Interplay between lipid metabolism, lipid droplets and RNA virus replication

Lipids play essential roles in the cell as components of cellular membranes, signaling molecules, and energy storage sources. Lipid droplets are cellular organelles composed of neutral lipids, such as triglycerides and cholesterol esters, and are also considered as cellular energy reserves, yet new functions have been recently associated with these structures, such as regulators of oxidative stress and cellular lipotoxicity, as well as modulators of pathogen infection through immune regulation. Lipid metabolism and lipid droplets participate in the infection process of many RNA viruses and control their replication and assembly, among others. Here, we review and discuss the contribution of lipid metabolism and lipid droplets over the replication cycle of RNA viruses, altogether pointing out potentially new pharmacological antiviral targets associated with lipid metabolism.

Automated summary

Lipids play crucial roles in the cell as membrane components, signaling molecules, and energy storage sources. Lipid droplets, composed of neutral lipids such as triglycerides and cholesterol esters, are not only cellular energy reserves but also involved in regulating oxidative stress, cellular lipotoxicity, and modulating pathogen infection through immune regulation. Lipid metabolism and lipid droplets play important roles in the replication cycle of RNA viruses, and understanding these processes may reveal new targets for antiviral drugs.