Rubella virus capsid protein structure and its role in virus assembly and infection
Abstract
Rubella virus (RV) is a human pathogen that causes serious birth defects when contracted during pregnancy. However, due to its variable shape and size, little is known about the RV structure. The RV capsid protein is an essential component of the virus and a key factor for successful replication of the virus in host cells. Here we describe the atomic structure of the RV capsid protein. This structure, along with electron microscopic data on the virus, has provided a three-dimensional picture of the virion. The capsid protein structure has also helped to identify amino acid residues that are required for virus assembly. This information can be used for the development of antiviral therapies that target the viral capsid protein.
- Publication:
-
Proceedings of the National Academy of Science
- Pub Date:
- December 2013
- DOI:
- 10.1073/pnas.1316681110
- Bibcode:
- 2013PNAS..11020105M