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Immunoelectron microscopy analysis of HCMV gpUL73 (gN) localization
S Pignatelli1, P Dal Monte, N Zini
1Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Division of Microbiology and Virology, University of Bologna, St. Orsola General Hospital, Italy.
Archives of Virology
|July 12, 2002
Summary
Human Cytomegalovirus glycoprotein gpUL73(gN) is found in mature viral envelopes and dense bodies. This study used immunoelectron microscopy to reveal its surface and internal localization, suggesting antibodies recognize different forms of gN.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) UL73 gene encodes the polymorphic glycoprotein gpUL73(gN).
- gpUL73(gN) is a structural protein conserved across herpesviruses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the intracellular and intraviral localization of HCMV gpUL73(gN).
- To compare the reactivity of two distinct antibodies against gpUL73(gN).
Main Methods:
- Immunoelectron microscopy was employed to visualize gpUL73(gN) localization within viral particles and cells.
- Immunoblotting analysis was performed to assess antibody recognition of gpUL73(gN) forms.
Main Results:
- gpUL73(gN) was identified as an envelope component of mature HCMV virions.
- The glycoprotein was detected on both the external surface and internal side of the viral envelope.
- gpUL73(gN) was also found within the matrix of dense bodies and "black holes".
Conclusions:
- The localization data suggest gpUL73(gN) plays a role in viral structure and potentially entry.
- The differential antibody reactivity indicates the presence of both processed and unprocessed forms of gpUL73(gN).