Abstract
Superantigens are microbial proteins that strongly stimulate T cells. We described previously that the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) transactivates a superantigen encoded by the human endogenous retrovirus, HERV-K18. We now report that the transactivation is dependent upon the EBV latent cycle proteins. Moreover, LMP-2A is sufficient for induction of HERV-K18 superantigen activity.
Publication types
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
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Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
MeSH terms
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Animals
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Cell Line
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Endogenous Retroviruses / genetics
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Endogenous Retroviruses / metabolism*
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Gene Expression Regulation, Viral
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Herpesvirus 4, Human / genetics
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Herpesvirus 4, Human / metabolism
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Humans
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Superantigens / genetics
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Superantigens / metabolism*
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Transcriptional Activation*
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Viral Envelope Proteins / genetics
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Viral Envelope Proteins / metabolism*
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Viral Matrix Proteins / genetics
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Viral Matrix Proteins / metabolism*
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Virus Latency
Substances
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EBV-associated membrane antigen, Epstein-Barr virus
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Superantigens
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Viral Envelope Proteins
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Viral Matrix Proteins