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Iyer K, Yan Z, Ross SR. Entry inhibitors as arenavirus antivirals. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1382953. [PMID: 38650890 PMCID: PMC11033450 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1382953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Arenaviruses belonging to the Arenaviridae family, genus mammarenavirus, are enveloped, single-stranded RNA viruses primarily found in rodent species, that cause severe hemorrhagic fever in humans. With high mortality rates and limited treatment options, the search for effective antivirals is imperative. Current treatments, notably ribavirin and other nucleoside inhibitors, are only partially effective and have significant side effects. The high lethality and lack of treatment, coupled with the absence of vaccines for all but Junín virus, has led to the classification of these viruses as Category A pathogens by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). This review focuses on entry inhibitors as potential therapeutics against mammarenaviruses, which include both New World and Old World arenaviruses. Various entry inhibition strategies, including small molecule inhibitors and neutralizing antibodies, have been explored through high throughput screening, genome-wide studies, and drug repurposing. Notable progress has been made in identifying molecules that target receptor binding, internalization, or fusion steps. Despite promising preclinical results, the translation of entry inhibitors to approved human therapeutics has faced challenges. Many have only been tested in in vitro or animal models, and a number of candidates showed efficacy only against specific arenaviruses, limiting their broader applicability. The widespread existence of arenaviruses in various rodent species and their potential for their zoonotic transmission also underscores the need for rapid development and deployment of successful pan-arenavirus therapeutics. The diverse pool of candidate molecules in the pipeline provides hope for the eventual discovery of a broadly effective arenavirus antiviral.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Susan R. Ross
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Illinois, College of Medicine, Chicago, IL, United States
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2
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Huang C, Mantlo E, Paessler S. Lassa virus NP DEDDh 3'-5' exoribonuclease activity is required for optimal viral RNA replication and mutation control. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.12.536665. [PMID: 37090668 PMCID: PMC10120729 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.12.536665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/25/2023]
Abstract
Lassa virus (LASV), a mammarenavirus from Arenaviridae, is the causative agent of Lassa fever (LF) endemic in West Africa. Currently, there are no vaccines or antivirals approved for LF. The RNA-dependent RNA polymerases (RdRp) of RNA viruses are error-prone. As a negative-sense RNA virus, how LASV copes with errors in RNA synthesis and ensures optimal RNA replication are not well elucidated. LASV nucleoprotein (NP) contains a DEDDH 3'-to-5' exoribonuclease motif (ExoN), which is known to be essential for LASV evasion of the interferon response via its ability to degrade virus-derived double-stranded RNA. Herein, we present evidence that LASV NP ExoN has an additional function important for viral RNA replication. We rescued an ExoN-deficient LASV mutant (ExoN- rLASV) by using a reverse genetics system. Our data indicated that abrogation of NP ExoN led to impaired LASV growth and RNA replication in interferon-deficient cells as compared with wild-type rLASV. By utilizing PacBio Single Molecule, Real-Time (SMRT) long-read sequencing technology, we found that rLASV lacking ExoN activity was prone to producing aberrant viral genomic RNA with structural variations. In addition, NP ExoN deficiency enhanced LASV sensitivity to mutagenic nucleoside analogues in virus titration assay. Next-generation deep sequencing analysis showed increased single nucleotide substitution in ExoN- LASV RNA following mutagenic 5-flurouracil treatment. In conclusion, our study revealed that LASV NP ExoN is required for efficient viral RNA replication and mutation control. Among negative-sense RNA viruses, LASV NP is the first example that a viral protein, other than the RdRp, contributes to reduce errors in RNA replication and maintain genomic RNA integrity. These new findings promote our understanding of the basics of LASV infection and inform antiviral and vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Huang
- Department of Pathology, Galveston National Laboratory and
Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston,
TX, USA
| | - Emily Mantlo
- Department of Pathology, Galveston National Laboratory and
Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston,
TX, USA
- Current address: Department of Microbiology & Immunology,
Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Slobodan Paessler
- Department of Pathology, Galveston National Laboratory and
Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston,
TX, USA
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3
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Saito T, Reyna RA, Taniguchi S, Littlefield K, Paessler S, Maruyama J. Vaccine Candidates against Arenavirus Infections. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:635. [PMID: 36992218 PMCID: PMC10057967 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11030635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 03/14/2023] Open
Abstract
The viral family Arenaviridae contains several members that cause severe, and often lethal, diseases in humans. Several highly pathogenic arenaviruses are classified as Risk Group 4 agents and must be handled in the highest biological containment facility, biosafety level-4 (BSL-4). Vaccines and treatments are very limited for these pathogens. The development of vaccines is crucial for the establishment of countermeasures against highly pathogenic arenavirus infections. While several vaccine candidates have been investigated, there are currently no approved vaccines for arenavirus infection except for Candid#1, a live-attenuated Junin virus vaccine only licensed in Argentina. Current platforms under investigation for use include live-attenuated vaccines, recombinant virus-based vaccines, and recombinant proteins. We summarize here the recent updates of vaccine candidates against arenavirus infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Saito
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Rachel A. Reyna
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Satoshi Taniguchi
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Kirsten Littlefield
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Slobodan Paessler
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Junki Maruyama
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
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Kumar S, Yadav D, Singh D, Shakya K, Rathi B, Poonam. Recent developments on Junin virus, a causative agent for Argentine haemorrhagic fever. Rev Med Virol 2023; 33:e2419. [PMID: 36635519 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.2419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Junin virus consists of ribonucleic acid as the genome and is responsible for a rapidly changing tendency of the virus. The virus is accountable for ailments in the human body and causes Argentine Haemorrhagic Fever (AHF). The infection is may be transmitted through contact between an infected animal/host and a person, and later between person to person. Prevention of outbreaks of AHF in humans can be a tough practice, as their occurrence is infrequent and unpredictable. In this review, recent information from the past 5 years available on the Junin virus including the risk of its emergence, infectious agents, its pathogenesis in humans, available diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, and disease management has been summarised. Altogether, this article would be highly significant in understanding the mechanistic basis behind virus interaction and other processes during the life cycle. Currently, no specific therapeutic options are available to treat the Junin virus infection. The information covered in this review could be important for finding possible treatment options for Junin virus infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumit Kumar
- Department of Chemistry, Miranda House, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Dharna Yadav
- Department of Chemistry, Miranda House, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Divya Singh
- Department of Chemistry, Miranda House, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Kriti Shakya
- Department of Chemistry, Miranda House, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Brijesh Rathi
- Department of Chemistry, Har Gobind Khorana Centre for Chemical Biology, Hansraj College, University of Delhi, Delhi, India.,Delhi School of Public Health, Institute of Eminence, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
| | - Poonam
- Department of Chemistry, Miranda House, University of Delhi, Delhi, India.,Delhi School of Public Health, Institute of Eminence, University of Delhi, Delhi, India
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5
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LaVergne SM, Sakabe S, Momoh M, Kanneh L, Bond N, Garry RF, Grant DS, de la Torre JC, Oldstone MBA, Schieffelin JS, Sullivan BM. Expansion of CD8+ T cell population in Lassa virus survivors with low T cell precursor frequency reveals durable immune response in most survivors. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010882. [PMID: 36441765 PMCID: PMC9731491 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Lassa virus is a priority pathogen for vaccine research and development, however the duration of cellular immunity and protection in Lassa fever (LF) survivors remains unclear. METHODS We investigated Lassa virus specific CD8+ T cell responses in 93 LF survivors. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from these individuals were infected with recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus encoding Lassa virus antigens and virus specific T cell responses were measured after 18-hour incubation. Participants who had undetectable CD8+ T cell response underwent further analysis using a 10-day T cell proliferation assays to evaluate for low T cell precursor frequency. RESULTS Forty-five of the 93 LF survivors did not have a Lassa virus specific CD8+ T cell response. Of those with responses and a known date of onset of LF (N = 11), 9 had LF within the last ten years. Most participants without a measurable CD8+ T cell response were more than 10 years removed from a clinical history of LF (N = 14/16). Fourteen of 21 patients (67%) with undetectable CD8+ T cell response had a measurable Lassa virus specific CD8+ T cell response with the 10-day assay. DISCUSSION Despite reports of strong CD8+ T cell responses during acute Lassa virus infection, circulating Lassa virus-specific CD8+ T cells declined to undetectable levels in most Lassa fever survivors after ten years when evaluated with an 18-hour T cell stimulation. However, when Lassa virus-specific T cells were expanded prior to restimulation, a Lassa virus-specific CD8+ T cell response could be detected in many if the samples that were negative in the 18-hour stimulation assay, suggesting that prolonged cellular immunity does exist in Lassa fever survivors at low frequencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie M. LaVergne
- Viral-Immunobiology Laboratory, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Scripps Research, San Diego, California, United States of America
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of California, San Diego, California, United States of America
| | - Saori Sakabe
- Viral-Immunobiology Laboratory, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Scripps Research, San Diego, California, United States of America
| | - Mambu Momoh
- Viral Hemorrhagic Fever Program, Kenema Government Hospital, Kenema, Sierra Leone
- Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Freetown, Sierra Leone
- Eastern Technical University of Sierra Leone, Kenema, Sierra Leone
| | - Lansana Kanneh
- Viral Hemorrhagic Fever Program, Kenema Government Hospital, Kenema, Sierra Leone
- Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Nell Bond
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Robert F. Garry
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Donald S. Grant
- Viral Hemorrhagic Fever Program, Kenema Government Hospital, Kenema, Sierra Leone
- Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Freetown, Sierra Leone
- College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences, University of Sierra Leone, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Juan Carlos de la Torre
- Viral-Immunobiology Laboratory, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Scripps Research, San Diego, California, United States of America
| | - Michael B. A. Oldstone
- Viral-Immunobiology Laboratory, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Scripps Research, San Diego, California, United States of America
| | - John S. Schieffelin
- Department of Pediatrics, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America
| | - Brian M. Sullivan
- Viral-Immunobiology Laboratory, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Scripps Research, San Diego, California, United States of America
- La Jolla Institute for Immunology, San Diego, California, United States of America
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6
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Małkowska P, Niedźwiedzka-Rystwej P. Factors affecting RIG-I-Like receptors activation - New research direction for viral hemorrhagic fevers. Front Immunol 2022; 13:1010635. [PMID: 36248895 PMCID: PMC9557057 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.1010635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Viral hemorrhagic fever (VHF) is a term referring to a group of life-threatening infections caused by several virus families (Arenaviridae, Bunyaviridae, Filoviridae and Flaviviridae). Depending on the virus, the infection can be mild and can be also characterized by an acute course with fever accompanied by hypervolemia and coagulopathy, resulting in bleeding and shock. It has been suggested that the course of the disease is strongly influenced by the activation of signaling pathways leading to RIG-I-like receptor-dependent interferon production. RIG-I-like receptors (RLRs) are one of two major receptor families that detect viral nucleic acid. RLR receptor activation is influenced by a number of factors that may have a key role in the differences that occur during the antiviral immune response in VHF. In the present study, we collected data on RLR receptors in viral hemorrhagic fevers and described factors that may influence the activation of the antiviral response. RLR receptors seem to be a good target for VHF research, which may contribute to better therapeutic and diagnostic strategies. However, due to the difficulty of conducting such studies in humans, we suggest using Lagovirus europaeus as an animal model for VHF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulina Małkowska
- Doctoral School, University of Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
- Institute of Biology, University of Szczecin, Szczecin, Poland
- *Correspondence: Paulina Małkowska,
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7
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Gallo GL, López N, Loureiro ME. The Virus–Host Interplay in Junín Mammarenavirus Infection. Viruses 2022; 14:v14061134. [PMID: 35746604 PMCID: PMC9228484 DOI: 10.3390/v14061134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Junín virus (JUNV) belongs to the Arenaviridae family and is the causative agent of Argentine hemorrhagic fever (AHF), a severe human disease endemic to agricultural areas in Argentina. At this moment, there are no effective antiviral therapeutics to battle pathogenic arenaviruses. Cumulative reports from recent years have widely provided information on cellular factors playing key roles during JUNV infection. In this review, we summarize research on host molecular determinants that intervene in the different stages of the viral life cycle: viral entry, replication, assembly and budding. Alongside, we describe JUNV tight interplay with the innate immune system. We also review the development of different reverse genetics systems and their use as tools to study JUNV biology and its close teamwork with the host. Elucidating relevant interactions of the virus with the host cell machinery is highly necessary to better understand the mechanistic basis beyond virus multiplication, disease pathogenesis and viral subversion of the immune response. Altogether, this knowledge becomes essential for identifying potential targets for the rational design of novel antiviral treatments to combat JUNV as well as other pathogenic arenaviruses.
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8
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Mantlo EK, Maruyama J, Manning JT, Wanninger TG, Huang C, Smith JN, Patterson M, Paessler S, Koma T. Machupo Virus with Mutations in the Transmembrane Domain and Glycosylation Sites of the Glycoprotein Is Attenuated and Immunogenic in Animal Models of Bolivian Hemorrhagic Fever. J Virol 2022; 96:e0020922. [PMID: 35343792 PMCID: PMC9044957 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00209-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Several highly pathogenic mammarenaviruses cause severe hemorrhagic and neurologic disease in humans for which vaccines and antivirals are limited or unavailable. New World (NW) mammarenavirus Machupo virus (MACV) infection causes Bolivian hemorrhagic fever in humans. We previously reported that the disruption of specific N-linked glycan sites on the glycoprotein (GPC) partially attenuates MACV in an interferon alpha/beta and gamma (IFN-α/β and -γ) receptor knockout (R-/-) mouse model. However, some capability to induce neurological pathology still remained. The highly pathogenic Junin virus (JUNV) is another NW arenavirus closely related to MACV. An F427I substitution in the GPC transmembrane domain (TMD) rendered JUNV attenuated in a lethal mouse model after intracranial inoculation. In this study, we rationally designed and rescued a MACV containing mutations at two glycosylation sites and the corresponding F438I substitution in the GPC TMD. The MACV mutant is fully attenuated in IFN-α/β and -γ R-/- mice and outbred guinea pigs. Furthermore, inoculation with this mutant MACV completely protected guinea pigs from wild-type MACV lethal challenge. Last, we found the GPC TMD F438I substitution greatly impaired MACV growth in neuronal cell lines of mouse and human origins. Our results highlight the critical roles of the glycans and the TMD on the GPC in arenavirus virulence, which provide insight into the rational design of potential vaccine candidates for highly pathogenic arenaviruses. IMPORTANCE For arenaviruses, the only vaccine available is the live attenuated Candid#1 vaccine, a JUNV vaccine approved in Argentina. We and others have found that the glycans on GPC and the F427 residue in the GPC TMD are important for virulence of JUNV. Nevertheless, mutating either of them is not sufficient for full and stable attenuation of JUNV. Using reverse genetics, we disrupted specific glycosylation sites on MACV GPC and also introduced the corresponding F438I substitution in the GPC TMD. This MACV mutant is fully attenuated in two animal models and protects animals from lethal infection. Thus, our studies highlight the feasibility of rational attenuation of highly pathogenic arenaviruses for vaccine development. Another important finding from this study is that the F438I substitution in GPC TMD could substantially affect MACV replication in neurons. Future studies are warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanism and the implication of this mutation in arenavirus neural tropism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily K. Mantlo
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Junki Maruyama
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - John T. Manning
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Timothy G. Wanninger
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Cheng Huang
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Jeanon N. Smith
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Michael Patterson
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Slobodan Paessler
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Takaaki Koma
- Department of Microbiology, Tokushima University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima, Japan
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Brunetti JE, Quintana VM, Scolaro LA, Castilla V. Inhibitors of the p38 cell signaling pathway as antiviral compounds against Junín virus. Arch Virol 2022; 167:935-940. [PMID: 35133480 PMCID: PMC8852809 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-022-05388-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, we analyzed the modulation of p38 cell signaling by Junín virus (JUNV) and evaluated the antiviral activity of p38 inhibitors against JUNV. While JUNV induced a progressive activation of p38 throughout the infection in Vero cells, a partial downregulation of p38 phosphorylation was observed in HEK293 and HeLa cells. The compounds SB203580 and SB202190, which are selective inhibitors of p38, significantly reduced viral protein expression and viral yield in the cell lines examined, indicating that the p38 signaling pathway might be a promising antiviral target against JUNV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús Emanuel Brunetti
- Laboratorio de Virología, Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), 1428, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,IQUIBICEN, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET)-UBA, Ciudad Universitaria, 1428, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Virus Immunology Group, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Verónica Mara Quintana
- Laboratorio de Virología, Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), 1428, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,IQUIBICEN, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET)-UBA, Ciudad Universitaria, 1428, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,Instituto de Investigaciones Biotecnológicas, Universidad Nacional de San Martín, 1650, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Luis Alberto Scolaro
- Laboratorio de Virología, Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), 1428, Buenos Aires, Argentina.,IQUIBICEN, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET)-UBA, Ciudad Universitaria, 1428, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Viviana Castilla
- Laboratorio de Virología, Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires (UBA), 1428, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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10
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Brisse M, Huang Q, Rahman M, Di D, Liang Y, Ly H. RIG-I and MDA5 Protect Mice From Pichinde Virus Infection by Controlling Viral Replication and Regulating Immune Responses to the Infection. Front Immunol 2021; 12:801811. [PMID: 34925387 PMCID: PMC8677829 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.801811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
RIG-I and MDA5 are major cytoplasmic innate-immune sensor proteins that recognize aberrant double-stranded RNAs generated during virus infection to activate type 1 interferon (IFN-I) and IFN-stimulated gene (ISG) expressions to control virus infection. The roles of RIG-I and MDA5 in controlling replication of Pichinde virus (PICV), a mammarenavirus, in mice have not been examined. Here, we showed that MDA5 single knockout (SKO) and RIG-I/MDA5 double knockout (DKO) mice are highly susceptible to PICV infection as evidenced by their significant reduction in body weights during the course of the infection, validating the important roles of these innate-immune sensor proteins in controlling PICV infection. Compared to the wildtype mice, SKO and DKO mice infected with PICV had significantly higher virus titers and lower IFN-I expressions early in the infection but appeared to exhibit a late and heightened level of adaptive immune responses to clear the infection. When a recombinant rPICV mutant virus (rPICV-NPmut) that lacks the ability to suppress IFN-I was used to infect mice, as expected, there were heightened levels of IFN-I and ISG expressions in the wild-type mice, whereas infected SKO and DKO mice showed delayed mouse growth kinetics and relatively low, delayed, and transient levels of innate and adaptive immune responses to this viral infection. Taken together, our data suggest that PICV infection triggers activation of immune sensors that include but might not be necessarily limited to RIG-I and MDA5 to stimulate effective innate and adaptive immune responses to control virus infection in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan Brisse
- Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics Graduate Program, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, MN, United States
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, MN, United States
| | - Qinfeng Huang
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, MN, United States
| | - Mizanur Rahman
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, MN, United States
| | - Da Di
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, MN, United States
| | - Yuying Liang
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, MN, United States
| | - Hinh Ly
- Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics Graduate Program, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, MN, United States
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, MN, United States
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11
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Sarute N, Ross SR. The board is set, the pieces are moving: Modulation of New World arenavirus entry by host proteins. PLoS Pathog 2021; 17:e1009605. [PMID: 34111222 PMCID: PMC8191888 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1009605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nicolás Sarute
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Illinois at Chicago, College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Susan R. Ross
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Illinois at Chicago, College of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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12
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Foscaldi S, Loureiro ME, Sepúlveda C, Palacios C, Forlenza MB, López N. Development of a Reverse Genetic System to Generate Recombinant Chimeric Tacaribe Virus that Expresses Junín Virus Glycoproteins. Pathogens 2020; 9:pathogens9110948. [PMID: 33203040 PMCID: PMC7696886 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens9110948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammarenaviruses are enveloped and segmented negative-stranded RNA viruses that comprise several pathogenic members associated with severe human hemorrhagic fevers. Tacaribe virus (TCRV) is the prototype for the New World group of mammarenaviruses and is not only naturally attenuated but also phylogenetically and antigenically related to all South American pathogenic mammarenaviruses, particularly the Junín virus (JUNV), which is the etiological agent of Argentinian hemorrhagic fever (AHF). Moreover, since TCRV protects guinea pigs and non-human primates from lethal challenges with pathogenic strains of JUNV, it has already been considered as a potential live-attenuated virus vaccine candidate against AHF. Here, we report the development of a reverse genetic system that relies on T7 polymerase-driven intracellular expression of the complementary copy (antigenome) of both viral S and L RNA segments. Using this approach, we successfully recovered recombinant TCRV (rTCRV) that displayed growth properties resembling those of authentic TCRV. We also generated a chimeric recombinant TCRV expressing the JUNV glycoproteins, which propagated similarly to wild-type rTCRV. Moreover, a controlled modification within the S RNA 5′ non-coding terminal sequence diminished rTCRV propagation in a cell-type dependent manner, giving rise to new perspectives where the incorporation of additional attenuation markers could contribute to develop safe rTCRV-based vaccines against pathogenic mammarenaviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina Foscaldi
- Centro de Virología Animal (CEVAN), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires C1428EGA, Argentina; (S.F.); (M.E.L.); (M.B.F.)
| | - María Eugenia Loureiro
- Centro de Virología Animal (CEVAN), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires C1428EGA, Argentina; (S.F.); (M.E.L.); (M.B.F.)
| | - Claudia Sepúlveda
- Laboratorio de Virología, Departamento de Química Biológica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires C1428EGA, Argentina;
- Instituto de Química Biológica de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales (IQUIBICEN), CONICET- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1428EGA, Argentina
| | - Carlos Palacios
- Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología Dr. César Milstein (CONICET-Fundación Pablo Cassará), Buenos Aires C1440FFX, Argentina;
| | - María Belén Forlenza
- Centro de Virología Animal (CEVAN), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires C1428EGA, Argentina; (S.F.); (M.E.L.); (M.B.F.)
| | - Nora López
- Centro de Virología Animal (CEVAN), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires C1428EGA, Argentina; (S.F.); (M.E.L.); (M.B.F.)
- Correspondence:
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Distinct Molecular Mechanisms of Host Immune Response Modulation by Arenavirus NP and Z Proteins. Viruses 2020; 12:v12070784. [PMID: 32708250 PMCID: PMC7412275 DOI: 10.3390/v12070784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Endemic to West Africa and South America, mammalian arenaviruses can cross the species barrier from their natural rodent hosts to humans, resulting in illnesses ranging from mild flu-like syndromes to severe and fatal haemorrhagic zoonoses. The increased frequency of outbreaks and associated high fatality rates of the most prevalent arenavirus, Lassa, in West African countries, highlights the significant risk to public health and to the socio-economic development of affected countries. The devastating impact of these viruses is further exacerbated by the lack of approved vaccines and effective treatments. Differential immune responses to arenavirus infections that can lead to either clearance or rapid, widespread and uncontrolled viral dissemination are modulated by the arenavirus multifunctional proteins, NP and Z. These two proteins control the antiviral response to infection by targeting multiple cellular pathways; and thus, represent attractive targets for antiviral development to counteract infection. The interplay between the host immune responses and viral replication is a key determinant of virus pathogenicity and disease outcome. In this review, we examine the current understanding of host immune defenses against arenavirus infections and summarise the host protein interactions of NP and Z and the mechanisms that govern immune evasion strategies.
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14
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Brothers in Arms: Structure, Assembly and Function of Arenaviridae Nucleoprotein. Viruses 2020; 12:v12070772. [PMID: 32708976 PMCID: PMC7411964 DOI: 10.3390/v12070772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Arenaviridae is a family of viruses harbouring important emerging pathogens belonging to the Bunyavirales order. Like in other segmented negative strand RNA viruses, the nucleoprotein (NP) is a major actor of the viral life cycle being both (i) the necessary co-factor of the polymerase present in the L protein, and (ii) the last line of defence of the viral genome (vRNA) by physically hiding its presence in the cytoplasm. The NP is also one of the major players interfering with the immune system. Several structural studies of NP have shown that it features two domains: a globular RNA binding domain (NP-core) in its N-terminal and an exonuclease domain (ExoN) in its C-terminal. Further studies have observed that significant conformational changes are necessary for RNA encapsidation. In this review we revisited the most recent structural and functional data available on Arenaviridae NP, compared to other Bunyavirales nucleoproteins and explored the structural and functional implications. We review the variety of structural motif extensions involved in NP–NP binding mode. We also evaluate the major functional implications of NP interactome and the role of ExoN, thus making the NP a target of choice for future vaccine and antiviral therapy.
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15
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Mateer EJ, Maruyama J, Card GE, Paessler S, Huang C. Lassa Virus, but Not Highly Pathogenic New World Arenaviruses, Restricts Immunostimulatory Double-Stranded RNA Accumulation during Infection. J Virol 2020; 94:e02006-19. [PMID: 32051278 PMCID: PMC7163147 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.02006-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 02/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The arenaviruses Lassa virus (LASV), Junín virus (JUNV), and Machupo virus (MACV) can cause severe and fatal diseases in humans. Although these pathogens are closely related, the host immune responses to these virus infections differ remarkably, with direct implications for viral pathogenesis. LASV infection is immunosuppressive, with a very low-level interferon response. In contrast, JUNV and MACV infections stimulate a robust interferon (IFN) response in a retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I)-dependent manner and readily activate protein kinase R (PKR), a known host double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) sensor. In response to infection with RNA viruses, host nonself RNA sensors recognize virus-derived dsRNA as danger signals and initiate innate immune responses. Arenavirus nucleoproteins (NPs) contain a highly conserved exoribonuclease (ExoN) motif, through which LASV NP has been shown to degrade virus-derived immunostimulatory dsRNA in biochemical assays. In this study, we for the first time present evidence that LASV restricts dsRNA accumulation during infection. Although JUNV and MACV NPs also have the ExoN motif, dsRNA readily accumulated in infected cells and often colocalized with dsRNA sensors. Moreover, LASV coinfection diminished the accumulation of dsRNA and the IFN response in JUNV-infected cells. The disruption of LASV NP ExoN with a mutation led to dsRNA accumulation and impaired LASV replication in minigenome systems. Importantly, both LASV NP and RNA polymerase L protein were required to diminish the accumulation of dsRNA and the IFN response in JUNV infection. For the first time, we discovered a collaboration between LASV NP ExoN and L protein in limiting dsRNA accumulation. Our new findings provide mechanistic insights into the differential host innate immune responses to highly pathogenic arenavirus infections.IMPORTANCE Arenavirus NPs contain a highly conserved DEDDh ExoN motif, through which LASV NP degrades virus-derived, immunostimulatory dsRNA in biochemical assays to eliminate the danger signal and inhibit the innate immune response. Nevertheless, the function of NP ExoN in arenavirus infection remains to be defined. In this study, we discovered that LASV potently restricts dsRNA accumulation during infection and minigenome replication. In contrast, although the NPs of JUNV and MACV also harbor the ExoN motif, dsRNA readily formed during JUNV and MACV infections, accompanied by IFN and PKR responses. Interestingly, LASV NP alone was not sufficient to limit dsRNA accumulation. Instead, both LASV NP and L protein were required to restrict immunostimulatory dsRNA accumulation. Our findings provide novel and important insights into the mechanism for the distinct innate immune response to these highly pathogenic arenaviruses and open new directions for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth J Mateer
- Department of Pathology, Galveston National Laboratory and Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Junki Maruyama
- Department of Pathology, Galveston National Laboratory and Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Galen E Card
- Department of Pathology, Galveston National Laboratory and Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Slobodan Paessler
- Department of Pathology, Galveston National Laboratory and Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Cheng Huang
- Department of Pathology, Galveston National Laboratory and Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
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