MMTV RNA packaging requires an extended long-range interaction for productive Gag binding to packaging signals.

ABSTRACT: The packaging of genomic RNA (gRNA) into retroviral particles relies on the specific recognition by the Gag precursor of packaging signals (Psi), which maintain a complex secondary structure through long-range interactions (LRIs). However, it remains unclear whether the binding of Gag to Psi alone is enough to promote RNA packaging and what role LRIs play in this process. Using mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV), we investigated the effects of mutations in 4 proposed LRIs on gRNA structure and function. Our findings revealed the presence of an unsuspected extended LRI, and hSHAPE revealed that maintaining a wild-type-like Psi structure is crucial for efficient packaging. Surprisingly, filter-binding assays demonstrated that most mutants, regardless of their packaging capability, exhibited si

SUBMITTER: Prabhu SG 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11449360 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature