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MicroRNA-Mediated Host-Pathogen Interactions Between Bombyx mori and Viruses
Mian Muhammad Awais1, Muhammad Shakeel2, Jingchen Sun1
1Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agro-animal Genomics and Molecular Breeding and Sub-Tropical Sericulture and Mulberry Resources Protection and Safety Engineering Research Center, College of Animal Science, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) regulate gene expression in Bombyx mori. This review explores how viral miRNAs impact host genes and B. mori miRNAs respond to infection, aiding antiviral strategy development.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Entomology
Background:
- MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs regulating gene expression post-transcriptionally.
- Both host and pathogen-derived miRNAs are crucial in host-pathogen interactions.
- Bombyx mori, an economically vital silkworm, serves as a model for studying insect-virus interactions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on virus-encoded miRNAs and their functions in modulating viral and Bombyx mori genes.
- To discuss the response of Bombyx mori-derived miRNAs during viral infections.
- To provide insights into the regulatory roles of miRNAs in Bombyx mori-virus interactions for developing antiviral strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on miRNAs in Bombyx mori-virus interactions.
- Analysis of viral and host miRNA roles in modulating gene expression.
- Critical evaluation of molecular mechanisms underlying these interactions.
Main Results:
- Viral miRNAs can manipulate host gene expression to favor virus replication and immune evasion.
- Viral infections induce significant alterations in the host miRNA expression profile of Bombyx mori.
- Both viral and host miRNAs are key players in the intricate network of Bombyx mori-virus interactions.
Conclusions:
- Understanding miRNA-mediated regulation is vital for deciphering Bombyx mori-virus interactions.
- This knowledge can contribute to the development of novel and sustainable antiviral strategies for silkworms.
- Further research into these molecular networks will enhance pest management in sericulture.
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