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Mechanisms of DNA virus infection: entry and early events
A Oveta Fuller1, Pilar Perez-Romero
1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, 6736 Medical Sciences II,University of Michigan School of Medicine, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-0620, USA. fullero@umich.edu
Abstract:
The cellular components engaged in entry of viruses has been an area of intense investigation in recent years. We examine the entry and receptors used for well-studied and prevalent human DNA viruses adenoviruses, poxviruses and two herpesviruses- herpes simplex virus and Epstein-Barr virus. Little is yet known about the entry or early events for other human DNA viruses. Common themes that emerge for entry of these prevalent human DNA viruses include engagement of multiple receptors, use of cell surface molecules that are prominent and, in most cases, conserved on cells, and interactions with proteins that can alter morphology of the cytoskeleton or modulate intracellular signaling for gene expression. Where available, we provide evidence that entry not only transports the capsid and genome across a cell membrane, but that these events also can set up the cell for subsequent events that contribute to successful viral replication.
Insights
Human DNA viruses like adenoviruses and herpesviruses use multiple cell receptors for entry. Viral entry mechanisms involve cytoskeleton interactions and can prime cells for replication.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Viral entry into host cells is crucial for infection and a key area of research.
- Understanding the mechanisms of viral entry is essential for developing antiviral therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the entry mechanisms and cellular receptors used by prevalent human DNA viruses.
- To identify common themes in viral entry processes among different DNA viruses.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on viral entry pathways.
- Analysis of receptor usage and cellular interactions for adenoviruses, poxviruses, herpes simplex virus, and Epstein-Barr virus.
Main Results:
- Common themes include engagement of multiple, conserved cell surface receptors.
- Viral entry often involves interactions with cellular cytoskeleton and signaling pathways.
- Entry processes not only deliver viral components but also prepare the cell for replication.
Conclusions:
- Prevalent human DNA viruses utilize sophisticated entry strategies involving multiple cellular components.
- These strategies highlight conserved mechanisms and host-pathogen interactions critical for viral replication.