Messages Intercepted (IMAGE) Rockefeller University Caption When researchers looked at sites on liver cell genomes where the gene-regulating molecule miRNA-122 binds, they found that infected cells (red) had fewer of the normal interactions with miRNA-122 compared to uninfected cells (blue). This suggests the virus alters gene expression by sponging up miRNA-122. Credit Zach Veilleux / The Rockefeller University Usage Restrictions Image may only be used to illustrate research described in the accompanying story. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.