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Retrovirus Life Cycles

Retrovirus Life Cycles

Retroviruses have a single-stranded RNA genome that undergoes a special form of replication. Once the retrovirus has entered the host cell, an enzyme called reverse transcriptase synthesizes double-stranded DNA from the retroviral RNA genome. This DNA copy of the genome is then integrated into the host’s genome inside the nucleus via an enzyme called integrase. Consequently, the retroviral genome is transcribed into RNA whenever the host’s genome is transcribed, allowing the...

Retroviruses

Retroviruses

Retroviruses and retrotransposons both insert copies of their genetic elements into the genome of the host cell. Thus, the viral genes are passed on when the host genome is replicated or translated. A typical retroviral DNA sequence contains 3-4 genes that encode the different proteins required for its structural assembly and function as a molecular parasite. This DNA is transcribed into a single mRNA, which is very similar in structure to conventional mRNAs, i.e., it is capped at the 5’...

Size and Structure of Viral Genomes

Size and Structure of Viral Genomes

Viral genomes exhibit remarkable diversity in size, structure, and composition, influencing their replication strategies and interactions with host cells. These genomes consist of either DNA or RNA and may be linear or circular. Additionally, they can be single-stranded or double-stranded, with each configuration affecting how the virus propagates within a host. RNA viruses, for instance, generally have smaller genomes than DNA viruses, a factor that contributes to their high mutation rates and...

Viruses with RNA Genomes

Viruses with RNA Genomes

RNA viruses are categorized into positive-strand, negative-strand, or double-stranded groups based on their genomic structure and replication mechanisms. This classification dictates how they exploit host cellular machinery for protein synthesis and replication. Some RNA viruses also utilize reverse transcription as part of their life cycle, further diversifying their replication strategies.Positive-Strand RNA VirusesPositive-strand RNA viruses have genomes that function directly as messenger...

Mechanisms of Retrovirus-induced Cancers

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Retroviruses are RNA viruses that have been shown to cause cancers in diverse species, including chickens, mice, cats, and monkeys. The RNA genomes of these viruses are first reverse-transcribed into single and then double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) copies. This dsDNA called proviral DNA then integrates into the host genome. Subsequently, the host cell transcribes the proviral DNA in concert with the chromosomal DNA. This leads to the production of viral RNA and proteins that assemble at the host...

Mechanisms of Retrovirus-induced Cancers

Mechanisms of Retrovirus-induced Cancers

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Simplified Reverse Genetics Method to Recover Recombinant Rotaviruses Expressing Reporter Proteins

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Closing the net on retroviruses.

¹Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, United States.

|July 9, 2016

Summary

An antiviral protein forms a molecular net to block retroviruses like HIV-1. This structural insight reveals a novel mechanism for inhibiting viral replication and spread.

Area of Science:

Structural biology
Virology
Molecular biology

Background:

Retroviruses, including Human Immunodeficiency Virus type 1 (HIV-1), pose significant global health challenges.
Understanding the molecular mechanisms of viral restriction is crucial for developing novel antiviral strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

To elucidate the structural basis of how a specific antiviral factor restricts retroviral infection.
To characterize the molecular interactions involved in the formation of the antiviral net.

Main Methods:

Cryo-electron microscopy (Cryo-EM) was employed to determine high-resolution structures.
Biochemical assays were used to analyze protein-protein interactions and antiviral activity.

Main Results:

Keywords:

HIV TRIM5 biophysics capsid higher-order assembly human infectious disease microbiology protein structure restriction factor rhesus macaque structural biology virus

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Early Viral Entry Assays for the Identification and Evaluation of Antiviral Compounds

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The study reveals the atomic-level structure of the antiviral factor.
It demonstrates the formation of a mesh-like molecular net that physically entraps retroviral particles.
Key structural features mediating net formation and viral interaction were identified.

Conclusions:

The antiviral factor functions by creating a physical barrier, effectively trapping retroviruses.
This structural understanding provides a foundation for designing therapeutics that enhance or mimic this natural defense mechanism against HIV-1 and other retroviruses.