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Polysome-associated proteins in herpes simplex virus-infected cells
Abstract:
In the cytoplasm of eucaryotic cells, mRNA is associated with proteins. These mRNA-protein complexes, termed messenger ribonucleoprotein (mRNP) particles, are divided into two functional classes. The first class contains free (non-ribosome-associated) mRNPs which have been termed informosomes by others. The second class of mRNPs, those associated with polysomes, are actively engaged in protein synthesis and are termed polysomal mRNPs. The experiments described in this paper examined the proteins associated with polyribosomes in uninfected and herpes simplex virus type 1-infected cells. The data indicate that after infection with herpes simplex virus type 1, specific changes occur in the proteins which normally are found associated with these polysomal mRNPs. These changes include both the appearance of new and possibly virus-specific proteins and the loss of normal host-specific proteins. The relationship of these changes to the patterns of protein synthesis in these cells is also discussed.
Insights
Herpes simplex virus type 1 infection alters messenger ribonucleoprotein (mRNP) particles in host cells. Specific protein changes in polysomal mRNPs occur, including new viral proteins and loss of host proteins.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
- Virology
Background:
- Messenger RNA (mRNA) in eukaryotic cells exists as messenger ribonucleoprotein (mRNP) complexes.
- mRNPs are categorized into free informosomes and polysome-associated mRNPs involved in active protein synthesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate changes in proteins associated with polysomal mRNPs in cells infected with herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1).
- To understand how these protein alterations relate to host cell protein synthesis patterns during viral infection.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of protein composition of polysomal mRNPs from both uninfected and HSV-1 infected cells.
- Comparison of protein profiles to identify virus-induced changes.
Main Results:
- HSV-1 infection induces specific alterations in the protein content of polysomal mRNPs.
- These changes involve the acquisition of novel, potentially virus-specific proteins.
- Normal host-specific proteins associated with polysomal mRNPs are diminished post-infection.
Conclusions:
- Herpes simplex virus type 1 infection significantly modifies the protein landscape of actively translating mRNPs.
- These modifications suggest a mechanism by which the virus may control or hijack host cell machinery for its own replication.