Genome-wide CRISPR activation screen identifies JADE3 as an antiviral activator of NF-kB dependent IFITM3 expression

The innate immune system features a web of interacting pathways that require exquisite regulation. To identify novel nodes in this immune landscape we conducted a gain of function, genome-wide CRISPR activation screen with influenza A virus. We identified both appreciated and novel antiviral genes, including JADE3 a protein involved in directing the histone acetyltransferase HBO1 complex to modify chromatin and regulate transcription. JADE3 is both necessary and sufficient to restrict influenza A virus infection. Our results suggest a distinct function for JADE3 as expression of the closely related paralogues JADE1 and JADE2 does not confer resistance to influenza A virus infection. JADE3 is required for both constitutive and inducible expression of the well characterized antiviral gene Interferon-Induced Transmembrane Protein 3 (IFITM3). Furthermore, we find JADE3 activates the NF-kB signaling pathway, which is required for the promotion of IFITM3 expression by JADE3. Therefore, we propose JADE3 activates an antiviral genetic program involving NF-kB dependent IFITM3 expression to restrict influenza A virus infection.