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Sequence analysis of a unique temperature phage: mycoplasma virus L2
J Maniloff1, G J Kampo, C C Dascher
1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Rochester, NY 14642.
Gene
|April 8, 1994
Summary
Mycoplasma virus L2 establishes lysogeny by integrating its DNA into host cells. Genome analysis reveals 15 open reading frames and suggests specific mechanisms for gene expression and DNA replication.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Genomics
Background:
- Mycoplasma virus L2 is an enveloped virus with circular double-stranded DNA.
- L2 infection of Acholeplasma laidlawii results in productive infection and lysogeny, with viral DNA integration into the host genome.
Purpose of the Study:
- To sequence and analyze the Mycoplasma virus L2 genome.
- To understand the genetic organization and expression strategies of L2.
- To identify key elements involved in viral DNA integration and replication.
Main Methods:
- DNA sequencing and bioinformatic analysis of the L2 genome.
- Identification and characterization of open reading frames (ORFs).
- Mapping of regulatory sites including start codons, integration sites, and replication origins.
Main Results:
- The L2 genome is 11,965 bp long with 15 ORFs, organized into four clusters.
- Gene expression likely involves polycistronic mRNA and translational coupling.
- Putative integrase (ORF 5 product), signal peptides, attP site, and two ori sites were identified.
Conclusions:
- The L2 genome exhibits a compact organization with defined gene expression and replication strategies.
- Viral DNA integration is facilitated by a putative integrase and a specific attP site.
- The findings provide insights into the molecular mechanisms of L2 lysogeny and replication.