Novel functions of viral anti-apoptotic factors
Chengyu Liang1, Byung-Ha Oh2, Jae U Jung1
1Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90033, USA.
Abstract:
Cellular apoptosis is of major importance in the struggle between virus and host. Although many viruses use various strategies to control the cell death machinery by encoding anti-apoptotic virulence factors, it is now becoming clear that, in addition to their role in inhibiting apoptosis, these factors function in multiple immune and metabolic pathways to promote fitness and pathogenesis. In this Progress article, we discuss novel functions of viral anti-apoptotic factors in the regulation of autophagy, in the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway and in interferon signalling, with a focus on persistent and oncogenic gammaherpesviruses. If viral anti-apoptotic proteins are to be properly exploited as targets for antiviral drugs, their diverse and complex roles should be considered.
Insights
Viruses encode anti-apoptotic factors that do more than inhibit cell death. These viral proteins also regulate autophagy, NF-κB, and interferon signaling, impacting viral fitness and disease.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Cellular apoptosis is crucial in host-virus interactions.
- Viruses encode anti-apoptotic factors to subvert host cell death.
- These viral factors have functions beyond apoptosis inhibition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss novel functions of viral anti-apoptotic factors.
- To highlight roles in autophagy, NF-κB, and interferon signaling.
- To focus on persistent and oncogenic gammaherpesviruses.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of viral anti-apoptotic factors.
- Analysis of roles in immune and metabolic pathways.
- Focus on gammaherpesvirus mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Viral anti-apoptotic factors regulate autophagy.
- These factors modulate the NF-κB pathway.
- Viral proteins influence interferon signaling.
Conclusions:
- Viral anti-apoptotic proteins have diverse roles in pathogenesis.
- Understanding these roles is key for developing antiviral drugs.
- Targeting these multifaceted proteins offers therapeutic potential.
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