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. 1996 Feb;70(2):1232–1236. doi: 10.1128/jvi.70.2.1232-1236.1996

Mutational analysis of influenza B virus RNA transcription in vitro.

Y S Lee 1, B L Seong 1
PMCID: PMC189934  PMID: 8551586

Abstract

The roles of the 3'- and 5'-terminal nucleotides and the panhandle structure of influenza B virus virion RNA were analyzed in vitro by transcription of model RNA templates with influenza B virus RNA polymerase. The results suggest that the stability of the panhandle and breathing of the extreme ends of the panhandle are important factors for efficient transcription. Influenza B virus polymerase appears to be more tolerant of mutations in the panhandle structure than influenza A virus polymerase. This is consistent with the greater degree of heterogeneity observed naturally in the 3'-terminal nucleotides of the virion RNA of influenza B virus than in influenza A virus.

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Selected References

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