Bacteriophage Assembly
Author Information
Author(s): Aksyuk Anastasia A., Rossmann Michael G.
Primary Institution: Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
Conclusion
Bacteriophages utilize specific protein-protein and protein-nucleic acid interactions to assemble into infectious particles, with various similarities and differences observed across different phage types.
Supporting Evidence
- Bacteriophages have been a model system to study assembly processes for over half a century.
- The sequence and molecular mechanisms of phage assembly have been elucidated by a variety of methods.
- Most bacteriophages as well as herpesviruses and adenoviruses make an empty protein shell that is subsequently packaged with the viral genome.
- Many phages have a separate scaffolding protein gene, which is essential for proper assembly.
Takeaway
Bacteriophages are like tiny robots that put themselves together using special parts, and they can do this in different ways depending on their type.
Methodology
The review discusses various methods used to study bacteriophage assembly, including genetic manipulation, biochemical and biophysical analyses, and imaging techniques like X-ray crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy.
Limitations
The review does not cover all phage families, specifically omitting Corticoviridae and Plasmaviridae.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website