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Published on: January 3, 2014
Analysis of Mason-Pfizer monkey virus Gag particles by scanning transmission electron microscopy
S D Parker1, J S Wall, E Hunter
1Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama 35294, USA.
Abstract:
Mason-Pfizer monkey virus immature capsids selected from the cytoplasm of baculovirus-infected cells were imaged by scanning transmission electron microscopy. The masses of individual selected Gag particles were measured, and the average mass corresponded to 1,900 to 2,100 Gag polyproteins per particle. A large variation in Gag particle mass was observed within each population measured.
Insights
Immature Mason-Pfizer monkey virus capsids were weighed using electron microscopy. Each capsid contains approximately 1,900 to 2,100 Gag polyproteins, with significant mass variation observed.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Structural Biology
- Biophysics
Background:
- Mason-Pfizer monkey virus (MPMV) is a retrovirus with an immature capsid structure.
- Understanding capsid composition is crucial for viral assembly and maturation studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the mass and Gag polyprotein content of immature MPMV capsids.
- To investigate the variability in capsid mass.
Main Methods:
- Immature MPMV capsids were isolated from baculovirus-infected insect cells.
- Scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) was used for imaging and mass determination.
Main Results:
- The average mass of individual Gag particles indicated the presence of 1,900 to 2,100 Gag polyproteins per capsid.
- A wide range of Gag particle masses was observed within the studied populations.
Conclusions:
- The study quantifies the Gag polyprotein stoichiometry in immature MPMV capsids.
- Observed mass variations suggest potential heterogeneity in capsid assembly or composition.
