Adenovirus type 5 Early region 1A protein (E1A)

The Adenovirus type 5 Early region 1A (E1A) protein is a multifunctional viral oncoprotein essential for the adenovirus life cycle (UniProt P03255). It primarily functions by reprogramming the host cell's transcriptional machinery and cell cycle control to create an environment conducive to viral DNA replication (PubMed: 10541552). E1A achieves this by binding to and neutralizing key tumor suppressors, most notably the Retinoblastoma (Rb) protein and the p300/CBP co-activators, which triggers the transition of the cell into the S-phase (PubMed: 11544170). In the context of biotechnology and medicine, E1A is a critical component in the development of oncolytic viruses and gene therapy vectors (PubMed: 15164053). For instance, the deletion or modification of E1A allows for the creation of viruses like Onyx-015 that selectively replicate in cancer cells with defective cell cycle checkpoints (PubMed: 10871134). While E1A itself is a potent inducer of apoptosis and can sensitize cells to chemotherapy, its use in therapy requires careful management of the host's immune response and potential toxicity (PubMed: 12692538).

Other names

Ad5 E1AEarly region 1A proteinE1A 12SE1A 13SAdenovirus 5 E1A

E1A interacts with host cell proteins such as the Retinoblastoma (Rb) protein and p300/CBP to drive the cell into the S-phase, facilitating viral replication. In oncolytic therapy, E1A-modified viruses selectively replicate in and lyse cancer cells.