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. 1996 Dec;70(12):8624–8629. doi: 10.1128/jvi.70.12.8624-8629.1996

Influenza virus neuraminidase activates latent transforming growth factor beta.

S Schultz-Cherry 1, V S Hinshaw 1
PMCID: PMC190955  PMID: 8970987

Abstract

Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) is a family of proteins secreted by virtually all cells in a biologically inactive form. TGF-beta levels increase during many pathophysiological situations, including viral infection. The mechanism for increased TGF-beta activity during viral infection is not understood. We observed an increase in active TGF-beta levels within 1 day in mice infected with influenza virus. Further studies showed that the neuraminidase glycoprotein of influenza A and B viruses directly activates latent TGF-beta in vitro. There are sufficient levels of TGF-beta activated by virus to induce apoptosis in cells. In addition, influenza virus-induced apoptosis is partially inhibited by TGF-beta-specific antibodies. These novel findings suggest a potential role for activation of TGF-beta during the host response to influenza virus infection, specifically apoptosis. This is the first report showing direct activation of latent TGF-beta by a viral protein.

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Selected References

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