ERK-1/2 activity is required for efficient RSV infection.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection up-regulates the expression of genes encoding proinflammatory mediators in bronchial epithelial cells. However, the specific signaling events immediately following RSV exposure are poorly understood. Herein, we report that RSV attachment to A549 cells activates both ERK-1 and ERK-2 pathways within 5 min. Inhibition of ERK pathways significantly decreases RSV infection of these cells compared to controls. These results demonstrate that the activation of the ERK-1/2 is required in RSV-induced early gene expression.