Sequences and functions of Rous sarcoma virus RNA

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Virology
• Genetics

Background:

• Avian tumor viruses possess RNA genomes crucial for their oncogenic properties.
• Understanding the genetic organization of viral RNA is essential for deciphering viral replication and oncogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a procedure for mapping genetic elements of avian tumor virus RNA.
• To construct an oligonucleotide map of viral RNAs to determine gene order.
• To identify the precise location of the sarcoma (src) gene relative to other viral genes.

Main Methods:

• Developed a procedure to map avian tumor virus RNA (3 x 10^6 daltons) with a poly(A) sequence at the 3' end.
• Ordered approximately 30 RNase T1-resistant oligonucleotides relative to the 3'-poly(A) terminus to create an oligonucleotide map.
• Utilized deletion mutants lacking specific genes (env or src) to identify gene-specific oligonucleotide clusters.

Main Results:

• A cluster of seven envelope gene (env)-specific oligonucleotides mapped 0.9-1.6 x 10^6 daltons from the poly(A) end.
• A cluster of three sarcoma gene (src)-specific oligonucleotides mapped 0.2-0.6 x 10^6 daltons from the poly(A) end.
• Established a partial genetic map: poly(A)-src-env-(pol, gag), indicating the src gene is located between the env gene and the 3'-poly(A) terminus.

Conclusions:

• The developed oligonucleotide mapping procedure effectively delineates the genetic structure of avian tumor virus RNA.
• The sarcoma (src) gene is positioned between the envelope (env) gene and the 3'-poly(A) end of the viral RNA.
• This genetic map provides a foundational understanding for further studies on avian tumor virus oncogenesis and gene function.