A bioinformatics approach to systematically analyze the molecular patterns of monkeypox virus-host cell interactions

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Immunology
• Genomics

Background:

• The global spread of monkeypox virus (MPXV) since May 2022 necessitates understanding its molecular mechanisms.
• Limited research exists on MPXV-host interactions and the molecular basis of infection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify signaling pathways and biomarkers in MPXV-infected cells.
• To elucidate MPXV-host cell interactions through transcriptome analysis.

Main Methods:

• Transcriptome analysis of MPXV-infected cells using GEO datasets (GSE36854, GSE11234).
• Bioinformatic analyses including KEGG, Gene Ontology (GO), protein-protein interaction (PPI) network construction, and hub gene identification.
• Drug screening targeting identified hub genes.

Main Results:

• MPXV infection significantly activates the cellular immune response.
• Identified 84 differentially expressed genes, with top 10 hub genes including IER3, IFIT2, IL11, ZC3H12A, EREG, IER2, NFKBIE, FST, IFIT1, and AREG.
• AP-26113 and itraconazole show potential as therapeutic agents against MPXV by targeting IFIT1 and IFIT2.

Conclusions:

• MPXV infection triggers a notable cellular immune response.
• Key genes and potential drug candidates for MPXV treatment have been identified.
• This study offers novel insights into MPXV-host interactions and potential therapeutic strategies.