Modulation of host cellular antiviral responses by arthropod-transmitted RNA viruses.

Abstract

Arboviruses encompass a diverse spectrum of arthropod-transmitted RNA viruses that pose an extensive threat to human health and the economy. These obligate intracellular pathogens induce severe pathologies by strategically subverting the host's innate immune responses, often leading to a plethora of clinical manifestations in the host. The pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) are recognized by host pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), which initiate innate immune responses by releasing interferons and cytokines. However, dysregulation can divert these responses and lead to exacerbated inflammation and immunopathology. The major families of arboviruses, particularly Flaviviridae, Togaviridae, Bunyaviridae, Reoviridae and Rhabdoviridae, exert well-documented immunomodulatory effects. In this context, modulation of host immune pathways serves as an effective approach not only to control viral infection but also to restore dysregulated immune responses. Integration of host-directed immunotherapeutic interventions with virus-targeted antiviral treatments may offer a potential strategy to manage immunopathogenesis while combating infection. This review comprehensively summarizes the potential of host immunomodulation as an alternative therapeutic strategy against vector-transmitted RNA viruses.