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Updated: Mar 19, 2026
Zika Virus Infectious Cell Culture System and the In Vitro Prophylactic Effect of Interferons
Published on: August 23, 2016
The IFITMs Inhibit Zika Virus Replication
George Savidis1, Jill M Perreira1, Jocelyn M Portmann1
1Department of Microbiology and Physiological Systems (MaPS), University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01655, USA.
Abstract:
Zika virus has emerged as a severe health threat with a rapidly expanding range. The IFITM family of restriction factors inhibits the replication of a broad range of viruses, including the closely related flaviruses West Nile virus and dengue virus. Here, we show that IFITM1 and IFITM3 inhibit Zika virus infection early in the viral life cycle. Moreover, IFITM3 can prevent Zika-virus-induced cell death. These results suggest that strategies to boost the actions and/or levels of the IFITMs might be useful for inhibiting a broad range of emerging viruses.
Insights
Interferon-induced proteins with tetratricp_e_repeat motifs 1 and 3 (IFITM1 and IFITM3) restrict Zika virus replication early in infection. IFITM3 also protects cells from Zika virus-induced death, suggesting IFITM boosting as a therapeutic strategy.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Zika virus (ZIKV) poses a significant global health risk.
- The Interferon-induced proteins with tetratricp_e_repeat motifs (IFITMs) are known to inhibit various viruses, including flaviviruses like West Nile virus and dengue virus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of IFITM1 and IFITM3 in restricting Zika virus infection.
- To determine if IFITM3 can protect against ZIKV-induced cellular damage.
Main Methods:
- Cell-based assays to assess ZIKV replication in the presence of IFITM1 and IFITM3.
- Analysis of cell viability following ZIKV infection and IFITM expression.
Main Results:
- IFITM1 and IFITM3 were found to inhibit ZIKV infection at an early stage of the viral life cycle.
- IFITM3 demonstrated the ability to prevent cell death induced by ZIKV.
Conclusions:
- IFITM1 and IFITM3 are effective restriction factors against Zika virus.
- Enhancing IFITM activity or levels could be a potential therapeutic approach for emerging flavivirus infections.
