Cytoplasmic localization is important for transcription factor nuclear factor-κB activation by hepatitis C virus core protein through its amino terminal region

Abstract

We previously reported that hepatitis C virus core protein (core) activates the transcription factor nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) when expressed transiently. In the present study, we investigated the relationship between the NF-κB activation capacity and subcellular localization of the core. By changing the subcellular localization of the C-terminally truncated core from the nucleus to the cytoplasm, NF-κB was activated. In addition, NF-κB activity was augmented by forcing the mutated core to move to the endoplasmic reticulum. It was also suggested that the region from aa 21 to 80 of the core is involved in the activation of NF-κB. © 2001 Academic Press.