v-FLIPs are viral proteins that were first identified as modulators of apoptosis; they contain two death effector domains, which are also found in some initiator caspases such as procaspase-8. These v-FLIP proteins can be recruited to the DISC through the binding of the death effector domain to similar domains in the adaptor proteins, but are otherwise catalytically inactive. What do you think is the effect of v-FLIP expression in the host cell?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

By binding to the adaptor proteins, these viral proteins interfere with caspase activation at the death-inducing signaling complex (DISC), and therefore make the cells resistant to Fas-mediated apoptosis, which is normally triggered by cytotoxic lymphocytes and proceeds via the extrinsic pathway.

V-FLIPs Are Viral Proteins That Were First Identified as Modulators