The complete nucleotide sequence of the matrix (M) protein gene of the
local Newcastle disease virus (NDV) strain AF 2240 was determined. Based on
consensus primers, several segments of the M gene were reverse transcribed
and amplified by the polymerase chain reaction. The RT-PCR products were
cloned into a plasmid vector pCR™2.1. The DNA inserts in the clones were then
cycle-sequenced. The start and polyadenylation signals have been identified.
Assuming that the M gene starts and terminates at these sequences, the M gene
is 1223 nucleotides long and encodes an open reading frame of 364 amino acids,
corresponding to a polypeptide calculated molecular weight of 40 kDa. The M
protein, is both hydrophobic and basic. Phylogenetic analysis shows that the
strain has a close relationship with the North American Fontana strain. The M
protein amino acid sequence also shows similarities with members of the Rub ulavirus genus such as the Simian virus 5, the human parainfluenza virus
type 4 and the mumps virus. Similarities of the amino acid sequence also exist
between the local strain and other members of the Paramyxovirus and
Morbillivirus genus
