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Characterization of a cDNA clone encoding the visna virus transactivating protein
1Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205.
Summary
Visna virus transactivating protein (Tat) enhances viral gene expression. This protein, along with a potential rev-like gene product, plays a role in lentiviral pathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Gene Regulation
Background:
- Lentiviral infections exhibit unique pathogenesis in humans and animals.
- Complex transcriptional and translational mechanisms regulate lentiviral gene expression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of visna virus-encoded proteins in viral gene expression.
- To identify proteins encoded by a visna virus cDNA clone.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of a 1.4-kilobase cDNA clone from visna virus.
- Determination of protein molecular masses using SDS-PAGE.
- Functional characterization of viral proteins.
Main Results:
- A 1.4-kilobase cDNA clone encodes two distinct proteins (21.5 kDa and 10 kDa).
- The 10 kDa protein was identified as the visna virus transactivating (Tat) protein.
- The 21.5 kDa protein may be analogous to the human immunodeficiency virus rev gene product.
Conclusions:
- Visna virus possesses a transactivating protein (Tat) that enhances viral gene expression.
- These findings contribute to understanding lentiviral pathogenesis and gene regulation.