MicroRNAs (
miRNAs) regulate virus replication through multiple mechanisms. Poliovirus causes a highly debilitating disease and though global efforts to eradicate
polio have sharply decreased
polio incidence, unfortunately three countries (Afghanistan, Nigeria and Pakistan) remain
polio-endemic. We hypothesize that understanding the host factors involved in
polio replication will identify novel prophylactic and therapeutic targets against
polio and related viruses. In this data set, employing genome wide screens of
miRNA mimics and inhibitors, we identified
miRNAs which significantly suppressed
polio replication. Specifically, miR-134 regulates poliovirus replication via modulation of
ras-related nuclear protein (RAN), an important component of the nuclear transport system. MiR-134 also inhibited other Picornaviridae viruses including EV71, a growing concern and a high priority for vaccination in Asian countries like China. These findings demonstrate a novel mechanism for
miRNA regulation of poliovirus and other Picornaviridae viruses in host cells, and thereby may provide a novel approach in combating
infection and a potential approach for the development of anti-Picornaviridae strategies.