Structural highlights
Publication Abstract from PubMed
Endogenous viral elements (EVEs), accounting for 15% of our genome, serve as a genetic reservoir from which new genes can emerge. Nematode EVEs are particularly diverse and informative of virus evolution. We identify Atlas virus-an intact retrovirus-like EVE in the human hookworm Ancylostoma ceylanicum, with an envelope protein genetically related to GN-GC glycoproteins from the family Phenuiviridae. A cryo-EM structure of Atlas GC reveals a class II viral membrane fusion protein fold not previously seen in retroviruses. Atlas GC has the structural hallmarks of an active fusogen. Atlas GC trimers insert into membranes with endosomal lipid compositions and low pH. When expressed on the plasma membrane, Atlas GC has cell-cell fusion activity. With its preserved biological activities, Atlas GC has the potential to acquire a cellular function. Our work reveals structural plasticity in reverse-transcribing RNA viruses.
A bioactive phlebovirus-like envelope protein in a hookworm endogenous virus.,Merchant M, Mata CP, Liu Y, Zhai H, Protasio AV, Modis Y Sci Adv. 2022 May 13;8(19):eabj6894. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.abj6894. Epub 2022 May, 11. PMID:35544562[1]
From MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine.
References
- ↑ Merchant M, Mata CP, Liu Y, Zhai H, Protasio AV, Modis Y. A bioactive phlebovirus-like envelope protein in a hookworm endogenous virus. Sci Adv. 2022 May 13;8(19):eabj6894. doi: 10.1126/sciadv.abj6894. Epub 2022 May, 11. PMID:35544562 doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.abj6894
