The potyviral silencing suppressor HCPro recruits and employs host ARGONAUTE1 in pro-viral functions.

ABSTRACT: In this study, we demonstrate a novel pro-viral role for the Nicotiana benthamiana ARGONAUTE 1 (AGO1) in potyvirus infection. AGO1 strongly enhanced potato virus A (PVA) particle production and benefited the infection when supplied in excess. We subsequently identified the potyviral silencing suppressor, helper-component protease (HCPro), as the recruiter of host AGO1. After the identification of a conserved AGO1-binding GW/WG motif in potyviral HCPros, we used site-directed mutagenesis to introduce a tryptophan-to-alanine change into the HCPro (HCProAG) of PVA (PVAAG) and turnip mosaic virus (TuMVAG). AGO1 co-localization and co-immunoprecipitation with PVA HCPro was significantly reduced by the mutation suggesting the interaction was compromised. Although the mutation did not interfere w

SUBMITTER: Pollari M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7575100 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature