Efficient incorporation of human CD4 protein into avian leukosis virus particles

Article Abstract:

Retroviruses are viruses that contain enzymes to make DNA from RNA. They are able to incorporate proteins from the viral envelope (Env; the protein coat that surrounds the virus) that appear on the cell surface, while excluding most cell surface proteins that belong to the host. To learn more concerning the ways avian leukosis virus (ALV) takes up Env proteins, experiments using chimeric (engineered) genes were conducted. Two genes, CR and CM, respectively, were made that encoded the CD4 protein (found on human T cells) and sequences of the transmembrane polypeptide chain of ALV or murine leukemia virus. The proteins manufactured by these genes and the ordinary CD4 protein were then evaluated to determine whether they constituted a signal for incorporation of Env proteins into ALV-infected quail cells. Results indicated CD4 proteins that were not part of the chimeric proteins were incorporated best into ALV particles, an unexpected result. This was not anticipated because cell surface proteins, of which CD4 is one, are not usually incorporated into viruses. Such an affinity could have implications for treating viral disease, such as HIV-1 infection (which causes AIDS), if aberrant retroviral copies could be introduced to ''home'' to infected cells, ultimately preventing viral reproduction. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Viruses, Viral envelopes

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Science and the new administration

Article Abstract:

The scientific community hopes that the Clinton administration will take actions to support basic research, which is vital for advancements in health care, industry and education. Benefits of biomedical research are discussed, and recommendations for its advancement are provided.

Medical sciences

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The changing ecology of United States science

Article Abstract:

The social contract formerly supported the policy that all basic science has intrinsic value to society and should be federally supported. This view is no longer valid in the 1990s. A national debate is necessary to formulate a new science policy.

Social aspects, Science and technology policy, Science, Social contract, Bush, Vannevar

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