Identification of a mutation in the SV40 capsid protein VP1 that influences plaque morphology, vacuolization, and

Haruhiko Murata1, Keith Peden, Andrew M Lewis

  • 1Cancer Prevention Fellowship Program, Office of Preventive Oncology, Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.

Virology
|October 16, 2007
PubMed

Insights

A Simian Virus 40 (SV40) variant, SV40-LP(KT), shows a VP1 mutation impacting plaque formation and cellular interactions. This genetic change influences key SV40 phenotypes, offering insights into viral adaptation.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • SV40 is a well-studied polyomavirus with historical significance.
  • SV40 variants can exhibit distinct biological properties.
  • Understanding viral mutations is key to deciphering viral behavior.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To characterize a specific SV40 plaque variant, SV40-LP(KT).
  • To identify genetic determinants responsible for observed phenotypic differences.
  • To analyze the impact of a VP1 mutation on SV40 biology.

Main Methods:

  • Molecular cloning of the SV40-LP(KT) genome.
  • DNA sequence analysis of the viral genome.
  • Comparative analysis with known SV40 isolates.

Main Results:

  • SV40-LP(KT) genome is nearly identical to the 777 isolate.
  • A specific mutation in the VP1 coding region (H136Y) was identified in SV40-LP(KT).
  • This VP1 mutation influences plaque morphology, vacuole formation, and ganglioside receptor usage.

Conclusions:

  • The VP1 mutation in SV40-LP(KT) is a critical determinant of its unique phenotypes.
  • This finding enhances understanding of structure-function relationships in SV40 VP1.
  • The study provides molecular insights into SV40 variant evolution and host interactions.