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Proteins encoded near the adenovirus late messenger RNA leader segments
Abstract:
Small fragments of adenovirus 2 DNA cloned into the single-strand phage M13 were used to select adenoviral messenger RNAs transcribed from the R-strand between map positions 16 and 30. Cell-free translation of these mRNAs produced proteins of 13.5K, 13.6K, and 11.5K, respectively encoded between the first and second segments of the tripartite major late leader, within the "i"-leader segment, and immediately preceding the third leader segment. Partial sequence analysis of the 13.6K protein is consistent with the hypothesis that it is encoded within the i-leader segment.
Insights
Researchers identified specific adenovirus proteins using cloned DNA fragments and messenger RNA translation. These findings help map viral gene expression within the i-leader segment.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Virology
- Genetics
Background:
- Adenovirus gene expression involves complex transcription and translation processes.
- Understanding the precise coding regions of viral genomes is crucial for deciphering viral replication and pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize adenoviral messenger RNAs (mRNAs) transcribed from a specific region of the adenovirus 2 genome (map positions 16-30).
- To determine the proteins encoded by these selected mRNAs through cell-free translation.
- To investigate the coding origin of a specific 13.6K protein within the i-leader segment.
Main Methods:
- Cloning of adenovirus 2 DNA fragments into single-strand phage M13.
- Selection of adenoviral mRNAs transcribed from the R-strand between map positions 16 and 30.
- Cell-free translation of selected mRNAs to produce proteins.
- Partial protein sequence analysis.
Main Results:
- Adenoviral mRNAs from map positions 16-30 were successfully selected.
- Cell-free translation yielded proteins of 13.5K, 13.6K, and 11.5K.
- These proteins are encoded within specific regions of the tripartite major late leader, including the i-leader segment.
- Partial sequence analysis supported the hypothesis that the 13.6K protein is encoded within the i-leader segment.
Conclusions:
- Specific adenovirus 2 mRNAs transcribed from the R-strand (map positions 16-30) encode distinct proteins.
- The i-leader segment of the major late leader contains coding information for viral proteins, exemplified by the 13.6K protein.
- This study contributes to the detailed mapping of adenovirus gene expression and protein coding regions.