Identification of the protease-binding domain in the N-terminal region of the influenza A virus matrix protein M1

Abstract

A region responsible for protease binding by influenza virus (Flu) matrix protein M1 was identified. Trypsin binding was attributed to the N-terminal 9-kDa fragment obtained by hydrolyzing M1 with formic acid. The binding was inhibited by monoclonal antibodies (mAb) to the N-terminal moiety and by antiserum to region 21-45 of M1, whereas mAb to the middle and C-terminal regions had no effect. Thus, the protease-binding domain (PBD) was mapped to the N-terminal moiety of M1.