When your cap matters: structural insights into self vs non-self recognition of 5′ RNA by immunomodulatory host proteins. (February 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Leung, Daisy W; Amarasinghe, Gaya K
• Is Part Of: Current opinion in structural biology. Volume 36(2016)
• Page Start: 133
• Page End: 141
• Publication Date: 2016-02
• Subjects: Molecular biology -- Periodicals; 570
• DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2016.02.001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0959-440X

Abstract

Highlights: Host proteins must distinguish viral RNA from self RNA to trigger immune responses. 5′ RNA cap is key specificity determinant of host signaling. Viruses use a variety of mechanisms to evade host RNA sensors. RNA cap synthesis and recognition present novel therapeutic targets. Abstract : Cytosolic recognition of viral RNA is important for host innate immune responses. Differential recognition of self vs non-self RNA is a considerable challenge as the inability to differentiate may trigger aberrant immune responses. Recent work identified the composition of the RNA 5′, including the 5′ cap and its methylation state, as an important determinant of recognition by the host. Recent studies have advanced our understanding of the modified 5′ RNA recognition and viral antagonism of RNA receptors. Here, we will discuss RIG-I and IFIT proteins as examples of host proteins that detect dsRNA and ssRNA, respectively.