Understanding Myeloid Cell Infection by Lentiviruses
Author Information
Author(s): Vicente Planelles
Primary Institution: University of Utah
Hypothesis
The lentiviral accessory protein Vpx counteracts a restriction factor specific to myeloid cells.
Conclusion
The study identifies SAMHD1 as the restriction factor in myeloid cells that Vpx can overcome to enhance viral infection.
Supporting Evidence
- Vpx enhances the accumulation of full-length viral DNA in non-dividing cells.
- Vpx induces proteolytic degradation of SAMHD1, which is necessary for overcoming myeloid cell restriction.
- Depletion of SAMHD1 via RNA interference increases susceptibility of dendritic cells to HIV-1 infection.
Takeaway
Some viruses have trouble infecting certain immune cells, but a special protein called Vpx helps them get in by breaking down a barrier in those cells.
Methodology
The review summarizes findings from two studies that identified SAMHD1 as the restriction factor and explored the role of Vpx in overcoming this restriction.
Limitations
The presence of SAMHD1 does not fully explain the restriction of HIV-1 and SIV in myeloid cells, indicating other factors may be involved.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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