The role of secreted serine proteases of the host in influenza viral pathogenesis

Abstract

Influenza A virus (IAV) is one of the most common pathogens causing acute respiratory infections in humans of all age group. IAV infectivity depends on activation of the viral hemagglutinin by proteolytic enzymes of the host, among which secreted trypsin-type serine proteases play a prominent role. Proinflammatory cytokines induced in influenza virus infections upregulate production of the proteases and, thus, enhance virus replication, tissue damage, and metabolic disorders. Application of protease inhibitors counteracting these effects is therefore a promising therapeutic regimen against influenza.