Analysis of a conserved RGE/RGD motif in HCV E2 in mediating entry
2009
Study of HCV E2 Protein and Its Role in Viral Entry
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Katharina B Rothwangl, Rong Lijun
Primary Institution: University of Illinois at Chicago
Hypothesis
Does the conserved RGE/RGD motif in HCV E2 mediate viral entry?
Conclusion
The RGE/D motif in HCV E2 is critical for viral entry, but does not appear to involve integrin binding.
Supporting Evidence
- Mutants with certain amino acid substitutions showed significantly reduced infectivity.
- The study confirmed that the RGE/D motif is critical for maintaining HCV infectivity.
- All substitutions maintained CD81 binding, indicating that reduced infectivity was not due to loss of this interaction.
Takeaway
The study looked at a part of the HCV virus that helps it enter cells. They found that changing certain building blocks in this part can make it harder for the virus to infect cells.
Methodology
The study used site-directed mutagenesis to create substitutions in the RGE/RGD motif and assessed their effects on HCV pseudoparticle infectivity in cell lines.
Limitations
The study does not explore all potential receptors involved in HCV entry.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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