Base sequence differences between the RNA components of Harvey sarcoma virus

The 50 to 70S RNA of the Harvey sarcoma-Moloney leukemia virus (MLV) complex consists of 30 to 40S RNA subunits of two different size classes and contains sequences homologous to Moloney mouse leukemia virus and to information contained in a C-type rat virus, termed NRK virus. We have isolated by preparative gel electrophoresis the large (component 1) and the small (component 2) 30 to 40S RNA species from the Harvey sarcoma-MLV complex. Harvey RNA component 1 was completely complementary to DNA transcribed from MLV RNA and showed no homology to DNA transcribed from NRK virus when annealed under conditions of DNA excess. Harvey RNA component 2 was about 65% complementary to MLV DNA and about 33% complementary to NRK virus DNA. Approximately 60 to 80% of the MLV-specific sequences in RNA component 2 is either a distinct molecular species or is part of a hydrid molecular including NRK virus- and MLV-specific sequences. The rest of the MLV sequences in component 2 could be accounted for by degraded component 1 co-purifying with component 2. The possible role of these sequences in the ability of the virus to transform cells is discussed.