Possible mechanisms of TRIM22 antiviral functions. Based on current reports, TRIM22 can inhibit viral replication through nuclear-associated effects such as inhibiting viral transcription. Although not investigated to date, RNA export and translation are also potential targets of TRIM22. Given its E3 ligase activity, TRIM22 may posttranslationally modify host or viral proteins that are required for viral assembly and/or budding. Posttranslational modifications occur when an E1 activating enzyme (E1), E2 conjugating enzyme (E2), and E3 ligase protein (E3) work together to transfer ubiquitin or ubiquitin-like molecules to a target protein. These modifications could target the protein for proteasomal degradation or alter its subcellular localization or ability to interact with other proteins or DNA.
