Honeysuckle-encoded microRNA2911 inhibits Enterovirus 71 replication via targeting VP1 gene

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Molecular Biology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Enterovirus 71 (EV71) is a major cause of hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD) in children, often leading to severe neurological complications and fatalities.
• MIR2911, a stable microRNA encoded by honeysuckle, has shown potential antiviral properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the direct antiviral mechanism of MIR2911 against EV71.
• To determine if MIR2911 targets the VP1 gene of EV71 and inhibits viral replication.

Main Methods:

• Bioinformatics prediction and luciferase reporter assays to identify MIR2911's target gene.
• In vitro transfection experiments using synthetic MIR2911 and honeysuckle (HS) decoction to assess inhibition of EV71 VP1 protein expression and replication.
• Utilizing mutated EV71 strains and MIR2911 antagomirs to confirm the specificity and physiological relevance of MIR2911's action.

Main Results:

• MIR2911 was confirmed to directly target the VP1 gene of EV71.
• Both synthetic MIR2911 and HS decoction significantly inhibited EV71 VP1 protein expression and viral replication.
• Inhibition was specific to the MIR2911-binding site, as mutated EV71 strains were unaffected.
• Antagomirs against MIR2911 increased EV71 replication, confirming MIR2911's endogenous antiviral role.

Conclusions:

• MIR2911 effectively inhibits EV71 replication by targeting the VP1 gene.
• MIR2911 represents a potential therapeutic and preventive strategy against EV71-induced HFMD.