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Identification and structural analysis of a MDV gene encoding a protein kinase.
1Avian Disease and Oncology Laboratory, USDA-ARS, East Lansing, MI 48823, USA.
Acta Virologica
|March 4, 2000
Summary
Marek's Disease Virus (MDV) DNA analysis identified an open reading frame (ORF) coding for a protein kinase (PK). This functional PK is homologous to those found in herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV).
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Genomics
Background:
- Marek's Disease Virus (MDV) is an oncogenic avian herpesvirus.
- Understanding MDV gene function is crucial for disease control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize a novel open reading frame (ORF) within the MDV BamHI-C fragment.
- To determine the function of the protein encoded by this ORF.
Main Methods:
- DNA sequence analysis of the MDV BamHI-C fragment.
- Northern blot hybridization to detect viral transcripts.
- Expression of a portion of the ORF in E. coli.
- Antiserum generation and Western blot analysis.
Main Results:
- A 513 amino acid ORF was identified, encoding a protein with significant homology to protein kinases (PK) of HSV and VZV.
- A 2.0 kb transcript was detected in infected cells.
- The antiserum specifically recognized a 60 kDa protein in MDV-infected cells across different serotypes.
Conclusions:
- The identified ORF codes for a functional protein kinase (PK).
- This PK is a potential target for antiviral therapies against MDV infections.