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GP3 is a structural component of the PRRSV type II (US) virion
M de Lima1, I H Ansari, P B Das
1Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences and Nebraska Center for Virology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 111 K. Morrison Life Science Research Center (Morrison Center), East Campus, Lincoln, NE 68583-0900, USA.
Virology
|May 27, 2009
Summary
This study confirms Glycoprotein 3 (GP3) is a minor structural component of the North American PRRSV type II (FL12 strain) virion. Evidence shows GP3 is incorporated into virus particles, similar to PRRSV type I strains.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is a significant pathogen in swine.
- The structural role of envelope glycoproteins, particularly Glycoprotein 3 (GP3), in PRRSV virions is not fully elucidated.
- Previous reports indicated GP3 presence in PRRSV type I but absence in type II (US) strains.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and confirm the presence of GP3 in North American PRRSV type II (FL12 strain) virions.
- To characterize GP3 as a structural component of the PRRSV virion.
- To generate specific antibodies for GP3 detection and validation.
Main Methods:
- Generation of rabbit monospecific antiserum against GP3 using synthetic peptides from PRRSV FL12 strain.
- Radioimmunoprecipitation (RIP) assays to confirm antiserum specificity and detect GP3 in infected cells and purified virions.
- Sucrose gradient ultracentrifugation and infectivity assays to purify and identify viral components.
- Confocal microscopy and immunogold staining to localize GP3 in infected cells and on virions.
Main Results:
- The generated anti-GP3 antiserum specifically detected GP3 in transfected cells, PRRSV-infected cells, and purified PRRSV FL12 virions.
- GP3 was detected in purified PRRSV FL12 virions, confirming its incorporation into the virus particle.
- GP3 was found to be a minor structural component, less abundant than GP5 and M proteins, in the PRRSV type II virion envelope.
- Immunogold staining further supported the presence of GP3 on the surface of purified virions.
Conclusions:
- Glycoprotein 3 (GP3) is a minor structural component of the PRRSV type II (FL12 strain) virion.
- This finding extends the understanding of PRRSV virion composition across different strains.
- The study validates GP3 as a component of the PRRSV envelope, contributing to knowledge of Arterivirus structure.
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