Effect of APOBEC3G on HBV replication and transcriptomic analysis

Objective To explore and predict the underlying mechanisms and downstream signaling pathway prediction of APOBEC3G (A3G) inhibiting Hepatitis B virus(HBV) based on transcriptome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis.

Methods The expression plasmid of A3G and HBV(A3G group), expression plasmid of GFP and HBV(HBV group) and empty plasmid(Vector group) were transfected into the Huh7 cells, respectively.Three days later, the cells were collected, and RNA was extracted for transcriptome sequencing to detect mRNA expression in the samples.DESeq software was used to conduct differential analysis on gene expression levels, and screen out differentially expressed genes.Through GO enrichment analysis and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis of differential genes, the main functions and pathways involved in differential genes were determined.Meanwhile, protein-protein interaction(PPI) analysis was conducted based on STRING database.The protein interaction network was constructed to find the relationship between the target genes and key node proteins.

Results Compared with the HBV group, 21 significantly different genes were screened in A3G group.The results of GO enrichment analysis showed the item included the formation of lipoprotein B mRNA editing enzyme complex, EH domain binding and BMP signaling pathway regulated by mesoderm cell fate.KEGG pathway enrichment analysis showed that it might be related to endocytosis and necrosis.The PPI network identified NOXA1, LSM10, RNF103 and their interacting proteins.Compared with the Vector group, 42 significantly different genes were screened in the HBV group.GO enrichment analysis shows projects related to the ion channel activity, various enzymatic activities, and membrane components, etc.KEGG pathway enrichment analysis shows associations with metabolic reactions of various substances and the p53 signaling pathway, and so on.The PPI network identified 15 key proteins such as UBD, CCND3 and RHOD, and their interacted proteins.

Conclusions Through transcriptome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis, the potential downstream molecules of A3G inhibiting HBV replication were explored, enriching the research on the mechanism of A3G's inhibition of HBV replication.