Herpes simplex virus-1 utilizes the host actin cytoskeleton for its release from axonal growth cones

PLoS Pathog. 2022 Jan 24;18(1):e1010264. doi: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1010264. eCollection 2022 Jan.

Abstract

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) has evolved mechanisms to exploit the host cytoskeleton during entry, replication and exit from cells. In this study, we determined the role of actin and the molecular motor proteins, myosin II and myosin V, in the transport and release of HSV-1 from axon termini, or growth cones. Using compartmentalized neuronal devices, we showed that inhibition of actin polymerization, but not actin branching, significantly reduced the release of HSV-1 from axons. Furthermore, we showed that inhibition of myosin V, but not myosin II, also significantly reduced the release of HSV-1 from axons. Using confocal and electron microscopy, we determined that viral components are transported along axons to growth cones, despite actin or myosin inhibition. Overall, our study supports the role of actin in virus release from axonal growth cones and suggests myosin V as a likely candidate involved in this process.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Actin Cytoskeleton / virology*
  • Animals
  • Axonal Transport / physiology
  • Growth Cones / ultrastructure
  • Growth Cones / virology*
  • Herpes Simplex / virology*
  • Herpesvirus 1, Human
  • Rats
  • Rats, Wistar
  • Virus Release / physiology*

Grants and funding

This work was supported by The National Health and Medical Research Council Grant APP1177942 (to ALC), and APP1130512 (to ALC, RJD and MMS). www.nhmrc.gov.au/ The funders had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.