Sequence of the protease of human subgroup E adenovirus type 4

Abstract

A fragment of DNA containing the protease gene and 3' and 5' flanking regions of human adenovirus type 4 (Ad4) has been cloned and sequenced. The gene is located between 59 and 62 map units and codes for a protein of 201 amino acids with a calculated Mr of 22,758. The Ad4 protease has a 72% amino acid homology with the Ad2 protease, the divergence being concentrated in the middle of the molecule. Comparison with other mammalian and bacterial proteases failed to reveal any significant homology and in particular a putative active site. The adenoviral proteases may therefore represent a novel class of enzymes.