Plant RNA-silencing immunity and viral counter-defence strategies.

Abstract

AbstractRNA silencing is a conserved eukaryotic process mediated by small RNA molecules that inhibit gene expression at the transcriptional, mRNA-stability or translational level through sequence-specific interactions. Diverse roles have been identified for RNA silencing such as genome defence against mobile DNA elements or downregulation of specific factors during plant and animal development. In plants, RNA silencing plays a crucial role in antiviral defence by inhibiting viral accumulation and sometimes preventing systemic infection. As a counter-defence mechanism, viruses have evolved a set of anti-silencing strategies, of which the most common is the production of viral suppressors of RNA silencing (VSRs). Here we review the different strategies underlying VSRs action including prevention of viral-derived small (vs)RNAs synthesis, vsRNAs sequestration or inhibition of vsRNA-guided effector complexes. We will also underline the consequences of this molecular arms race on the evolution of both viral and host genomes.