Hantavirus Gn and Gc glycoproteins self-assemble into virus-like particles

J Virol. 2014 Feb;88(4):2344-8. doi: 10.1128/JVI.03118-13. Epub 2013 Dec 11.

Abstract

How hantaviruses assemble and exit infected cells remains largely unknown. Here, we show that the expression of Andes (ANDV) and Puumala (PUUV) hantavirus Gn and Gc envelope glycoproteins lead to their self-assembly into virus-like particles (VLPs) which were released to cell supernatants. The viral nucleoprotein was not required for particle formation. Further, a Gc endodomain deletion mutant did not abrogate VLP formation. The VLPs were pleomorphic, exposed protrusions and reacted with patient sera.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Blotting, Western
  • Cross Reactions / immunology
  • DNA Primers / genetics
  • Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
  • Humans
  • Orthohantavirus / genetics
  • Orthohantavirus / metabolism*
  • Puumala virus / genetics
  • Puumala virus / metabolism*
  • Viral Envelope Proteins / metabolism*
  • Virion / genetics
  • Virion / metabolism*

Substances

  • DNA Primers
  • Viral Envelope Proteins