Viruses join the circular RNA world

Abstract

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a recently discovered class of noncoding RNAs found in many species across the eukaryotic kingdom. These intriguing RNA species are formed through a unique mechanism that is known as back splicing in which the 5′ and 3′ termini are covalently joined. Recent research has revealed that viruses also encode a repertoire of circRNAs. Some of these viral circRNAs are abundantly expressed and are reported to play a role in disease pathogenesis. A growing number of studies also indicate that host circRNAs are involved in immune responses against virus infections with either an antiviral or proviral role. In this review, we briefly introduce circRNA, its biogenesis, and mechanism of action. We go on to summarize the latest research on the expression, regulation, and functions of viral and host-encoded circRNAs during the host–virus interaction, with the aim of highlighting the potential of viral and host circRNAs as a suitable target for diagnostic biomarker development and therapeutic treatment of viral-associated diseases. We conclude by discussing the current limitations in knowledge and significance of elucidating the roles of circRNAs in host–virus interactions, as well as future directions for this emerging field.