The implications of FASN in viral infection and related diseases: a promising target in antiviral therapies

Fatty acid synthase (FASN) is a crucial enzyme involved in fatty acid synthesis and has garnered increasing attention in virology, particularly concerning 13 zoonotic viruses, 16 human viruses, and 9 animal viruses. Recent advances in FASN research have uncovered several significant findings regarding viral replication. Specifically, FASN enhances BVDV replication by inhibiting the RIG-I/TBK-1 signaling pathway. Additionally, it modulates the palmitoylation of CHIKV nsP1, thereby increasing viral infectivity. Furthermore, FASN facilitates the proliferation of CSFV by promoting lipid droplet formation. It has also been reported that viral proteins can influence the mRNA levels, protein expression, and intracellular localization of FASN. This regulatory process involves various transcription factors and signaling pathways. Targeting FASN has been shown to impair fatty acid synthesis and reduce viral replication by pharmacological treatments or gene editing technologies. In this review, we will critically discuss recent studies on how the dysregulation of FASN contributes to viral infections and its potential as a promising target for antiviral therapy.