Zika virus infection and replication organelle biogenesis

Flaviviruses, including the Zika virus, are reported to induce intracellular membrane remodeling, which generates a specific compartment called “viral replication organelle.” This compartment is derived from the host endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and is considered to be the site for efficient viral genome replication and assembly. Previous studies have revealed that several viral and host factors are involved in the formation of viral replication organelle. The mechanisms underlying the hijacking of the cellular system by viruses to generate favorable environments for its propagations are well understood. In this chapter, we summarize the information on the molecular mechanisms underlying viral replication organelle biogenesis and the virus-induced modifications of the cellular functions to facilitate efficient viral replication in the cells.