Enhancing Cell Fusion with Reovirus FAST Proteins
Author Information
Author(s): Deniz Top, Chris Racine, Trina Ellis, Chelsey Louise Duncan, Roy Duncan
Primary Institution: Dalhousie University
Hypothesis
The endodomains of reovirus FAST proteins enhance syncytiogenesis by functioning in trans from the cytosol.
Conclusion
The p14 endodomain of reovirus FAST proteins enhances syncytium formation by acting as a soluble enhancer that influences cellular pathways involved in membrane fusion.
Supporting Evidence
- The p14 endodomain enhances syncytium formation significantly when co-expressed with full-length FAST proteins.
- Endogenous generation of the p14 endodomain was confirmed in virus-infected cells.
- The enhancing activity of the p14 endodomain is not dependent on direct interactions with the fusogen.
Takeaway
The p14 endodomain helps cells stick together and form larger cells by making it easier for their membranes to fuse.
Methodology
The study involved co-transfection of cells with plasmids expressing FAST proteins and their endodomains, followed by analysis of syncytium formation and Western blotting.
Limitations
The study primarily focuses on the p14 endodomain, and the generalizability to other FAST proteins may require further investigation.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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