A report, "The human TRIM5alpha restriction factor mediates accelerated uncoating of the N-tropic murine leukemia virus capsid," is newly published data in The Journal of Virology

04-10-2007

According to recent research from the United States, "The host cell factors TRIM5alpha(hu) and Fv-1 restrict N-tropic murine leukemia virus (N-MLV) infection at an early postentry step before or after reverse transcription, respectively. Interestingly, the identity of residue 110 of the MLV capsid determines susceptibility to both TRIM5alpha(hu) and Fv-1."

"In this study, we investigate the fate of the MLV capsid in cells expressing either the TRIM5alpha(hu) or Fv-1 restriction factor. The expression of TRIM5alpha(hu), but not Fv-1, specifically promoted the premature conversion of particulate N-MLV capsids within infected cells to soluble capsid proteins. The TRIM5alpha(hu)-mediated disassembly of particulate N-MLV capsids was dependent upon residue 110 of the viral capsid. Furthermore, the deletion or disruption of TRIM5alpha(hu) domains necessary for potent N-MLV restriction completely abrogated the disappearance of particulate N-MLV capsids observed with wild-type TRIM5alpha(hu)," wrote M.J. Perron and colleagues, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

The researchers concluded: "These results suggest that premature disassembly of the viral capsid contributes to the restriction of N-MLV infection by TRIM5alpha(hu), but not by Fv-1."

Perron and colleagues published their study in the Journal of Virology (The human TRIM5alpha restriction factor mediates accelerated uncoating of the N-tropic murine leukemia virus capsid. Journal of Virology, 2007;81(5):2138-48).

For additional information, contact M.J. Perron, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, 44 Binney Street, JFB 824, Boston, MA 02115 USA.

This article was prepared by Life Science Weekly editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2007, Life Science Weekly via NewsRx.com.