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Diversity of matrix protein in subacute sclerosing panencephalitis and measles virus-infected cells
T Haga1, Y Yoshikawa, K Yamanouchi
1Laboratory Animal Research Center, University of Tokyo.
Abstract:
Expression of the viral matrix (M) proteins in Vero cells infected with 18 strains of subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) virus and measles virus was examined by immunocytochemistry and Western blot analysis using an anti-M monospecific serum and two sera against the M protein specific synthetic peptides. By immunocytochemistry using the anti-M monospecific serum, M protein was detected in all of the virus-infected cells regardless of cell-free virus production. M proteins of the seven non-productive strains were found to vary significantly in their epitope, in their reactivity to different assay systems, and in their molecular weight, whereas M proteins of the other 11 productive strains were detected consistently. These results suggest diversification of M protein of the non-productive strains.
Insights
This study investigated viral matrix (M) protein expression in subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) virus and measles virus infections. Non-productive SSPE virus strains showed M protein diversification, unlike productive strains.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) is a rare, fatal neurological complication of measles virus infection.
- The viral matrix (M) protein is crucial for virus assembly and release.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the expression and characteristics of viral matrix (M) proteins in SSPE virus and measles virus-infected cells.
- To investigate potential diversification of M proteins in non-productive viral strains.
Main Methods:
- Immunocytochemistry and Western blot analysis were employed.
- Monospecific anti-M serum and anti-M peptide sera were used for detection.
- Vero cells infected with 18 SSPE virus and measles virus strains were examined.
Main Results:
- Viral M protein was detected in all infected cells, irrespective of cell-free virus production.
- M proteins from seven non-productive SSPE virus strains exhibited significant variations in epitopes, reactivity, and molecular weight.
- M proteins from 11 productive strains were consistently detected.
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest significant diversification of the M protein in non-productive SSPE virus strains.
- This diversification may play a role in the altered viral characteristics of non-productive strains.