Analysis of Chikungunya Virus Capsid Interactome

Abstract

The ongoing global spread of alphaviruses presents a significant challenge, underscoring the urgent need for the development of novel antiviral treatments. Understanding the intricate host virus interactions that underlie virus infection is crucial for uncovering potential pro- or antiviral targets for such treatment strategies. In this study, we investigated the interactome of the Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) Capsid protein (CP), a key player in viral replication, assembly, and cell-virus interactions. Here, the quantitative label-free proteomics analysis was used to study CHIKV CP interactors in two different types of cells, in the human host and mosquito vector. A number of host and vector factors were identified, among them were many homologous proteins to be focused on in further downstream analysis. The effect of selected interactors on CHIKV pathogenesis was evaluated in mosquito and human cells. Notably, silencing of PGAM5, SRRT, and VIRMA proteins significantly reduced the level of viral replication, demonstrating a shared pro-viral effect in both, human and mosquito, cell types tested. These results underscore the conservation of CP function across different organisms and highlight the potential significance of these cellular factors in the context of CHIKV infection. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying CHIKV pathogenesis and identifies potential targets for the development of novel antiviral treatments.