Proteomics computational analyses suggest that hepatitis C virus E1 and pestivirus E2 envelope glycoproteins are truncated class II fusion proteins

Class 11 fusion proteins encoded by tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), dengue virus, and Semliki Forest virus have a fusion peptide located at the end of a rod-like molecule comprised of three antiparallel beta sheet domains. Proteomics computational analyses suggest that hepatitis C virus (HCV) envelope glycoprotein E1 and pestivirus envelope glycoprotein E2 are truncated class 11 fusion proteins. Similarities were also detected between the receptor-binding portion of TBEV E and HCV E2, and between TBEV small membrane protein precursor prM and pestivirus El. The proposed models of Flaviviridae envelope proteins can facilitate drug and vaccine development. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science (USA). All rights reserved.