Three-dimensional structure of the M-MuLV CA protein on a lipid monolayer: a general model for retroviral capsid assembly

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Abstract
Although retroviruses from different genera form morphologically distinct capsids, we have proposed that all of these structures are composed of similar hexameric arrays of capsid (CA) protein subunits and that their distinct morphologies reflect different distributions of pentameric declinations that allow the structures to close. Consistent with this model, CA proteins from both HIV‐1 and Rous sarcoma virus (RSV) form similar hexagonal lattices. However, recent structural studies have suggested that the Moloney murine leukemia virus (M‐MuLV) CA protein may assemble differently. We now report an independent three‐dimensional reconstruction of two‐dimensional crystals of M‐MuLV CA. This new reconstruction reveals a hexameric lattice that is similar to those formed by HIV‐1 and RSV CA, supporting a generalized model for retroviral capsid assembly.