Recombinant Proteins
Product List
MX1 Bovine
Myxovirus Resistance 1 Bovine Recombinant
MX1 Human
Myxovirus Resistance 1 Human Recombinant
MX2 Human
Myxovirus Resistance 2 Human Recombinant
Introduction
Myxoviruses are a group of RNA viruses that belong to the families Orthomyxoviridae and Paramyxoviridae. These viruses are known for their affinity to mucins, hence the prefix “myxo-” (Greek for mucin). The Orthomyxoviridae family includes influenza viruses, while the Paramyxoviridae family includes viruses responsible for diseases such as mumps, measles, and canine distemper .
Key Biological Properties: Myxoviruses are enveloped viruses with a variable shape, ranging from spheroidal to filamentous, and sizes between 60 to 300 nanometers. They have spikelike protein projections and contain ribonucleic acid (RNA) .
Expression Patterns and Tissue Distribution: Myxoviruses exhibit a wide range of expression patterns and tissue distribution. For instance, influenza viruses primarily infect the respiratory tract, while measles and mumps viruses can infect multiple tissues, including the respiratory system, lymphatic system, and central nervous system .
Primary Biological Functions: Myxoviruses are primarily known for their role in causing infectious diseases. They play a significant role in immune responses and pathogen recognition. For example, the influenza virus triggers an immune response that includes the production of antibodies and activation of T-cells .
Role in Immune Responses and Pathogen Recognition: Myxoviruses interact with the host’s immune system, often evading it through various mechanisms. They can induce the production of interferons and other cytokines, which are crucial for the antiviral response .
Mechanisms with Other Molecules and Cells: Myxoviruses interact with host cells through specific receptors. For instance, the hemagglutinin protein of the influenza virus binds to sialic acid receptors on the surface of host cells, facilitating viral entry .
Binding Partners and Downstream Signaling Cascades: Once inside the host cell, myxoviruses hijack the cellular machinery to replicate. The neuraminidase protein of the influenza virus helps release new viral particles by cleaving sialic acid residues .
Regulatory Mechanisms Controlling Expression and Activity: The expression and activity of myxoviruses are regulated by various mechanisms, including transcriptional regulation and post-translational modifications. For example, the interferon signaling pathway plays a crucial role in regulating the expression of antiviral proteins like myxovirus resistance protein A (MxA) .
Transcriptional Regulation and Post-Translational Modifications: Host microRNAs, such as miR-141, can modulate the expression of interferon-stimulated genes, impacting viral replication and immune response .
Biomedical Research: Myxoviruses are extensively studied in biomedical research for their role in infectious diseases. They serve as models for understanding viral pathogenesis and immune responses .
Diagnostic Tools: Myxovirus resistance protein A (MxA) is used as a biomarker for viral infections and the effectiveness of interferon therapy in diseases like multiple sclerosis .
Therapeutic Strategies: Small-molecule inhibitors targeting myxovirus RNA-dependent RNA polymerases are being developed as potential antiviral therapies .
Role Throughout the Life Cycle: Myxoviruses play a role throughout the host’s life cycle, from development to aging and disease. For instance, the measles virus can cause severe complications in young children, while influenza poses a significant risk to the elderly .
From Development to Aging and Disease: The impact of myxoviruses varies with age and immune status. Young children and immunocompromised individuals are particularly vulnerable to severe infections .
