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MicroRNA-based Regulation of Picornavirus Tropism
Published on: February 6, 2017
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Polyomavirus microRNAs circulating in biological fluids during viral persistence
Francesco Martelli1, Simone Giannecchini1
1Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
Reviews in Medical Virology
|March 16, 2017
Summary
Human polyomaviruses use microRNAs within exosomes for intercellular communication, potentially aiding viral persistence and disease. Further research is needed to explore their role in reactivation and develop antiviral strategies.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Cellular Biology
Background:
- Persistent human viruses, including polyomaviruses, may exploit microRNA-mediated gene silencing for immune evasion.
- Human polyomaviruses encode microRNAs that downregulate viral gene expression and host factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of polyomavirus JC (JCPyV) and BK polyomavirus (BKPyV) microRNAs in exosomes in viral persistence.
- To examine the presence and expression of viral microRNAs in clinical samples from patients with polyomavirus-associated diseases.
Main Methods:
- In vitro experiments detecting JCPyV microRNAs in exosomes from infected cell supernatants.
- Analysis of JCPyV and BKPyV microRNAs in blood, urine, and cerebrospinal fluid from patients and healthy subjects.
Main Results:
- JCPyV microRNAs were detected in exosomes and transferred to uninfected cells.
- Variable expression of JCPyV and BKPyV microRNAs was found in clinical samples, irrespective of viral DNA load.
- Differences observed in microRNA expression relative to viral DNA load.
Conclusions:
- Polyomavirus exosome microRNAs show potential involvement in viral persistence.
- Further investigation is warranted to define their role in viral reactivation and develop novel antiviral strategies.
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