Differential transcription-activating capability of NS1 proteins from different influenza virus subtypes expressed in yeast

Sci China C Life Sci. 2009 Jun;52(6):545-50. doi: 10.1007/s11427-009-0072-x. Epub 2009 Jun 26.

Abstract

Influenza A virus NS1 protein is an important regulatory factor with multiple functions and contributes greatly to viral pathogenesis. In the present study, transcription-activating potential of NS1 from different influenza A virus subtypes was examined in yeast two-hybrid system. The bait vectors containing different NS1 genes, along with an empty prey vector, were transformed into yeast AH109(for growth assay on QDO plate and alpha-galactosidase assay), and Y187(for beta-galactosidase assay). AH109 transformants with NS1 gene from H1N1, H5N1, and H9N2 viruses grew vigorously on the QDO plate and secreted high level of alpha-galactosidase. Also, Y187 bearing the above NS1 genes exhibited enhanced beta-galactosidase activity. Nevertheless, H3N2-NS1-transformed AH109 and Y187 yeasts did not grow on QDO plate and secrete beta-galactosidase, respectively. These findings denote the remarkable variation in NS1 proteins from different influenza A virus subtypes on the transcription-stimulating capability in yeast.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Influenza A virus / classification
  • Influenza A virus / genetics
  • Influenza A virus / metabolism*
  • Transcriptional Activation*
  • Two-Hybrid System Techniques
  • Viral Nonstructural Proteins / genetics
  • Viral Nonstructural Proteins / metabolism*
  • Yeasts / genetics
  • Yeasts / metabolism
  • alpha-Galactosidase / metabolism
  • beta-Galactosidase / metabolism

Substances

  • INS1 protein, influenza virus
  • Viral Nonstructural Proteins
  • alpha-Galactosidase
  • beta-Galactosidase