Bidirectional uncoating of the genomic RNA of a helical virus.

• DOI: 10.1073/pnas.93.7.2981
• Publication Date: 2002-07-26T14:35:07Z
• Authors: X Wu; J Shaw
• Keywords: Transcription

An essential step in the initiation of a virus infection is release viral genome from other constituents particle, process referred to as uncoating. We have used reverse transcription and polymerase chain reaction amplification procedures determine rate direction vivo uncoating rod-shaped tobacco mosaic virus. The particles contain single 6.4-kb RNA molecule that lies between successive turns helical arrangement coat protein subunits. When are introduced into plant cells, subunits removed via bidirectional mechanism. Within 2-3 min, part 5' end position >70% toward 3' has been freed This followed by removal sequential 3'-to-5' direction. internal region final be uncoated. Progeny detected cells 35-40 min after inoculation.