Viruses, Vol. 13, Pages 124: The Battle between Retroviruses and APOBEC3 Genes: Its Past and Present
Viruses, Vol. 13, Pages 124: The Battle between Retroviruses and APOBEC3 Genes: Its Past and Present
Viruses doi: 10.3390/v13010124
Authors:
Keiya Uriu
Yusuke Kosugi
Jumpei Ito
Kei Sato
The APOBEC3 family of proteins in mammals consists of cellular cytosine deaminases and well-known restriction factors against retroviruses, including lentiviruses. APOBEC3 genes are highly amplified and diversified in mammals, suggesting that their evolution and diversification have been driven by conflicts with ancient viruses. At present, lentiviruses, including HIV, the causative agent of AIDS, are known to encode a viral protein called Vif to overcome the antiviral effects of the APOBEC3 proteins of their hosts. Recent studies have revealed that the acquisition of an anti-APOBEC3 ability by lentiviruses is a key step in achieving successful cross-species transmission. Here, we summarize the current knowledge of the interplay between mammalian APOBEC3 proteins and viral infections and introduce a scenario of the coevolution of mammalian APOBEC3 genes and viruses.
Source: Viruses - Category: Virology Authors: Keiya Uriu Yusuke Kosugi Jumpei Ito Kei Sato Tags: Review Source Type: research