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Overview of the signaling pathways of the UPR

Viruses regulate cellular signaling pathways to ensure optimal viral replication. Translation of viral proteins can lead to accumulation of proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) of infected cells, which is accompanied by ER stress-induced activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR). The term UPR summarizes three signaling cascades, each of which is induced by a UPR sensor protein [PKR-like ER kinase (PERK), activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6), inositol-requiring enzyme 1 (IRE1)]. Together, these signaling cascades attempt to restore homeostasis in the ER by increasing the capacity of the ER, reducing the translation rate, and increasing protein degradation. If this goal is not reached, apoptosis is induced in the cell. Many viruses, including Marburg virus, have evolved strategies to use the ER stress response to their advantage.