Abstract
cDNA encoding a 70 kd protein (70K) associated with U1 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP) was cloned from a human brain-stem library using autoantibodies from patients with connective tissue disease. The cDNA-derived amino acid sequence contains 23 residues homologous to a region of murine leukemia virus group-specific antigen p30gag. The homology resides in an antigenic portion of the 70K protein and is defined by a core consensus sequence, ETPEEREERRR, that occurs as a tandem repeat in p30gag of most mammalian type C retroviruses. Anti-p30gag antibodies recognized a recombinant 70K-LacZ fusion protein as well as U1 snRNPs. Using synthetic peptides as competitors, we demonstrated that the region of homology encompasses the site of immunological cross-reactivity. Thus autoantibodies against U1 snRNPs were elicited by immunization with p30gag. On the basis of these findings, we suggest a role for retroviruses in the initiation of autoimmunity.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 211-220 |
Number of pages | 10 |
Journal | Cell |
Volume | 51 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Oct 23 1987 |
Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology