Insects 2012, 3(2), 511-531; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects3020511
New Insights into Control of Arbovirus Replication and Spread by Insect RNA Interference Pathways
MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, 8 Church Street, Glasgow G11 5JR, Scotland, UK
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Received: 1 April 2012 / Revised: 11 May 2012 / Accepted: 16 May 2012 / Published: 29 May 2012
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insect Immunity)
Abstract
Arthropod-borne (arbo) viruses are transmitted by vectors, such as mosquitoes, to susceptible vertebrates. Recent research has shown that arbovirus replication and spread in mosquitoes is not passively tolerated but induces host responses to control these pathogens. Small RNA-mediated host responses are key players among these antiviral immune strategies. Studies into one such small RNA-mediated antiviral response, the exogenous RNA interference (RNAi) pathway, have generated a wealth of information on the functions of this mechanism and the enzymes which mediate antiviral activities. However, other small RNA-mediated host responses may also be involved in modulating antiviral activity. The aim of this review is to summarize recent research into the nature of small RNA-mediated antiviral responses in mosquitoes and to discuss future directions for this relatively new area of research. View Full-TextKeywords:
arbovirus; mosquito; small RNAs; RNA interference; RNAi; RNA silencing; antiviral immunity
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Donald, C.L.; Kohl, A.; Schnettler, E. New Insights into Control of Arbovirus Replication and Spread by Insect RNA Interference Pathways. Insects 2012, 3, 511-531.