Helicase proteins DHX29 and RIG-I cosense cytosolic nucleic acids in the human airway system
Abstract
Different molecules act in sensing cytosolic nucleic acids derived from viruses, depending on the cell type and the virus. Epithelial cells and fibroblasts recognize viral invasion through cytosolic nucleic acid sensors and initiate antiviral immune responses by secreting cytokines. Retinoic acid-inducible gene 1 (RIG-I), a member of the DNA/RNA helicase family, plays a significant role as such a sensor. We identified DEAH (Asp-Glu-Ala-His) box polypeptide 29 (DHX29), another member of the family, as a unique cytosolic nucleic acid cosensor in human airway epithelial cells and fibroblasts. DHX29 directly bound nucleic acids, interacted with RIG-I, and triggered downstream signaling. DHX29 may be the optimal target for drug and vaccine design to control viral infections and viral-induced pathology in the airway.
- Publication:
-
Proceedings of the National Academy of Science
- Pub Date:
- May 2014
- DOI:
- 10.1073/pnas.1400139111
- Bibcode:
- 2014PNAS..111.7747S