Different Gene Networks Are Disturbed by Zika Virus Infection in A Mouse Microcephaly Model
Yafei Chang1, Yisheng Jiang2, Cui Li2
1Department of Bioinformatics and Biostatistics, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China.
Abstract:
The association of Zika virus (ZIKV) infection with microcephaly has raised alarm worldwide. Their causal link has been confirmed in different animal models infected by ZIKV. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying ZIKV pathogenesis are far from clear. Hence, we performed global gene expression analysis of ZIKV-infected mouse brains to unveil the biological and molecular networks underpinning microcephaly. We found significant dysregulation of the sub-networks associated with brain development, immune response, cell death, microglial cell activation, and autophagy amongst others. We provided detailed analysis of the related complicated gene networks and the links between them. Additionally, we analyzed the signaling pathways that were likely to be involved. This report provides systemic insights into not only the pathogenesis, but also a path to the development of prophylactic and therapeutic strategies against ZIKV infection.
Insights
Zika virus (ZIKV) infection causes microcephaly by disrupting brain development networks. Gene expression analysis reveals molecular pathways involved in pathogenesis, aiding therapeutic strategy development.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Virology
- Genomics
Background:
- The link between Zika virus (ZIKV) and microcephaly is established, but molecular mechanisms remain unclear.
- Global gene expression analysis in ZIKV-infected mouse brains is crucial for understanding pathogenesis.
Discussion:
- Significant dysregulation observed in brain development, immune response, and cell death pathways.
- Detailed analysis of complex gene networks and their interconnections.
- Identification of key signaling pathways implicated in ZIKV-induced microcephaly.
Key Insights:
- ZIKV infection profoundly impacts cellular networks governing brain development.
- Microglial activation and autophagy are significantly altered, contributing to pathogenesis.
- Gene expression changes provide insights into the molecular basis of microcephaly.
Outlook:
- Systemic insights into ZIKV pathogenesis.
- Foundation for developing prophylactic and therapeutic strategies against ZIKV.
- Potential for novel therapeutic targets identified through gene network analysis.
