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Published on: December 2, 2014
PcTRIM23 knockdown correlates with increased WSSV replication, hepatopancreatic apoptosis, and ROS accumulation in
Chao Peng1, Liye Shao1, Ronghua Wang1
1College of Life and Environmental Science, Hunan University of Arts and Science, Changde, 415000, China; Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Molecular Immunity Technology of Aquatic Animal Diseases, Changde, 415000, China; Hunan Provincial Key Laboratory for Health Aquaculture and Product Processing in Dongting Lake Area, Changde, 415000, China.
The TRIM23 gene in crayfish (PcTRIM23) plays a crucial role in antiviral immunity against white spot syndrome virus (WSSV). Its knockdown increases viral replication, apoptosis, and oxidative stress, indicating a protective function.
Area of Science:
- Aquatic animal health
- Molecular biology
- Immunology
Background:
- White spot syndrome virus (WSSV) is a major pathogen affecting penaeid shrimp and crayfish.
- The tripartite motif-containing protein 23 (TRIM23) is involved in various cellular processes, including immunity.
- Understanding the role of TRIM23 in crayfish immunity is crucial for disease management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To clone and characterize the TRIM23 gene (PcTRIM23) from Procambarus clarkii.
- To investigate the immune function of PcTRIM23 during WSSV infection.
- To explore the molecular mechanisms underlying PcTRIM23's antiviral activity.
Main Methods:
- Gene cloning and sequence analysis of PcTRIM23.
- Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) to analyze gene expression.
- RNA interference (RNAi) to knock down PcTRIM23 expression.
- TUNEL assay and Western blotting to assess apoptosis.
- Measurement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant gene expression.
Main Results:
- PcTRIM23 was cloned and characterized, showing typical TRIM23 domain structures.
- PcTRIM23 expression was upregulated in response to WSSV infection.
- Knockdown of PcTRIM23 led to increased WSSV replication, enhanced hepatopancreatic cell apoptosis, elevated ROS levels, and suppressed antioxidant responses.
- PcTRIM23 knockdown resulted in increased viral copy numbers and VP28 transcript levels.
Conclusions:
- PcTRIM23 plays a significant role in the antiviral immunity of Procambarus clarkii against WSSV.
- PcTRIM23 confers protection by inhibiting viral replication, reducing apoptosis, and enhancing antioxidant capacity.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the direct causal mechanisms of PcTRIM23's antiviral activity.

