In vitro comparison of the internal ribosomal entry site activity from rodent hepacivirus and pegivirus

The 5’ untranslated region (5’ UTR) of rodent hepacivirus (RHV) and pegivirus (RPgV) contain sequence homology to the HCV type IV internal ribosome entry sites (IRES). Utilizing a monocistronic expression vector with an RNA polymerase I promoter to drive transcription we show cell-specific IRES translation and regions within the IRES required for full functionality. Focusing on RHV we further pseudotyped lentivirus with RHV and showed cell surface expression of the envelope proteins and transduction of murine hepatocytes.