Oligomer formation of the gB glycoprotein of herpes simplex virus type 1

Oligomer formation of the gB glycoprotein of herpes simplex virus type 1 was studied by sedimentation analysis of radioactively labeled infected cell and virion lysates. Fractions from sucrose gradients were precipitated with a pool of gB-specific monoclonal antibodies and analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). Pulse-labeled gB from infected cell was synthesized as monomers and converted to oligomers posttranslationally. The oligomers from infected cells and from virions sedimented as dimers, and there was no evidence of higher-molecular-weight forms. To identify amino acid sequences of gB that contribute to oligomer formation, pairs of mutant plasmids were transfected into Vero cells and superinfected with a gB-null mutant virus to stimulate plasmid-specified gene expression. Radioactively labeled lysates were precipitated with antibodies and examined by SDS-PAGE. Polypeptides from cotransfections were precipitated with an antibody that recognized amino acid sequences present in only one of the two polypeptides. A coprecipitated polypeptide lacking the antibody target epitope was presumed to contain the sequences necessary for oligomer formation. Using this technique, two noncontiguous sites for oligomer formation were detected. An upstream site was localized between residues 93 and 282, and a downstream site was localized between residues 596 and 711. Oligomer formation resulted from molecular interactions between two upstream sites, between two downstream sites, and between an upstream and a downstream site. A schematic diagram of a gB oligomer is presented that is consistent with these data.

Effect of interferon treatment on expression of gC and gE glycoproteins in herpes simplex virus-infected cells

The effect of interferon treatment on the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1)-specific glycoproteins gC and gE in homologous and heterologous cells has been investigated. In human embryonic fibroblastic cells, human leukocyte interferon inhibited virus multiplication and expression of the HSV-1-specific glycoproteins gC and gE on the cell surface in a dose-dependent manner. In heterologous baby hamster kidney cells, the human interferon had no effect on virus multiplication. However, the surface expression of the HSV-1-specific glycoproteins was reduced, as shown by erythrocyte rosette formation, by attachment of monodisperse polystyrene particles coated with antibodies and by immunogold scanning electron microscopy.

Intracellular maturation and sorting of two herpes simplex virus type 1 glycoproteins. Immunogold staining of ultrathin cryosections

Simultaneous immunocytochemical triple staining of ultrathin cryosections of herpes simplex virus type 1-infected cells was carried out using monoclonal antibodies specific for glycoprotein C, glycoprotein D and alpha + beta tubulin. The viral glycoproteins were identified in the cytoplasm, in the Golgi sacs, on the plasma membrane and on the surface of intra- and extracellular virus particles, but not on the nuclear membrane. The glycoproteins identified in the cytoplasm outside the Golgi region were not always confined to the membranes of vesicles, but were often located in close proximity to the tubulin-labelled structures. The glycoproteins C and D were usually codistributed in the cytoplasm, and both accumulated in the Golgi sacs in the same membrane domains. As the glycoproteins occur in close proximity to the microtubular structures, we speculate that these might be directly involved in the intracellular transport of viral glycoproteins.

Identification and characterization of a novel non-infectious herpes simplex virus-related particle

During gradient purification of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) two bands of particles were observed: a sharp lower band and a more diffuse upper band. The lower band contained almost exclusively HSV-1 virions (H particles) whereas the upper band consisted of membrane-enclosed particles (L particles). These L particles resembled the virions in appearance, but lacked the viral nucleocapsid and were not infectious. Many polypeptides of the viral envelope and the tegument were common to both types of particles. The H particles had polypeptide profiles typical of HSV virions. The L particles contained at least three phosphoproteins (175K, 92K and 55K) and a further two phosphorylated polypeptides not normally observed in virion profiles which comigrated with the 134K and 60K glycoproteins. This clearly indicates that the novel L particles were not merely virions which had formed without the inclusion of a nucleocapsid or virions which had subsequently lost their nucleocapsid during preparative handling. Thus these novel L particles are genuine products of the infectious processes occurring when HSV-1 replicates.

Oligomerization of herpes simplex virus glycoprotein B occurs in the endoplasmic reticulum and a 102 amino acid cytosolic domain is dispensable for dimer assembly

Glycoprotein B (gB) is an essential protein specified by herpes simplex virus and a major envelope component of the virions. It is known to assemble into noncovalently associated dimers. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of topogenic domains of gB in dimer assembly and the intracellular location at which gB dimers are assembled. Therefore, dimer analyses were performed on intact gB and its three COOH-terminus-truncated gB derivatives encoding NH2-terminal 772, 586, and 477 amino acids (aa) of the mature gB, using SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and sucrose gradient assays. Dimers were detected in gB and in tgB(772 aa), but were absent from tgB(586 aa) and from tgB(477 aa). These results showed that a 102 aa cytosolic domain (aa 773-874) is not required for the assembly of gB dimers. In addition, using endoglycosidase H treatment and dimer analysis of gB synthesized during 7 min pulse-labeling period, we have demonstrated that ER is the subcellular organelle at which gB monomers are assembled into dimeric forms.

Purification of the structural proteins of herpes simplex virus type 1 by reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography

Herpes simplex virus type-1 structural proteins were solubilized in formic acid and purified by reverse-phase high performance liquid chromatography. Purified proteins have been used to prepare monospecific polyclonal antibodies which neutralized virus infectivity in vitro.

Gel filtration high performance liquid chromatography of envelope polypeptide variants of herpes simplex type 1 strains

High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with a TSK-4000SW gel filtration column was used to compare envelope polypeptides from four strains of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). The chromatographic profiles demonstrated polypeptide variability among three clinical strains and the wild-type F strain. Radioimmunoprecipitation of the HPLC fractions with polyclonal anti-HSV-1 followed by SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) of the immunoprecipitates revealed molecular weight differences of various polypeptides in fractions from the area containing major peaks. This HPLC method could prove useful for the analysis of polypeptide polymorphism in clinical isolates of HSV-1, as well as in other viruses.

Comparative studies of HSV-1 antigens solubilised from infected cells by using non-ionic or zwitterionic detergents

HSV-1 antigen preparations solubilised from Vero cells by using either the non-ionic detergent Nonidet P40 or the zwitterionic detergent Empigen BB, and purified on sucrose density gradients or over a sucrose cushion, were tested by ELISA with anti-HSV-1 glycoprotein monoclonal antibodies and by radioimmunoprecipitation (RIP) with polyclonal HSV-1 antiserum. Amongst several proteins detected in these preparations, the four major HSV-1 glycoproteins, gB, gC, gD, and gE, were found to be present. Differences between NP40 or Empigen-solubilised HSV-1 antigen preparations with respect to two of these glycoproteins, gB and gE, were detected by using a small panel of monoclonal antibodies. Comparative studies in mice showed the Empigen-solubilised HSV-1 antigen preparations elicited greater antibody responses and greater protection against lethal HSV-1 challenge infection than the NP40-solubilised preparation.

Nucleocapsid, nuclear association, and genome location of the herpes simplex virus type 2 38-kD DNA-binding protein

A previously-described herpes simplex virus type 2 DNA-binding protein with a molecular size of 38 kD has been further characterized. Using purified nucleocapsids, a DNase release assay, and intertypic recombinants, this protein was found to be a component of the nucleocapsid, intimately associated with the nuclear matrix, and encoded between 0.605 and 0.720 on the herpes simplex virus type 2 genome.

Oral cavity herpes simplex virus--a risk factor to dental personnel and patients. An overview

Herpes virus antigens were found in the sulcular epithelium of approximately 60% of patients with clinically healthy gingiva. In addition, specific antigens for herpes simplex virus (HSV) were found in the sulcular epithelial cells of patients undergoing periodontal treatment. Specific antibodies were also detected in 70-80% of the gingival fluids collected. On the basis of these data we hypothesized that the oral cavity may act as a preferential site for latent HSV. Thus, stressful events such as traumatic dental treatment and tissue damage may elicit herpetic episodes, risking dental personnel. Measures of precaution are indicated for routine dental treatment.

Cytochemical analysis of DNA organization during encapsidation in herpes simplex virus

The organization of intranuclear Herpes simplex virus DNA in rabbit fibroblast cells infected for 7 hr with HSV type 1 was examined before and during encapsidation by electron microscopic cytochemistry. Most non-encapsidated viral deoxyribonucleoprotein fibers exhibited a non-nucleosomal configuration. Empty capsids within the virus-specific regions of infected nuclei were wrapped with portions of the viral genome which adhered tightly to their surfaces even under conditions that loosened and spread apart other nucleoprotein fibers. During encapsidation, the internal surface of the capsid shell also appeared to bind a part of the viral genome, specifically the outer cage portion, which is detectable in methanol-dehydrated cells. Variations in the amount of DNA within the capsids indicated that the insertion of HSV genome into the capsid is a progressive process. The cage and core cylinder portions of the viral nucleoid appear to form and develop simultaneously. We propose that there may be binding sites on both the external and internal surfaces of the capsid shells which might play a role in the encapsidation process.

Mapping of epitopes on the 65k DNA-binding protein of herpes simplex virus type 1

Previously we have described the isolation of seven monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) and two polyvalent rabbit sera directed against the product of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) gene UL42, a 65K DNA-binding protein (65KDBP) which is essential for HSV DNA replication and virus growth. We now report the synthesis of all 483 overlapping hexapeptides of this 488 amino acid protein and describe their use for the identification of epitopes recognized by these MAbs and polyvalent sera. MAb 6898, derived from one fusion, recognizes the peptides EDLDGA and DLDGAA which correspond to amino acids 363 to 369 of 65KDBP. MAbs Z4D4, Z6F3, Z1A8, Z10Cl, Z3H12 and Z1F11, derived from a second fusion, all recognize the peptides GDPEDL and DPEDLD which correspond to amino acids 360 to 366. As expected both polyvalent sera recognize several different epitopes.

In situ detection of DNA-binding proteins in herpes simplex virus type 1-infected cells

An in situ assay for detecting DNA-binding proteins in herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1)-infected cells is described. Seventeen HSV-induced DNA-binding species were visible with nicked, double-stranded DNA as a substrate, while fourteen virus-induced DNA-binding fractions were present in gels containing nuclease-treated, single-stranded DNA. The effects of HSV on cellular DNA-binding protein expression could also be seen. The resolution of DNA-binding fractions was dependent upon the type of DNA substrate utilized, high salt extraction of DNA-binding components and their physical separation from infected cell DNAs, dialysis of the high salt and the length of DNase treatment of gels following electrophoresis.

A major transcriptional regulatory protein (ICP4) of herpes simplex virus type 1 is associated with purified virions

Herpes simplex virus type 1 was purified by density gradient centrifugation, and the virion-associated proteins were resolved by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. By Western blot (immunoblot) analysis with an anti-ICP4 monospecific serum, the results indicated that ICP4, one of the five immediate-early proteins of herpes simplex virus type 1, was associated with the purified virions. To define the location of ICP4 within the virion, trypsin digestion experiments were performed. Purified virions were treated with trypsin in the presence or absence of detergent. The virus envelope appeared to protect ICP4 from the trypsin, since virus-associated ICP4 was sensitive to digestion only after detergent treatment. In addition, ICP4 remained associated with the virus particle when the virion-specific glycoproteins were removed after detergent treatment. Finally, ICP4 was not detected in purified preparations of type A and B capsids isolated from the nuclear fraction of virus-infected cells. The above-mentioned data suggest that detectable amounts of ICP4 are present within the tegument region of the virion.

Detection of viral antigens in patients with IgA nephropathy

Immunofluorescent analysis of viral antigens in the cultured fibroblasts and renal tissues in patients with IgA nephropathy was described. Freeze and thawed extracts of pharyngeal cells obtained from patients with IgA nephropathy, chronic proliferative glomerulonephritis without IgA deposition (PGN) and healthy adults were cultured with human fibroblasts, i.e. Hel cells, with or without addition of 5-iodine 2'-deoxy-uridine (IUDR) at 37 degrees C for 2 weeks. These fibroblasts and renal sections were stained with several kinds of FITC-labeled antiviral antibodies. Deposition of adeno, herpes simplex, varicella zoster or parainfluenza 3 was observed not only in the renal sections but also in the nuclear regions and/or cytoplasm of Hel cells after incubation of extracts of pharyngeal cells with or without IUDR from patients with IgA nephropathy. It is indicated that antigenic stimulation in the upper respiratory tracts may be due to several different types of DNA and/or RNA viruses in patients with IgA nephropathy. It appears that these antigenic substances show some heterogeneity among these patients.

Further biological, serological and biochemical characterization of North American, European and Southeast Asian strains of bovine herpesvirus 1 compared with other alphaherpesvirinae members

Hemagglutination activity, structural protein profiles and neutralization assays were used in a comparative study of bovine herpesvirus 1 strains from the U.S.A., Canada, Great Britain, Denmark and Malaysia with equine, feline and human herpesviruses in order to further characterize the bovine herpesvirus 1 hemagglutinin. Bovine herpesvirus 1 strains of different geographical origins all showed hemagglutinating activity for mouse erythrocytes; furthermore, feline herpesvirus 1 was also shown to hemagglutinate mouse erythrocytes. Analyses of partly purified viruses showed that a distinctive and specific polypeptides profile is associated with each species of herpesviruses used in our study; strains of bovine herpesvirus 1 from North America, Europe and Southeast Asia however, presented a remarkable similarity as to their electrophoretic protein patterns. A protein similar to the 97-kDa bovine viral hemagglutinin was not identified with the hemagglutinating feline herpesvirus. An important neutralization epitope on the bovine viral hemagglutinin was also not found on feline, equine and human herpesviruses but was identified on all bovine strains tested from North America, Europe and Southeast Asia stressing the importance of the bovine hemagglutinin for eventual prophylactic purposes.

Detection of herpes simplex virus by biotinylated DNA probes

Clinical specimens from 159 patients suspected with herpes simplex virus (HSV) were examined by monoclonal antibody immunofluorescence (IF) and by a commercial biotinylated DNA probe kit following cell culture isolation. Herpes simplex virus was isolated from 57 samples. All cultures were positive by IF when the cytopathic effect (CPE) was less than 1+ but only 49 (86%) yielded positive reaction with the DNA probe when CPE was at least 1+. A total of 54 clinical specimens was also examined directly by immunoperoxidase histopathology (IHP), IF, and DNA hybridization. Of these, 16 were positive by IHP, 15 by IF, and only five by DNA probe. The DNA probe kit was found to be reasonably sensitive only after cell culture isolation of HSV. Compared to the IF procedure, the DNA probe kit was found to be costly, labor intensive, and time consuming.

Herpes simplex virus DNA in the brain of psychotic patients

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) DNA was found by spot blot hybridization in the right nc. amygdalae of 3 out 10 patients who underwent curative stereotactic surgery for severe mental retardation with aggressive behavior and/or paranoic schizophrenia. Of these, 6 were also tested for the presence of CMV DNA sequences with negative results. Biopsy specimens from nc. amygdalae of another 7 psychotic patients were cultured in vitro but no virus was isolated.

Purification of the herpes simplex virus type 1 65-kilodalton DNA-binding protein: properties of the protein and evidence of its association with the virus-encoded DNA polymerase

Using a combination of conventional column chromatography and velocity sedimentation, we have purified the 65-kilodalton DNA-binding protein (65KDBP) encoded by herpes simplex virus (HSV) greater than 625-fold. The HSV type 1 (HSV-1)-encoded DNA polymerase (pol) cofractionated with 65KDBP through DEAE-Sephacel, Blue Sepharose, and Mono Q columns and was only separated from 65KDBP by sedimentation through a glycerol gradient. Immunoaffinity columns containing monoclonal antibody (MAb) 6898 immunoglobulin effectively bound most of the HSV-1 pol activity which coeluted with 65KDBP. The pattern of reactivities of HSV-1/HSV-2 recombinants with MAbs specific for HSV-1 65KDBP or the HSV-2-infected cell-specific protein ICSP34,35 strongly suggests that these two species are serotype equivalents of the same protein. Taken together, all these data indicate that 65KDBP is a pol-associated protein and the HSV-1 counterpart of HSV-2 ICSP34,35 previously reported to have similar properties (P. J. Vaughan, D. J. M. Purifoy, and K. L. Powell, J. Virol. 53:501-508, 1985). Purified preparations of 65KDBP were capable of binding to double-stranded DNA, as determined by filter retention and mobility shift assays. The protein-DNA complex formed with 65KDBP was distinct from that produced by pol and could be further shifted by the addition of immunoglobulin specific for 65KDBP. These results demonstrate that 65KDBP has been purified substantially free from pol and indicate that DNA binding is an inherent property of the protein.

Functional regions and structural features of the gB glycoprotein of herpes simplex virus type 1. An analysis of linker insertion mutants

Glycoprotein B (gB) of Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) plays an essential role in viral entry. A set of more than 100 HpaI (GTTAAC) linker insertion mutations and their derivatives were isolated in plasmids specifying the gB coding and flanking sequences. Mutations including addition, deletion and nonsense mutations at 34 independent sites were identified by DNA sequence analysis of 48 plasmids. A map was constructed for the ability of addition mutants to complement a gB-null virus. The expression of gB activity for some plasmids was temperature-dependent. Many complementation-negative plasmids inhibited the complementation activity of a plasmid specifying wild-type gB, suggesting an interaction between active and inactive molecules to form oligomers. The interaction was localized to 328 of the total of 904 amino acids comprising gB. Partial Endo H digestion of nonsense polypeptides revealed that five of the six potential N-linked oligosaccharide sites are glycosylated; the most C-terminal site appears not to be glycosylated. A number of mutations, including some on the cytoplasmic side, were identified that blocked processing, transport and secretion. Addition mutations that blocked processing of membrane polypeptides also blocked processing and secretion when combined into a nonsense mutant that by itself was processed and secreted. The previously predicted membrane spanning domain and the membrane orientation of the N-terminal portion of gB were confirmed.

The use of lectin affinity columns for selection of precursor or fully glycosylated forms of glycoprotein gD1 of herpes simplex virus type 1

Several lectins were examined for their ability to bind to the glycoprotein gD1 polypeptide from Vero cells infected by herpes simplex virus type 1 (HVS-1), strain KOS. At least four distinct forms of gD1 (1, 2, 3 and 4), ranging in size from 59K to 52K, were resolved by SDS-10% polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. Wheat germ agglutinin (WGA) did not bind to any of these forms, suggesting that if any sialic residues are present in the carbohydrate moieties of gD1, they are not available for binding to WGA. The entire population of forms 1 and 2 (approximately 59K) bound to castor bean-120 (CB-120) lectin affinity columns, suggesting the presence of terminal galactose residues on the mature and more fully glycosylated carbohydrate moieties of gD1. The forms 3 and 4, representing precursor gD1 molecules, did not bind. The majority of forms 2 and 4, and a portion of form 3 bound to lentil lectin, suggesting the presence of fucose and alpha-linked mannosyl residues on these molecules. A gD1-specific, high molecular weight species (120-125K) was detected in the lentil lectin-binding fraction but not in the fraction bound to CB-120 lectin or in the original infected-cell extract. The results indicated that lectin affinity chromatography, using lentil and CB-120 lectins, is useful as an initial step for the selection and purification of the individual glycosylated forms of gD1.

Comparative study on O-linked oligosaccharides of glycoprotein D of herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2

Glycoproteins D1 (gD1) and D2 (gD2) of herpes simplex virus type 1 and type 2, respectively, were purified from infected HEp-2 cells labelled with [3H]glucosamine for 14 h followed by a 3 h chase using HD1 monoclonal antibody linked to Sepharose. O-linked oligosaccharides were found to be present in both glycoproteins. The identification of N-acetyl [3H]galactosaminitol as the major labelled component in the oligosaccharides generated by mild alkaline borohydride treatment demonstrated that these chains have N-acetylgalactosamine at the reducing end. These oligosaccharides consist of mono- and disialylated species with a predominance of the latter species in gD1. Size analysis and radioactive amino sugar composition strongly suggest a structure in which the galactosyl-N-acetylgalactosamine core is substituted with one or two sialic acid residues. In terms of [3H]glucosamine-derived radioactivity, O-linked oligosaccharides are less represented than N-linked oligosaccharides. The O-linked oligosaccharide number determination showed that gD1 and gD2 carry two and three chains, respectively.

Herpes simplex virus type 1 proteins in human oral squamous cell carcinoma

Although considerable evidence has accumulated linking herpes simplex virus (HSV) to carcinoma of the uterine cervix, only fragmentary evidence exists linking HSV to oral cancer. The purpose of this study was to search for HSV type 1 (HSV-1) proteins in tissue sections of 132 oral squamous cell carcinomas and 56 age- and site-matched controls. All tissues were incubated in rabbit anti-HSV-1 serum with the use of a modified direct immunoperoxidase technique. More than 42% of the cancers, but none of the controls, reacted positively. Thirteen selected oral carcinomas that exhibited positive polyclonal staining were incubated with the use of a peroxidase-antiperoxidase technique with a mouse monoclonal antibody raised against the 89 kilodalton HSV-1 envelope protein. None of these tissues exhibited a positive reaction. Similarly, no unequivocal ultrastructural viral particles were found in 11 oral carcinomas that stained positively with the polyclonal antibodies. These results are interpreted to indicate partial expression of a noninfectious viral genome. The presence of this genome in a high proportion of lesions in this study lends strong statistical support to the oncogenic relationship between HSV-1 and oral squamous cell carcinoma.

The DNA-binding properties of the major regulatory protein alpha 4 of herpes simplex viruses

The transition from the expression of alpha, the first set of five herpes simplex virus genes expressed after infection, to beta and gamma genes, expressed later in infection, requires the participation of infected cell protein 4 (alpha 4), the major viral regulatory protein. The alpha 4 protein is present in complexes formed by proteins extracted from infected cells and viral DNA fragments derived from promoter domains. This report shows that the alpha 4 protein forms specific complexes with DNA fragments derived from 5' transcribed noncoding domains of late (gamma 2) genes whose expression requires viral DNA synthesis as well as functional alpha 4 protein. Some of the DNA fragments to which alpha 4 binds do not contain homologs of the previously reported DNA binding site consensus sequence, suggesting that alpha 4 may recognize and interact with more than one type of DNA binding site. The alpha 4 proteins can bind to DNA directly. A posttranslationally modified form of the alpha 4 protein designated alpha 4c differs from the alpha 4a and alpha 4b forms with respect to its affinity for DNA fragments differing in the nucleotide sequences of the binding sites.

Mapping of functional and antigenic domains of the alpha 4 protein of herpes simplex virus 1

Monoclonal antibodies to alpha 4, the major regulatory protein of herpes simplex virus 1, have been shown to differ in their effects on the binding of the protein to its DNA-binding site in the promoter-regulatory domain of an alpha gene. To map the epitopes, we expressed truncated genes in transient expression systems. All 10 monoclonal antibodies tested reacted with the N-terminal 288-amino-acid polypeptide. To map the epitopes more precisely, 29 15-mer oligopeptides, overlapping by five amino acids at each end, were synthesized and reacted with the monoclonal antibodies. The nine reactive monoclonal antibodies were mapped to seven sites. Of the two monoclonal antibodies which blocked the binding of alpha 4 to DNA, one (H950) reacted with oligopeptide no. 3 near the N terminal of the protein, whereas the second (H942) reacted with oligopeptide no. 23 near the C terminus of the 288-amino-acid polypeptide. In further tests, oligopeptide no. 19 was found to compete with two host proteins, designated as alpha H1 and alpha H2-alpha H3, for binding to DNA as well as to retard DNA in a band shift assay, whereas oligopeptides no. 26, 27, and 28 enhanced the binding of alpha 4 to DNA. Moreover, oligopeptide no. 27 was also found to retard DNA in a band shift assay. Polypeptide no. 19 competed with alpha 4 for binding to DNA, whereas no. 27 neither enhanced nor competed with the binding of the host polypeptide alpha H1 to its binding site in the promoter-regulatory domain of an alpha gene, but did enhance the binding of the alpha H2-alpha H3 protein to its binding site. In contrast to these results, the truncated alpha 4 polypeptide, 825 amino acids long, bound to the viral DNA, whereas a shorter, 519-amino-acid-long, truncated polypeptide did not. The 825-amino-acid polypeptide was previously shown to induce in transient expression of a late (gamma 2) viral gene.

Simultaneous presence of herpes simplex and human papilloma virus sequences in human genital tumors

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) and human papillomavirus (HPV) sequences were analyzed in tumors of the female lower genital tract, by probing DNA from 13 intraepithelial and 30 invasive neoplastic lesions with radiolabelled HPV-16 and HPV-18 DNA as well as cloned fragments of HSV-2 DNA. Careful removal of stromal tissue from the pathological specimens allowed authentic tumor DNA to be processed. Normal genital tissue obtained from the patients and genital condylomata were included as internal controls. The presence of HPV-16 or 18 DNA was detected in 12/13 (92.3%) intraepithelial neoplasms and in 16/30 (53.3%) invasive carcinomas. No significant difference was detected in titer or frequency of antibodies to HPV group-specific antigen in sera from patients and controls. Hybridization to BgIII N fragment of HSV-2 DNA was detected in 4/13 (30.8%) intraepithelial neoplasms and 4/30 (13.3%) invasive carcinomas but in none of the control tissues. All the 8 samples harboring HSV-2 homologous sequences were also positive for HPV, supporting the hypothesis of a synergistic association between the 2 viruses. The hybridization analyses performed to study c-myc involvement in genital oncogenesis did not reveal c-myc amplification in either invasive or pre-invasive lesions.

Trifluorothymidine: potential non-invasive diagnosis of herpes simplex infection using 19F nuclear magnetic resonance in a murine hepatitis model

Trifluorothymidine (TFT) is known to be concentrated in herpes simplex virus (HSV) infected cells in vitro in the form of phosphorylated derivatives. We studied a murine hepatitis model of HSV infection to determine whether this in vitro observation would also be demonstrable in vivo. Following i.v. injection of 100 or 160 mg/kg TFT, TFT was found in significantly higher concentrations in the livers of HSV-2 infected mice than in the livers of uninfected mice, mice infected with murine hepatitis virus (MHV-A59) or mice with hepatitis from carbon tetrachloride treatment. Neither altered renal function, nor altered pharmacokinetics could account for this difference. 19F Nuclear Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy readily detected the 19F from TFT in both liver extracts and whole livers, particularly at higher tissue levels, i.e. greater than 50 micrograms/g tissue. If further studies with living animals support these preliminary observations, clinical application could be pursued.

Identification of a novel herpes simplex virus type 1-induced glycoprotein which complexes with gE and binds immunoglobulin

We detected a glycoprotein on the surface of cells infected with herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) which, in conjunction with gE, binds immunoglobulin G (IgG). The novel glycoprotein, which has an apparent molecular mass of 70 kilodaltons and was provisionally named g70, was first detected in extracts of HSV-1-infected cells labeled by lactoperoxidase-catalyzed iodination and precipitated with rabbit sera or IgG and protein A-Sepharose. In subsequent experiments, g70 and gE were coprecipitated from extracts of HSV-1-infected cells labeled with [35S]methionine, [35S]cysteine, or 14C-amino acids. We were unable to precipitate a polypeptide analogous to g70 or gE from extracts of HSV-2-infected cells with rabbit IgG and protein A-Sepharose. Partial proteolytic peptide analysis indicated that g70 is structurally distinct from gE and gI). In addition, g70 was electrophoretically distinct from the HSV-1 Us4 glycoprotein gG. HSV-1 gE, expressed in mouse cells transfected with the gE gene, was not precipitated with rabbit IgG, nor could these cells bind radiolabeled IgG, suggesting that gE alone cannot act as an IgG (Fc) receptor. This result, coupled with the findings that gE and g70 are coprecipitated with IgG and with an anti-gE monoclonal antibody, suggests that gE and g70 form a complex which binds IgG. The electrophoretic mobilities of g70 molecules induced by different strains of HSV-1 differed markedly, arguing that g70 is encoded by the virus and is not a cellular protein induced by virus infection.

The Italian Cooperative Multiple Sclerosis case-control study: preliminary results on viral antibodies

Viral antibodies to measles, HSV-1, HSV-2, EBV and HTLB-III have been tested in 120 sera and 90 CFS of 78 MS patients, 21 other neurological diseases and 21 non neurological disease controls included in the Italian Multicenter MS case-control study. A significantly higher frequency of HSV-2 antibodies was found in the MS cases than in the two control groups. Moreover the HSV-2 and the RBV-VCA cantibody levels were higher in the MS patients than in those with non neurological diseases. A clear or weak antibody response to the HTLV-III proteins was shown, using the Western Immunoblotting method, in 10.3% of the MS sera or CSF:8.6% of the sera and 1.8% of the CSF were positive. The significance of these findings in relation to the design of the multicenter case-control study is discussed.

Identification of an Epstein-Barr virus glycoprotein which is antigenically homologous to the varicella-zoster virus glycoprotein II and the herpes simplex virus glycoprotein B

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) antigenic homologue of the varicella-zoster virus glycoprotein II and the herpes simplex virus (HSV) glycoprotein B (gB) was identified through cross-reactivity with anti-glycoprotein II and anti-glycoprotein B peptide sera. The homologue is the previously characterized EBV glycoprotein, with an apparent molecular weight of 125,000 Da, which is synthesized late during productive EBV infection and appears to be encoded by the BamHI A EBV fragment. This glycoprotein, but not other EBV proteins, reacted with the antisera in immunoprecipitation experiments and by ELISA. In addition, absorption of the sera with the purified EBV 125-kDa glycoprotein removed the cross-reacting antibody. Whether the EBV gB homologue has the same biological functions associated with HSV gB has yet to be determined.

DNA binding of a 38,000-dalton herpes-simplex-virus-2-specific protein

Western transfer and immunoenzymatic staining with affinity-purified monospecific antiserum was used to detect a 38-Kd protein that bound to native and denatured DNA cellulose. This protein has previously been shown to be a delayed early herpes simplex virus type-2 specific protein.

Comparative polypeptide analysis of human, murine and strigis herpesviruses with murine cytomegalovirus by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis

The polypeptide composition of five purified murine herpesvirus (MHV) strains grown in a stable line of rabbit embryo fibroblasts (REF) was analysed by sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and compared with herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). About 24 structural polypeptides of molecular mass ranging from 275,000 to 25,000 were identified in MHV and HSV-1. The polypeptide profiles of MHV and HSV-1, showed a close similarity. The polypeptides of MHV were further compared with those of HSV-1, HSV-2, herpes virus strigis (HVS) and murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV). Differences were found between herpesviruses of different origin and MCMV. SDS-PAGE analysis of the six strains of MCMV labelled with 14C-amino acid hydrolysate also revealed differences in electrophor eticprofiles of MHV and MCMV proteins, what was confirmed by densitometric scanning of HSV-1, MHV and MCMV.

Infections due to the human herpesviruses in southern India: a seroepidemiological survey

We studied the prevalence of IgG and IgM antibodies to the human herpesviruses in a hospital-based population of 181 individuals aged 0 to 25 years, who were resident in Vellore, south India or surrounding rural areas. Antibodies to the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) viral capsid antigen were determined by indirect immunofluorescence, while antibodies to the remaining herpesviruses were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The age-specific prevalence rates of IgG antibodies to EBV and cytomegalovirus (CMV) rose rapidly after birth to reach a value of over 90% by the fourth year of life. High age-specific IgM prevalence rates and geometric mean titres (GMT) of IgG antibody in children 6 months to 2 years of age, and the early median age of virus infection (1.4 years for EBV and less than 1 year for CMV) indicate that primary infection with these viruses occurs early in life. In contrast, age-specific prevalence rates of IgG antibodies to varicella-zoster virus (VZV) and herpes simplex virus (HSV) rose gradually after birth to attain maximal values of only 72% (VZV) and 83% (HSV) in the 15-25 year age group, and the median ages of infection were delayed (12.25 years for VZV and 8.2 years for HSV). The age-specific IgG prevalence rates of VZV and HSV, and of EBV and HSV showed statistically significant positive correlations, suggesting that common epidemiological factors may underlie the pattern of infections due to these groups of viruses.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Oligomerization of herpes simplex virus glycoprotein B

Glycoprotein B (gB) specified by herpes simplex virus can be extracted from virions or infected cells in the form of detergent-stable, heat-dissociable oligomers. The composition of the oligomers and requirements for their formation were investigated. Evidence is presented that the faster-migrating forms of the oligomers are homodimers of gB. Dimerization was shown to occur within minutes of polypeptide synthesis and did not depend on glycosylation, the expression of other viral proteins, or virion morphogenesis. The multiple, electrophoretically distinct forms of gB dimers differ in extent or rate of N-linked oligosaccharide processing and also have other differences that influence electrophoretic mobility.

DNA sequence of the major capsid protein gene of herpes simplex virus type 1

The DNA sequence of the region of the herpes simplex virus type 1 genome encoding the major capsid protein was determined. The predicted protein contains 1374 amino acid residues and has a molecular weight of 149,075. Comparisons of the amino acid sequence of this protein with those predicted from the published DNA sequences of two other herpesviruses, varicella-zoster virus and Epstein-Barr virus, resulted in the identification of the major capsid protein gene in each genome.

The properties and sequence of glycoprotein H of herpes simplex virus type 1

The map position of the coding sequence of glycoprotein H of herpes simplex virus type 1 was determined by marker transfer studies in which DNA fragments cloned from a virus resistant to neutralisation by an anti-gH monoclonal antibody were used to transfer antibody resistance to wild type virus DNA following cotransfection. The gH coding sequence was mapped to the BglII "m" fragment of HSV-1 DNA (map coordinates 0.27-0.312), confirming the map position previously determined by intertypic recombinant analysis (Buckmaster et al., 1984). The complete nucleotide sequence of the BglII "m" fragment revealed two large open reading frames in addition to the thymidine kinase gene. The open reading frame lying immediately 3' of the thymidine kinase gene has a predicted translation product with the features of a large glycoprotein. This open reading frame translates to an amino acid sequence of 90,323 mol wt with a signal peptide, a membrane anchor sequence, a large external domain containing potential N-glycosylation sites, and a charged C- terminal cytoplasmic domain. We suppose that this amino acid sequence corresponds to gH of HSV-1, and A. Davison (personal communication) has noted the existence of homologous glycoproteins predicted from the nucleotide sequences of Varicella-zoster virus and Epstein-Barr virus. The properties of monoclonal antibody LP11, directed against gH show remarkable similarities to the properties for gD antibodies. LP11 efficiently neutralizes virus infectivity, blocks cell fusion by syncytial virus strains, and inhibits the formation of plaques when added to cell monolayers after infection. These similarities in antibody activity imply functional relatedness between gH and gD of herpes simplex virus.

Herpes simplex virus immediate-early protein ICP4 in murine models of latency

Herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV) infection of trigeminal and dorsal root ganglia was established in mice via corneal scarification and footpad injection, respectively. Trigeminal and dorsal root ganglia were removed during the acute and latent stages of infection and processed for the immediate-early HSV polypeptide ICP4 (VP175) using both a monoclonal reagent and polyclonal antiserum and the avidin biotin complex immunoperoxidase method. ICP4 (VP175) antigen was readily detected during the acute infection of both dorsal and trigeminal ganglia, but not during latency. This antigen could again be detected by reactivation of the latent virus by explanation and organ culture. The detection of ICP4 (VP175) during latency in a rabbit model but not in a murine model may correlate with biologic differences in each system (e.g., rabbits spontaneously reactivate). Alternatively, the discrepancy could reflect viral strain characteristics or may imply that ICP4 (VP175) need not be constitutively expressed (at detectable levels) in all models of latent infection.

A filamentous distribution for the herpes simplex virus type 2-encoded major DNA-binding protein

Monoclonal antibodies reacting with the herpes simplex virus (HSV)-encoded major DNA-binding protein defined an intracellular filamentous network. This network was associated predominantly with the infected cell nucleus and occurred in cells infected with HSV type 2. It did not co-distribute with microfilaments, microtubules or intermediate filaments, and DNA synthesis was required for its formation. We suggest explanations for the occurrence and function of this novel filamentous network structure.

T lymphocytes activated by interleukin 2 alone acquire permissiveness for replication of herpes simplex virus

Not only mitogen stimulation or mitogen stimulation in combination with interleukin 2 (IL2) was capable of causing susceptibility of human T lymphocytes to herpes simplex virus (HSV) infection, but also selective stimulation with recombinant Il2-induced permissiveness of T lymphocytes to HSV infection. Replication of HSV in such IL2-stimulated T cell cultures was shown to be restricted to a T cell subset not exceeding 5% of the total population. Furthermore, IL2 stimulation was sufficient to obtain virus replication in T cells previously infected by HSV and cultivated for several days. This could not be achieved by stimulation with mitogens such as phytohemagglutinin. The level at which virus replication was restricted in nonpermissive T cells was determined to be before immediate early gene expression as assessed by indirect immunofluorescence with monoclonal antibodies against viral proteins expressed at different stages of the viral replicative cycle.

Studies on herpes simplex virus type 1 glycoproteins using monoclonal antibodies

Monoclonal antibodies against herpes simplex virus type 1 glycoproteins were isolated and utilized to study the synthesis and processing of glycoproteins B, C, and D (gB, gC, gD, respectively). Monoclonal antibodies against both gB and gD had higher virus-neutralizing activity when compared to that of gC. Differences among these glycoproteins were observed in their time of appearance in the virus-infected cells. The presence of gD was detected at a very early stage of infection when compared to gB and gC. The localization of these glycoproteins during their synthesis and processing was studied.

Viruses in human brains: a search for cytomegalovirus and herpes virus 1 DNA in necropsy tissue from normal and neuropsychiatric cases

DNA was extracted from the brains of patients with Alzheimer-type dementia, schizophrenia, Huntington's chorea and from patients without neurological disease, and examined for the presence of herpes simplex virus type 1 and human cytomegalovirus sequences. By selecting cloned virus DNA fragments which do not hybridize to normal human DNA we were able to achieve a detection level assessed on reconstruction experiments of 1 virus genome per 50 cells. Screening at such sensitivity did not detect virus sequences in the higher CNS, except in cases of encephalitis or immunosuppression. We conclude that, at this level of sensitivity, these viruses cannot be regarded as normal residents of the higher CNS, and at the time of death they do not appear to be associated with these neuropsychiatric conditions.

Secondary structure of a herpes simplex virus glycoprotein D antigenic domain

The peptide 6-amino caproyl-Pro-Ser-Leu-Lys-Met-Ala-Asp-Pro-Asn-Arg-Phe-Arg-Gly-Lys-Asp-Leu- Pro-6- amino caproate has been synthesized and its secondary structure has been investigated by 1H n.m.r. at 400 MHz. Resonances were assigned from 2D NOESY and COSY spectra, and the secondary structure was determined using NOEs, three-bond coupling constants, and exchange rates of amide protons. The peptide has two tight turns centered on the Pro-Asn and Arg-Gly pairs. The relationship between the secondary structure found here and the antigenic nature of the peptide is discussed.

Characterization of the tumor-associated 38-kd protein of herpes simplex virus type 2

The BglII N DNA fragment of herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV 2), which is capable of oncogenically transforming cells in vitro, encodes a 37,800-dalton (38-kd) protein that has been seroepidemiologically associated with uterine cervical carcinoma. Polyclonal monospecific antiserum was produced against electrophoretically purified 38 kd from HSV 2-infected cells and used to identify antigenic and biochemical characteristics of the protein as well as to probe transformed cells for the expression of viral 38 kd. The HSV 2 type specificity of the 38-kd protein, previously shown using anti-HSV 2 serum and monoclonal antibodies, was confirmed using anti-38-kd serum. The 38-kd protein of HSV 2 produced in vivo and in vitro displayed type specificity and showed no evidence of posttranslational processing. The 38-kd protein has a relative isoelectric point of 9.1, is synthesized at a maximum level four hours after infection and appears to be a component of the virion. When 35S-methionine radiolabeled 38 kd was immunoprecipitated by anti-38-kd serum, high-molecular-weight proteins (118-140 kd) were also present. However, if prior to reacting with the anti-38-kd serum the high-molecular-weight proteins were separated from 38 kd with sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, the only reaction observed with immunoblot was with 38 kd. Therefore, the observed coprecipitation appears to result from the formation of a complex between the proteins and is not the result of shared antigenic determinants. Cells transformed by inactivated HSV 2 were examined for the expression of the 38-kd protein using immunoenzymatic staining. The viral 38-kd protein was not consistently found, but since the protein is reported to be a component of the viral enzyme complex ribonucleotide reductase, it cannot be excluded from possible HSV 2 transformation.

Identification, properties, and gene location of a novel glycoprotein specified by herpes simplex virus 1

We report the identification of a novel herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) glycoprotein reactive with type specific monoclonal antibody H1379. The monoclonal antibody reacted with two broad bands with apparent mol wt of 60K to 68K and 44K to 48K formed by infected cell lysates subjected to electrophoresis in denaturing polyacrylamide gels and electrically transferred to a nitrocellulose sheet. Early in infection the H1379 reactive protein was found in the faster migrating band. The rate of accumulation was highest late in infection and only the slower migrating form incorporates significant amounts of glucosamine. The epitopic site recognized by H1379 was not uniformly distributed among strains. Analyses of HSV-1 X HSV-2 recombinants with monoclonal antibodies to HSV-1 and HSV-2 glycoproteins mapping in the S component of the HSV genomes and marker transfer experiments indicated that the gene specifying the H1379 reactive protein maps within BamHI fragment J to the left of gD most probably within the open reading frame designated as US4 (D. J. McGeoch, A Dolan, S. Donald, and F. J. Rixon, 1985, J. Mol. Biol. 181, 1-13). The gene specifying a recently discovered HSV-2 glycoprotein designated as gG-2 (B. Roizman, B. Norrild, C. Chan, and L. Pereira, 1984, Virology 133, 242-247) maps in the corresponding domain of the HSV-2 genome and marker transfer experiments suggest that the H1379 reactive protein and gG-2 are collinear. We have therefore designated the novel HSV-1 glycoprotein as gG-1.

A rapid and sensitive culture test for the laboratory diagnosis of genital herpes in women

A rapid and sensitive cell culture test has been developed to detect herpes simplex virus (HSV) in women with genital herpes. The virus is cultured by inoculation and centrifugation of cell monolayers, and the virus inclusions are detected using an indirect immunofluorescence test. The test takes only 48 hours to complete compared with the conventional cell culture test, which may take up to eight days. Of a total of 2100 cervical specimens collected from unselected women attending a sexually transmitted diseases (STD) clinic and inoculated in parallel, HSV was isolated from 55 specimens by either or both tests. Of these 55 positive specimens, 54(98%) were positive by the rapid test but only 24(44%) by the conventional test (McNemars test; p less than 0.001).