miRNA Modulation of Insect Virus Replication

Curr Issues Mol Biol. 2020:34:61-82. doi: 10.21775/cimb.034.061. Epub 2019 Jun 6.

Abstract

The outcome of virus infection in insects is impacted by regulation of both host and virus gene expression. A class of small RNAs called microRNAs (miRNA) have emerged as important regulators of gene expression that can influence the outcome of virus infection. miRNA regulation occurs at a comparatively late stage of gene expression, allowing for rapid control and fine-tuning of gene expression levels. Here we discuss the biogenesis of miRNAs from both host and virus genomes, the interactions that lead to regulation of gene expression, and the miRNA-mRNA interactions that lead to either antivirus or provirus consequences in the course of virus infection in insects.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Gene Expression Regulation
  • Genomics / methods
  • Host-Pathogen Interactions*
  • Insect Viruses / physiology*
  • Insecta / genetics*
  • Insecta / virology*
  • MicroRNAs / genetics*
  • RNA Interference
  • RNA-Induced Silencing Complex / metabolism
  • Virus Replication*

Substances

  • MicroRNAs
  • RNA-Induced Silencing Complex