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Alternative splicing dictates translational start in Epstein-Barr virus transcripts
R P Rogers1, M Woisetschlaeger, S H Speck
1Division of Tumor Virology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA.
The EMBO Journal
|July 1, 1990
Summary
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) alternative splicing generates distinct EBNA mRNAs. This process controls translation initiation, ensuring efficient expression of all Epstein-Barr nuclear antigen (EBNA) genes during viral latency.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) latency involves expression of 10 viral genes.
- Six of these genes encode Epstein-Barr nuclear antigens (EBNAs).
- EBNA expression relies on a long primary transcript processed via alternative splicing and polyadenylation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of alternative splicing in EBNA gene expression.
- To understand how EBNA mRNAs are generated from a common primary transcript.
- To elucidate the mechanism controlling translation initiation for different EBNAs.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of alternative splicing patterns in EBV latency transcripts.
- Identification of common exons and variable splicing events.
- Determination of translation initiation codon usage in different EBNA mRNAs.
Main Results:
- Alternative splicing dictates the presence or absence of the translation initiation codon for EBNA 4.
- This splicing mechanism allows for the generation of mRNAs initiating with either EBNA 4 or downstream EBNA genes.
- Common exons from the BamHI W fragment encode the N-terminal portion of EBNA 4.
Conclusions:
- Alternative splicing is a key regulatory mechanism for EBNA gene expression during EBV latency.
- This process ensures the efficient translation of all EBNA genes from a single primary transcript.
- The findings provide insight into the complex gene regulation strategies of Epstein-Barr virus.