Abstract

Semliki Forest virus (SFV) has been extensively studied as a model for analyzing entry of enveloped viruses into target cells. Here we describe the trace of the polypeptide chain of the SFV fusion glycoprotein, E1, derived from an electron density map at 3.5 Å resolution and describe its interactions at the surface of the virus. E1 is unexpectedly similar to the flavivirus envelope protein, with three structural domains disposed in the same primary sequence arrangement. These results introduce a new class of membrane fusion proteins which display lateral interactions to induce the necessary curvature and direct budding of closed particles. The resulting surface protein lattice is primed to cause membrane fusion when exposed to the acidic environment of the endosome.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.