The
nucleoprotein (NP) of segmented negative-strand RNA viruses such as Orthomyxo-, Arena-, and Bunyaviruses coats the genomic
viral RNA and together with the polymerase forms
ribonucleoprotein particles (RNPs), which are both the template for replication and transcription and are packaged into new virions. Here we describe the crystal structure of La Crosse Orthobunyavirus NP both
RNA free and a tetrameric form with single-stranded
RNA bound. La Crosse Orthobunyavirus NP is a largely helical
protein with a fold distinct from other bunyavirus genera NPs. It binds 11
RNA nucleotides in the positively charged groove between its two lobes, and hinged N- and C-terminal arms mediate oligomerization, allowing variable
protein-
protein interface geometry. Oligomerization and
RNA binding are mediated by residues conserved in the Orthobunyavirus genus. In the twofold symmetric tetramer, 44
nucleotides bind in a closed ring with sharp
bends at the NP-NP interfaces. The
RNA is largely inaccessible within a continuous internal groove. Electron microscopy of RNPs released from virions shows them capable of forming a hierarchy of more or less compact irregular helical structures. We discuss how the planar, tetrameric NP-
RNA structure might relate to a polar filament that upon supercoiling could be packaged into virions. This work gives insight into the
RNA encapsidation and protection function of bunyavirus NP, but also highlights the need for dynamic rearrangements of the RNP to give the polymerase access to the template
RNA.