STRUCTURAL STUDIES OF WEST NILE ENVELOPE

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This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing the resources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject and investigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source, and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed is for the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator. West Nile virus is the etiological agent of an emerging infectious disease in the United States and is considered by the NIAID to be a category B priority pathogen. There is no licensed vaccine or specific antiviral therapeutic available for West Nile virus; therefore, the development of a vaccine, chemoprophylactic, or chemotherapeutic agent is urgently needed to prevent or treat a growing number of diagnosed cases and a drug treatment would be an important part of the nation's biodefense armament. We have crystallized the West Nile envelope protein and have collected a 3. dataset at 100oK, despite poor cryogenic conditions, on a rotating anode generator. We have since improved cryo conditions and are currently attempting to solve phases through molecular replacement. We hope to improve the resolution at SSRL, and if necessary, obtain phases through MAD/SAD experiments.