Dynamic m6A epitranscriptomic remodeling coordinates host transcriptional reprogramming during MPXV infection.
BACKGROUND The global emergence of monkeypox virus (MPXV) highlights the urgent need for a deeper understanding of host-pathogen interactions. Although transcriptional responses to MPXV infection have been characterized, the role of epitranscriptomic regulation particularly N6‑methyladenosine (m6A) modification remains largely unexplored. METHODS We performed an integrated analysis of time‑series transcriptomic and m6A methylome profiles using whole blood samples collected from MPXV‑infected rhesus macaques at 7, 14, and 21 days post‑infection, with distinct animals used at each time point. Host gene expression and m6A modification dynamics were examined over the course of infection. Differential expression and differential m6A modification analyses were conducted, followed by integrative pathway and immune cell signature profiling. RESULTS MPXV infection induced sustained host reprogramming, characterized by suppression of immune pathways and activation of metabolic processes. A global increase in m6A modifications was observed, accompanied by upregulation of the methyltransferase METTL3 and downregulation of demethylases (FTO, ALKBH5) and readers (YTHDF1-3). Knockdown of METTL3 or YTHDF2 reduced viral replication, suggesting a proviral role for this regulatory circuit. Integrative analysis identified 38 genes with coordinated changes in both transcription and m6A modification across all three time points. Focusing on literature-curated pathogenic pathways, we further identified 11 dual-regulated host factors. Notably, DNAJB1 was the only gene shared between these two independent selection strategies. m6A peaks near transcription start sites and within 5'UTR positively correlated with gene expression, whereas coding region modifications showed weak negative correlations. Immune lineage signatures showed gradual declines in T cell, NK, and monocyte/macrophage signatures with a progressive increase in B cell signatures. Cross‑dataset comparison confirmed core m6A regulatory trends despite heterogeneity across tissues and viral strains. CONCLUSIONS This study reveals m6A epitranscriptomic remodeling as a key correlate of the host response to MPXV infection and nominates DNAJB1 alongside the other 10 dual‑regulated genes as candidate host factors for further mechanistic investigation.