Adenovirus proteins that subvert host defenses.

Adenovirus encodes numerous products that counteract host defenses. A virus-encoded RNA, VA RNA1, prevents interferon-mediated shut-off of protein synthesis. Other protein products inhibit interferon-induced gene transcription, prevent cell killing by cytotoxic T cells or block apoptosis, and three sets of proteins independently block the cytolysis and inflammation induced by tumor necrosis factor. Studies of these factors are providing insights into viral pathogenesis.