Possible function for virus encoded K+ channel Kcv in the replication of chlorella virus PBCV-1.
The K+ channel Kcv is encoded by the chlorella virus PBCV-1. There is evidence that this channel plays an essential role in the replication of the virus, because both PBCV-1 plaque formation and Kcv channel activity in Xenopus oocytes have similar sensitivities to inhibitors. Here we report circumstantial evidence that the Kcv channel is important during virus infection. Recordings of membrane voltage in the host cells Chlorella NC64A reveal a membrane depolarization within the first few minutes of infection. This depolarization displays the same sensitivity to cations as Kcv conductance; depolarization also requires the intact membrane of the virion. Together these data are consistent with the idea that the virus carries functional K+ channels in the virion and inserts them into the host cell plasma membrane during infection.
Mehmel
Mario
M
Membrane Biophysics, Botany Institute, Darmstadt University of Technology, Schnittspahnstrasse 3, 64287 Darmstadt, Germany.
Rothermel
Maike
M
Meckel
Tobias
T
Van Etten
James L
JL
Moroni
Anna
A
Thiel
Gerhard
G
D000818:Animals; D002462:Cell Membrane / Q000378:metabolism / Q000821:virology; D011088:DNA Ligases / Q000096:biosynthesis* / Q000235:genetics; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D007476:Ionophores / Q000494:pharmacology; D007477:Ions; D008564:Membrane Potentials; D008954:Models, Biological; D009761:Nystatin / Q000494:pharmacology; D017862:Phycodnaviridae / Q000378:metabolism; D015221:Potassium Channels / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000502:physiology*; D013997:Time Factors; D014764:Viral Proteins; D014981:Xenopus
D007476:Ionophores; D007477:Ions; C405463:Kcv potassium channel, Chlorella virus; D015221:Potassium Channels; D014764:Viral Proteins; D009761:Nystatin; C110456:Chlorella virus DNA ligase; D011088:DNA Ligases