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Signalling in viral entry
1University of Zürich, Institute of Zoology, Switzerland. ufgreber@zool.unizh.ch
Abstract:
Viral infections are serious battles between pathogens and hosts. They can result in cell death, elimination of the virus or latent infection keeping both cells and pathogens alive. The outcome of an infection is often determined by cell signalling. Viruses deliver genomes and proteins with signalling potential into target cells and thereby alter the metabolism of the host. Virus interactions with cell surface receptors can elicit two types of signals, conformational changes of viral particles, and intracellular signals triggering specific cellular reactions. Responses by cells include stimulation of innate and adaptive immunity, growth, proliferation, survival and apoptosis. In addition, virus-activated cell signalling boosts viral entry and gene delivery, as recently shon for adenoviruses and adeno-associated viruses. This review illustrates that multiple activation of host cells during viral entry profoundly impacts the elaborate relationship between hosts and viral pathogens.
Insights
Viral infections involve complex host-pathogen interactions. Cell signaling critically influences infection outcomes, impacting viral entry and host responses.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Cell Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Viral infections present a dynamic interplay between pathogens and host cells.
- The outcome of viral infections can range from pathogen elimination to persistent, latent states.
- Cell signaling pathways are central to mediating these host-pathogen interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the multifaceted role of cell signaling in viral infections.
- To elucidate how viruses manipulate host cell signaling pathways.
- To highlight the impact of virus-induced host cell activation on infection dynamics.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on viral entry and host cell responses.
- Analysis of cell signaling mechanisms triggered by viral components.
- Examination of viral manipulation of host cell metabolism and immune functions.
Main Results:
- Viruses deliver genetic material and proteins that alter host cell metabolism.
- Virus-host cell surface receptor interactions trigger conformational changes and intracellular signals.
- Virus-activated signaling enhances viral entry and gene delivery, as seen with adenoviruses and adeno-associated viruses.
Conclusions:
- Host cell signaling is a critical determinant of viral infection outcomes.
- Viruses actively exploit and modulate host cell signaling for their replication and spread.
- The intricate activation of host cells during viral entry significantly shapes the host-pathogen relationship.