Epitranscriptomic regulation of host-virus interactions.

RNA chemical modifications, collectively termed the epitranscriptome, are now recognized as critical regulators of gene expression that influence host antiviral responses. These modifications are frequently co-opted by both RNA and DNA viruses to enhance their replication and evade immune detection. This review explores key RNA modifications, principal modifying enzymes, emphasizing how these modifications regulate mRNA stability, translation, and innate immune recognition of both host and viral RNAs. Furthermore, this review examines how viruses, including DENV, SARS-CoV-2, HIV-1, HCV, RSV, and HSV, manipulate host RNA modification systems. Overall, this review highlights the epitranscriptome as a dynamic interface in host-virus interactions and underscores its potential as a target for antiviral therapeutic development.