Influenza virus NS1 protein binds cellular DNA to block transcription of antiviral genes

Publication date: Available online 21 September 2016
Source:Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Gene Regulatory Mechanisms
Author(s): Maria Anastasina, Nicolas Le May, Andrii Bugai, Yu Fu, Sandra Söderholm, Lana Gaelings, Tiina Ohman, Janne Tynell, Suvi Kyttänen, Matjaz Barboric, Tuula A. Nyman, Sampsa Matikainen, Ilkka Julkunen, Sarah J. Butcher, Jean-Marc Egly, Denis E. Kainov
Influenza NS1 protein is an important virulence factor that is capable of binding double-stranded (ds) RNA and inhibiting dsRNA-mediated host innate immune responses. Here we show that NS1 can also bind cellular dsDNA. This interaction prevents loading of transcriptional machinery to the DNA, thereby attenuating IAV-mediated expression of antiviral genes. Thus, we identified a previously undescribed strategy, by which RNA virus inhibits cellular transcription to escape antiviral response and secure its replication.



http://ift.tt/2cJF2CC