Host factor DIAPH1 regulates pseudorabivirus replication by modulating the dynamics of cytoskeleton

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Cell Biology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Viruses rely on host cell machinery, including the cytoskeleton, for infection.
• Formin proteins are crucial for cytoskeletal dynamics, but their role in viral infections is not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of sus scrofa DIAPH1 in Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) replication.
• To elucidate the mechanism by which DIAPH1 influences PRRSV infection through cytoskeletal regulation.

Main Methods:

• Quantitative analysis of DIAPH1 expression and localization in PRRSV-infected PK-15 cells.
• RNA interference and small molecule inhibitor (SMIFH2) to inhibit DIAPH1 function.
• Immunofluorescence to assess co-localization of DIAPH1 with actin and tubulin.
• Microscopy to observe cytoskeletal reorganization and microtubule stability.

Main Results:

• DIAPH1 expression and localization changed significantly during PRRSV infection.
• DIAPH1 inhibition reduced PRRSV infection outcomes.
• DIAPH1 co-localized with actin and tubulin, indicating interaction with both microfilaments and microtubules.
• DIAPH1 inhibition led to microfilament reorganization and enhanced microtubule stability.

Conclusions:

• Sus scrofa DIAPH1 plays a critical role in regulating cytoskeletal dynamics during PRRSV infection.
• DIAPH1 modulates PRRSV replication by remodeling microfilament and microtubule networks.
• Targeting DIAPH1 could be a potential strategy to control PRRSV.