Multi-purpose PVX : presentation and expression of enzymes and VLPs

Abstract

Viral nanoparticles represent ideal nanomaterials, they replicate to high numbers, self-assemble into defined structures, and have many options for functionalisation. Presentation of heterologous peptides and proteins on the surface of nanoparticles is an area of growing research interest with far-ranging applications from vaccines to biocatalysts. Plant viral particles represent ideal candidates for this purpose as they are non-infectious to humans, replicate to extremely high titres and can be produced relatively cheaply. This study aims to investigate the potential of Potato virus X (PVX) as a platform for the presentation of enzymes in order to generate catalytically active nanoparticles. Presentation of enzymes on nanoparticles has the potential to increase the stability, reusability, and reaction rate of presented enzymes. This thesis also aims to investigate the ability of PVX to provide whole plant systemic overexpression of heterologous proteins and viral like particles. The knowledge gained is important to further development of plant viral nanoparticles as a technology and to the utilisation of PVX as a nanomaterial.