Figure 9.

Model for the regulatory role of miR-221 in HCMV infection. HCMV infection induces the downregulation of SOCS1 protein level through promoting the expression of miR-221. As a negative regulator, SOCS1 downregulation leads to the enhanced activation of NF-κB pathway upon HCMV infection. Activated NF-κB enter the nuclear and facilitates the transcription of type I IFN (IFNα and IFNβ), leading to the activation of downstream ISGs effectors. The releases of type I IFN and ISGs setup an inflammation in the HCMV infected cell, and establishes an antiviral state against HCMV.