Transmembrane Protein 2 Inhibits Zika Virus Replication Through Activation of the Janus Kinase/Signal Transducers and Activators of Transcription Signaling Pathway

Aim: TMEM2 has been demonstrated to suppress HBV infection by activating the Jak/STAT pathway. In this study, we sought to explore the mechanism by which TMEM2 effects on Zika virus (ZIKV) replication. Materials & methods: TMEM2 was overexpressed. Selected gene mRNA, p-STAT1 levels and interferon stimulated response element activity were examined by qRT-PCR, Western blot and luciferase assay respectively. Results: Overexpression of TMEM2 significantly inhibited ZIKV replication, upregulated MDA5 and RIG-I expression, increased IFN-β promoter activity and IFN-β expression. Overexpression of TMEM2 enhanced the Jak/STAT signaling including increased p-STAT1 level, ISRE activity as well as the expression of several antiviral interferon-stimulated genes. Conclusion: TMEM2 inhibited ZIKV replication through increased IFN-β production and enhanced activation of the Jak/STAT signaling pathway.