Biological function of the vaccinia virus Z-DNA-binding protein E3L: gene transactivation and antiapoptotic activity in HeLa cells.

ABSTRACT: The vaccinia virus (VV) E3L protein is essential for virulence and has anti-apoptotic activity. In mice, Z-DNA-binding activity of the N-terminal domain of E3L (Z alpha) is necessary for viral lethality. Here, we report that inhibition of hygromycin-B-induced apoptosis in HeLa cells depends on Z-DNA binding of the E3L Z alpha domain. Z-DNA-binding domains of other proteins are equally effective in blocking apoptosis. Using a transient reporter assay, we demonstrate transactivation of human IL-6, nuclear factor of activated T cells (NF-AT), and p53 genes by E3L. This activation also requires Z-DNA binding of the N-terminal domain of E3L. Overall, this work suggests that the important role of E3L in VV pathogenesis involves modulating expression of host cellular genes at the transcriptional

SUBMITTER: Kwon JA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC1200295 | biostudies-literature | 2005 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature