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Viruses and microRNAs

Nature Genetics volume 38, pages S25–S30 (2006)Cite this article

Abstract

The discovery of RNA interference and cellular microRNAs (miRNAs) has not only affected how biological research is conducted but also revealed an entirely new level of post-transcriptional gene regulation. Here, I discuss the potential functions of the virally encoded miRNAs recently identified in several pathogenic human viruses and propose that cellular miRNAs may have had a substantial effect on viral evolution and may continue to influence the in vivo tissue tropism of viruses. Our increasing knowledge of the role and importance of virally encoded miRNAs will probably offer new insights into how viruses that establish latent infections, such as herpesviruses, avoid elimination by the host innate or adaptive immune system. Research into viral miRNA function might also suggest new approaches for treating some virally induced diseases.

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Figure 1: Biogenesis and function of human miRNAs.

Katie Ris

Figure 2: Potential mechanisms by which miRNAs can affect virus replication.

Katie Ris

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Acknowledgements

Research from my laboratory described in this manuscript was supported by grant GM071408 from the US National Institutes of Health.

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  1. Center for Virology and Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, 27710, North Carolina, USA

    Bryan R Cullen

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Cullen, B. Viruses and microRNAs. Nat Genet 38 (Suppl 6), S25–S30 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1038/ng1793

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