Targeting Cholesterol Metabolism as Efficient Antiviral Strategy Against the Hepatitis E Virus.

ABSTRACT:

Background and aims

The Hepatitis E virus hijacks the endosomal system for its release. These structures are highly dependent on cholesterol. Hence, this study investigates the impact of HEV on cholesterol-metabolism, the effect of intracellular cholesterol content on HEV-release and the potential of cholesterol-modulators to serve as antivirals.

Methods

Intracellular cholesterol-content of cells was modulated and impacts on HEV were monitored using qPCR, Western blot, microscopy, virus-titration and density-gradient centrifugation. Blood-lipids and HEV-RNA were routinely quantified in chronically infected patients during follow-up visits.

Results

In HEV-infected cells, decreased levels of cholesterol are found. In patients, HEV infection decreases serum-lipid concent

SUBMITTER: Glitscher M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8099564 | biostudies-literature | 2021

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature