Monkeypox recombinant proteins are laboratory-produced versions of specific proteins from the Monkeypox virus (MPXV), a member of the Orthopoxvirus genus closely related to the variola virus (which causes smallpox). These recombinant proteins are used in research to understand the virus's mechanisms, develop diagnostic assays, and explore vaccine candidates.

Structure and Function

The Monkeypox virus has a large, double-stranded DNA genome encoding numerous proteins, with key targets for recombinant production including Envelope proteins (e.g., A33, B5, H3, L1), Membrane proteins, and Viral enzymes.

These proteins are integral to the virus's lifecycle, particularly in viral entry, replication, immune evasion, and pathogenesis.

Recombinant forms focus on specific epitopes that are critical for antibody recognition or are involved in the viral life cycle.

Production

Recombinant Monkeypox proteins are expressed in various systems such as E. coli, yeast, insect cells, or mammalian cells, chosen based on the need for post-translational modifications or protein complexity.

Production involves cloning the viral gene of interest into an expression vector, followed by protein expression and purification, typically using affinity tags (e.g., His-tag).

Applications

Diagnostics: Recombinant Monkeypox proteins are used in serological assays like ELISA to detect antibodies in individuals exposed to the virus, aiding in diagnosis and epidemiological studies.

Vaccine Development: These proteins are pivotal in developing subunit vaccines that can induce an immune response without using the live virus.

Basic Research: Researchers use these proteins to study virus-host interactions, immune response mechanisms, and to screen for potential antiviral drugs.

Validation and Quality Control

Quality control for Monkeypox recombinant proteins includes confirming protein identity and purity through SDS-PAGE, Western blotting, and mass spectrometry.

Functional assays, such as binding to specific antibodies or assessing activity in cell-based assays, ensure that the recombinant proteins are biologically active and correctly folded.