A Cool Look at Positive-Strand RNA Virus Replication Organelles: New Insights from Cryo-Electron Microscopy

Annu Rev Biochem. 2024 Apr 9. doi: 10.1146/annurev-biochem-052521-115736. Online ahead of print.ABSTRACTPositive-strand RNA viruses encompass a variety of established and emerging eukaryotic pathogens. Their genome replication is confined to specialized cytoplasmic membrane compartments known as replication organelles (ROs). These ROs derive from host membranes, transformed into distinct structures such as invaginated spherules or intricate membrane networks including single- and/or double-membrane vesicles. ROs play a vital role in orchestrating viral RNA synthesis and evading detection by innate immune sensors of the host. In recent years, groundbreaking cryo-electron microscopy studies conducted with several prototypic viruses have significantly advanced our understanding of RO structure and function. Notably, these studies unveiled the presence of crown-shaped multimeric viral protein complexes that seem to actively participate in viral RNA synthesis and regulate the release of newly synthesized RNA into the cytosol for translation and packaging. These findings have shed light on novel viral functions and fascinating macromolecular complexes that delineate promising new avenues for future research.PMID:38594919 | DOI:10.1146/annurev-biochem-052521-115736

Source: Annual Review of Biochemistry - April 10, 2024 Category: Biochemistry Authors: Nina L de Beijer Eric J Snijder Montserrat B árcena Source Type: research