Identification of a partial mRNA containing UL 31 viral protein domain from Celosia cristata expressed sequences

A partial mRNA sequence was identified from Celosia cristata purified leaf mRNA population at the early vegetative stage. Based on its deduced amino acid sequence analysis, it was predicted to encode a homologue of Herpes UL31 protein superfamily in test plant. The bacterial origin of the isolated fragment was eliminated on the basis of some experimental evidences. Since the cloned mRNA fragment was significantly closer to the viral protein rather than to their eukaryotic sequences, therby it may be a great value for evolutionary biologists, as it may certify a horizontal transfer of genetic information between viruses and eukaryotic taxa. The present report may lead to further investigations with regard to the structures and biological importance of viral UL31 gene in plant system. A possible correlation between the product of the isolated clone and anti-viral mechanism was proposed.