Increased GABA signaling in liver macrophage promotes HBV replication in HBV-carrier mice

Virus Res. 2024 Jun:344:199366. doi: 10.1016/j.virusres.2024.199366. Epub 2024 Mar 30.

Abstract

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) signals in various non-neuronal cells including hepatocytes and some immune cells. Studies, including ours, show that type A GABA receptors (GABAARs)-mediated signaling occurs in macrophages regulating tissue-specific functions. Our recent study reveals that activation of GABAARs in liver macrophages promotes their M2-like polarization and increases HBV replication in mice. This short article briefly summarizes the GABA signaling system in macrophages and discusses potential mechanisms by which GABA signaling promotes HBV replication.

Keywords: GABA, macrophage; HBV replication; Macrophage polarization.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Hepatitis B virus / genetics
  • Hepatitis B virus / physiology
  • Hepatitis B* / metabolism
  • Hepatitis B* / virology
  • Humans
  • Liver / metabolism
  • Liver / virology
  • Macrophages* / virology
  • Mice
  • Receptors, GABA-A* / genetics
  • Receptors, GABA-A* / metabolism
  • Signal Transduction*
  • Virus Replication*
  • gamma-Aminobutyric Acid* / metabolism

Substances

  • gamma-Aminobutyric Acid
  • Receptors, GABA-A