Method for identifying non-essential genes of the human cytomegalovirus genome and for screening for inhibitors of human cytomegalovirus.

摘要

This invention relates to a method for identifying non-essential genes of the human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) genome through the insertion of a beta -glucuronidase marker gene into a specified HCMV gene, such that, if the product of the HCMV gene is not expressed, the gene is identified as non-essential for replication of HCMV. This invention also relates to a method of screening for compounds which inhibit HCMV by the insertion of the beta -glucuronidase marker gene into a HCMV gene, such that the enzyme marker is expressed and cleaves a conjugate chemical substrate in an assay system to yield a detectable fluorescing product or to result in a color change. This invention further provides the gene responsible in HCMV early cytopathic effect.