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The polypeptide structure of transmissible gastroenteritis virus
The Journal of General Virology
|October 1, 1975
Summary
Researchers analyzed the proteins of the transmissible gastroenteritis virus in pigs. They identified six polypeptides, with four major ones, and found that the major surface protein contains carbohydrates.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Transmissible gastroenteritis virus (TGEV) causes significant economic losses in swine production.
- Understanding the structural components of TGEV is crucial for developing effective control strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the polypeptide composition of purified TGEV virions.
- To identify the major structural components of the TGEV surface projections.
Main Methods:
- Purification of TGEV preparations.
- Analysis of viral polypeptides using polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE).
- Enzymatic treatment of virions with bromelain.
Main Results:
- Six polypeptides were identified in the TGEV virion: four major (VPI, VP2, VP3, VP4) and two minor (VPIa, VPIb).
- VPI (200,000 MW), VP3 (30,000 MW), and VP4 (28,500 MW) were found to contain carbohydrates.
- Bromelain treatment removed surface projections and VPI, indicating VPI is the major glycopolypeptide of the projection.
Conclusions:
- The study elucidates the major structural proteins of TGEV.
- VPI is identified as the key glycopolypeptide forming the TGEV surface projections.