Assembly of Ebola virus matrix protein VP40 is regulated by latch-like properties of N and C terminal tails.

ABSTRACT: The matrix protein VP40 coordinates numerous functions in the viral life cycle of the Ebola virus. These range from the regulation of viral transcription to morphogenesis, packaging and budding of mature virions. Similar to the matrix proteins of other nonsegmented, negative-strand RNA viruses, VP40 proceeds through intermediate states of assembly (e.g. octamers) but it remains unclear how these intermediates are coordinated with the various stages of the life cycle. In this study, we investigate the molecular basis of synchronization as governed by VP40. Hydrogen/deuterium exchange mass spectrometry was used to follow induced structural and conformational changes in VP40. Together with computational modeling, we demonstrate that both extreme N and C terminal tail regions stabilize the mon

SUBMITTER: Silva LP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3390324 | biostudies-literature | 2012

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature