus Splicing Biology

Despite lacking a DNA intermediate, orthomyxoviruses complete their replication cycle in the nucleus and generate multiple transcripts by usurping the host splicing machinery. This biology results in dynamic changes of relative viral transcripts over time and dictates the replicative phase of the infection. Here, we demonstrate that the family of archaeal L7Ae proteins uniquely inhibit the splicing biology of influenza A virus, influenza B virus, and Salmon isavirus, revealing a common strategy utilized by Orthomyxoviridae members to achieve this dynamic. L7Ae-mediated inhibition of virus biology was lost with the generation of a splicing-independent strain of influenza A virus and attempts to select for an escape mutant resulted in variants that conformed to host splicing biology at significant cost to their overall fitness. As L7Ae recognizes conventional kink turns in various RNAs, these data implicate the formation of a similar structure as a shared strategy adopted by this virus family to coordinate their replication cycle. IMPORTANCE Here, we demonstrate that a family of proteins from archaea specifically inhibit this splicing biology of all tested members of the Orthomyxoviridae family. We show that this inhibition extends to influenza A virus, influenza B virus, and isavirus genera, while having no significant impact on the mammalian transcriptome or proteome. Attempts to generate an escape mutant against L7Ae-mediated inhibition resulted in mutations surrounding the viral splice sites and a significant loss of viral fitness. Together, these findings reveal a unique biology shared among diverse members of the Orthomyxoviridae family that may serve as a means to generate future universal therapeutics.

Zoonotic Animal Influenza Virus and Potential Mixing Vessel Hosts

Influenza viruses belong to the family Orthomyxoviridae with a negative-sense, single-stranded segmented RNA genome. They infect a wide range of animals, including humans. From 1918 to 2009, there were four influenza pandemics, which caused millions of casualties. Frequent spillover of animal influenza viruses to humans with or without intermediate hosts poses a serious zoonotic and pandemic threat. The current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic overshadowed the high risk raised by animal influenza viruses, but highlighted the role of wildlife as a reservoir for pandemic viruses. In this review, we summarize the occurrence of animal influenza virus in humans and describe potential mixing vessel or intermediate hosts for zoonotic influenza viruses. While several animal influenza viruses possess a high zoonotic risk (e.g., avian and swine influenza viruses), others are of low to negligible zoonotic potential (e.g., equine, canine, bat and bovine influenza viruses). Transmission can occur directly from animals, particularly poultry and swine, to humans or through reassortant viruses in "mixing vessel" hosts. To date, there are less than 3000 confirmed human infections with avian-origin viruses and less than 7000 subclinical infections documented. Likewise, only a few hundreds of confirmed human cases caused by swine influenza viruses have been reported. Pigs are the historic mixing vessel host for the generation of zoonotic influenza viruses due to the expression of both avian-type and human-type receptors. Nevertheless, there are a number of hosts which carry both types of receptors and can act as a potential mixing vessel host. High vigilance is warranted to prevent the next pandemic caused by animal influenza viruses.

Antiviral Approaches against Influenza Virus

Preventing and controlling influenza virus infection remains a global public health challenge, as it causes seasonal epidemics to unexpected pandemics. These infections are responsible for high morbidity, mortality, and substantial economic impact. Vaccines are the prophylaxis mainstay in the fight against influenza. However, vaccination fails to confer complete protection due to inadequate vaccination coverages, vaccine shortages, and mismatches with circulating strains. Antivirals represent an important prophylactic and therapeutic measure to reduce influenza-associated morbidity and mortality, particularly in high-risk populations. Here, we review current FDA-approved influenza antivirals with their mechanisms of action, and different viral- and host-directed influenza antiviral approaches, including immunomodulatory interventions in clinical development. Furthermore, we also illustrate the potential utility of machine learning in developing next-generation antivirals against influenza.

Structural and Functional RNA Motifs of SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza A Virus as a Target of Viral Inhibitors

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, whereas the influenza A virus (IAV) causes seasonal epidemics and occasional pandemics. Both viruses lead to widespread infection and death. SARS-CoV-2 and the influenza virus are RNA viruses. The SARS-CoV-2 genome is an approximately 30 kb, positive sense, 5' capped single-stranded RNA molecule. The influenza A virus genome possesses eight single-stranded negative-sense segments. The RNA secondary structure in the untranslated and coding regions is crucial in the viral replication cycle. The secondary structure within the RNA of SARS-CoV-2 and the influenza virus has been intensively studied. Because the whole of the SARS-CoV-2 and influenza virus replication cycles are dependent on RNA with no DNA intermediate, the RNA is a natural and promising target for the development of inhibitors. There are a lot of RNA-targeting strategies for regulating pathogenic RNA, such as small interfering RNA for RNA interference, antisense oligonucleotides, catalytic nucleic acids, and small molecules. In this review, we summarized the knowledge about the inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A virus propagation by targeting their RNA secondary structure.

Examples of Structural Motifs in Viral Genomes and Approaches for RNA Structure Characterization

The relationship between conserved structural motifs and their biological function in the virus replication cycle is the interest of many researchers around the world. RNA structure is closely related to RNA function. Therefore, technological progress in high-throughput approaches for RNA structure analysis and the development of new ones are very important. In this mini review, we discuss a few perspectives on the structural elements of viral genomes and some methods used for RNA structure prediction and characterization. Based on the recent literature, we describe several examples of studies concerning the viral genomes, especially severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and influenza A virus (IAV). Herein, we emphasize that a better understanding of viral genome architecture allows for the discovery of the structure-function relationship, and as a result, the discovery of new potential antiviral therapeutics.

Sequestering the 5′‐cap for viral RNA packaging

Many viruses evolved mechanisms for capping the 5'-ends of their plus-strand RNAs as a means of hijacking the eukaryotic messenger RNA (mRNA) splicing/translation machinery. Although capping is critical for replication, the RNAs of these viruses have other essential functions including their requirement to be packaged as either genomes or pre-genomes into progeny viruses. Recent studies indicate that human immunodeficiency virus type-1 (HIV-1) RNAs are segregated between splicing/translation and packaging functions by a mechanism that involves structural sequestration of the 5'-cap. Here, we examined studies reported for other viruses and retrotransposons that require both selective packaging of their RNAs and 5'-RNA capping for host-mediated translation. Our findings suggest that viruses and retrotransposons have evolved multiple mechanisms to control 5'-cap accessibility, consistent with the hypothesis that removal or sequestration of the 5' cap enables packageable RNAs to avoid capture by the cellular RNA processing and translation machinery.

Modulating cholesterol-rich lipid rafts to disrupt influenza A virus infection

Influenza A virus (IAV) is widely disseminated across different species and can cause recurrent epidemics and severe pandemics in humans. During infection, IAV attaches to receptors that are predominantly located in cell membrane regions known as lipid rafts, which are highly enriched in cholesterol and sphingolipids. Following IAV entry into the host cell, uncoating, transcription, and replication of the viral genome occur, after which newly synthesized viral proteins and genomes are delivered to lipid rafts for assembly prior to viral budding from the cell. Moreover, during budding, IAV acquires an envelope with embedded cholesterol from the host cell membrane, and it is known that decreased cholesterol levels on IAV virions reduce infectivity. Statins are commonly used to inhibit cholesterol synthesis for preventing cardiovascular diseases, and several studies have investigated whether such inhibition can block IAV infection and propagation, as well as modulate the host immune response to IAV. Taken together, current research suggests that there may be a role for statins in countering IAV infections and modulating the host immune response to prevent or mitigate cytokine storms, and further investigation into this is warranted.

The influenza A virus genome packaging network - complex, flexible and yet unsolved

The genome of influenza A virus (IAV) consists of eight unique viral RNA segments. This genome organization allows genetic reassortment between co-infecting IAV strains, whereby new IAVs with altered genome segment compositions emerge. While it is known that reassortment events can create pandemic IAVs, it remains impossible to anticipate reassortment outcomes with pandemic prospects. Recent research indicates that reassortment is promoted by a viral genome packaging mechanism that delivers the eight genome segments as a supramolecular complex into the virus particle. This finding holds promise of predicting pandemic IAVs by understanding the intermolecular interactions governing this genome packaging mechanism. Here, we critically review the prevailing mechanistic model postulating that IAV genome packaging is orchestrated by a network of intersegmental RNA-RNA interactions. Although we find supporting evidence, including segment-specific packaging signals and experimentally proposed RNA-RNA interaction networks, this mechanistic model remains debatable due to a current shortage of functionally validated intersegmental RNA-RNA interactions. We speculate that identifying such functional intersegmental RNA-RNA contacts might be hampered by limitations of the utilized probing techniques and the inherent complexity of the genome packaging mechanism. Nevertheless, we anticipate that improved probing strategies combined with a mutagenesis-based validation could facilitate their discovery.

Expanding the tolerance of segmented Influenza A Virus genome using a balance compensation strategy

Reporter viruses provide powerful tools for both basic and applied virology studies, however, the creation and exploitation of reporter influenza A viruses (IAVs) have been hindered by the limited tolerance of the segmented genome to exogenous modifications. Interestingly, our previous study has demonstrated the underlying mechanism that foreign insertions reduce the replication/transcription capacity of the modified segment, impairing the delicate balance among the multiple segments during IAV infection. In the present study, we developed a “balance compensation” strategy by incorporating additional compensatory mutations during initial construction of recombinant IAVs to expand the tolerance of IAV genome. As a proof of concept, promoter-enhancing mutations were introduced within the modified segment to rectify the segments imbalance of a reporter influenza PR8-NS-Gluc virus, while directed optimization of the recombinant IAV was successfully achieved. Further, we generated recombinant IAVs expressing a much larger firefly luciferase (Fluc) by coupling with a much stronger compensatory enhancement, and established robust Fluc-based live-imaging mouse models of IAV infection. Our strategy feasibly expands the tolerance for foreign gene insertions in the segmented IAV genome, which opens up better opportunities to develop more versatile reporter IAVs as well as live attenuated influenza virus-based vaccines for other important human pathogens.

Progress towards the Development of a Universal Influenza Vaccine

Influenza viruses are responsible for millions of cases globally and significantly threaten public health. Since pandemic and zoonotic influenza viruses have emerged in the last 20 years and some of the viruses have resulted in high mortality in humans, a universal influenza vaccine is needed to provide comprehensive protection against a wide range of influenza viruses. Current seasonal influenza vaccines provide strain-specific protection and are less effective against mismatched strains. The rapid antigenic drift and shift in influenza viruses resulted in time-consuming surveillance and uncertainty in the vaccine protection efficacy. Most recent universal influenza vaccine studies target the conserved antigen domains of the viral surface glycoproteins and internal proteins to provide broader protection. Following the development of advanced vaccine technologies, several innovative strategies and vaccine platforms are being explored to generate robust cross-protective immunity. This review provides the latest progress in the development of universal influenza vaccines.

Discovering functional motifs in long noncoding RNAs

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are products of pervasive transcription that closely resemble messenger RNAs on the molecular level, yet function through largely unknown modes of action. The current model is that the function of lncRNAs often relies on specific, typically short, conserved elements, connected by linkers in which specific sequences and/or structures are less important. This notion has fueled the development of both computational and experimental methods focused on the discovery of functional elements within lncRNA genes, based on diverse signals such as evolutionary conservation, predicted structural elements, or the ability to rescue loss-of-function phenotypes. In this review, we outline the main challenges that the different methods need to overcome, describe the recently developed approaches, and discuss their respective limitations. This article is categorized under: RNA Evolution and Genomics > Computational Analyses of RNA RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein-RNA Interactions: Functional Implications Regulatory RNAs/RNAi/Riboswitches > Regulatory RNAs.

Interactions between Influenza A Virus Nucleoprotein and Gene Segment Untranslated Regions Facilitate Selective Modulation of Viral Gene Expression

The influenza A virus (IAV) genome is divided into eight negative-sense, single-stranded RNA segments. Each segment exhibits a unique level and temporal pattern of expression; however, the exact mechanisms underlying the patterns of individual gene segment expression are poorly understood. We previously demonstrated that a single substitution in the viral nucleoprotein (NP:F346S) selectively modulates neuraminidase (NA) gene segment expression while leaving other segments largely unaffected. Given what is currently known about NP function, there is no obvious explanation for how changes in NP can selectively modulate the replication of individual gene segments. In this study, we found that the specificity of this effect for the NA segment is virus strain specific and depends on the untranslated region (UTR) sequences of the NA segment. While the NP:F346S substitution did not significantly alter the RNA binding or oligomerization activities of NP in vitro, it specifically decreased the ability of NP to promote NA segment viral RNA (vRNA) synthesis. In addition to NP residue F346, we identified two other adjacent aromatic residues in NP (Y385 and F479) capable of similarly regulating NA gene segment expression, suggesting a larger role for this domain in gene-segment specific regulation. Our findings reveal a novel role for NP in selective regulation of viral gene segment replication and provide a framework for understanding how the expression patterns of individual viral gene segments can be modulated during adaptation to new host environments. IMPORTANCE Influenza A virus (IAV) is a respiratory pathogen that remains a significant source of morbidity and mortality. Escape from host immunity or emergence into new host species often requires mutations that modulate the functional activities of the viral glycoproteins hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA), which are responsible for virus attachment to and release from host cells, respectively. Maintaining the functional balance between the activities of HA and NA is required for fitness across multiple host systems. Thus, selective modulation of viral gene expression patterns may be a key determinant of viral immune escape and cross-species transmission potential. We identified a novel mechanism by which the viral nucleoprotein (NP) gene can selectively modulate NA segment replication and gene expression through interactions with the segment UTRs. Our work highlights an unexpected role for NP in selective regulation of expression from the individual IAV gene segments.

A Comprehensive Roadmap Towards the Generation of an Influenza B Reporter Assay Using a Single DNA Polymerase-Based Cloning of the Reporter RNA Construct

The mini-genome reporter assay is a key tool for conducting RNA virus research. However, procedural complications and the lack of adequate literature pose a major challenge in developing these assay systems. Here, we present a novel, yet generic and simple, cloning strategy for the construction of an influenza B virus reporter RNA template and describe an extensive standardization of the reporter RNP/polymerase activity assay for monitoring viral RNA synthesis in an infection-free setting. Using this assay system, we showed for the first time the effect of viral protein NS1 and host protein kinase C delta (PKCD) on influenza B virus RNA synthesis. In addition, the assay system showed promising results in evaluating the efficacy of antiviral drugs targeting viral RNA synthesis and virus propagation. Together, this work offers a detailed protocol for the standardization of the influenza virus minigenome assay and an excellent tool for screening of host factors and antivirals in a fast, user-friendly, and high-throughput manner.

Targeted inhibition of the endonuclease activity of influenza polymerase acidic proteins

Influenza is a type of acute respiratory virus infection caused by the influenza virus that occurs in epidemics worldwide every year. Due to the increasing incidence of influenza virus resistance to existing drugs, researchers are looking for novel antiviral drugs with new mechanisms. The endonuclease activity of polymerase acidic protein is essential in the process of influenza virus reproduction, and inhibiting it could prevent the virus from replicating. There are relatively few drugs that act on this protein, and only baloxavir marboxil has been approved for clinical use. In this article, the structure and function of influenza virus polymerase acidic protein endonuclease, mechanism of action of polymerase acidic endonuclease inhibitors and the research progress of inhibitors are reviewed.

Secondary Structure of Influenza A Virus Genomic Segment 8 RNA Folded in a Cellular Environment

Influenza A virus (IAV) is a member of the single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) family of viruses. The most recent global pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus has shown the major threat that RNA viruses can pose to humanity. In comparison, influenza has an even higher pandemic potential as a result of its high rate of mutations within its relatively short (<13 kbp) genome, as well as its capability to undergo genetic reassortment. In light of this threat, and the fact that RNA structure is connected to a broad range of known biological functions, deeper investigation of viral RNA (vRNA) structures is of high interest. Here, for the first time, we propose a secondary structure for segment 8 vRNA (vRNA8) of A/California/04/2009 (H1N1) formed in the presence of cellular and viral components. This structure shows similarities with prior in vitro experiments. Additionally, we determined the location of several well-defined, conserved structural motifs of vRNA8 within IAV strains with possible functionality. These RNA motifs appear to fold independently of regional nucleoprotein (NP)-binding affinity, but a low or uneven distribution of NP in each motif region is noted. This research also highlights several accessible sites for oligonucleotide tools and small molecules in vRNA8 in a cellular environment that might be a target for influenza A virus inhibition on the RNA level.

The first non-prion pathogen identified: neurotropic influenza virus

The cellular isoform of prion protein, designated PrP^C, is a membrane glycoprotein expressed most abundantly in the brain, particularly by neurons, and its conformational conversion into the abnormally folded, amyloidogenic isoform, PrP^Sc, is an underlying mechanism in the pathogenesis of prion diseases, a group of neurodegenerative disorders in humans and animals. Most cases of these diseases are sporadic and their aetiologies are unknown. We recently found that a neurotropic strain of influenza A virus (IAV/WSN) caused the conversion of PrP^C into PrP^Sc and the subsequent formation of infectious prions in mouse neuroblastoma cells after infection. These results show that IAV/WSN is the first non-prion pathogen capable of inducing the conversion of PrP^C into PrP^Sc and propagating infectious prions in cultured neuronal cells, and also provide the intriguing possibility that IAV infection in neurons might be a cause of or be associated with sporadic prion diseases. Here, we present our findings of the IAV/WSN-induced conversion of PrP^C into PrP^Sc and subsequent propagation of infectious prions, and also discuss the biological significance of the conversion of PrP^C into PrP^Sc in virus infections.

Universal and strain specific structure features of segment 8 genomic RNA of influenza A virus-application of 4-thiouridine photocrosslinking

RNA structure in the influenza A virus (IAV) has been the focus of several studies that have shown connections between conserved secondary structure motifs and their biological function in the virus replication cycle. Questions have arisen on how to best recognize and understand the pandemic properties of IAV strains from an RNA perspective, but determination of the RNA secondary structure has been challenging. Herein, we used chemical mapping to determine the secondary structure of segment 8 viral RNA (vRNA) of the pandemic A/California/04/2009 (H1N1) strain of IAV. Additionally, this long, naturally occurring RNA served as a model to evaluate RNA mapping with 4-thiouridine (4sU) crosslinking. We explored 4-thiouridine as a probe of nucleotides in close proximity, through its incorporation into newly transcribed RNA and subsequent photoactivation. RNA secondary structural features both universal to type A strains and unique to the A/California/04/2009 (H1N1) strain were recognized. 4sU mapping confirmed and facilitated RNA structure prediction, according to several rules: 4sU photocross-linking forms efficiently in the double-stranded region of RNA with some flexibility, in the ends of helices, and across bulges and loops when their structural mobility is permitted. This method highlighted three-dimensional properties of segment 8 vRNA secondary structure motifs and allowed to propose several long-range three-dimensional interactions. 4sU mapping combined with chemical mapping and bioinformatic analysis could be used to enhance the RNA structure determination as well as recognition of target regions for antisense strategies or viral RNA detection.

Virus Infection, Genetic Mutations, and Prion Infection in Prion Protein Conversion

Conformational conversion of the cellular isoform of prion protein, PrP^C, into the abnormally folded, amyloidogenic isoform, PrP^Sc, is an underlying pathogenic mechanism in prion diseases. The diseases manifest as sporadic, hereditary, and acquired disorders. Etiological mechanisms driving the conversion of PrP^C into PrP^Sc are unknown in sporadic prion diseases, while prion infection and specific mutations in the PrP gene are known to cause the conversion of PrP^C into PrP^Sc in acquired and hereditary prion diseases, respectively. We recently reported that a neurotropic strain of influenza A virus (IAV) induced the conversion of PrP^C into PrP^Sc as well as formation of infectious prions in mouse neuroblastoma cells after infection, suggesting the causative role of the neuronal infection of IAV in sporadic prion diseases. Here, we discuss the conversion mechanism of PrP^C into PrP^Sc in different types of prion diseases, by presenting our findings of the IAV infection-induced conversion of PrP^C into PrP^Sc and by reviewing the so far reported transgenic animal models of hereditary prion diseases and the reverse genetic studies, which have revealed the structure-function relationship for PrP^C to convert into PrP^Sc after prion infection.

Phylodynamic Study of the Conserved RNA Structure Encompassing the Hemagglutinin Cleavage Site Encoding Region of H5 and H7 Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza Viruses

Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Viruses (HPAIV) evolve from Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza Viruses (LPAIV) of the H5 and H7 subtypes. This evolution is characterized by the acquisition of a multi-basic cleavage site (MBCS) motif in the hemagglutinin (HA) that leads to an extended viral tropism and severe disease in poultry. One key unanswered question is whether the risk of transition to HPAIV is similar for all LPAIV H5 or H7 strains, or whether specific determinants in the HA sequence of some H5 or H7 LPAIV strains correlate with a higher risk of transition to HPAIV. Here we determined if specific features of the conserved RNA stem loop located at the hemagglutinin cleavage site-encoding region could be detected along the LPAIV to HPAIV evolutionary pathway. Analysis of the thermodynamic stability of the predicted RNA structures showed no specific patterns common to HA sequences leading to HPAIV and distinct from those remaining LPAIV. However, RNA structure clustering analysis revealed that most of the American lineage ancestors leading to H7 emergences via recombination shared the same vRNA structure topology at the HA1/HA2 boundary region. Our study thus identified predicted secondary RNA structures present in the HA of H7 viruses, which could promote genetic recombination and acquisition of a MBCS.

Cellular hnRNPAB interacts with avian influenza viral protein PB2 and inhibits virus replication potentially by restricting PB2 mRNA nuclear export and PB2 protein level

The PB2 protein of avian influenza virus (AIV) is essential for transcription and replication of virus genome. In this study, we reported that chicken heterogenous nuclear riboncleoprotein AB (hnRNPAB) cooperated with avian influenza viral protein PB2 and inhibited the polymerase activity and virus replication. We found that hnRNPAB was associated with PB2 mRNA and overexpression of hnRNPAB reduced PB2 mRNA nuclear export and PB2 protein level, but had no influence on PB2 mRNA level. At the same time, overexpression of hnRNPAB also reduced protein levels rather than mRNA levels of PA, PB1 and NP. In addition, overexpression of hnRNPAB restricted the polymerase activity and virus replication, while knockdown of hnRNPAB resulted in enhanced polymerase activity and virus replication. Lastly, virus infection induced the nuclear accumulation of hnRNPAB, but did not cause the change of expression level of endogenous hnRNPAB in DF-1 cells. Collectively, these findings suggested that hnRNPAB played a restrictive role in polymerase activity and virus replication potentially through inhibiting PB2 mRNA nuclear export and PB2 protein level.

Mutagenesis Mapping of RNA Structures within the Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus Genome Reveals Functional Elements Localized in the Polymerase (3Dpol)-Encoding Region

RNA structures can form functional elements that play crucial roles in the replication of positive-sense RNA viruses. While RNA structures in the untranslated regions (UTRs) of several picornaviruses have been functionally characterized, the roles of putative RNA structures predicted for protein coding sequences (or open reading frames [ORFs]) remain largely undefined. Here, we have undertaken a bioinformatic analysis of the foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) genome to predict 53 conserved RNA structures within the ORF. Forty-six of these structures were located in the regions encoding the nonstructural proteins (nsps). To investigate whether structures located in the regions encoding the nsps are required for FMDV replication, we used a mutagenesis method, CDLR mapping, where sequential coding segments were shuffled to minimize RNA secondary structures while preserving protein coding, native dinucleotide frequencies, and codon usage. To examine the impact of these changes on replicative fitness, mutated sequences were inserted into an FMDV subgenomic replicon. We found that three of the RNA structures, all at the 3' termini of the FMDV ORF, were critical for replicon replication. In contrast, disruption of the other 43 conserved RNA structures that lie within the regions encoding the nsps had no effect on replicon replication, suggesting that these structures are not required for initiating translation or replication of viral RNA. Conserved RNA structures that are not essential for virus replication could provide ideal targets for the rational attenuation of a wide range of FMDV strains. IMPORTANCE Some RNA structures formed by the genomes of RNA viruses are critical for viral replication. Our study shows that of 46 conserved RNA structures located within the regions of the foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) genome that encode the nonstructural proteins, only three are essential for replication of an FMDV subgenomic replicon. Replicon replication is dependent on RNA translation and synthesis; thus, our results suggest that the three RNA structures are critical for either initiation of viral RNA translation and/or viral RNA synthesis. Although further studies are required to identify whether the remaining 43 RNA structures have other roles in virus replication, they may provide targets for the rational large-scale attenuation of a wide range of FMDV strains. FMDV causes a highly contagious disease, posing a constant threat to global livestock industries. Such weakened FMDV strains could be investigated as live-attenuated vaccines or could enhance biosecurity of conventional inactivated vaccine production.

Evaluation of the added value of viral genomic information for predicting severity of influenza infection

BACKGROUND

The severity of an influenza infection is influenced by both host and viral characteristics. This study aims to assess the relevance of viral genomic data for the prediction of severe influenza A(H3N2) infections among patients hospitalized for severe acute respiratory infection (SARI), in view of risk assessment and patient management.

METHODS

160 A(H3N2) influenza positive samples from the 2016-2017 season originating from the Belgian SARI surveillance were selected for whole genome sequencing. Predictor variables for severity were selected using a penalized elastic net logistic regression model from a combined host and genomic dataset, including patient information and nucleotide mutations identified in the viral genome. The goodness-of-fit of the model combining host and genomic data was compared using a likelihood-ratio test with the model including host data only. Internal validation of model discrimination was conducted by calculating the optimism-adjusted area under the Receiver Operating Characteristic curve (AUC) for both models.

RESULTS

The model including viral mutations in addition to the host characteristics had an improved fit ([Formula: see text]=12.03, df = 3, p = 0.007). The optimism-adjusted AUC increased from 0.671 to 0.732.

CONCLUSIONS

Adding genomic data (selected season-specific mutations in the viral genome) to the model containing host characteristics improved the prediction of severe influenza infection among hospitalized SARI patients, thereby offering the potential for translation into a prospective strategy to perform early season risk assessment or to guide individual patient management.

Identification and Structural Aspects of G-Quadruplex-Forming Sequences from the Influenza A Virus Genome

Influenza A virus (IAV) causes seasonal epidemics and sporadic pandemics, therefore is an important research subject for scientists around the world. Despite the high variability of its genome, the structure of viral RNA (vRNA) possesses features that remain constant between strains and are biologically important for virus replication. Therefore, conserved structural motifs of vRNA can represent a novel therapeutic target. Here, we focused on the presence of G-rich sequences within the influenza A/California/07/2009(H1N1) genome and their ability to form RNA G-quadruplex structures (G4s). We identified 12 potential quadruplex-forming sequences (PQS) and determined their conservation among the IAV strains using bioinformatics tools. Then we examined the propensity of PQS to fold into G4s by various biophysical methods. Our results revealed that six PQS oligomers could form RNA G-quadruplexes. However, three of them were confirmed to adopt G4 structures by all utilized methods. Moreover, we showed that these PQS motifs are present within segments encoding polymerase complex proteins indicating their possible role in the virus biology.

Nanotechnology-based antiviral therapeutics

The host immune system is highly compromised in case of viral infections and relapses are very common. The capacity of the virus to destroy the host cell by liberating its own DNA or RNA and replicating inside the host cell poses challenges in the development of antiviral therapeutics. In recent years, many new technologies have been explored for diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of viral infections. Nanotechnology has emerged as one of the most promising technologies on account of its ability to deal with viral diseases in an effective manner, addressing the limitations of traditional antiviral medicines. It has not only helped us to overcome problems related to solubility and toxicity of drugs, but also imparted unique properties to drugs, which in turn has increased their potency and selectivity toward viral cells against the host cells. The initial part of the paper focuses on some important proteins of influenza, Ebola, HIV, herpes, Zika, dengue, and corona virus and those of the host cells important for their entry and replication into the host cells. This is followed by different types of nanomaterials which have served as delivery vehicles for the antiviral drugs. It includes various lipid-based, polymer-based, lipid-polymer hybrid-based, carbon-based, inorganic metal-based, surface-modified, and stimuli-sensitive nanomaterials and their application in antiviral therapeutics. The authors also highlight newer promising treatment approaches like nanotraps, nanorobots, nanobubbles, nanofibers, nanodiamonds, nanovaccines, and mathematical modeling for the future. The paper has been updated with the recent developments in nanotechnology-based approaches in view of the ongoing pandemic of COVID-19.Graphical abstract.

diffBUM-HMM: a robust statistical modeling approach for detecting RNA flexibility changes in high-throughput structure probing data

Advancing RNA structural probing techniques with next-generation sequencing has generated demands for complementary computational tools to robustly extract RNA structural information amidst sampling noise and variability. We present diffBUM-HMM, a noise-aware model that enables accurate detection of RNA flexibility and conformational changes from high-throughput RNA structure-probing data. diffBUM-HMM is widely compatible, accounting for sampling variation and sequence coverage biases, and displays higher sensitivity than existing methods while robust against false positives. Our analyses of datasets generated with a variety of RNA probing chemistries demonstrate the value of diffBUM-HMM for quantitatively detecting RNA structural changes and RNA-binding protein binding sites.

The Crossroads between Host Copper Metabolism and Influenza Infection

Three main approaches are used to combat severe viral respiratory infections. The first is preemptive vaccination that blocks infection. Weakened or dead viral particles, as well as genetic constructs carrying viral proteins or information about them, are used as an antigen. However, the viral genome is very evolutionary labile and changes continuously. Second, chemical agents are used during infection and inhibit the function of a number of viral proteins. However, these drugs lose their effectiveness because the virus can rapidly acquire resistance to them. The third is the search for points in the host metabolism the effect on which would suppress the replication of the virus but would not have a significant effect on the metabolism of the host. Here, we consider the possibility of using the copper metabolic system as a target to reduce the severity of influenza infection. This is facilitated by the fact that, in mammals, copper status can be rapidly reduced by silver nanoparticles and restored after their cancellation.

Neurotropic influenza A virus infection causes prion protein misfolding into infectious prions in neuroblastoma cells

Misfolding of the cellular prion protein, PrP^C, into the amyloidogenic isoform, PrP^Sc, which forms infectious protein aggregates, the so-called prions, is a key pathogenic event in prion diseases. No pathogens other than prions have been identified to induce misfolding of PrP^C into PrP^Sc and propagate infectious prions in infected cells. Here, we found that infection with a neurotropic influenza A virus strain (IAV/WSN) caused misfolding of PrP^C into PrP^Sc and generated infectious prions in mouse neuroblastoma cells through a hit-and-run mechanism. The structural and biochemical characteristics of IAV/WSN-induced PrP^Sc were different from those of RML and 22L laboratory prions-evoked PrP^Sc, and the pathogenicity of IAV/WSN-induced prions were also different from that of RML and 22L prions, suggesting IAV/WSN-specific formation of PrP^Sc and infectious prions. Our current results may open a new avenue for the role of viral infection in misfolding of PrP^C into PrP^Sc and formation of infectious prions.

Replication-Competent ΔNS1 Influenza A Viruses Expressing Reporter Genes

The influenza A virus (IAV) is able to infect multiple mammalian and avian species, and in humans IAV is responsible for annual seasonal epidemics and occasional pandemics of respiratory disease with significant health and economic impacts. Studying IAV involves laborious secondary methodologies to identify infected cells. Therefore, to circumvent this requirement, in recent years, multiple replication-competent infectious IAV expressing traceable reporter genes have been developed. These IAVs have been very useful for in vitro and/or in vivo studies of viral replication, identification of neutralizing antibodies or antivirals, and in studies to evaluate vaccine efficacy, among others. In this report, we describe, for the first time, the generation and characterization of two replication-competent influenza A/Puerto Rico/8/1934 H1N1 (PR8) viruses where the viral non-structural protein 1 (NS1) was substituted by the monomeric (m)Cherry fluorescent or the NanoLuc luciferase (Nluc) proteins. The ΔNS1 mCherry was able to replicate in cultured cells and in Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 1 (STAT1) deficient mice, although at a lower extent than a wild-type (WT) PR8 virus expressing the same mCherry fluorescent protein (WT mCherry). Notably, expression of either reporter gene (mCherry or Nluc) was detected in infected cells by fluorescent microscopy or luciferase plate readers, respectively. ΔNS1 IAV expressing reporter genes provide a novel approach to better understand the biology and pathogenesis of IAV, and represent an excellent tool to develop new therapeutic approaches against IAV infections.

Conserved Structural Motifs of Two Distant IAV Subtypes in Genomic Segment 5 RNA

The functionality of RNA is fully dependent on its structure. For the influenza A virus (IAV), there are confirmed structural motifs mediating processes which are important for the viral replication cycle, including genome assembly and viral packaging. Although the RNA of strains originating from distant IAV subtypes might fold differently, some structural motifs are conserved, and thus, are functionally important. Nowadays, NGS-based structure modeling is a source of new in vivo data helping to understand RNA biology. However, for accurate modeling of in vivo RNA structures, these high-throughput methods should be supported with other analyses facilitating data interpretation. In vitro RNA structural models complement such approaches and offer RNA structures based on experimental data obtained in a simplified environment, which are needed for proper optimization and analysis. Herein, we present the secondary structure of the influenza A virus segment 5 vRNA of A/California/04/2009 (H1N1) strain, based on experimental data from DMS chemical mapping and SHAPE using NMIA, supported by base-pairing probability calculations and bioinformatic analyses. A comparison of the available vRNA5 structures among distant IAV strains revealed that a number of motifs present in the A/California/04/2009 (H1N1) vRNA5 model are highly conserved despite sequence differences, located within previously identified packaging signals, and the formation of which in in virio conditions has been confirmed. These results support functional roles of the RNA secondary structure motifs, which may serve as candidates for universal RNA-targeting inhibitory methods.

Computational modelling of flavivirus dynamics: The ins and outs

Enveloped viruses such as the flaviviruses represent a significant burden to human health around the world, with hundreds of millions of people each year affected by dengue alone. In an effort to improve our understanding of the molecular basis for the infective mechanisms of these viruses, extensive computational modelling approaches have been applied to elucidate their conformational dynamics. Multiscale protocols have been developed to simulate flavivirus envelopes in close accordance with biophysical data, in particular derived from cryo-electron microscopy, enabling high-resolution refinement of their structures and elucidation of the conformational changes associated with adaptation both to host environments and to immunological factors such as antibodies. Likewise, integrative modelling efforts combining data from biophysical experiments and from genome sequencing with chemical modification are providing unparalleled insights into the architecture of the previously unresolved nucleocapsid complex. Collectively, this work provides the basis for the future rational design of new antiviral therapeutics and vaccine development strategies targeting enveloped viruses.

Organization of the Influenza A Virus Genomic RNA in the Viral Replication Cycle-Structure, Interactions, and Implications for the Emergence of New Strains

The influenza A virus is a human pathogen causing respiratory infections. The ability of this virus to trigger seasonal epidemics and sporadic pandemics is a result of its high genetic variability, leading to the ineffectiveness of vaccinations and current therapies. The source of this variability is the accumulation of mutations in viral genes and reassortment enabled by its segmented genome. The latter process can induce major changes and the production of new strains with pandemic potential. However, not all genetic combinations are tolerated and lead to the assembly of complete infectious virions. Reports have shown that viral RNA segments co-segregate in particular circumstances. This tendency is a consequence of the complex and selective genome packaging process, which takes place in the final stages of the viral replication cycle. It has been shown that genome packaging is governed by RNA–RNA interactions. Intersegment contacts create a network, characterized by the presence of common and strain-specific interaction sites. Recent studies have revealed certain RNA regions, and conserved secondary structure motifs within them, which may play functional roles in virion assembly. Growing knowledge on RNA structure and interactions facilitates our understanding of the appearance of new genome variants, and may allow for the prediction of potential reassortment outcomes and the emergence of new strains in the future.

RNA Secondary Structure as a First Step for Rational Design of the Oligonucleotides towards Inhibition of Influenza A Virus Replication

Influenza is an important research subject around the world because of its threat to humanity. Influenza A virus (IAV) causes seasonal epidemics and sporadic, but dangerous pandemics. A rapid antigen changes and recombination of the viral RNA genome contribute to the reduced effectiveness of vaccination and anti-influenza drugs. Hence, there is a necessity to develop new antiviral drugs and strategies to limit the influenza spread. IAV is a single-stranded negative sense RNA virus with a genome (viral RNA—vRNA) consisting of eight segments. Segments within influenza virion are assembled into viral ribonucleoprotein (vRNP) complexes that are independent transcription-replication units. Each step in the influenza life cycle is regulated by the RNA and is dependent on its interplay and dynamics. Therefore, viral RNA can be a proper target to design novel therapeutics. Here, we briefly described examples of anti-influenza strategies based on the antisense oligonucleotide (ASO), small interfering RNA (siRNA), microRNA (miRNA) and catalytic nucleic acids. In particular we focused on the vRNA structure-function relationship as well as presented the advantages of using secondary structure information in predicting therapeutic targets and the potential future of this field.

Influenza Vaccines toward Universality through Nanoplatforms and Given by Microneedle Patches

Influenza is one of the top threats to public health. The best strategy to prevent influenza is vaccination. Because of the antigenic changes in the major surface antigens of influenza viruses, current seasonal influenza vaccines need to be updated every year to match the circulating strains and are suboptimal for protection. Furthermore, seasonal vaccines do not protect against potential influenza pandemics. A universal influenza vaccine will eliminate the threat of both influenza epidemics and pandemics. Due to the massive challenge in realizing influenza vaccine universality, a single vaccine strategy cannot meet the need. A comprehensive approach that integrates advances in immunogen designs, vaccine and adjuvant nanoplatforms, and vaccine delivery and controlled release has the potential to achieve an effective universal influenza vaccine. This review will summarize the advances in the research and development of an affordable universal influenza vaccine.

RNA Drugs and RNA Targets for Small Molecules: Principles, Progress, and Challenges

RNA-based therapies, including RNA molecules as drugs and RNA-targeted small molecules, offer unique opportunities to expand the range of therapeutic targets. Various forms of RNAs may be used to selectively act on proteins, transcripts, and genes that cannot be targeted by conventional small molecules or proteins. Although development of RNA drugs faces unparalleled challenges, many strategies have been developed to improve RNA metabolic stability and intracellular delivery. A number of RNA drugs have been approved for medical use, including aptamers (e.g., pegaptanib) that mechanistically act on protein target and small interfering RNAs (e.g., patisiran and givosiran) and antisense oligonucleotides (e.g., inotersen and golodirsen) that directly interfere with RNA targets. Furthermore, guide RNAs are essential components of novel gene editing modalities, and mRNA therapeutics are under development for protein replacement therapy or vaccination, including those against unprecedented severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus pandemic. Moreover, functional RNAs or RNA motifs are highly structured to form binding pockets or clefts that are accessible by small molecules. Many natural, semisynthetic, or synthetic antibiotics (e.g., aminoglycosides, tetracyclines, macrolides, oxazolidinones, and phenicols) can directly bind to ribosomal RNAs to achieve the inhibition of bacterial infections. Therefore, there is growing interest in developing RNA-targeted small-molecule drugs amenable to oral administration, and some (e.g., risdiplam and branaplam) have entered clinical trials. Here, we review the pharmacology of novel RNA drugs and RNA-targeted small-molecule medications, with a focus on recent progresses and strategies. Challenges in the development of novel druggable RNA entities and identification of viable RNA targets and selective small-molecule binders are discussed. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: With the understanding of RNA functions and critical roles in diseases, as well as the development of RNA-related technologies, there is growing interest in developing novel RNA-based therapeutics. This comprehensive review presents pharmacology of both RNA drugs and RNA-targeted small-molecule medications, focusing on novel mechanisms of action, the most recent progress, and existing challenges.

Structure and Function of the Influenza Virus Transcription and Replication Machinery

Transcription and replication of the influenza virus RNA genome is catalyzed by the viral heterotrimeric RNA-dependent RNA polymerase in the context of viral ribonucleoprotein (vRNP) complexes. Atomic resolution structures of the viral RNA synthesis machinery have offered insights into the initiation mechanisms of viral transcription and genome replication, and the interaction of the viral RNA polymerase with host RNA polymerase II, which is required for the initiation of viral transcription. Replication of the viral RNA genome by the viral RNA polymerase depends on host ANP32A, and host-specific sequence differences in ANP32A underlie the poor activity of avian influenza virus polymerases in mammalian cells. A failure to faithfully copy the viral genome segments can lead to the production of aberrant viral RNA products, such as defective interfering (DI) RNAs and mini viral RNAs (mvRNAs). Both aberrant RNA types have been implicated in innate immune responses against influenza virus infection. This review discusses recent insights into the structure-function relationship of the viral RNA polymerase and its role in determining host range and virulence.

Insights into species-specific regulation of ANP32A on the mammalian-restricted influenza virus polymerase activity

The ANP32A is responsible for mammalian-restricted influenza virus polymerase activity. However, the mechanism of ANP32A modulation of polymerase activity remains poorly understood. Here, we report that chicken ANP32A (chANP32A) -X1 and -X2 stimulated mammalian-restricted PB2 627E polymerase activity in a dose-dependent manner. Distinct effects of ANP32A constructs suggested that the ¹⁸⁰VK¹⁸¹ residues within chANP32A-X1 are necessary but not sufficient to stimulate PB2 627E polymerase activity. The PB2 N567D, T598V, A613V or F636L mutations promoted PB2 627E polymerase activity and chANP32A-X1 showed additive effects, providing further support that species-specific regulation of ANP32A might be only relevant with the PB2 E627K mutation. Rescue of cycloheximide-mediated inhibition showed that ANP32A is species-specific for modulation of vRNA but not mRNA and cRNA, demonstrating chANP32A-X1 compensated for defective cRNPs produced by PB2 627E virus in mammalian cells. The promoter mutations of cRNA enhanced the restriction of PB2 627E polymerase in mammalian cells, which could be restored by chANP32A-X1, indicating that ANP32A is likely to regulate the interaction of viral polymerase with RNA promoter. Coimmunoprecipitation showed that ANP32A did not affect the primary cRNPs assembly. We propose a model that chANP32A-X1 regulates PB2 627E polymerase for suitable interaction with cRNA promoter for vRNA replication.