Published a collaborative research paper, led by the Japan Institute for Health Security (JIHS), that elucidates a novel viral replication strategy mediated by the matrix protein of paramyxoviruses.

This study reveals a previously unrecognized mechanism by which paramyxoviruses exploit the host RNA-modifying enzyme METTL3 to simultaneously enhance their own replication and suppress host immunity. We found that the viral matrix (M) protein relocates METTL3 from the nucleus to the cytoplasm, leading to increased m6A modification on viral RNAs, which stabilizes them and boosts their expression. At the same time, the depletion of nuclear METTL3 reduces m6A modification on host IFN-β mRNA, resulting in a weakened antiviral response. These dual effects synergistically promote efficient viral proliferation.

Okura T, Nakai Y, Kameya T, Mizukoshi F, Okura H, Kakizaki M, Kato F, Matsumoto Y, Nakatsu Y, Takeuchi K, Kimura H, Takeda M, Otsuki N, Hasegawa H, Shirato K, Ryo A. Paramyxovirus matrix protein redirects METTL3 to modulate m6A epitranscriptomics and host innate immune response. PLOS Pathogens. Published.