The fraction of RNA that folds into the correct branched secondary structure determines hepatitis delta virus type 3 RNA editing levels.

ABSTRACT: RNA editing by the host RNA adenosine deaminase ADAR1 at the amber/W site of hepatitis delta virus RNA plays a central role in the viral replication cycle by affecting the balance between viral RNA synthesis and packaging. Previously, we found that HDV genotype III (HDV-3) RNA can form two secondary structures following transcription: an unbranched rod structure, which is characteristic of HDV, and a metastable branched structure that serves as the substrate for editing. The unstable nature of the branched editing substrate structure raised the possibility that structural dynamics of the RNA following transcription could determine the rate at which editing occurs. Here, editing and its control are examined in two HDV-3 isolates, from Peru and Ecuador. Analysis of editing in vitro by ADAR1

SUBMITTER: Linnstaedt SD 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2685515 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature