Genetic control of retrovirus susceptibility in mammalian cells

Host cellular genes can have profound effects on retrovirus replication. Many of these genes encode restriction factors that block virus infection; others encode positive factors that are exploited by the viruses. Recently, a number of such genes have been cloned and characterized, bringing into sharper focus the mechanisms and pathways exploited by these viruses. The major host factors involved in the early phase of the viral life cycle are discussed.