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vHoT: a database for predicting interspecies interactions between viral microRNA and host genomes
Hanjoo Kim1, Seunghyun Park, Hyeyoung Min
1School of Electrical Engineering, Korea University, #207 Engineering Bldg., Anamdong, Seongbukgu, Seoul 136-713, Korea.
Archives of Virology
|December 14, 2011
Summary
This study introduces the viral microRNA host target (vHoT) database, a new tool for predicting interactions between viral microRNAs and host genomes. vHoT aids in understanding complex host-pathogen relationships at the post-transcriptional level.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Bioinformatics
- Genomics
Background:
- Viruses can transcribe microRNAs (miRNAs), influencing host-pathogen interactions post-transcriptionally.
- Existing miRNA target prediction tools lack specificity for viral miRNAs targeting host or viral mRNAs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a user-friendly database for predicting interactions between viral microRNAs and host genomes.
- To facilitate the study of post-transcriptional regulation in virus-infected cells.
Main Methods:
- Development of the viral microRNA host target (vHoT) database.
- Implementation of algorithms for predicting interspecies miRNA-mRNA interactions.
- Inclusion of data for 271 viral miRNAs across multiple host genomes.
Main Results:
- The vHoT database provides a platform for predicting viral miRNA targets in host genomes.
- Supports target prediction for 271 viral miRNAs against human, mouse, rat, rhesus monkey, and cow genomes.
- Enables prediction of viral miRNA interactions with viral genomes.
Conclusions:
- vHoT offers a valuable resource for researchers studying viral miRNA functions and host-pathogen interactions.
- The database enhances understanding of post-transcriptional regulatory mechanisms involving viral miRNAs.
- vHoT is freely accessible, promoting wider research in virology and bioinformatics.
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