Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) expresses two small RNAs known as EBERs (EBV-encoded RNAs) and several microRNAs. EBERs are the most abundant viral transcript produced during latent infection by EBV in a wide variety of cell types and disease conditions. They have been demonstrated to have a variety of effects on cell growth and physiology in experiments performed in vitro and in cell culture remains to be defined.

Although the abundance of EBERs in latently infected cells implies an important function, their biological role in vivo and their molecular mechanisms of action remain poorly understood. EBV microRNAs function in regulating both EBV genes and cellular genes. Expression of EBV a href="http://www.horizonpress.com/rnai">miRNAs is dependent on a variety of factors, including the host cell type. The potential roles of EBV miRNAs in oncogenesis, immune mechanisms and gene regulation are presented.

from Epstein-Barr Virus: Latency and Transformation

Further reading:

• Epstein-Barr Virus
• RNA Interference and Viruses
• Virology publications

Labels: EBERs, EBV-encoded RNAs, microRNAs, miRNAs, Small RNAs

The discovery that viruses could encode micro (mi)RNAs, similarly to the eukaryotic organisms they infect, has opened new perspectives in the study of host-virus interactions. These small regulatory RNAs, which are critically involved in an ever-increasing number of biological processes, have revolutionized the way we used to see gene regulation. Some mammalian viruses, mainly from the herpesvirus and polyomavirus families, have hijacked this mechanism in order to help them achieve the infection of their host ... read more

Further reading:

• RNA Interference and Viruses: Current Innovations and Future Trends
• RNA and the Regulation of Gene Expression: A Hidden Layer of Complexity

Labels: herpesvirus, Host-virus interactions, microRNAs, miRNAs, Polyomavirus