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Rhabdoviruses and apoptosis
Jillian M Licata1, Ronald N Harty
1Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 3800 Spruce Street, Philadelphia, PA 19104-6049, USA.
Abstract:
Viral-induced apoptosis is recognized as a common method utilized by viruses to overcome the host. Recent evidence indicates that infection by rhabdoviruses such as vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), spring viremia of carp virus (SVCV), and rabies virus results in apoptotic cell death. Similar morphological changes and host cell proteins are induced in cells infected with these different viruses; however, the viral proteins responsible for these changes vary. In addition, the molecular mechanism(s) utilized by these viruses to induce apoptosis are on the brink of discovery. This article serves to summarize our current understanding of the apoptotic process during rhabdovirus infection and to illustrate forthcoming areas of study in the field
Insights
Viruses like vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) induce apoptosis, or programmed cell death, to overcome hosts. Understanding the molecular mechanisms behind rhabdovirus-induced apoptosis is crucial for future research.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Viral-induced apoptosis is a key strategy for viruses to subvert host defenses.
- Rhabdoviruses, including vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV), spring viremia of carp virus (SVCV), and rabies virus, are known to induce apoptotic cell death.
- While distinct viral proteins mediate these effects, the underlying molecular mechanisms are not fully elucidated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the current knowledge on apoptosis during rhabdovirus infection.
- To highlight emerging research areas in the study of virus-induced apoptosis.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on rhabdovirus infections and apoptosis.
- Analysis of common morphological and host cell protein changes induced by different rhabdoviruses.
- Identification of viral proteins implicated in apoptosis induction.
Main Results:
- Rhabdovirus infections lead to characteristic apoptotic changes in host cells.
- Despite shared outcomes, specific viral proteins are responsible for apoptosis induction across different rhabdoviruses.
- The molecular pathways governing rhabdovirus-mediated apoptosis are under active investigation.
Conclusions:
- Apoptosis is a significant mechanism employed by rhabdoviruses to facilitate infection.
- Further research is needed to fully uncover the molecular intricacies of rhabdovirus-induced apoptosis.
- Understanding these mechanisms may offer insights into viral pathogenesis and host-virus interactions.