Determinants in Nonstructural Protein 4A of Dengue Virus Required for RNA Replication and Replication Organelle Biogenesis

Dengue virus (DENV) constitutes one of the most important arboviral pathogens affecting humans. The high prevalence of DENV infections, which cause more than 20,000 deaths annually, and the lack of effective vaccines or direct-acting antiviral drugs make it a global health concern. DENV genome replication occurs in close association with the host endomembrane system, which is remodeled to form the viral replication organelle that originates from endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membranes. To date, the viral and cellular determinants responsible for the biogenesis of DENV replication organelles are still poorly defined. The viral nonstructural protein 4A (NS4A) can remodel membranes and has been shown to associate with numerous host factors in DENV-replicating cells. In the present study, we used reverse and forward genetic screens and identified sites within NS4A required for DENV replication. We also mapped the determinants in NS4A required for interactions with other viral proteins. Moreover, taking advantage of our recently developed polyprotein expression system, we evaluated the role of NS4A in the formation of DENV replication organelles. Together, we report a detailed map of determinants within NS4A required for RNA replication, interaction with other viral proteins, and replication organelle formation. Our results suggest that NS4A might be an attractive target for antiviral therapy. IMPORTANCE DENV is the most prevalent mosquito-borne virus, causing around 390 million infections each year. There are no approved therapies to treat DENV infection, and the only available vaccine shows limited efficacy. The viral nonstructural proteins have emerged as attractive drug targets due to their pivotal role in RNA replication and establishment of virus-induced membranous compartments, designated replication organelles (ROs). The transmembrane protein NS4A, generated by cleavage of the NS4A-2K-4B precursor, contributes to DENV replication by unknown mechanisms. Here, we report a detailed genetic interaction map of NS4A and identify residues required for RNA replication and interaction between NS4A-2K-4B and NS2B-3 as well as NS1. Importantly, by means of an expression-based system, we demonstrate the essential role of NS4A in RO biogenesis and identify determinants in NS4A required for this process. Our data suggest that NS4A is an attractive target for antiviral therapy.