Processing of genomic RNAs by Dicer in bat cells limits SARS-CoV-2 replication.

ABSTRACT: Bats are reservoirs for numerous viruses that cause serious diseases in other animals and humans. Several mechanisms are proposed to contribute to the tolerance of bats to these pathogens. This study investigates the response of bat cells to double-stranded RNA generated by SARS-CoV-2 replication. Here, we found the involvement of Dicer in the processing of viral genomic RNAs during SARS-CoV-2 infection. Examining RNA sequencing of infected cells, small-interfering RNA (siRNA)-like fragments were found derived from viral RNAs. Depletion of Dicer showed a reduction in these RNAs and an increase in viral loads suggesting unlike other mammals, bats may use Dicer to limit viral replication. This prompted the exploration of key dsRNA sensors in bat cells. Our analysis showed significant upregul

SUBMITTER: Owolabi IJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11934715 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature