Can the RNA of the cowpea chlorotic mottle virus be released through a channel by means of free diffusion? A test in silico

Biophys Chem. 2004 Feb 1;107(2):101-6. doi: 10.1016/S0301-4622(03)00193-5.

Abstract

Cowpea chlorotic mottle virus (CCMV), a plant virus which is member of the Bromoviridae family, is used as a model for the diffusion of a random, short, single stranded RNA, [5'-R(PGpGpApCpUpUpCpGpGpUpCpC)-3')], through a channel on the pseudo-three-fold axis using molecular dynamic simulations. This proposition is based the fact that CCMV undergoes a dynamic structural transition as a response to changes of pH, temperature and ionic strength. Results indicate that the RNA looses its secondary structure and moves into the capside channel by free diffusion. These results are congruent with the hypothesis suggesting that the CCMV capside does not have to dissolve in order to release the RNA into the host.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Bromovirus / chemistry
  • Bromovirus / genetics*
  • Capsid / chemistry*
  • Computer Simulation
  • Computer-Aided Design
  • Diffusion*
  • Hydrogen-Ion Concentration
  • Models, Biological
  • Nucleic Acid Conformation
  • Osmolar Concentration
  • RNA, Viral / chemistry*
  • Temperature
  • Time Factors
  • X-Ray Diffraction

Substances

  • RNA, Viral