Research progress on miRNAs function in the interaction between human infectious viruses and hosts: A review

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Virology
• Genetics

Background:

• MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNA molecules (~22 nucleotides) regulating gene expression post-transcriptionally.
• miRNAs are involved in crucial cellular processes like differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis.
• Both viruses and host organisms encode miRNAs, playing key roles in their interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review the multifaceted roles of miRNAs in virus-host interactions.
• To elucidate the mechanisms by which host and viral miRNAs modulate viral replication and pathogenesis.
• To provide insights into potential therapeutic strategies targeting miRNA pathways in viral infections.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on miRNA function in viral infections.
• Analysis of host miRNA interactions with viral genomes and replication machinery.
• Examination of viral miRNA binding to host mRNAs and immune modulatory effects.

Main Results:

• Host miRNAs can inhibit or facilitate viral replication through direct interaction with viral genomes or host factors.
• Viral miRNAs can suppress host immune responses and enhance viral replication by targeting host mRNAs.
• miRNAs are critical effectors in the complex interplay between viruses and their hosts.

Conclusions:

• miRNAs are central players in virus-host dynamics, influencing viral pathogenesis.
• Understanding these miRNA-mediated interactions is vital for deciphering viral mechanisms.
• Targeting miRNA pathways presents a promising avenue for novel antiviral therapies.