HSV-1 ICP27 induces apoptosis by promoting Bax translocation to mitochondria through interacting with 14-3-3θ

The subcellular localization of Bax plays a crucial role during apoptosis. In response to apoptotic stimuli, Bax translocates from the cytoplasm to the mitochondria, where it promotes the release of cytochrome c to the cytoplasm. In cells infected with HSV-1, apoptosis is triggered or blocked by diverse mechanisms. In this study, we demonstrate how HSV-1 ICP27 induces apoptosis and modulates mitochondrial membrane potential in HEK 293T cells. We found that ICP27 interacts with 14-3-3θ which sequesters Bax to the cytoplasm. In addition, ICP27 promotes the translocation of Bax to the mitochondria by inhibiting the interaction between 14-3-3θ and Bax. Our findings may provide a novel apoptotic regulatory pathway induced by ICP27 during HSV-1 infection. [BMB Reports 2017; 50(5): 257-262].