Nucleotide sequence of the gene encoding infectious laryngotracheitis virus glycoprotein B

The nucleotide sequence of the infectious laryngotracheitis virus (ILTV) gene encoding the 205K complex glycoprotein (gp205) was determined. The gene is contained within a 3-kb EcoRI restriction fragment mapping at approximately map coordinates 0.23 to 0.25 in the UL region of the ILTV genome and is transcribed from right to left. Nucleotide sequence analysis of the DNA fragment identified a single, long open reading frame capable of encoding 873 amino acids. The predicted precursor polypeptide derived from this open reading frame would have a calculated Mr of 98,895 Da and contains nine potential glycosylation sites. Hydropathic analysis indicates the presence of an amino terminal hydrophobic sequence and hydrophobic carboxyl terminal domain which may function as a signal peptide and a membrane anchor sequence, respectively. Comparison of the predicted ILTV gp205 protein sequence with those of other herpesviruses revealed a significant sequence similarity with gB-like glycoproteins. Extensive homology was observed throughout the molecule except for the amino and carboxyl termini. The high homology in predicted primary and secondary structures is consistent with the essential role of the gB family of proteins for viral infectivity and pathogenesis.