The distinct binding properties between avian/human influenza A virus NS1 and Postsynaptic density protein-95 (PSD-95), and inhibition of nitric oxide production
2011

Influenza A Virus NS1 Protein and Its Interaction with PSD-95

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Zhang Heng, Li Weizhong, Wang Gefei, Su Yun, Zhang Chi, Chen Xiaoxuan, Xu Yanxuan, Li Kangsheng

Primary Institution: Shantou University Medical College

Hypothesis

NS1 binds to PSD-95, and this binding affects neuronal function.

Conclusion

The study indicates that NS1 of influenza A virus can bind with neuronal PSD-95, and the avian H5N1 and human H1N1 influenza A viruses possess distinct binding properties.

Supporting Evidence

  • NS1 of avian influenza virus H5N1 can bind to PSD-95, while NS1 of human influenza virus H1N1 cannot.
  • Binding of NS1 to PSD-95 significantly reduces nitric oxide production in rat hippocampal neurons.
  • The study provides insights into the distinct binding properties of NS1 proteins from avian and human influenza A viruses.

Takeaway

The NS1 protein from the avian flu can stick to a brain protein called PSD-95, which might change how brain cells work.

Methodology

Yeast two-hybrid analysis, GST-pull down assays, and co-immunoprecipitations were used to detect the interaction between NS1 and PSD-95.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.01

Statistical Significance

p<0.01

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1743-422X-8-298

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