Figure 6.
A model for HCV IRES association with the mRNA binding channel of the 40S subunit. Following the association of the HCV IRES with the 40S subunit, domain II is required to promote an open conformation of the mRNA entry channel. The stable association of eIF3 with this complex places eIF3j in the mRNA entry channel, preventing the stable binding of HCV mRNA with the A-site and entry channel. The subsequent recruitment of eIF2-Met-tRNAi is necessary to shift the equilibrium to favor the stability of HCV mRNA in the entry channel over that of eIF3j.