At the centre: influenza A virus ribonucleoproteins

Abstract

This paper describes the trafficking and functions of influenza A virus (IAV) viral ribonucleoproteins (vRNPs), which contain the genetic material of IAV, within the host cell. We emphasize how vRNPs interact with, and depend on, host factors and pathways, how vRNP structure contributes to its function and the key open questions that still need to be answered. The structure of vRNPs in their native form is described. The mechanism of vRNP nuclear import is explained, including a discussion of how vRNP components interact with the cellular importin-α–importin-β1 nuclear import pathway. Primary genome transcription and genome replication is described, focusing on how host factors contribute to these processes. Nuclear export of vRNP, which is mediated by the cellular CRM1 (also known as exportin-1) nuclear export pathway, is illustrated. Recent work implicating the cellular RAB11 vesicle transport system and microtubules in vRNP cytoplasmic transport in late-stage infection is described. We highlight important open questions and suggest methods that could be used to address these gaps in our knowledge.