Transcription, translation, and cellular localization of PDV-E66: a structural protein of the PDV envelope of Autographa californica nuclear polyhedrosis virus.

A late gene encoding a 66-kDa structural protein of Autographa californica nuclear polyhedrosis virus was mapped and sequenced (26.9-29.7 MU). Transcription initiates from two conserved TAAG motifs (-15 and -37) with transcripts detected from 12 to 72 hr pi. The protein is detected in infected Spodoptera frugiperda (Sf9) cells from 24 to 72 hr pi. Western-blot and immunoelectron microscopic data identify this protein as specific for the polyhedra-derived virus (PDV) envelope. This protein has been named PDV-E66 to identify its viral origin, envelope location, and apparent molecular weight. In addition to being a structural protein of the PDV envelope, PDV-E66 is enriched in foci of microvesicles in the nuclei of infected Sf9 cells.