Fused in Liposarcoma Protein, a New Player in the Regulation of HIV-1 Transcription, Binds to Known and Newly Identified LTR G-Quadruplexes

HIV-1 integrated long terminal repeat (LTR) promoter activity is modulated by folding of its G-rich region into non-canonical nucleic acids structures, such as G-quadruplexes (G4s), and their interaction with cellular proteins. Here, by a combined pull-down/mass spectrometry/Western-blot approach, we identified the fused in liposarcoma (FUS) protein and found it to preferentially bind and stabilize the least stable and bulged LTR G4, especially in the cell environment. The outcome of this interaction is the down-regulation of viral transcription, as assessed in a reporter assay with LTR G4 mutants in FUS-silencing conditions. These data indicate that the complexity and dynamics of HIV-1 LTR G4s are much greater than previously envisaged. The G-rich LTR region, with its diverse G4 landscape and multiple cell protein interactions, stands out as prime sensing center for the fine regulation of viral transcription. This region thus represents a rational antiviral target for inhibiting both the actively transcribing and latent viruses.

Automated summary

The fused in liposarcoma (FUS) protein has been found to selectively bind and stabilize the least stable and bulged G-quadruplex (G4) structure in HIV-1 LTR, leading to down-regulation of viral transcription. This study reveals the complexity and dynamics of HIV-1 LTR G4s, highlighting their significance as potential targets for antiviral therapies.