OBJECTIVEExpress and purify four single-stranded DNA-binding (SSB) proteins, and evaluate the binding of SSB proteins on HCV RNA.

METHODSThe expression plasmids of four SSB proteins were conducted, termed TTH, SSOB, KOD and BL21, respectively. The BL21 (DE3) was transformed by the expression plasmid of TTH, Transetta (DE3) were transformed by the expression plasmid of SSOB, KOD and BL21, then protein expression was induced with IPTG, the expression products were analysised by SDS-PAGE. To evaluate the binding of SSB on HCV RNA, RNA-SSB protein complexes were applied to a 1.2% TAE agarose gel.

RESULTSSuitable competent cells were transformed with the expression plasmids, induced by IPTG. SSB proteins were purified by affinity chromatography, to visualize their purity all SSB proteins were applied to SDS-PAGE analysis. All four proteins showed single clear bands. We have successfully obtained the SSB protein expression plasmid, expressed and purified SSB protein. TAE agarose gel electrophoresis was used to confirm SSB protein-RNA binding activity. The each of SSB-RNA complex migrated more slowly than the sole RNA, which suggested SSB protein could specifically bind to RNA.

CONCLUSIONSWe have expressed and purified four SSB proteins, and for the first time found that SSB protein can bind HCV RNA. Our results may provide a basis for future studies of the novel functions of SSB proteins on RNA.