MX PROTEINS - MEDIATORS OF INNATE RESISTANCE TO RNA VIRUSES

Mx proteins are interferon-induced members of the dynamin superfamily of large guanosine triphosphatases. These proteins have attracted atte ntion because some display antiviral activity against pathogenic RNA v iruses, for example against members of the orthomyxovirus (influenzavi rus) family or the bunyavirus family. Transfected cells and transgenic mice expressing Mr proteins are highly resistant to Mx-sensitive viru ses, demonstrating that Mr proteins are powerful antiviral agents. In humans, synthesis of MxA is observed during self-limiting viral infect ions and may thus promote recovery from disease.