Advances in Zika Virus⁻Host Cell Interaction: Current Knowledge and Future Perspectives.

Area of Science:

• Virology, Molecular Biology, Immunology, and Genetics
• Focus on emerging infectious diseases and viral pathogenesis

Background:

• Mosquito-transmitted RNA viruses like Zika virus (ZIKV) pose significant global health threats.
• ZIKV epidemics have surged since 2007, notably in the Americas, with pregnancy-associated microcephaly being a major concern.
• Typical ZIKV infections are often asymptomatic, masking potential risks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in understanding Zika virus-host cell interactions.
• To elucidate cellular targets, cell death mechanisms, host restriction factors, and immune evasion strategies of ZIKV.
• To provide insights for developing ZIKV therapeutics and vaccines.

Main Methods:

• Genomic and molecular investigations.
• Utilized in vitro and in vivo models.
• Focused on cellular and molecular mechanisms of ZIKV infection.

Main Results:

• Significant progress has been made in understanding ZIKV's pathogenic mechanisms.
• Key aspects of ZIKV-host interactions, including cellular targets and immune evasion, have been identified.
• Host cell restriction factors limiting ZIKV replication have been characterized.

Conclusions:

• Understanding ZIKV-host interactions at the cellular level is critical.
• This knowledge is essential for the development of effective ZIKV treatments and preventative vaccines.
• Continued research into viral pathogenesis will aid in combating ZIKV.