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Molecular basis of reovirus virulence. Role of the M2 gene
Abstract:
The mammalian reoviruses (serotype 1, strain Lang and serotype 3, strain Dearing) differ in their sensitivity to digestion by chymotrypsin. We have found that the M2 double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) genome segment (encoding the micro1C outer capsid polypeptide) is responsible for this property. In addition to determining response to protease treatement in vitro, we have found that the M2 genome segment also determines the ability of these two viruses successfully to initiate local and systemic infection in newborn mice after peroral inoculation. Thus the M2 dsRNA segment defines a new virulence gene of the mammalian reoviruses.
Insights
The M2 double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) genome segment of mammalian reoviruses determines their sensitivity to chymotrypsin. This segment also dictates the virus
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Mammalian reoviruses exhibit variations in chymotrypsin sensitivity between serotypes.
- Outer capsid polypeptides play a role in viral structure and function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the specific viral component responsible for differential chymotrypsin sensitivity in mammalian reoviruses.
- To investigate the role of this component in viral infectivity and pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) genome segments from different reovirus serotypes.
- In vitro protease digestion assays.
- In vivo infection studies in newborn mice following peroral inoculation.
Main Results:
- The M2 dsRNA genome segment, encoding the micro1C outer capsid polypeptide, was identified as the determinant of chymotrypsin sensitivity.
- This M2 dsRNA segment also controlled the initiation of local and systemic infections in mice.
Conclusions:
- The M2 dsRNA genome segment is a critical determinant of both protease sensitivity and virulence in mammalian reoviruses.
- This segment represents a newly identified virulence gene for mammalian reoviruses.