Mammalian Proteins ZAP and KHNYN Limit Avian Viruses
Author Information
Author(s): Jordan T. Becker, Clayton K. Mickelson, Lauren M. Pross, Autumn E. Sanders, Esther R. Vogt, Frances K. Shepherd, Chloe Wick, Alison J. Barkhymer, Stephanie L. Aron, Elizabeth J. Fay, Reuben S. Harris, Ryan A. Langlois
Primary Institution: University of Minnesota – Twin Cities
Hypothesis
Birds are defective in RNA recognition and restriction pathways, presenting a barrier to emergence in mammals.
Conclusion
Mammalian proteins ZAP and KHNYN can independently restrict CpG-enriched avian viruses, including influenza A virus and Rous sarcoma virus.
Supporting Evidence
- Human ZAP selectively depletes CpG-enriched viral RNAs.
- Chicken ZAP does not affect IAV replication.
- Human ZAP-S and KHNYN independently restricted CpG-enriched IAV.
- Mammalian ZAP and KHNYN restricted Rous sarcoma virus.
- Platypus KHNYN restricted multiple viruses.
Takeaway
Some proteins in mammals help stop certain bird viruses from making us sick. This study found that two specific proteins, ZAP and KHNYN, do this job well.
Methodology
The study involved genomic, phylogenetic, and functional analyses using chicken and human cells to test the restriction capabilities of ZAP and KHNYN against various viruses.
Limitations
The study primarily used a common laboratory strain of IAV and relied on overexpression of host restriction factors, which may not fully represent natural conditions.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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