T-body formation precedes virus-like particle maturation in S. cerevisiae

T-bodies are localized S. cerevisiae RNPs containing Ty1 retroviral components and speculated to play a role in the assembly of virus-like particles (VLPs). Mapping requirements for T-body formation, we demonstrate that ectopic expression of immature TyA1/Gag (Gag-p49), a structural component of the Ty1 capsid, is sufficient for T-body formation both under normal conditions as well as in a strain background devoid of endogenous Gag. Moreover, T-bodies are readily formed when Ty1 transposition is blocked. Thus, T-bodies represent an early stage in the Ty1 life cycle, preceding VLP maturation.