Mechanisms of Viral RNA Processing and Packaging into Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) and Their Impact on Host Innate

Viruses have developed ways to take advantage of host RNA processing and extracellular vesicle (EV) pathways to keep replicating and avoid immune detection. Features within viral RNAs, such as stem-loops and packaging signals, let host RNA-binding proteins like hnRNPA2B1 and YBX1 recognize them. These interactions help load viral RNA into EVs, creating a route for spreading between cells that bypasses normal immune defenses. At the same time, host defense systems use ribonucleases, such as RNase L and RNase 7, to break down viral RNA and limit infection. The balance between viral tactics to protect and spread their RNA and host mechanisms that destroy it shapes the outcome of infection. This review brings together current research on how viral RNAs are packaged, the role of host RNases in innate immunity, and the potential of targeting RNA processing pathways for treatment. Understanding these processes improves our view of virus–host interactions and points to possible strategies for developing broad-spectrum antiviral therapies.