The IFITMs Inhibit Zika Virus Replication

• IFITM3 and IFITM1 inhibit Zika virus infection
• IFITM3 can prevent Zika-virus-induced cell death
• The IFITMs can halt Zika virus early in the viral life cycle

SummaryZika virus has emerged as a severe health threat with a rapidly expanding range. The IFITM family of restriction factors inhibits the replication of a broad range of viruses, including the closely related flaviruses West Nile virus and dengue virus. Here, we show that IFITM1 and IFITM3 inhibit Zika virus infection early in the viral life cycle. Moreover, IFITM3 can prevent Zika-virus-induced cell death. These results suggest that strategies to boost the actions and/or levels of the IFITMs might be useful for inhibiting a broad range of emerging viruses.

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