EIF4A, a target of siRNA derived from rice stripe virus, negatively regulates antiviral autophagy by interacting with ATG5 in Nicotiana benthamiana.

ABSTRACT: Autophagy is induced by viral infection and has antiviral functions in plants, but the underlying mechanism is poorly understood. We previously identified a viral small interfering RNA (vsiRNA) derived from rice stripe virus (RSV) RNA4 that contributes to the leaf-twisting and stunting symptoms caused by this virus by targeting the host eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4A (eIF4A) mRNA for silencing. In addition, autophagy plays antiviral roles by degrading RSV p3 protein, a suppressor of RNA silencing. Here, we demonstrate that eIF4A acts as a negative regulator of autophagy in Nicotiana benthamiana. Silencing of NbeIF4A activated autophagy and inhibited RSV infection by facilitating autophagic degradation of p3. Further analysis showed that NbeIF4A interacts with NbATG5 and interf

SUBMITTER: Zhang X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8504976 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature