Matrix protein of Influenza A virus affects the membrane structure depending on protein concentration, amount of anionic lipids and pH gradient

Abstract

The Influenza A virus is one of the most dangerous pathogens, which causes high mortality and epidemics. It relates to the Ortomyxoviridae family of enveloped RNA viruses, whose genetic material is coated by protein and lipid shells. Cell infection happens via endocytosis. The matrix protein M1 of the Influenza A virus is involved in all stages of the viral lifecycle. The protein scaffold disintegrates during the acidification of the medium in the endosome and assembles back at the inner side of the plasma membrane during the budding of daughter virions.