Viral dsRNA factories and host defense – dsRNA-Targets

Viruses hijack the molecular machinery of host cells to complete their replication cycle, a process frequently associated with the production of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA). We aim to unravel the molecular mechanisms involved in dsRNAs sensing by the host machinery and to identify host factors with pro or antiviral functions. To this end, we selected a set of RNA-based plant viruses and will take advantage of the B2 protein allowing visualization and capture of dsRNA and associated factors. We will use transcriptomic, proteomic, and cellular imaging approaches to (1) get insights on endogenous and viral dsRNAs, (2) identify novel factors involved in the detection of dsRNAs, involved in anti-viral immunity or on the contrary are required for viral replication, (3) find out where they act at the subcellular level and (4) in the longer term, elucidate their function at the molecular level.