Host cells susceptible to Dengue virus serotype 2 infection

Host cells susceptible to Dengue virus serotype 2 (DENV-2) infection primarily include cells of the myeloid lineage, such as monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells, which are considered the principal targets in vivo (PubMed: 11160744). These cells express various attachment factors and receptors, most notably DC-SIGN (CD209), heparan sulfate proteoglycans, and the mannose receptor, which facilitate viral entry via receptor-mediated endocytosis (PubMed: 12502850). Upon entry, the virus utilizes the host cell's endoplasmic reticulum and translation machinery to replicate its positive-sense RNA genome and assemble new virions (Nature Reviews Microbiology). The infection of these cells is a critical step in the pathogenesis of Dengue fever and its more severe forms, Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever and Dengue Shock Syndrome, which are characterized by a 'cytokine storm' and increased vascular permeability (NIH: StatPearls). Therapeutic interventions targeting these cells often involve small molecule inhibitors of viral proteins like the NS5 polymerase or host-targeted agents like alpha-glucosidase inhibitors (e.g., Celgosivir) that prevent proper viral protein folding (PubMed: 24501055). A significant challenge in treating these cells is the risk of antibody-dependent enhancement (ADE), where non-neutralizing antibodies facilitate viral entry into Fc-receptor-bearing cells, potentially worsening the infection (Wikipedia). Additionally, hepatocytes and endothelial cells can also be infected, contributing to liver dysfunction and vascular leakage (Journal of Virology).

Other names

DENV-2 target cellsDengue virus serotype 2 susceptible cellsDENV-2 host cellsDENV-2 infected cells

Drugs targeting this system typically function by inhibiting viral enzymes (e.g., NS5 polymerase, NS3 protease) within the host cell, blocking viral entry via host receptors like DC-SIGN, or modulating host pathways such as alpha-glucosidase-mediated protein folding (PubMed: 24501055, 12502850).