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Updated: Jul 17, 2026

Genome-Wide CRISPR Screen for Unveiling Radiosensitive and Radioresistant Genes
Published on: May 23, 2025
Genome-wide CRISPR screen reveals PEX11B as a host restriction factor against ORFV through membrane fluidity
Xiaoran Gao1, Jinyang Hao1, Sha Lu1,2
1The State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Regulation and Breeding of Grassland Livestock, College of Life Sciences, Inner Mongolia University, Hohhot, P.R.China.
Abstract:
Host-pathogen interactions are shaped by cellular restriction factors that direct antiviral defenses. We built the first ovine genome-wide CRISPR knockout library in sheep testis (OA3.Ts) cells, targeting all protein-coding genes. Using this platform, we identified PEX11B, a peroxisomal membrane regulatory protein, as a strong restriction factor against orf virus (ORFV) infection. Removing PEX11B increased viral susceptibility and triggered severe cytopathic effects with membrane fusion and syncytia formation. Mechanistic studies showed that PEX11B knockout harmed peroxisomal integrity and disrupted lipid metabolism. This led to greater plasma membrane fluidity, creating a proviral environment that allowed more viral entry and replication. These results reveal a new antiviral function for PEX11B in blocking viral infection and underscore the importance of peroxisomal regulation in host-virus interactions.
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