The 24-angstrom structure of respiratory syncytial virus nucleocapsid protein-RNA decameric rings

Maclellan, K., Loney, C. , Yeo, R.P. and Bhella, D. (2007) The 24-angstrom structure of respiratory syncytial virus nucleocapsid protein-RNA decameric rings. Journal of Virology, 81(17), pp. 9519-9524. (doi: 10.1128/JVI.00526-07)

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Abstract

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a nonsegmented, negative-sense RNA-containing virus, is a common cause of lower respiratory tract disease. Expression of RSV nucleocapsid protein (N) in insect cells using the baculovirus expression system leads to the formation of N-RNA complexes that are morphologically indistinguishable from viral nucleocapsids. When imaged in an electron microscope, three distinct types of structures were observed: tightly wound short-pitch helices, highly extended helices, and rings. Negative stain images of N-RNA rings were used to calculate a three-dimensional reconstruction at 24 A resolution, revealing features similar to those observed in nucleocapsids from other viruses of the order Mononegavirales. The reconstructed N-RNA rings comprise 10 N monomers and have an external radius of 83 A and an internal radius of 40 A. Comparison of this structure with crystallographic data from rabies virus and vesicular stomatitis virus N-RNA rings reveals striking morphological similarities.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Bhella, Professor David and Loney, Mr Colin
Authors: Maclellan, K., Loney, C., Yeo, R.P., and Bhella, D.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Infection & Immunity
College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Infection & Immunity > Centre for Virus Research
Journal Name:Journal of Virology
Publisher:American Society for Microbiology
ISSN:0022-538X

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