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Interferon-Induced Transmembrane Protein 3 (IFITM3) Restricts PRRSV Replication via Post-Entry Mechanisms

Pratik Katwal1, Shamiq Aftab1, Eric Nelson2

  • 1Department of Biology and Microbiology, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57007, USA.

Microorganisms
|August 28, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Interferon-induced transmembrane protein 3 (IFITM3) restricts porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) replication in cells. IFITM3 appears to inhibit PRRSV post-entry, offering insights into viral restriction mechanisms.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Immunology
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Interferon-induced transmembrane protein 3 (IFITM3) is an interferon-stimulated gene known to restrict enveloped viruses.
  • Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) causes significant economic damage to the swine industry.
  • The mechanism by which IFITM3 restricts PRRSV remains largely unknown.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of IFITM3 in restricting PRRSV infection in vitro.
  • To elucidate the stage at which IFITM3 exerts its antiviral effect against PRRSV.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized MARC-145 cells for in vitro studies.
  • Employed IFITM3 overexpression and siRNA-mediated knockdown.
  • Performed colocalization studies using confocal microscopy and quantified viral RNA and titers.

Main Results:

  • Overexpression of IFITM3 significantly reduced PRRSV replication.
  • Knockdown of IFITM3 using siRNA increased PRRSV RNA copies and virus titers.
  • Colocalization of PRRSV and IFITM3 was observed, with reduced viral presence in IFITM3-expressing cells over time (73% at 3 hpi vs. 27% at 24 hpi).

Conclusions:

  • IFITM3 demonstrates a significant inhibitory effect on PRRSV replication.
  • Findings suggest IFITM3 restricts PRRSV at post-entry stages.
  • Further research is warranted to fully understand the molecular mechanisms of IFITM3-mediated PRRSV restriction.
Keywords:
interferon-induced transmembrane protein 3 (IFITM3)interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs)porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome Virus (PRRSV)virus restriction factors

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