Poxvirus DNA factories
Poxviruses are large DNA viruses that cause human smallpox and molluscum contagiosum in addition to several zoonoses. They are distinguished from other DNA viruses by replicating exclusively in the cytoplasm. Genome replication and assembly of virus particles occur in cytoplasmic domains often referred to as DNA factories. This paper shows that a virus-encoded transcription factor, viral mRNA, cellular RNA-binding protein heterodimer, translation initiation factors eIF4E and eIF4G, and ribosomal proteins are concentrated in the same subdomains of cytoplasmic DNA factories. Furthermore, a cell coinfected with two recombinant vaccinia viruses expressing a virus core protein fused to cyan or yellow fluorescent protein displayed separate cyan and yellow factories, indicating that each factory formed from a single genome and was the site of transcription and translation as well as DNA replication. Hijacking elements of the translation apparatus allows the coordination of viral mRNA and protein synthesis at sites of virus assembly and can contribute to the suppression of cellular protein synthesis, facilitating virus takeover and global obstruction of host responses.
Thanks to CAE for pointing me at this paper, which otherwise I may have missed.
Tags: Biology, Medicine, Microbiology, Science, Virology
