Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 23, 2026

Reverse Genetics to Engineer Positive-Sense RNA Virus Variants
Published on: June 9, 2022
Resisting viral infection: the gene by gene approach
Eva Marie Y Moresco1, Bruce Beutler
1Department of Genetics, The Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA 92037, USA.
Abstract:
This review focuses on genes required for resistance to mouse cytomegalovirus (MCMV), as identified through unbiased genetic screening. Components of the developmental, sensing, and effector pathways, functioning in multiple cell types, were detected by infecting 22,000 G3 mutant mice with MCMV at an inoculum easily contained by WT animals. Merging these findings with discoveries from hypothesis-based studies, we present a cohesive picture of the essential elements utilized by the mouse innate immune system to counter MCMV. We believe that many breakthrough discoveries will yet be made using a classical genetic approach.
Related Concept Videos
Inhibitors of Viral Protein Synthesis
Viruses with RNA Genomes
Immune Response Against Viral Pathogens
NK Cells
NK cells are a crucial part of our innate immune system, acting as the first line of defense against viral infections. These cells can recognize and kill infected cells without prior exposure to the virus, effectively slowing down the spread of infection. Additionally, NK cells produce proinflammatory...
Microorganisms in Medicine and Therapeutics
Size and Structure of Viral Genomes
Retrovirus Life Cycles

