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Nucleotide sequence of the tick-borne, orthomyxo-like Dhori/Indian/1313/61 virus envelope gene
E Z Freedman-Faulstich1, F J Fuller
1Department of Microbiology, Pathology & Parasitology, North Carolina State University, School of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh 27606.
Abstract:
The complete nucleotide sequence of the fourth largest segment of single-stranded RNA of the tick-borne, orthomyxo-like Dhori/Indian/1313/61 virus was determined by using cloned cDNA derived from infected cell mRNA. The fourth RNA contains 1586 nucleotides and can code for a protein of 521 amino acids with a molecular weight of 58,675 Da. The predicted polypeptide possesses an amino-terminal hydrophobic region that may function as a signal sequence to initiate translocation across the endoplasmic reticulum membrane and a carboxyl-terminal hydrophobic region that could serve as a stop transfer sequence for anchoring this protein in the membrane. The envelope protein of Dhori virus does not display significant amino acid sequence homology with any of the envelope proteins (hemagglutinin or neuraminidase) of the influenza virus family members (or any other virus group) suggesting that the Dhori envelope protein is unique and may at least in part account for its divergent biological properties with other orthomyxoviruses.
Insights
Researchers sequenced the Dhori virus RNA, revealing a unique envelope protein. This protein
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Genomics
Background:
- Dhori virus is an orthomyxo-like virus transmitted by ticks.
- Understanding viral genome structure is crucial for characterizing viral properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the complete nucleotide sequence of the fourth largest RNA segment of Dhori virus.
- To analyze the coding potential and structural features of the protein encoded by this RNA segment.
Main Methods:
- Cloned complementary DNA (cDNA) derived from infected cell messenger RNA (mRNA) was utilized.
- Nucleotide sequencing techniques were employed to determine the RNA segment's complete sequence.
Main Results:
- The fourth RNA segment of Dhori virus consists of 1586 nucleotides.
- It encodes a protein of 521 amino acids with a molecular weight of 58,675 Da.
- The predicted protein has hydrophobic regions suggesting roles in membrane translocation and anchoring.
Conclusions:
- The Dhori virus envelope protein shows no significant sequence homology with influenza virus proteins.
- This unique protein may contribute to the virus's distinct biological characteristics compared to other orthomyxoviruses.