Human metapneumovirus antagonism of innate immune responses

Viruses. 2012 Dec 7;4(12):3551-71. doi: 10.3390/v4123551.

Abstract

Human metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a recently identified RNA virus belonging to the Paramyxoviridae family, which includes several major human and animal pathogens. Epidemiological studies indicate that hMPV is a significant human respiratory pathogen with worldwide distribution. It is associated with respiratory illnesses in children, adults, and immunocompromised patients, ranging from upper respiratory tract infections to severe bronchiolitis and pneumonia. Interferon (IFN) represents a major line of defense against virus infection, and in response, viruses have evolved countermeasures to inhibit IFN production as well as IFN signaling. Although the strategies of IFN evasion are similar, the specific mechanisms by which paramyxoviruses inhibit IFN responses are quite diverse. In this review, we will present an overview of the strategies that hMPV uses to subvert cellular signaling in airway epithelial cells, the major target of infection, as well as in primary immune cells.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Immune Evasion*
  • Immunity, Innate*
  • Interferons / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Metapneumovirus / immunology*
  • Metapneumovirus / pathogenicity*
  • Viral Proteins / metabolism
  • Virulence Factors / metabolism

Substances

  • Viral Proteins
  • Virulence Factors
  • Interferons