A substitution in the transmembrane region of the glycoprotein leads to an unstable attenuation of Machupo virus.

ABSTRACT: Machupo virus (MACV) is the etiologic agent of Bolivian hemorrhagic fever (BHF). Utilizing a reverse-genetics system recently developed, we report the rescue of a rationally modified recombinant MACV containing a single mutation in the transmembrane region of the glycoprotein. Following challenge of susceptible mice, we identified a significant reduction in virulence in the novel virus. We also identified an instability leading to reversion of the single mutation to a wild-type genotype.

SUBMITTER: Patterson M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4178861 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature