Varicelloviruses avoid T cell recognition by UL49.5-mediated inactivation of the transporter associated with antigen processing.

ABSTRACT: Detection and elimination of virus-infected cells by cytotoxic T lymphocytes depends on recognition of virus-derived peptides presented by MHC class I molecules. A critical step in this process is the translocation of peptides from the cytoplasm into the endoplasmic reticulum by the transporter associated with antigen processing (TAP). Here, we identified the bovine herpesvirus 1-encoded UL49.5 protein as a potent inhibitor of TAP. The expression of UL49.5 results in down-regulation of MHC class I molecules at the cell surface and inhibits detection and lysis of the cells by cytotoxic T lymphocytes. UL49.5 homologs encoded by two other varicelloviruses, pseudorabies-virus and equine herpesvirus 1, also block TAP. Homologs of UL49.5 are widely present in herpesviruses, acting as interaction

SUBMITTER: Koppers-Lalic D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC555605 | biostudies-literature | 2005 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature