Zinc finger function of HIV-1 nucleocapsid protein is required for removal of 5'-terminal genomic RNA fragments: a paradigm for RNA removal reactions in HIV-1 reverse transcription.

ABSTRACT: During (-) strong-stop DNA [(-) SSDNA] synthesis, RNase H cleavage of genomic viral RNA generates small 5'-terminal RNA fragments (14-18 nt) that remain annealed to the DNA. Unless these fragments are removed, the minus-strand transfer reaction, required for (-) SSDNA elongation, cannot occur. Here, we describe the mechanism of 5'-terminal RNA removal and the roles of HIV-1 nucleocapsid protein (NC) and RNase H cleavage in this process. Using an NC-dependent system that models minus-strand transfer, we show that the presence of short terminal fragments pre-annealed to (-) SSDNA has no impact on strand transfer, implying efficient fragment removal. Moreover, in reactions with an RNase H(-) reverse transcriptase mutant, NC alone is able to facilitate fragment removal, albeit less efficiently

SUBMITTER: Hergott CB 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3578084 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature