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Editing of the Sendai virus P/C mRNA by G insertion occurs during mRNA synthesis via a virus-encoded activity

S Vidal1, J Curran, D Kolakofsky

  • 1Department of Microbiology, University of Geneva Medical School, Switzerland.

Journal of Virology
|January 1, 1990
PubMed

Insights

Sendai virus P/C mRNA exhibits genetic variation, with 31% containing a G insertion not found in the viral genome. This RNA editing occurs during viral replication but not when expressed via vaccinia virus.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Sendai virus P/C mRNA exists in predicted forms: a genomic copy and one with a G insertion.
  • Previous studies hypothesized the existence of these mRNA variants.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the heterogeneity of Sendai virus P/C mRNA.
  • To determine the mechanism and origin of the G insertion in P/C mRNA.

Main Methods:

  • Direct cloning of Sendai virus P/C mRNA and screening using specific oligonucleotides.
  • In vitro RNA synthesis using purified Sendai virions.
  • In vivo expression of viral mRNA using vaccinia virus recombinants.
  • Coexpression of Sendai virus- and vaccinia virus-derived mRNAs in cells.

Main Results:

  • 31% of cloned Sendai virus P/C mRNAs contained a single G insertion, while viral genomes were homogeneous.
  • A smaller fraction (7%) showed insertions of two to eight Gs.
  • G insertions occurred during in vitro RNA synthesis but not in vivo via vaccinia virus.
  • Sendai virus-derived mRNAs were altered in coexpression studies, while vaccinia virus-derived mRNAs remained unchanged.

Conclusions:

  • Sendai virus P/C mRNA undergoes a specific G insertion, leading to genetic heterogeneity.
  • The RNA-modifying activity is likely virus-coded and specific to Sendai virus.
  • This modification does not occur when P/C mRNA is expressed from a heterologous (vaccinia) viral system.

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