Summary The myxovirus resistance (Mx) proteins are interferon-induced dynamin GTPases that can inhibit a variety of viruses. Recently, MxB, but not MxA, was shown to restrict HIV-1 by an unknown mechanism that likely occurs in close proximity to the host cell nucleus and involves the viral capsid. Here, we present the crystal structure of MxB and reveal determinants involved in HIV-1 restriction. MxB adopts an extended anti-parallel dimer and dimerization, but not higher-ordered oligomerization, is critical for restriction. Although MxB is structurally similar to MxA, the orientation of individual domains differs between MxA and MxB and their antiviral functions rely on separate determinants, indicating distinct mechanisms for virus inhibition. Additionally, MxB directly binds the HIV-1 capsid and this interaction depends on dimerization and the N-terminus of MxB as well as the assembled capsid lattice. These insights establish a framework for understanding the mechanism by which MxB restricts HIV-1.

Highlights d Kinesin adaptor protein FEZ1 directly interacts with HIV-1 capsid for trafficking d FEZ1 specifically targets the conserved center pore of capsid protein (CA) hexamers d FEZ1 uses electrostatic interactions to bind multiple CA hexamers in the capsid d FEZ1 capsid-binding residues are important for HIV-1 trafficking and infectivity SUMMARYHIV-1 uses the microtubule network to traffic the viral capsid core toward the nucleus. Viral nuclear trafficking and infectivity require the kinesin-1 adaptor protein FEZ1. Here, we demonstrate that FEZ1 directly interacts with the HIV-1 capsid and specifically binds capsid protein (CA) hexamers. FEZ1 contains multiple acidic, poly-glutamate stretches that interact with the positively charged central pore of CA hexamers. The FEZ1-capsid interaction directly competes with nucleotides and inositol hexaphosphate (IP6) that bind at the same location. In addition, all-atom molecular dynamic (MD) simulations establish the molecular details of FEZ1-capsid interactions. Functionally, mutation of the FEZ1 capsid-interacting residues significantly reduces trafficking of HIV-1 particles toward the nucleus and early infection. These findings support a model in which the central capsid hexamer pore is a general HIV-1 cofactor-binding hub and FEZ1 serves as a unique CA hexamer pattern sensor to recognize this site and promote capsid trafficking in the cell.

Background:Staphylococcus aureus has evolved a web of mechanisms to disrupt the human complement system. Results: We report the structures of two staphylococcal complement inhibitor proteins, SCIN-B and SCIN-D. Conclusion:We have identified differences in C3b recognition within active SCIN proteins and suggest a physical basis for lack of C3b binding by SCIN-D. Significance: This analysis may inform future design of complement-targeted therapeutics.

Highlights d The self-polymerizing HIV-1 capsid protein 'trapped' in discrete, soluble oligomers d Engineered capsid protein assemblies faithfully mimic the infectious capsid surface d Host factors MxB, TRIMCyp, TRIM5a, and FEZ1 recognize unique capsid patterns d Capsid binding by proteins and small molecules can be rapidly analyzed

Myopathies are heterogeneous disorders characterized clinically by weakness and hypotonia, usually in the absence of gross dystrophic changes. Mitochondrial dysfunction is a frequent cause of myopathy. We report a simplex case born to consanguineous parents who presented with muscle weakness, lactic acidosis, and muscle changes suggestive of mitochondrial dysfunction. Combined autozygome and exome analysis revealed a missense variant in the SLC25A42 gene, which encodes an inner mitochondrial membrane protein that imports co-enzyme A into the mitochondrial matrix. Zebrafish slc25a42 knockdown morphants display severe muscle disorganization and weakness. Importantly, these features are rescued by normal human SLC25A42 RNA, but not by RNA harboring the patient’s variant. Our data support a potentially causal link between SLC25A42 mutation and mitochondrial myopathy in humans.