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Sequence relationships among defective interfering influenza viral RNAs
Summary
Defective interfering (DI) influenza viruses generate unique RNA segments, primarily from viral polymerase genes. These DI RNAs exhibit overlapping sequences, suggesting complex formation mechanisms beyond simple deletion.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Influenza viruses possess segmented RNA genomes.
- Defective interfering (DI) viruses are generated during serial high-multiplicity passaging.
- DI viruses possess unique RNA species that interfere with standard viral replication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the RNA species of defective interfering (DI) influenza viruses.
- To determine the origin and relationship of DI RNA molecules.
Main Methods:
- Serial passaging of ts-52 and ts+ WSN influenza virus clones.
- Analysis of DI RNA using RNase T1 oligonucleotide two-dimensional electrophoresis.
Main Results:
- Each DI virus clone produced unique DI RNA species.
- All examined DI RNAs originated from specific segments of standard viral RNA, particularly polymerase genes (P1, P2, P3).
- DI RNAs from the same polymerase gene showed interrelationships, including completely overlapping and partially overlapping nucleotide sequences.
Conclusions:
- DI RNA arises from specific viral RNA segments, primarily polymerase genes.
- Complex mechanisms, potentially involving more than simple deletion, generate DI RNAs with overlapping sequences.