Transfer RNAs associated with vesicular stomatitis virus.

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Molecular Biology
• RNA Biology

Background:

• Vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) is an enveloped RNA virus.
• Viruses often package host cell components, including RNA molecules.
• The presence and origin of 4S RNA (transfer RNA) in VSV particles require investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the nature and origin of 4S RNA found in purified VSV particles.
• To compare the specific activity of VSV-associated tRNA with host cell tRNA.
• To explore the potential role of a distinct tRNA pool in VSV infection.

Main Methods:

• Purification of VSV particles.
• Radiolabeling of host cells (BHK cells) with [3H]uridine and [32P]orthophosphate.
• In vitro labeling of viral RNA.
• Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis.
• Partial sequence analysis of viral tRNA.

Main Results:

• Predominant RNAs in VSV particles are 42S and 4S.
• 4S RNA in VSV is host transfer RNA (tRNA) with low radiolabel incorporation.
• VSV-associated tRNA shows significantly lower specific activity (5-15 fold) compared to total host tRNA.
• Viral tRNA comprises most host tRNA species, with no single dominant type.
• Reovirus, a non-enveloped virus, lacks detectable 4S RNA.

Conclusions:

• VSV packages host-derived tRNA.
• The low specific activity suggests VSV tRNA is not actively synthesized during infection.
• A membrane-associated tRNA pool with slower turnover may supply VSV.
• The presence of tRNA is potentially linked to viral envelopes.