Quantitative proteome profiling of respiratory virus-infected lung epithelial cells

Area of Science:

• * Molecular biology
• * Virology
• * Cellular biology

Background:

• * Respiratory virus infections are a leading cause of human illness and death.
• * Viruses such as respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), parainfluenza (PIV), and human metapneumovirus (hMPV) are significant contributors to respiratory diseases, particularly in vulnerable populations like young children and the elderly.

Purpose of the Study:

• * To investigate the molecular pathogenesis of respiratory virus infections.
• * To analyze protein expression profiles in infected lung epithelial cells to understand host responses.

Main Methods:

• * A549 lung epithelial cells were infected with RSV, hMPV, PIV3, and Measles virus (MV) using live and UV-inactivated preparations.
• * Proteomics analysis was performed using 2-dimensional difference gel electrophoresis (2-D DIGE) at various time points post-infection.
• * Differential protein expression was identified by comparing infected cells to mock-infected controls.

Main Results:

• * RSV, hMPV, PIV3, and MV induced comparable core host responses.
• * Proteins primarily affected were those involved in defense against endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and apoptosis.
• * The observed changes indicate an induction of apoptosis in lung epithelial cells following infection.

Conclusions:

• * Respiratory virus infections trigger a conserved host response involving ER stress and apoptosis pathways.
• * 2-D DIGE analysis provides insights into the induction of apoptosis by various respiratory viruses in A549 cells.
• * Understanding these molecular mechanisms is crucial for developing effective treatments against respiratory viral diseases.