Related Experiment Videos
Transcripts of simian virus 41 (SV41) matrix gene are exclusively dicistronic with the fusion gene which is also
M Tsurudome1, H Bando, M Kawano
1Department of Microbiology, Mie University School of Medicine, Japan.
Abstract:
The complete nucleotide sequences of the matrix (M) and fusion (F) genes of simian virus 41 (SV41) were determined. Deduced amino acid sequences confirmed the close relationship of SV41 with human parainfluenza type 2 virus (PIV2). Analyses of noncoding regions between the F and the hemagglutinin-neuraminidase (HN) genes suggested the absence of the small hydrophobic gene, which is present between the F and the HN genes of simian virus 5 and mumps virus. It was striking that there was no apparent consensus gene end sequence between the M and the F genes and that the M gene was transcribed exclusively as a dicistron with the F gene. The number of monocistronic transcripts of the F gene was approximately half that of the dicistronic transcripts. However, the F protein of SV41 seemed to be efficiently translated, since viral multiplication and fusion from within were as efficient as in PIV2. These results suggest that the lack of a consensus gene end sequence resulted in the readthrough of viral RNA polymerases between the M and the F genes and that the initiation of F gene transcription could occur by newly entered polymerases independently of the polymerases that started the upstream M gene transcription.
Insights
Simian virus 41 (SV41) shares genetic similarities with human parainfluenza virus type 2 (PIV2). Unique gene transcription patterns in SV41, specifically between the matrix and fusion genes, contribute to efficient viral protein production.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Simian virus 41 (SV41) is a paramyxovirus.
- Understanding SV41 gene expression is crucial for comparative virology.
Purpose of the Study:
- Determine the complete nucleotide sequences of SV41 matrix (M) and fusion (F) genes.
- Analyze gene organization and transcription in SV41.
- Compare SV41 gene expression with related viruses like human parainfluenza type 2 virus (PIV2).
Main Methods:
- Nucleotide sequencing of SV41 M and F genes.
- Deduced amino acid sequence analysis.
- Analysis of noncoding regions and gene transcription patterns.
Main Results:
- SV41 M and F gene sequences confirm its close relationship to PIV2.
- SV41 lacks a small hydrophobic gene found in other paramyxoviruses.
- Absence of a consensus gene end sequence between M and F genes leads to dicistronic transcription.
- SV41 F protein is efficiently translated, supporting robust viral replication.
Conclusions:
- SV41 exhibits unique M-F gene transcription, involving readthrough and independent initiation.
- The dicistronic transcription of M and F genes does not impede F protein translation or viral function.
- These findings offer insights into paramyxovirus gene regulation diversity.