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A CRISPR toolbox to study virus-host interactions
Andreas S Puschnik1, Karim Majzoub1, Yaw Shin Ooi1
1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stanford University, Stanford, California 94305, USA.
Abstract:
Viruses depend on their hosts to complete their replication cycles; they exploit cellular receptors for entry and hijack cellular functions to replicate their genome, assemble progeny virions and spread. Recently, genome-scale CRISPR-Cas screens have been used to identify host factors that are required for virus replication, including the replication of clinically relevant viruses such as Zika virus, West Nile virus, dengue virus and hepatitis C virus. In this Review, we discuss the technical aspects of genome-scale knockout screens using CRISPR-Cas technology, and we compare these screens with alternative genetic screening technologies. The relative ease of use and reproducibility of CRISPR-Cas make it a powerful tool for probing virus-host interactions and for identifying new antiviral targets.
Insights
Genome-scale CRISPR-Cas screens are revolutionizing virology by identifying essential host factors for virus replication. This powerful technology aids in discovering novel antiviral targets by probing virus-host interactions.
Area of Science:
- Virology and Molecular Biology
- Genetics and Genomics
- CRISPR-Cas Technology Applications
Background:
- Viruses require host cell machinery for replication, utilizing cellular receptors for entry and hijacking cellular functions for genome replication, virion assembly, and spread.
- Understanding virus-host interactions is crucial for developing antiviral strategies.
- Genome-scale genetic screens offer a powerful approach to systematically identify host factors involved in viral processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the technical aspects of genome-scale CRISPR-Cas knockout screens for studying virus-host interactions.
- To compare CRISPR-Cas screening with alternative genetic screening technologies.
- To highlight the utility of CRISPR-Cas screens in identifying host factors essential for the replication of clinically relevant viruses.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing genome-scale CRISPR-Cas screens to systematically knock out host genes.
- Analyzing the impact of gene knockouts on viral replication efficiency.
- Comparing CRISPR-Cas screening methodology with other genetic screening approaches.
Main Results:
- CRISPR-Cas screens have successfully identified host factors critical for the replication of various viruses, including Zika virus, West Nile virus, dengue virus, and hepatitis C virus.
- CRISPR-Cas technology offers relative ease of use and reproducibility.
- These screens provide a comprehensive view of host dependencies for viral replication.
Conclusions:
- Genome-scale CRISPR-Cas screening is a powerful and reproducible tool for dissecting virus-host interactions.
- This technology facilitates the identification of novel host factors essential for viral replication.
- CRISPR-Cas screens represent a promising avenue for discovering new antiviral therapeutic targets.