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Published on: July 6, 2013
Die Another Day: Inhibition of Cell Death Pathways by Cytomegalovirus
Wolfram Brune1, Christopher E Andoniou2,3
1Heinrich Pette Institute, Leibniz Institute for Experimental Virology, Hamburg 20251, Germany. wolfram.brune@leibniz-hpi.de.
Abstract:
Multicellular organisms have evolved multiple genetically programmed cell death pathways that are essential for homeostasis. The finding that many viruses encode cell death inhibitors suggested that cellular suicide also functions as a first line of defence against invading pathogens. This theory was confirmed by studying viral mutants that lack certain cell death inhibitors. Cytomegaloviruses, a family of species-specific viruses, have proved particularly useful in this respect. Cytomegaloviruses are known to encode multiple death inhibitors that are required for efficient viral replication. Here, we outline the mechanisms used by the host cell to detect cytomegalovirus infection and discuss the methods employed by the cytomegalovirus family to prevent death of the host cell. In addition to enhancing our understanding of cytomegalovirus pathogenesis we detail how this research has provided significant insights into the cross-talk that exists between the various cell death pathways.
Insights
Multicellular organisms utilize programmed cell death to combat viral infections, with cytomegaloviruses encoding inhibitors to evade this defense. This study explores host detection mechanisms and viral evasion strategies in programmed cell death.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Cell Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Programmed cell death pathways are crucial for maintaining homeostasis in multicellular organisms.
- Viruses encode cell death inhibitors, suggesting cellular suicide acts as a defense against pathogens.
- Cytomegaloviruses (CMVs) encode multiple death inhibitors essential for viral replication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline host cell mechanisms for detecting cytomegalovirus infection.
- To discuss strategies employed by cytomegaloviruses to prevent host cell death.
- To investigate the interplay between various cell death pathways during CMV infection.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of viral mutants lacking specific cell death inhibitors.
- Examination of host cell responses to cytomegalovirus infection.
- Review of molecular mechanisms underlying viral pathogenesis and host-cell interactions.
Main Results:
- Viral mutants lacking cell death inhibitors are less effective, confirming the role of cell death as an antiviral defense.
- Cytomegaloviruses employ multiple inhibitors to ensure host cell survival and promote viral replication.
- Significant insights into the cross-talk between different programmed cell death pathways were gained.
Conclusions:
- Programmed cell death is a critical host defense mechanism against viral invaders.
- Cytomegaloviruses have evolved sophisticated strategies to counteract host cell death pathways.
- Understanding these interactions enhances knowledge of cytomegalovirus pathogenesis and cell death signaling.
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