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Expression of the SU glycoprotein of maedi visna virus in baculovirus
1Department of Veterinary Pathology, University of Edinburgh, U.K.
Abstract:
The envelope glycoprotein, gp 135, of the ovine lentivirus maedi visna virus is the main target for a specific antibody response in vivo, however, little is known about the specific regions of gp 135 which elicit this response. Research on the function of gp 135 has been hampered by the lack of reagents to study such structure/function relationships. We have used a baculovirus expression system to express gp 135 lacking the viral signal sequence. This recombinant protein is glycosylated and recognised by immune sera from clinically affected animals.
Insights
Researchers developed a new way to study ovine lentivirus envelope glycoprotein (gp 135). This recombinant protein is glycosylated and recognized by sheep antibodies, aiding structure-function studies.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- The ovine lentivirus maedi visna virus envelope glycoprotein (gp 135) is a key target for antibody responses.
- Understanding the specific regions of gp 135 that trigger these responses is crucial but limited.
- Existing research is hampered by a lack of suitable reagents for structure-function analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a recombinant form of the ovine lentivirus gp 135.
- To create a tool for studying the structure and function of gp 135.
- To facilitate the investigation of antibody responses against maedi visna virus.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a baculovirus expression system for protein production.
- Engineered gp 135 to lack the viral signal sequence.
- Characterized the recombinant protein for glycosylation and antibody recognition.
Main Results:
- Successfully produced a recombinant gp 135 protein lacking the viral signal sequence.
- The recombinant gp 135 was found to be glycosylated.
- Immune sera from clinically affected animals recognized the recombinant gp 135.
Conclusions:
- The recombinant gp 135 is a valuable tool for studying ovine lentivirus.
- This reagent will aid in understanding the structure-function relationships of gp 135.
- Further research can now investigate specific antigenic regions of gp 135.