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Updated: Jul 4, 2025

In Silico Identification and Characterization of circRNAs During Host-Pathogen Interactions
Published on: October 21, 2022
Advances in the understanding of circRNAs that influence viral replication in host cells
Siya Wang1,2, Xiaoyun Li1,2, Geng Liu1,2
1Engineering Research Center of Key Technology and Industrialization of Cell-Based Vaccine, Ministry of Education, Northwest Minzu University, Lanzhou, 730030, China.
Abstract:
Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are non-coding RNAs discovered in recent years, which are produced by back-splicing involving the 3' and 5' ends of RNA molecules. There is increasing evidence that circRNAs have important roles in cancer, neurological diseases, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, and other diseases. In addition, host circRNAs and virus-encoded circRNAs participate in the body's immune response, with antiviral roles. This review summarizes the mechanisms by which host and viral circRNAs interact during the host immune response. Comprehensive investigations have revealed that host circRNAs function as miRNA sponges in a particular manner, primarily by inhibiting viral replication. Viral circRNAs have more diverse functions, which generally involve promoting viral replication. In addition, in contrast to circRNAs from RNA viruses, circRNAs from DNA viruses can influence host cell migration, proliferation, and apoptosis, along with their effects on viral replication. In summary, circRNAs have potential as diagnostic and therapeutic targets, offering a foundation for the diagnosis and treatment of viral diseases.
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