Ribonucleoprotein transport in Negative Strand RNA viruses

Abstract Negative‐sense, single‐stranded RNA (‐ssRNA) viruses comprise some of the deadliest human pathogens (Ebola, rabies, influenza A viruses etc.). Developing therapeutic tools relies on a better understanding of their multiplication cycle. For these viruses, the genome replication and transcription activities most‐often segregate in membrane‐less environments called inclusion bodies (IBs) or viral factories. These “organelles” usually locate far from the cell surface from where new virions are released, and ‐ssRNA viruses do not encode for transport factors. The efficient trafficking of the genome progeny toward the cell surface is most often ensured by mechanisms co‐opting the cellular machineries. In this review, for each ‐ssRNA viral family, we cover the methods employed to characterize these host‐virus interactions, the strategies used by the viruses to promote the virus genome transport, and the current gaps in the literature. Finally, we highlight how Rab11 has emerged as a target of choice for the intracellular transport of ‐ssRNA virus genomes.