Translation of the long-term fundamental studies on viral DNA packaging motors into nanotechnology and nanomedicine.

Abstract

Many years of fundamental studies on viral genome packaging motors have led to fruitful applications. The double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) viruses package their genomes into preformed protein shells via nanomotors including several elegant and meticulous coaxial modules. The motor is geared by the hexameric RNA ring. An open washer displayed as hexametric string of phi29 motor ATPase has been reported. The open washer linked into a filament as a queue with left-handed chirality along the dsDNA chain. It was found that a free 5'- and 3'-dsDNA end is not required for one gp16 dimer and four monomers to assemble into the hexametric washer on dsDNA. The above studies have inspired several applications in nanotechnology and nanomedicine. These applications include: (i) studies on the precision motor channels have led to their application in the single pore sensing; (ii) investigations into the hand-in-hand integration of the hexametric pRNA ring have resulted in the emergence of the new field of RNA nanotechnology; and (iii) the studies on the motor stoichiometry of homologous multi-subunits that subsequently have inspired the discovery of new methods in highly potent drug development. This review focuses on the structure and function of the viral DNA packaging motors and describes how fundamental studies inspired various applications. Given these advantages, more nanotechnological and biomedical applications using bacteriophage motor components are expected.