Endocytosis of hepatitis C virus non-enveloped capsid-like particles induces MAPK–ERK1/2 signaling events

Although HCV is an enveloped virus, naked nucleocapsids have been reported in the serum of infected patients. The HCV core particle serves as a protective capsid shell for the viral genome and recombinant in vitro assembled HCV core particles induce strong specific immunity. We investigated the post-binding mechanism of recombinant core particle uptake and its intracellular fate. In hepatic cells, these particles are internalized, most likely in a clathrin-dependent pathway, reaching early to late endosomes and finally lysosomes. The endocytic acidic milieu is implicated in trafficking process. Using specific phosphoantibodies, signaling pathway inhibitors and chemical agents, ERK_1/2 was found to be activated in a sustained way after endocytosis, followed by downstream immediate early genes (c-fos and egr-1) modulation. We propose that the intriguing properties of cellular internalization of HCV non-enveloped particles can induce specific ERK_1/2–MAPKs events that could be important in HCV life cycle and pathogenesis of HCV infection.     

Beyond Reflection: Cake and Co-operative Inquiry

Issues arising during a participatory action research project with a group of midwives are explored, in particular, those related to group process, membership, and roles. A Midwives Action Research Group established an Early Mothering Group for women in hospital to talk to each other and form supportive social networks. The time-honored ritual of sharing morning tea and cake allowed both midwives and mothers to experience the therapeutic potential and power of women's ordinary talk.     

Inhibition of RNA-polymerase by arginine-rich histone fractions

Zusammenfassung Die Hemmung der RNS-Polymerase durch Histone ist eine direkte Folge der Präzipitierung der DNS aus der Lösung.