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Ferron F, Lescar J. The Phlebovirus Ribonucleoprotein: An Overview. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2824:259-280. [PMID: 39039418 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3926-9_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
In negative strand RNA viruses, ribonucleoproteins, not naked RNA, constitute the template used by the large protein endowed with polymerase activity for replicating and transcribing the viral genome. Here we give an overview of the structures and functions of the ribonucleoprotein from phleboviruses. The nucleocapsid monomer, which constitutes the basic structural unit, possesses a flexible arm allowing for a conformational switch between a closed monomeric state and the formation of a polymeric filamentous structure competent for viral RNA binding and encapsidation in the open state of N. The modes of N-N oligomerization as well as interactions with vRNA are described. Finally, recent advances in tomography open exciting perspectives for a more complete understanding of N-L interactions and the design of specific antiviral compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- François Ferron
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS - Architecture et Fonction des Macromolécules Biologiques (AFMB) UMR7257, Marseille, France.
- European Virus Bioinformatics Center, Jena, Germany.
| | - Julien Lescar
- School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore.
- NTU Institute of Structural Biology, Nanyang Technological University, Experimental Medicine Building, Singapore, Singapore.
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2
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Sabsay KR, te Velthuis AJW. Negative and ambisense RNA virus ribonucleocapsids: more than protective armor. Microbiol Mol Biol Rev 2023; 87:e0008223. [PMID: 37750733 PMCID: PMC10732063 DOI: 10.1128/mmbr.00082-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYNegative and ambisense RNA viruses are the causative agents of important human diseases such as influenza, measles, Lassa fever, and Ebola hemorrhagic fever. The viral genome of these RNA viruses consists of one or more single-stranded RNA molecules that are encapsidated by viral nucleocapsid proteins to form a ribonucleoprotein complex (RNP). This RNP acts as protection, as a scaffold for RNA folding, and as the context for viral replication and transcription by a viral RNA polymerase. However, the roles of the viral nucleoproteins extend beyond these functions during the viral infection cycle. Recent advances in structural biology techniques and analysis methods have provided new insights into the formation, function, dynamics, and evolution of negative sense virus nucleocapsid proteins, as well as the role that they play in host innate immune responses against viral infection. In this review, we discuss the various roles of nucleocapsid proteins, both in the context of RNPs and in RNA-free states, as well as the open questions that remain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kimberly R. Sabsay
- Lewis Thomas Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, USA
- Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, USA
| | - Aartjan J. W. te Velthuis
- Lewis Thomas Laboratory, Department of Molecular Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, USA
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3
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Faisal S, Badshah SL, Sharaf M, Abdalla M. Insight into the Hantaan virus RNA-dependent RNA polymerase inhibition using in-silico approaches. Mol Divers 2023; 27:2505-2522. [PMID: 36376718 PMCID: PMC9663193 DOI: 10.1007/s11030-022-10567-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The Hantaan virus (HTN) is a member of the hantaviridae family. It is a segmented type, negative-strand virus (sNSVs). It causes hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome, which includes fever, vascular hemorrhage, and renal failure. This illness is one of the most serious hemorrhagic diseases in the world, and it is a major public health concern due to its high mortality rate. The Hantaan virus RNA-dependent RNA polymerase complex (RdRp) is involved in viral RNA transcription and replication for the survival and transmission of this virus. Therefore, it is a primary target for antiviral drug development. Interference with the endonucleolytic "cap-snatching" reaction by the HTN virus RdRp endonuclease domain is a particularly appealing approach for drug discovery against this virus. This RdRp endonuclease domain of the HTN virus has a metal-dependent catalytic activity. We targeted this metal-dependent enzymatic activity to identify inhibitors that can bind and disrupt this endonuclease enzyme activity using in-silico approaches i.e., molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation, predicted absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, toxicity (ADMET) and drug-likeness studies. The docking studies showed that peramivir, and ingavirin compounds can effectively bind with the manganese ions and engage with other active site residues of this protein. Molecular simulations also showed stable binding of these ligands with the active site of HTN RdRp. Simulation analysis showed that they were in constant contact with the active site manganese ions and amino acid residues of the HTN virus endonuclease domain. This study will help in better understanding the HTN and related viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shah Faisal
- Department of Chemistry, Islamia College University Peshawar, Peshawar, 25120, Pakistan
| | - Syed Lal Badshah
- Department of Chemistry, Islamia College University Peshawar, Peshawar, 25120, Pakistan.
| | - Mohamed Sharaf
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, AL-Azhar University, Nasr City, Cairo, 11751, Egypt
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Marine Life Sciences, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, 266003, People's Republic of China
| | - Mohnad Abdalla
- Pediatric Research Institute, Children's Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jinan, 250022, China.
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4
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Jacob AT, Ziegler BM, Farha SM, Vivian LR, Zilinski CA, Armstrong AR, Burdette AJ, Beachboard DC, Stobart CC. Sin Nombre Virus and the Emergence of Other Hantaviruses: A Review of the Biology, Ecology, and Disease of a Zoonotic Pathogen. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1413. [PMID: 37998012 PMCID: PMC10669331 DOI: 10.3390/biology12111413] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2023] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Sin Nombre virus (SNV) is an emerging virus that was first discovered in the Four Corners region of the United States in 1993. The virus causes a disease known as Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), sometimes called Hantavirus Cardiopulmonary Syndrome (HCPS), a life-threatening illness named for the predominance of infection of pulmonary endothelial cells. SNV is one of several rodent-borne hantaviruses found in the western hemisphere with the capability of causing this disease. The primary reservoir of SNV is the deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus), and the virus is transmitted primarily through aerosolized rodent excreta and secreta. Here, we review the history of SNV emergence and its virus biology and relationship to other New World hantaviruses, disease, treatment, and prevention options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew T. Jacob
- Department of Biological Sciences, Butler University, Indianapolis, IN 46208, USA
| | | | - Stefania M. Farha
- Department of Biological Sciences, Butler University, Indianapolis, IN 46208, USA
| | - Lyla R. Vivian
- Department of Biological Sciences, Butler University, Indianapolis, IN 46208, USA
| | - Cora A. Zilinski
- Department of Biology, DeSales University, Center Valley, PA 18034, USA
| | | | - Andrew J. Burdette
- Department of Biological Sciences, Butler University, Indianapolis, IN 46208, USA
| | - Dia C. Beachboard
- Department of Biology, DeSales University, Center Valley, PA 18034, USA
| | - Christopher C. Stobart
- Department of Biological Sciences, Butler University, Indianapolis, IN 46208, USA
- Interdisciplinary Program in Public Health, Butler University, Indianapolis, IN 46208, USA
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5
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Wang Y, Zhang C, Luo Y, Ling X, Luo B, Jia G, Su D, Dong H, Su Z. Cryo-EM structure of the nucleocapsid-like assembly of respiratory syncytial virus. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:323. [PMID: 37607909 PMCID: PMC10444854 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-023-01602-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a nonsegmented, negative strand RNA virus that has caused severe lower respiratory tract infections of high mortality rates in infants and the elderly, yet no effective vaccine or antiviral therapy is available. The RSV genome encodes the nucleoprotein (N) that forms helical assembly to encapsulate and protect the RNA genome from degradation, and to serve as a template for transcription and replication. Previous crystal structure revealed a decameric ring architecture of N in complex with the cellular RNA (N-RNA) of 70 nucleotides (70-nt), whereas cryo-ET reconstruction revealed a low-resolution left-handed filament, in which the crystal monomer structure was docked with the helical symmetry applied to simulate a nucleocapsid-like assembly of RSV. However, the molecular details of RSV nucleocapsid assembly remain unknown, which continue to limit our complete understanding of the critical interactions involved in the nucleocapsid and antiviral development that may target this essential process during the viral life cycle. Here we resolve the near-atomic cryo-EM structure of RSV N-RNA that represents roughly one turn of the helical assembly that unveils critical interaction interfaces of RSV nucleocapsid and may facilitate development of RSV antiviral therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Wang
- The State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Frontiers Medical Center of Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Department of Geriatrics and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610044, China
| | - Chong Zhang
- The State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Frontiers Medical Center of Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Department of Geriatrics and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610044, China
| | - Yongbo Luo
- The State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Frontiers Medical Center of Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Department of Geriatrics and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610044, China
| | - Xiaobin Ling
- The State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Frontiers Medical Center of Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Department of Geriatrics and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610044, China
| | - Bingnan Luo
- The State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Frontiers Medical Center of Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Department of Geriatrics and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610044, China
| | - Guowen Jia
- The State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Frontiers Medical Center of Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Department of Geriatrics and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610044, China
| | - Dan Su
- The State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Frontiers Medical Center of Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Department of Geriatrics and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610044, China
| | - Haohao Dong
- The State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Frontiers Medical Center of Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Department of Geriatrics and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610044, China
| | - Zhaoming Su
- The State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy, Frontiers Medical Center of Tianfu Jincheng Laboratory, Department of Geriatrics and National Clinical Research Center for Geriatrics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, 610044, China.
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6
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Izhaki-Tavor LS, Yechezkel IG, Alter J, Dessau M. RNA Encapsulation Mode and Evolutionary Insights from the Crystal Structure of Emaravirus Nucleoprotein. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0501822. [PMID: 37039649 PMCID: PMC10269810 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.05018-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Enveloped RNA viruses are rare among plant viruses. Fimoviridae is a newly founded family of plant viruses within the Bunyavirales order that inflicts diverse crop losses worldwide. The fig mosaic virus (FMV), the representative member of the Fimoviridae family, was shown to be a causative agent for the fig mosaic disease. Like all bunyaviruses, FMV has a segmented, negative-sense, single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) genome that is encapsulated by the viral nucleoprotein (N). Here, we present high-resolution crystal structures of FMV N in its RNA-free and RNA-bound forms, revealing a "paper fortune teller" structural transition between the two states. The tightly packed tetramer of FNV N is similar to the structures of other N proteins of different members of the Bunyavirales order. In its RNA-bound form, the tetramer reorganizes to adopt a more open state that allows the accommodation of the RNA. Despite the low sequence similarity to N proteins of animal-infecting bunyaviruses, there is a striking structural resemblance between FMV N and nucleoproteins from members of the Peribunyaviridae, an animal-infecting family of viruses. This structural homology implies that enveloped plant viruses and animal-infecting viruses might have a common ancestor from which they diverged. IMPORTANCE Most insect-born viruses circulate within the Animalia kingdom, whereas plant-infecting RNA viruses are cross-kingdom pathogens. Many plant-infecting viruses cause devastating crop damage that leads to food security endangerment. The evolutionary crossroads of interkingdom circulation and infection are poorly understood. Thus, we took the structural approach to understand the similarities and differences between interkingdom-infecting viruses and viruses that circulate within one kingdom of life. Using our structures of FMV N in its free form and in complex with a single-stranded RNA (ssRNA), we dissected the mechanism by which FMV N binds to the RNA and revealed the conformational changes associated with the binding. The resemblance of our structure to N proteins from members of the Peribunyaviridae family and their recently published ribonucleoprotein (RNP) pseudoatomic resolution assembly model suggests that the FMV genome is similarly encapsulated. Thus, our finding unveils yet another bridge by which plant- and animal-infecting viruses are interconnected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee S. Izhaki-Tavor
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine in the Galilee, Bar-Ilan University, Safed, Israel
| | - Itai G. Yechezkel
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine in the Galilee, Bar-Ilan University, Safed, Israel
| | - Joel Alter
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine in the Galilee, Bar-Ilan University, Safed, Israel
| | - Moshe Dessau
- Azrieli Faculty of Medicine in the Galilee, Bar-Ilan University, Safed, Israel
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LaPointe A, Gale M, Kell AM. Orthohantavirus Replication in the Context of Innate Immunity. Viruses 2023; 15:1130. [PMID: 37243216 PMCID: PMC10220641 DOI: 10.3390/v15051130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Orthohantaviruses are rodent-borne, negative-sense RNA viruses that are capable of causing severe vascular disease in humans. Over the course of viral evolution, these viruses have tailored their replication cycles in such a way as to avoid and/or antagonize host innate immune responses. In the rodent reservoir, this results in life long asymptomatic infections. However, in hosts other than its co-evolved reservoir, the mechanisms for subduing the innate immune response may be less efficient or absent, potentially leading to disease and/or viral clearance. In the case of human orthohantavirus infection, the interaction of the innate immune response with viral replication is thought to give rise to severe vascular disease. The orthohantavirus field has made significant advancements in understanding how these viruses replicate and interact with host innate immune responses since their identification by Dr. Ho Wang Lee and colleagues in 1976. Therefore, the purpose of this review, as part of this special issue dedicated to Dr. Lee, was to summarize the current knowledge of orthohantavirus replication, how viral replication activates innate immunity, and how the host antiviral response, in turn, impacts viral replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Autumn LaPointe
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico, 915 Camino de Salud NE, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - Michael Gale
- Department of Immunology, Center for Innate Immunity and Immune Disease, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Alison M. Kell
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico, 915 Camino de Salud NE, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
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8
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Wang ZX, Liu B, Yang T, Yu D, Zhang C, Zheng L, Xie J, Liu B, Liu M, Peng H, Lai L, Ouyang Q, Ouyang S, Zhang YA. Structure of the Spring Viraemia of Carp Virus Ribonucleoprotein Complex Reveals Its Assembly Mechanism and Application in Antiviral Drug Screening. J Virol 2023; 97:e0182922. [PMID: 36943056 PMCID: PMC10134867 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01829-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Spring viremia of carp virus (SVCV) is a highly pathogenic Vesiculovirus infecting the common carp, yet neither a vaccine nor effective therapies are available to treat spring viremia of carp (SVC). Like all negative-sense viruses, SVCV contains an RNA genome that is encapsidated by the nucleoprotein (N) in the form of a ribonucleoprotein (RNP) complex, which serves as the template for viral replication and transcription. Here, the three-dimensional (3D) structure of SVCV RNP was resolved through cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) at a resolution of 3.7 Å. RNP assembly was stabilized by N and C loops; RNA was wrapped in the groove between the N and C lobes with 9 nt nucleotide per protomer. Combined with mutational analysis, our results elucidated the mechanism of RNP formation. The RNA binding groove of SVCV N was used as a target for drug virtual screening, and it was found suramin had a good antiviral effect. This study provided insights into RNP assembly, and anti-SVCV drug screening was performed on the basis of this structure, providing a theoretical basis and efficient drug screening method for the prevention and treatment of SVC. IMPORTANCE Aquaculture accounts for about 70% of global aquatic products, and viral diseases severely harm the development of aquaculture industry. Spring viremia of carp virus (SVCV) is the pathogen causing highly contagious spring viremia of carp (SVC) disease in cyprinids, especially common carp (Cyprinus carpio), yet neither a vaccine nor effective therapies are available to treat this disease. In this study, we have elucidated the mechanism of SVCV ribonucleoprotein complex (RNP) formation by resolving the 3D structure of SVCV RNP and screened antiviral drugs based on the structure. It is found that suramin could competitively bind to the RNA binding groove and has good antiviral effects both in vivo and in vitro. Our study provides a template for rational drug discovery efforts to treat and prevent SVCV infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhao-Xi Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Engineering Research Center of Green Development for Conventional Aquatic Biological Industry in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, Ministry of Education, College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Bing Liu
- Center for Quantitative Biology, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Tian Yang
- School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Daqi Yu
- School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Chu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Engineering Research Center of Green Development for Conventional Aquatic Biological Industry in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, Ministry of Education, College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Liming Zheng
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Jin Xie
- Center for Quantitative Biology, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Bin Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Engineering Research Center of Green Development for Conventional Aquatic Biological Industry in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, Ministry of Education, College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
| | - Mengxi Liu
- The Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology of Fujian Province, Provincial University Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Response and Metabolic Regulation, Biomedical Research Center of South China, Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Science and Technology for Medicine of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Hailin Peng
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Luhua Lai
- Center for Quantitative Biology, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, China
- College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Qi Ouyang
- Center for Quantitative Biology, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing, China
- School of Physics, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Songying Ouyang
- The Key Laboratory of Innate Immune Biology of Fujian Province, Provincial University Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Response and Metabolic Regulation, Biomedical Research Center of South China, Key Laboratory of Optoelectronic Science and Technology for Medicine of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yong-An Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Agricultural Microbiology, Hubei Hongshan Laboratory, Engineering Research Center of Green Development for Conventional Aquatic Biological Industry in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, Ministry of Education, College of Fisheries, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, China
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Modrego A, Carlero D, Arranz R, Martín-Benito J. CryoEM of Viral Ribonucleoproteins and Nucleocapsids of Single-Stranded RNA Viruses. Viruses 2023; 15:v15030653. [PMID: 36992363 PMCID: PMC10053253 DOI: 10.3390/v15030653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Single-stranded RNA viruses (ssRNAv) are characterized by their biological diversity and great adaptability to different hosts; traits which make them a major threat to human health due to their potential to cause zoonotic outbreaks. A detailed understanding of the mechanisms involved in viral proliferation is essential to address the challenges posed by these pathogens. Key to these processes are ribonucleoproteins (RNPs), the genome-containing RNA-protein complexes whose function is to carry out viral transcription and replication. Structural determination of RNPs can provide crucial information on the molecular mechanisms of these processes, paving the way for the development of new, more effective strategies to control and prevent the spread of ssRNAv diseases. In this scenario, cryogenic electron microscopy (cryoEM), relying on the technical and methodological revolution it has undergone in recent years, can provide invaluable help in elucidating how these macromolecular complexes are organized, packaged within the virion, or the functional implications of these structures. In this review, we summarize some of the most prominent achievements by cryoEM in the study of RNP and nucleocapsid structures in lipid-enveloped ssRNAv.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Modrego
- Departamento de Estructura de Macromoléculas, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CNB-CSIC), 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Diego Carlero
- Departamento de Estructura de Macromoléculas, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CNB-CSIC), 28049 Madrid, Spain
- Departamento de Física de la Materia Condensada, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Rocío Arranz
- Departamento de Estructura de Macromoléculas, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CNB-CSIC), 28049 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: (R.A.); (J.M.-B.)
| | - Jaime Martín-Benito
- Departamento de Estructura de Macromoléculas, Centro Nacional de Biotecnología Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CNB-CSIC), 28049 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: (R.A.); (J.M.-B.)
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10
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Optimal Conditions for In Vitro Assembly of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Nucleocapsid-like Particles. Viruses 2023; 15:v15020344. [PMID: 36851557 PMCID: PMC9962444 DOI: 10.3390/v15020344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The nucleocapsids (NCs) of the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) can display multiple morphologies in vivo, including spherical, asymmetric, and filamentous conformations. Obtaining homogeneous ring-like oligomers in vitro is significant since they structurally represent one turn of the characteristic RSV NC helical filament. Here, we analyzed and optimized conditions for forming homogenous, recombinant nucleocapsid-like particles (NCLPs) of RSV in vitro. We examined the effects of modifying the integrated RNA length and sequence, altering incubation time, and varying buffer parameters, including salt concentration and pH, on ring-like NCLPs assembly using negative stain electron microscopy (EM) imaging. We showed that high-quality, homogeneous particles are assembled when incubating short, adenine-rich RNA sequences with RNA-free N associated with P (N0P). Further, we reported that a co-incubation duration greater than 3 days, a NaCl concentration between 100 mM and 200 mM, and a pH between 7 and 8 are optimal for N-RNA ring assembly with polyadenine RNA sequences. We believe assembling high-quality, homogeneous NCLPs in vitro will allow for further analysis of RSV RNA synthesis. This work may also lend insights into obtaining high-resolution nucleocapsid homogeneous structures for in vitro analysis of antiviral drug candidates against RSV and related viruses.
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Menke L, Sperber HS, Aji AK, Chiantia S, Schwarzer R, Sieben C. Advances in fluorescence microscopy for orthohantavirus research. Microscopy (Oxf) 2023:6987530. [PMID: 36639937 DOI: 10.1093/jmicro/dfac075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Orthohantaviruses are important zoonotic pathogens responsible for a considerable disease burden globally. Partly due to our incomplete understanding of orthohantavirus replication, there is currently no effective antiviral treatment available. Recently, novel microscopy techniques and cutting-edge, automated image analysis algorithms have emerged, enabling to study cellular, subcellular and even molecular processes in unprecedented detail and depth. To date, fluorescence light microscopy allows us to visualize viral and cellular components and macromolecular complexes in live cells which in turn enables the study of specific steps of the viral replication cycle such as particle entry or protein trafficking at high temporal and spatial resolution. In this review, we highlight how fluorescence microscopy has provided new insights and improved our understanding of orthohantavirus biology. We discuss technical challenges such as studying live infected cells, give alternatives with recombinant protein expression and highlight future opportunities for example the application of super-resolution microscopy techniques, which has shown great potential in studies of different cellular processes and viral pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Menke
- Nanoscale Infection Biology Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Hannah S Sperber
- Institute for Translational HIV Research, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Amit Koikkarah Aji
- University of Potsdam, Institute of Biochemistry and Biology, Department of Physical Biochemistry, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Salvatore Chiantia
- University of Potsdam, Institute of Biochemistry and Biology, Department of Physical Biochemistry, Potsdam, Germany
| | - Roland Schwarzer
- Institute for Translational HIV Research, University Hospital Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Christian Sieben
- Nanoscale Infection Biology Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany.,Institute of Genetics, Technische Universität Braunschweig, Braunschweig, Germany
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12
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Malet H, Williams HM, Cusack S, Rosenthal M. The mechanism of genome replication and transcription in bunyaviruses. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011060. [PMID: 36634042 PMCID: PMC9836281 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Bunyaviruses are negative sense, single-strand RNA viruses that infect a wide range of vertebrate, invertebrate and plant hosts. WHO lists three bunyavirus diseases as priority diseases requiring urgent development of medical countermeasures highlighting their high epidemic potential. While the viral large (L) protein containing the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase is a key enzyme in the viral replication cycle and therefore a suitable drug target, our knowledge on the structure and activities of this multifunctional protein has, until recently, been very limited. However, in the last few years, facilitated by the technical advances in the field of cryogenic electron microscopy, many structures of bunyavirus L proteins have been solved. These structures significantly enhance our mechanistic understanding of bunyavirus genome replication and transcription processes and highlight differences and commonalities between the L proteins of different bunyavirus families. Here, we provide a review of our current understanding of genome replication and transcription in bunyaviruses with a focus on the viral L protein. Further, we compare within bunyaviruses and with the related influenza virus polymerase complex and highlight open questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hélène Malet
- University Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, CEA, IBS, Grenoble, France
- Institut Universitaire de France (IUF), Paris, France
| | - Harry M. Williams
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine (BNITM), Hamburg, Germany
- Centre for Structural Systems Biology, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Maria Rosenthal
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine (BNITM), Hamburg, Germany
- Centre for Structural Systems Biology, Hamburg, Germany
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology (ITMP), Discovery Research ScreeningPort, Hamburg, Germany
- * E-mail:
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13
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Hopkins FR, Álvarez-Rodríguez B, Heath GR, Panayi K, Hover S, Edwards TA, Barr JN, Fontana J. The Native Orthobunyavirus Ribonucleoprotein Possesses a Helical Architecture. mBio 2022; 13:e0140522. [PMID: 35762594 PMCID: PMC9426602 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01405-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Bunyavirales order is the largest group of negative-sense RNA viruses, containing many lethal human pathogens for which approved anti-infective measures are not available. The bunyavirus genome consists of multiple negative-sense RNA segments enwrapped by the virus-encoded nucleocapsid protein (NP), which together with the viral polymerase form ribonucleoproteins (RNPs). RNPs represent substrates for RNA synthesis and virion assembly, which require inherent flexibility, consistent with the appearance of RNPs spilled from virions. These observations have resulted in conflicting models describing the overall RNP architecture. Here, we purified RNPs from Bunyamwera virus (BUNV), the prototypical orthobunyavirus. The lengths of purified RNPs imaged by negative staining resulted in 3 populations of RNPs, suggesting that RNPs possess a consistent method of condensation. Employing microscopy approaches, we conclusively show that the NP portion of BUNV RNPs is helical. Furthermore, we present a pseudo-atomic model for this portion based on a cryo-electron microscopy average at 13 Å resolution, which allowed us to fit the BUNV NP crystal structure by molecular dynamics. This model was confirmed by NP mutagenesis using a mini-genome system. The model shows that adjacent NP monomers in the RNP chain interact laterally through flexible N- and C-terminal arms only, with no longitudinal helix-stabilizing interactions, thus providing a potential model for the molecular basis for RNP flexibility. Excessive RNase treatment disrupts native RNPs, suggesting that RNA was key in maintaining the RNP structure. Overall, this work will inform studies on bunyaviral RNP assembly, packaging, and RNA replication, and aid in future antiviral strategies. IMPORTANCE Bunyaviruses are emerging RNA viruses that cause significant disease and economic burden and for which vaccines or therapies approved for humans are not available. The bunyavirus genome is wrapped up by the nucleoprotein (NP) and interacts with the viral polymerase, forming a ribonucleoprotein (RNP). This is the only form of the genome active for viral replication and assembly. However, until now how NPs are organized within an RNP was not known for any orthobunyavirus. Here, we purified RNPs from the prototypical orthobunyavirus, Bunyamwera virus, and employed microscopy approaches to show that the NP portion of the RNP was helical. We then combined our helical average with the known structure of an NP monomer, generating a pseudo-atomic model of this region. This arrangement allowed the RNPs to be highly flexible, which was critical for several stages of the viral replication cycle, such as segment circularization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francis R. Hopkins
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leedsgrid.9909.9, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leedsgrid.9909.9, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Beatriz Álvarez-Rodríguez
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leedsgrid.9909.9, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leedsgrid.9909.9, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - George R. Heath
- Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leedsgrid.9909.9, Leeds, United Kingdom
- School of Physics and Astronomy, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Leedsgrid.9909.9, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Kyriakoulla Panayi
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leedsgrid.9909.9, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leedsgrid.9909.9, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Samantha Hover
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leedsgrid.9909.9, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leedsgrid.9909.9, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas A. Edwards
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leedsgrid.9909.9, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leedsgrid.9909.9, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - John N. Barr
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leedsgrid.9909.9, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leedsgrid.9909.9, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Juan Fontana
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leedsgrid.9909.9, Leeds, United Kingdom
- Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leedsgrid.9909.9, Leeds, United Kingdom
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14
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Xue H, Zhang M, Liu J, Wang J, Ren G. Cryo-electron tomography related radiation-damage parameters for individual-molecule 3D structure determination. Front Chem 2022; 10:889203. [PMID: 36110139 PMCID: PMC9468540 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2022.889203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
To understand the dynamic structure-function relationship of soft- and biomolecules, the determination of the three-dimensional (3D) structure of each individual molecule (nonaveraged structure) in its native state is sought-after. Cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET) is a unique tool for imaging an individual object from a series of tilted views. However, due to radiation damage from the incident electron beam, the tolerable electron dose limits image contrast and the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the data, preventing the 3D structure determination of individual molecules, especially at high-resolution. Although recently developed technologies and techniques, such as the direct electron detector, phase plate, and computational algorithms, can partially improve image contrast/SNR at the same electron dose, the high-resolution structure, such as tertiary structure of individual molecules, has not yet been resolved. Here, we review the cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and cryo-ET experimental parameters to discuss how these parameters affect the extent of radiation damage. This discussion can guide us in optimizing the experimental strategy to increase the imaging dose or improve image SNR without increasing the radiation damage. With a higher dose, a higher image contrast/SNR can be achieved, which is crucial for individual-molecule 3D structure. With 3D structures determined from an ensemble of individual molecules in different conformations, the molecular mechanism through their biochemical reactions, such as self-folding or synthesis, can be elucidated in a straightforward manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Xue
- The Molecular Foundry, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, United States
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Science, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- The Molecular Foundry, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Jianfang Liu
- The Molecular Foundry, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, United States
| | - Jianjun Wang
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Science, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Gang Ren
- The Molecular Foundry, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Berkeley, CA, United States
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15
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Guardado-Calvo P, Rey FA. The Viral Class II Membrane Fusion Machinery: Divergent Evolution from an Ancestral Heterodimer. Viruses 2021; 13:v13122368. [PMID: 34960636 PMCID: PMC8706100 DOI: 10.3390/v13122368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A key step during the entry of enveloped viruses into cells is the merger of viral and cell lipid bilayers. This process is driven by a dedicated membrane fusion protein (MFP) present at the virion surface, which undergoes a membrane–fusogenic conformational change triggered by interactions with the target cell. Viral MFPs have been extensively studied structurally, and are divided into three classes depending on their three-dimensional fold. Because MFPs of the same class are found in otherwise unrelated viruses, their intra-class structural homology indicates horizontal gene exchange. We focus this review on the class II fusion machinery, which is composed of two glycoproteins that associate as heterodimers. They fold together in the ER of infected cells such that the MFP adopts a conformation primed to react to specific clues only upon contact with a target cell, avoiding premature fusion in the producer cell. We show that, despite having diverged in their 3D fold during evolution much more than the actual MFP, the class II accompanying proteins (AP) also derive from a distant common ancestor, displaying an invariant core formed by a β-ribbon and a C-terminal immunoglobulin-like domain playing different functional roles—heterotypic interactions with the MFP, and homotypic AP/AP contacts to form spikes, respectively. Our analysis shows that class II APs are easily identifiable with modern structural prediction algorithms, providing useful information in devising immunogens for vaccine design.
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16
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Meier K, Thorkelsson SR, Quemin ERJ, Rosenthal M. Hantavirus Replication Cycle-An Updated Structural Virology Perspective. Viruses 2021; 13:1561. [PMID: 34452426 PMCID: PMC8402763 DOI: 10.3390/v13081561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Hantaviruses infect a wide range of hosts including insectivores and rodents and can also cause zoonotic infections in humans, which can lead to severe disease with possible fatal outcomes. Hantavirus outbreaks are usually linked to the population dynamics of the host animals and their habitats being in close proximity to humans, which is becoming increasingly important in a globalized world. Currently there is neither an approved vaccine nor a specific and effective antiviral treatment available for use in humans. Hantaviruses belong to the order Bunyavirales with a tri-segmented negative-sense RNA genome. They encode only five viral proteins and replicate and transcribe their genome in the cytoplasm of infected cells. However, many details of the viral amplification cycle are still unknown. In recent years, structural biology methods such as cryo-electron tomography, cryo-electron microscopy, and crystallography have contributed essentially to our understanding of virus entry by membrane fusion as well as genome encapsidation by the nucleoprotein. In this review, we provide an update on the hantavirus replication cycle with a special focus on structural virology aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Meier
- Department of Virology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, 20359 Hamburg, Germany;
| | - Sigurdur R. Thorkelsson
- Centre for Structural Systems Biology, Leibniz Institute for Experimental Virology, University of Hamburg, 22607 Hamburg, Germany;
| | - Emmanuelle R. J. Quemin
- Centre for Structural Systems Biology, Leibniz Institute for Experimental Virology, University of Hamburg, 22607 Hamburg, Germany;
| | - Maria Rosenthal
- Department of Virology, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, 20359 Hamburg, Germany;
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP, 22525 Hamburg, Germany
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17
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Wu C, Qavi AJ, Hachim A, Kavian N, Cole AR, Moyle AB, Wagner ND, Sweeney-Gibbons J, Rohrs HW, Gross ML, Peiris JSM, Basler CF, Farnsworth CW, Valkenburg SA, Amarasinghe GK, Leung DW. Characterization of SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein reveals multiple functional consequences of the C-terminal domain. iScience 2021; 24:102681. [PMID: 34095780 PMCID: PMC8168301 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.102681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Nucleocapsid (N) encoded by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) plays key roles in the replication cycle and is a critical serological marker. Here, we characterize essential biochemical properties of N and describe the utility of these insights in serological studies. We define N domains important for oligomerization and RNA binding and show that N oligomerization provides a high-affinity RNA-binding platform. We also map the RNA-binding interface, showing protection in the N-terminal domain and linker region. In addition, phosphorylation causes reduction of RNA binding and redistribution of N from liquid droplets to loose coils, showing how N-RNA accessibility and assembly may be regulated by phosphorylation. Finally, we find that the C-terminal domain of N is the most immunogenic, based on antibody binding to patient samples. Together, we provide a biochemical description of SARS-CoV-2 N and highlight the value of using N domains as highly specific and sensitive diagnostic markers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Wu
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Abraham J. Qavi
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Asmaa Hachim
- HKU-Pasteur Research Pole, School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Niloufar Kavian
- HKU-Pasteur Research Pole, School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Faculté de Médecine, Assistance Publique–Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Cochin, Service d’Immunologie Biologique, Paris, France
- Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Aidan R. Cole
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Austin B. Moyle
- Department of Chemistry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Nicole D. Wagner
- Department of Chemistry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Joyce Sweeney-Gibbons
- Center for Microbial Pathogenesis, Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Henry W. Rohrs
- Department of Chemistry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Michael L. Gross
- Department of Chemistry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - J. S. Malik Peiris
- HKU-Pasteur Research Pole, School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Division of Public Health Laboratory Sciences, School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Christopher F. Basler
- Center for Microbial Pathogenesis, Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Christopher W. Farnsworth
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Sophie A. Valkenburg
- HKU-Pasteur Research Pole, School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Gaya K. Amarasinghe
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Daisy W. Leung
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
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18
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Abstract
RNA viruses include many important human and animal pathogens, such as the influenza viruses, respiratory syncytial virus, Ebola virus, measles virus and rabies virus. The genomes of these viruses consist of single or multiple RNA segments that assemble with oligomeric viral nucleoprotein into ribonucleoprotein complexes. Replication and transcription of the viral genome is performed by ~250-450 kDa viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerases that also contain capping or cap-snatching activity. In this Review, we compare recent high-resolution X-ray and cryoelectron microscopy structures of RNA polymerases of negative-sense RNA viruses with segmented and non-segmented genomes, including orthomyxoviruses, peribunyaviruses, phenuiviruses, arenaviruses, rhabdoviruses, pneumoviruses and paramyxoviruses. In addition, we discuss how structural insights into these enzymes contribute to our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of viral transcription and replication, and how we can use these insights to identify targets for antiviral drug design.
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19
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Wu C, Qavi AJ, Hachim A, Kavian N, Cole AR, Moyle AB, Wagner ND, Sweeney-Gibbons J, Rohrs HW, Gross ML, Peiris JSM, Basler CF, Farnsworth CW, Valkenburg SA, Amarasinghe GK, Leung DW. Characterization of SARS-CoV-2 N protein reveals multiple functional consequences of the C-terminal domain. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2020:2020.11.30.404905. [PMID: 33269347 PMCID: PMC7709165 DOI: 10.1101/2020.11.30.404905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Nucleocapsid protein (N) is the most abundant viral protein encoded by SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19. N plays key roles at different steps in the replication cycle and is used as a serological marker of infection. Here we characterize the biochemical properties of SARS-CoV-2 N. We define the N domains important for oligomerization and RNA binding that are associated with spherical droplet formation and suggest that N accessibility and assembly may be regulated by phosphorylation. We also map the RNA binding interface using hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry. Finally, we find that the N protein C-terminal domain is the most immunogenic by sensitivity, based upon antibody binding to COVID-19 patient samples from the US and Hong Kong. Together, these findings uncover domain-specific insights into the significance of SARS-CoV-2 N and highlight the diagnostic value of using N domains as highly specific and sensitive markers of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Wu
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Abraham J Qavi
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Asmaa Hachim
- HKU-Pasteur Research Pole, School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Niloufar Kavian
- HKU-Pasteur Research Pole, School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Faculté de Médecine, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Hôpital Universitaire Paris Centre, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Cochin, Service d'Immunologie Biologique, Paris, France
- Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, Université Paris Descartes, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris
| | - Aidan R Cole
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Austin B Moyle
- Department of Chemistry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Nicole D Wagner
- Department of Chemistry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Joyce Sweeney-Gibbons
- Center for Microbial Pathogenesis, Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Henry W Rohrs
- Department of Chemistry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Michael L Gross
- Department of Chemistry, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - J S Malik Peiris
- HKU-Pasteur Research Pole, School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Division of Public Health Laboratory Sciences, School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Christopher F Basler
- Center for Microbial Pathogenesis, Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Christopher W Farnsworth
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Sophie A Valkenburg
- HKU-Pasteur Research Pole, School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Gaya K Amarasinghe
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Daisy W Leung
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
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20
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Luo M, Terrell JR, Mcmanus SA. Nucleocapsid Structure of Negative Strand RNA Virus. Viruses 2020; 12:E835. [PMID: 32751700 PMCID: PMC7472042 DOI: 10.3390/v12080835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Negative strand RNA viruses (NSVs) include many important human pathogens, such as influenza virus, Ebola virus, and rabies virus. One of the unique characteristics that NSVs share is the assembly of the nucleocapsid and its role in viral RNA synthesis. In NSVs, the single strand RNA genome is encapsidated in the linear nucleocapsid throughout the viral replication cycle. Subunits of the nucleocapsid protein are parallelly aligned along the RNA genome that is sandwiched between two domains composed of conserved helix motifs. The viral RNA-dependent-RNA polymerase (vRdRp) must recognize the protein-RNA complex of the nucleocapsid and unveil the protected genomic RNA in order to initiate viral RNA synthesis. In addition, vRdRp must continuously translocate along the protein-RNA complex during elongation in viral RNA synthesis. This unique mechanism of viral RNA synthesis suggests that the nucleocapsid may play a regulatory role during NSV replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Luo
- Department of Chemistry, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30302, USA; (J.R.T.); (S.A.M.)
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21
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Brothers in Arms: Structure, Assembly and Function of Arenaviridae Nucleoprotein. Viruses 2020; 12:v12070772. [PMID: 32708976 PMCID: PMC7411964 DOI: 10.3390/v12070772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Arenaviridae is a family of viruses harbouring important emerging pathogens belonging to the Bunyavirales order. Like in other segmented negative strand RNA viruses, the nucleoprotein (NP) is a major actor of the viral life cycle being both (i) the necessary co-factor of the polymerase present in the L protein, and (ii) the last line of defence of the viral genome (vRNA) by physically hiding its presence in the cytoplasm. The NP is also one of the major players interfering with the immune system. Several structural studies of NP have shown that it features two domains: a globular RNA binding domain (NP-core) in its N-terminal and an exonuclease domain (ExoN) in its C-terminal. Further studies have observed that significant conformational changes are necessary for RNA encapsidation. In this review we revisited the most recent structural and functional data available on Arenaviridae NP, compared to other Bunyavirales nucleoproteins and explored the structural and functional implications. We review the variety of structural motif extensions involved in NP–NP binding mode. We also evaluate the major functional implications of NP interactome and the role of ExoN, thus making the NP a target of choice for future vaccine and antiviral therapy.
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22
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Davies KA, Chadwick B, Hewson R, Fontana J, Mankouri J, Barr JN. The RNA Replication Site of Tula Orthohantavirus Resides within a Remodelled Golgi Network. Cells 2020; 9:cells9071569. [PMID: 32605035 PMCID: PMC7408811 DOI: 10.3390/cells9071569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The family Hantaviridae within the Bunyavirales order comprises tri-segmented negative sense RNA viruses, many of which are rodent-borne emerging pathogens associated with fatal human disease. In contrast, hantavirus infection of corresponding rodent hosts results in inapparent or latent infections, which can be recapitulated in cultured cells that become persistently infected. In this study, we used Tula virus (TULV) to investigate the location of hantavirus replication during early, peak and persistent phases of infection, over a 30-day time course. Using immunofluorescent (IF) microscopy, we showed that the TULV nucleocapsid protein (NP) is distributed within both punctate and filamentous structures, with the latter increasing in size as the infection progresses. Transmission electron microscopy of TULV-infected cell sections revealed these filamentous structures comprised aligned clusters of filament bundles. The filamentous NP-associated structures increasingly co-localized with the Golgi and with the stress granule marker TIA-1 over the infection time course, suggesting a redistribution of these cellular organelles. The analysis of the intracellular distribution of TULV RNAs using fluorescent in-situ hybridization revealed that both genomic and mRNAs co-localized with Golgi-associated filamentous compartments that were positive for TIA. These results show that TULV induces a dramatic reorganization of the intracellular environment, including the establishment of TULV RNA synthesis factories in re-modelled Golgi compartments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine A. Davies
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK; (K.A.D.); (B.C.); (J.F.); (J.M.)
| | - Benjamin Chadwick
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK; (K.A.D.); (B.C.); (J.F.); (J.M.)
| | - Roger Hewson
- National Infection Service, Public Health England, Porton Down, Salisbury SP4 0JG, UK;
| | - Juan Fontana
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK; (K.A.D.); (B.C.); (J.F.); (J.M.)
| | - Jamel Mankouri
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK; (K.A.D.); (B.C.); (J.F.); (J.M.)
| | - John N. Barr
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK; (K.A.D.); (B.C.); (J.F.); (J.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-113-3438069
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23
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Tomezsko P, Swaminathan H, Rouskin S. Viral RNA structure analysis using DMS-MaPseq. Methods 2020; 183:68-75. [PMID: 32251733 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2020.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Revised: 03/31/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
RNA structure is critically important to RNA viruses in every part of the replication cycle. RNA structure is also utilized by DNA viruses in order to regulate gene expression and interact with host factors. Advances in next-generation sequencing have greatly enhanced the utility of chemical probing in order to analyze RNA structure. This review will cover some recent viral RNA structural studies using chemical probing and next-generation sequencing as well as the advantages of dimethyl sulfate (DMS)-mutational profiling and sequencing (MaPseq). DMS-MaPseq is a robust assay that can easily modify RNA in vitro, in cell and in virion. A detailed protocol for whole-genome DMS-MaPseq from cells transfected with HIV-1 and the structure of TAR as determined by DMS-MaPseq is presented. DMS-MaPseq has the ability to answer a variety of integral questions about viral RNA, including how they change in different environments and when interacting with different host factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phillip Tomezsko
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA, USA; Program in Virology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Silvi Rouskin
- Whitehead Institute for Biomedical Research, Cambridge, MA, USA.
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24
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Olschewski S, Cusack S, Rosenthal M. The Cap-Snatching Mechanism of Bunyaviruses. Trends Microbiol 2020; 28:293-303. [PMID: 31948728 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2019.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/09/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
In common with all segmented negative-sense RNA viruses, bunyavirus transcripts contain heterologous sequences at their 5' termini originating from capped host cell RNAs. These heterologous sequences are acquired by a so-called cap-snatching mechanism. Whereas for nuclear replicating influenza virus the source of capped primers as well as the cap-binding and endonuclease activities of the viral polymerase needed for cap snatching have been functionally and structurally well characterized, our knowledge on the expected counterparts of cytoplasmic replicating bunyaviruses is still limited and controversial. This review focuses on the cap-snatching mechanism of bunyaviruses in the light of recent structural and functional data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silke Olschewski
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Department of Virology, Hamburg, Germany
| | | | - Maria Rosenthal
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, Department of Virology, Hamburg, Germany.
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25
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Kandiah E, Giraud T, de Maria Antolinos A, Dobias F, Effantin G, Flot D, Hons M, Schoehn G, Susini J, Svensson O, Leonard GA, Mueller-Dieckmann C. CM01: a facility for cryo-electron microscopy at the European Synchrotron. Acta Crystallogr D Struct Biol 2019; 75:528-535. [PMID: 31205015 PMCID: PMC6580229 DOI: 10.1107/s2059798319006880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent improvements in direct electron detectors, microscope technology and software provided the stimulus for a `quantum leap' in the application of cryo-electron microscopy in structural biology, and many national and international centres have since been created in order to exploit this. Here, a new facility for cryo-electron microscopy focused on single-particle reconstruction of biological macromolecules that has been commissioned at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) is presented. The facility is operated by a consortium of institutes co-located on the European Photon and Neutron Campus and is managed in a similar fashion to a synchrotron X-ray beamline. It has been open to the ESRF structural biology user community since November 2017 and will remain open during the 2019 ESRF-EBS shutdown.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eaazhisai Kandiah
- European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, 38042 Grenoble, France
| | - Thierry Giraud
- European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, 38042 Grenoble, France
| | | | - Fabien Dobias
- European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, 38042 Grenoble, France
| | - Gregory Effantin
- Institut de Biologie Structurale (IBS), Université Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, CEA, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, 38042 Grenoble, France
| | - David Flot
- European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, 38042 Grenoble, France
| | - Michael Hons
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Grenoble Outstation, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, 38042 Grenoble, France
| | - Guy Schoehn
- Institut de Biologie Structurale (IBS), Université Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, CEA, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, 38042 Grenoble, France
| | - Jean Susini
- European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, 38042 Grenoble, France
| | - Olof Svensson
- European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, 38042 Grenoble, France
| | - Gordon A. Leonard
- European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, 71 Avenue des Martyrs, 38042 Grenoble, France
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26
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Arragain B, Reguera J, Desfosses A, Gutsche I, Schoehn G, Malet H. High resolution cryo-EM structure of the helical RNA-bound Hantaan virus nucleocapsid reveals its assembly mechanisms. eLife 2019; 8:43075. [PMID: 30638449 PMCID: PMC6365055 DOI: 10.7554/elife.43075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Negative-strand RNA viruses condense their genome into helical nucleocapsids that constitute essential templates for viral replication and transcription. The intrinsic flexibility of nucleocapsids usually prevents their full-length structural characterisation at high resolution. Here, we describe purification of full-length recombinant metastable helical nucleocapsid of Hantaan virus (Hantaviridae family, Bunyavirales order) and determine its structure at 3.3 Å resolution by cryo-electron microscopy. The structure reveals the mechanisms of helical multimerisation via sub-domain exchanges between protomers and highlights nucleotide positions in a continuous positively charged groove compatible with viral genome binding. It uncovers key sites for future structure-based design of antivirals that are currently lacking to counteract life-threatening hantavirus infections. The structure also suggests a model of nucleoprotein-polymerase interaction that would enable replication and transcription solely upon local disruption of the nucleocapsid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benoît Arragain
- Electron Microscopy and Methods Group, Université Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, CEA, Institute for Structural Biology, Grenoble, France
| | - Juan Reguera
- Complexes Macromoléculaires Viraux, Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, INSERM, AFMB UMR 7257, Marseille, France
| | - Ambroise Desfosses
- Electron Microscopy and Methods Group, Université Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, CEA, Institute for Structural Biology, Grenoble, France
| | - Irina Gutsche
- Electron Microscopy and Methods Group, Université Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, CEA, Institute for Structural Biology, Grenoble, France
| | - Guy Schoehn
- Electron Microscopy and Methods Group, Université Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, CEA, Institute for Structural Biology, Grenoble, France
| | - Hélène Malet
- Electron Microscopy and Methods Group, Université Grenoble Alpes, CNRS, CEA, Institute for Structural Biology, Grenoble, France
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