Cardiovirus-Mediated PKR Inhibition Results from Nucleocytoplasmic Trafficking Disruption

Abstract Eukaryotic translation initiation factor 2 alpha kinase 2 (EIF2AK2), know as PKR, is a key antiviral kinase activated by double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) typically produced during viral replication. Upon activation, PKR phosphorylates eIF2α, leading to the inhibition of translation and viral replication. However, many viruses have evolved mechanisms to counteract PKR activity. In Cardioviruses, the Leader protein (L), a short peptide cleaved from the N-terminus of the viral polyprotein, not only inhibits PKR but also blocks interferon production and disrupts nucleocytoplasmic trafficking (NCT). L disrupts NCT by recruiting host RSK kinases to the nuclear pore complex (NPC), where RSK phosphorylates FG-nucleoporins, thereby impairing NCT. L mutations that affect NCT disruption also impact its ability to inhibit PKR, suggesting a mechanistic link. Recombinant TMEV and EMCV viruses designed to disrupt NCT through different mechanisms exhibited some extent of PKR inhibition, supporting the link between NCT disruption and PKR inhibition. Immunostaining and live-cell imaging revealed that L-induced NCT disruption redistributes a fraction of PKR to the nucleoli, where PKR remains inactive. This suggests that nucleolar sequestration contributes to PKR inhibition. Additionally, L-mediated NCT disruption leads to the release of nuclear RNA-binding proteins (nRBPs) into the cytosol, which may bind or modify viral dsRNA, further preventing PKR activation. Collectively, these results highlight nucleocytoplasmic trafficking as a critical regulatory mechanism governing PKR activation. Thus, beyond the specific action of cardiovirus L protein, our study reveals that interference with host nucleocytoplasmic transport can significantly impact the subcellular localization and functional regulation of immune effectors such as PKR. Author Summary Protein kinase R (PKR) is a crucial component of the host innate immune response. It is activated by double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) typically produced during viral replication and triggers a shutdown of mRNA translation. This antiviral mechanism limits viral propagation by inhibiting both host and viral protein synthesis. However, many viruses have developed mechanisms to inhibit PKR, allowing them to escape immune detection. PKR downregulation facilitates viral replication whereas uncontrolled PKR activation can lead to autoimmune disorders. Therefore, PKR activity must be tightly regulated to maintain immune homeostasis. Using recombinant viruses which target the nuclear pore complex, we show that nucleocytoplasmic trafficking of cellular components is critical for regulation of PKR activity. Infection of cells with Theiler’s murine encephalomyelitis virus triggers an efflux of nuclear RNA binding proteins which likely compete with PKR for dsRNA binding and thereby block PKR activity. Moreover, upon TMEV infection as well as during mitosis, PKR is detected in the nucleoli where it is thought to interact with structured RNAs without being activated. Our data highlight an important link between nucleocytoplasmic trafficking and PKR activity. Competing Interest Statement The authors have declared no competing interest.