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The Host RNAs in Retroviral Particles
Alice Telesnitsky1, Sandra L Wolin2
1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA. ateles@umich.edu.
Viruses
|August 23, 2016
Summary
Retroviruses package host non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) preferentially during assembly, suggesting roles beyond structural integrity. These ncRNAs may be recruited early in their lifecycle, influencing viral replication.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- RNA Biology
Background:
- Retroviruses package both genomic RNA and host RNAs during assembly.
- Predominant host RNAs in virions include endogenous retroelements and non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), some in excess of the viral genome.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the selective packaging of host RNAs by retroviruses.
- To explore potential roles of packaged host ncRNAs in viral assembly and replication.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of host RNA populations within retroviral virions.
- Comparison of packaged host RNAs with cellular RNA abundance and biogenesis.
- Investigation of RNA packaging determinants and potential interactions with viral proteins.
Main Results:
- Retroviruses preferentially package unusual forms of abundant cellular RNAs, suggesting early recruitment.
- Packaged host ncRNAs differ in their determinants from the viral genome.
- Some transfer RNAs (tRNAs) show roles in human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1) replication, including nuclear import and assembly site trafficking.
Conclusions:
- Selectively packaged host ncRNAs may play roles in retroviral assembly and structural integrity.
- While some ncRNAs have known replication functions, roles for most packaged host RNAs remain to be elucidated.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the functional significance of host ncRNA packaging in retroviruses.
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