Evolution of the ability to modulate host chemokine networks via gene duplication in human cytomegalovirus (HCMV).

ABSTRACT: Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a widespread pathogen that is particularly skillful at evading immune detection and defense mechanisms, largely due to extensive co-evolution with its host. One aspect of this co-evolution involves the acquisition of virally encoded G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) with homology to the chemokine receptor family. GPCRs are the largest family of cell surface proteins, found in organisms from yeast to humans, and they regulate a variety of cellular processes including development, sensory perception, and immune cell trafficking. The US27 and US28 genes are encoded by human and primate CMVs, but homologs are not found in the genomes of viruses infecting rodents or other species. Phylogenetic analysis was used to investigate the US27 and US28 genes, which are

SUBMITTER: Scarborough JA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5438267 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature