Open AccessAmphipathic Helix-Dependent Localization of NS5A Mediates Hepatitis C Virus RNA Replication
Author(s) -
Menashe Elazar,
Kwang Ho Cheong,
Ping Liu,
Harry B. Greenberg,
Charles M. Rice,
Jeffrey S. Glenn
Publication year - 2003
Publication title -
journal of virology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.617
H-Index - 292
eISSN - 1070-6321
pISSN - 0022-538X
DOI - 10.1128/jvi.77.10.6055-6061.2003
Subject(s) - ns5a , biology , virology , hepatitis c virus , rna , viral replication , virus , viral life cycle , microbiology and biotechnology , hepacivirus , genetics , gene
We identified an N-terminal amphipathic helix (AH) in one of hepatitis C virus (HCV)'s nonstructural proteins, NS5A. This AH is necessary and sufficient for membrane localization and is conserved across isolates. Genetically disrupting the AH impairs HCV replication. Moreover, an AH peptide-mimic inhibits the membrane association of NS5A in a dose-dependent manner. These results have exciting implications for the HCV life cycle and novel antiviral strategies.