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Updated: Aug 6, 2026

Arbovirus Infections As Screening Tools for the Identification of Viral Immunomodulators and Host Antiviral Factors
Published on: September 13, 2018
Animal virus-host interactions mediated by non-coding RNAs
Zelong Sun1,2, Ye Wang1,2, Zheng Zhou1,2
1Henan Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis of Respiratory Infectious Diseases, Zhengzhou Key Laboratory of Precision Diagnosis of Respiratory Infectious Diseases, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are crucial in animal virus-host interactions, offering insights into zoonotic diseases and potential as therapeutic targets. This review explores ncRNA roles in antiviral strategies and disease prevention for improved animal health.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs), are increasingly recognized for their regulatory roles in biological processes.
- Virus-host interactions are complex, involving intricate molecular crosstalk that dictates infection outcomes and disease pathogenesis.
- Understanding these interactions is vital for developing effective strategies against viral diseases, particularly zoonotic ones.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the multifaceted roles of various ncRNAs (host- and virus-derived) in mediating animal virus-host interactions.
- To highlight the significance of ncRNAs in zoonotic disease transmission, non-model animals, aquaculture, and animal models.
- To explore the therapeutic potential of ncRNAs as antiviral drug targets and in novel vaccine development.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review focusing on studies investigating ncRNA involvement in animal virus infections.
- Analysis of molecular mechanisms underlying ncRNA-mediated regulation of host-pathogen interactions.
- Synthesis of research on ncRNA applications in animal disease prevention and treatment.
Main Results:
- ncRNAs significantly influence host antiviral responses and viral replication strategies.
- Host-derived ncRNAs can act as restriction factors or facilitators of viral infection, while viral ncRNAs can manipulate host pathways.
- ncRNAs show promise as diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets for a range of viral diseases.
Conclusions:
- ncRNAs are critical players in animal virus-host dynamics, offering novel avenues for therapeutic intervention.
- ncRNA-based strategies, including RNA vaccines, hold significant potential for preventing and controlling animal viral diseases.
- Further research into ncRNA mechanisms will enhance our ability to manage animal health and mitigate zoonotic risks.
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