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The human cytomegalovirus US27 gene product enhances cell proliferation and alters cellular gene expression

Angela P Lares1, Carolyn C Tu, Juliet V Spencer

  • 1Department of Biology, University of San Francisco, 2130 Fulton Street, San Francisco, CA 94117, USA. aspletcher@usfca.edu

Virus Research
|July 16, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) US27 protein significantly boosts host cell proliferation and DNA synthesis. This viral G protein-coupled receptor impacts cellular genes, including those promoting survival and growth.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a widespread virus, typically benign in healthy individuals but dangerous for immunocompromised populations and fetuses.
  • HCMV encodes four putative G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs): US27, US28, UL33, and UL78.
  • While US28 functions as a chemokine receptor influencing cell growth and apoptosis, the signaling capacity of US27 remains largely uncharacterized.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the signaling potential and cellular effects of the HCMV-encoded US27 protein.
  • To determine if US27 influences host cell physiology, such as proliferation and gene expression.

Main Methods:

  • Expression of the US27 gene in transfected cells.
  • Assessment of cell proliferation and DNA synthesis rates.
  • Utilizing PCR array analysis to identify changes in cellular gene expression profiles.

Main Results:

  • Expression of US27 significantly enhanced cell proliferation and DNA synthesis compared to control cells.
  • PCR array analysis revealed US27 up-regulated specific cellular genes.
  • Upregulated genes included the pro-survival factor Bcl-x, AP-1 transcription factors (jun, fos), and oncostatin M.

Conclusions:

  • The HCMV US27 protein possesses signaling capabilities that impact host cell physiology.
  • US27 can promote cell survival and growth by modulating host gene expression.
  • These findings provide insights into the function of the orphan viral GPCR, US27.
Keywords:
Chemokine receptorCytomegalovirusGPCRHCMV

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