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Involvement of p32 and microtubules in alteration of mitochondrial functions by rubella virus

C Claus1, S Chey, S Heinrich

  • 1Institute of Virology, University of Leipzig, Johannisallee 30, Leipzig D-04103, Germany.

Journal of Virology
|January 21, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Rubella virus (RV) replication depends on mitochondrial protein p32 to traffic mitochondria for energy. Silencing p32 disrupts this process, reducing viral replication and affecting mitochondrial function.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Cell Biology
  • Mitochondrial Biology

Background:

  • The rubella virus (RV) capsid (C) protein interacts with mitochondrial p32, suggesting a role in viral replication.
  • Mitochondria are increasingly recognized as key players in viral pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the physiological significance of rubella virus association with mitochondria.
  • To elucidate the role of mitochondrial protein p32 in rubella virus replication.

Main Methods:

  • RNA interference was used to silence p32 expression in RV-infected cells.
  • Mitochondrial redistribution, viral replication, and mitochondrial function (electron transport chain activity, membrane potential) were assessed.
  • Cell lines were also subjected to respiratory chain inhibitors or hypoxia before RV infection.

Main Results:

  • Downregulation of p32 interfered with microtubule-directed mitochondrial redistribution in RV-infected cells.
  • Viral replication was reduced under conditions of respiratory chain inhibition and mild hypoxia.
  • RV infection increased mitochondrial electron transport chain complex III activity and mitochondrial membrane potential.
  • p32 localization shifted to the mitochondrial membrane in RV-permissive cell lines.

Conclusions:

  • Mitochondrial protein p32 is essential for rubella virus replication, likely by facilitating mitochondrial trafficking to energy-demand sites.
  • Rubella virus infection induces significant alterations in mitochondrial function, including enhanced electron transport chain activity.
  • The specific localization of p32 to the mitochondrial membrane in permissive cells may be crucial for its role in supporting viral replication.

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