Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is a member of the Betaherpesvirinae subfamily of Herpesviridae, which includes herpes simplex viruses. CMV is a double-stranded DNA virus that can establish latent infections and cause disease, particularly in immunocompromised individuals . One of the key proteins involved in CMV replication is the pp52 (UL44) protein.
The pp52 (UL44) protein is a nonstructural phosphoprotein that plays a crucial role in CMV replication. It binds to double-stranded DNA and acts as an essential accessory protein for viral gene expression . The UL44 promoter has a complex structure with three TATA elements, one of which is active only at late times after infection, making it necessary for efficient viral growth during CMV infection .
Recombinant CMV pp52 (UL44) is produced using E. coli expression systems. The recombinant protein typically contains the immunodominant regions of CMV pp52, specifically amino acids 202-434, and is often fused to a GST (Glutathione S-transferase) tag for purification purposes . The recombinant protein is purified using proprietary chromatographic techniques to achieve high purity levels .
Recombinant CMV pp52 (UL44) is used in various research applications, including: