System-Level Comparison of Protein-Protein Interactions between Viruses and the Human Type I Interferon System Network

Innate immunity has evolved complex molecular pathways to protect organisms from viral infections. One pivotal line of cellular defense is the induction of the antiviral effect of interferon. To circumvent this primary response and achieve their own replication, viruses have developed complex molecular strategies. Here, we provide a systems-level study of the human type I interferon system subversion by the viral proteome, by reconstructing the underlying protein-protein interaction network. At this network level, viruses establish a massive and a gradual attack, from receptors to transcription factors, by interacting preferentially with highly connected and central proteins as well as interferon-induced proteins. We also demonstrate that viruses significantly target 22% of the proteins directly interacting with the type I interferon system network, suggesting the relevance of our network-based method to identify new candidates involved in the regulation of the antiviral response. Finally, based on the comparative analysis of interactome profiles across four viral families, we provide evidence of common and differential targeting strategies.