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Yan C, Zhou W, Zhang Y, Zhou X, Qiao Q, Miao L, Xu Z. Super-Resolution Imaging Reveals the Mechanism of Endosomal Acidification Inhibitors Against SARS-CoV-2 Infection. Chembiochem 2024; 25:e202400404. [PMID: 38877380 DOI: 10.1002/cbic.202400404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/16/2024]
Abstract
In this study, super-resolution structured illumination microscope (SIM) was used to analyze molecular mechanism of endocytic acidification inhibitors in the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, such as Chloroquine (CQ), Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and Bafilomycin A1 (BafA1). We fluorescently labeled the SARS-CoV-2 RBD and its receptor ACE2 protein with small molecule dyes. Utilizing SIM imaging, the real-time impact of inhibitors (BafA1, CQ, HCQ, Dynasore) on the RBD-ACE2 endocytotic process was dynamically tracked in living cells. Initially, the protein activity of RBD and ACE2 was ensured after being labeled. And then our findings revealed that these inhibitors could inhibit the internalization and degradation of RBD-ACE2 to varying degrees. Among them, 100 nM BafA1 exhibited the most satisfactory endocytotic inhibition (~63.9 %) and protein degradation inhibition (~97.7 %). And it could inhibit the fusion between endocytic vesicles in the living cells. Additionally, Dynasore, a widely recognized dynein inhibitor, also demonstrated cell acidification inhibition effects. Together, these inhibitors collectively hinder SARS-CoV-2 infection by inhibiting both the viral internalization and RNA release. The comprehensive evaluation of pharmacological mechanisms through super-resolution fluorescence imaging has laid a crucial theoretical foundation for the development of potential drugs to treat COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunyu Yan
- Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 457 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116023, China
- School of Chemistry, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Wei Zhou
- Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 457 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 457 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116023, China
- School of Chemistry, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Xuelian Zhou
- Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 457 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116023, China
- School of Chemistry, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, Dalian, 116024, China
| | - Qinglong Qiao
- Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 457 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Lu Miao
- Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 457 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116023, China
| | - Zhaochao Xu
- Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 457 Zhongshan Road, Dalian, 116023, China
- School of Chemistry, Dalian University of Technology, 2 Linggong Road, Dalian, 116024, China
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2
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Kochneva GV, Kudrov GA, Zainutdinov SS, Shulgina IS, Shipovalov AV, Zaykovskaya AV, Borgoyakova MB, Starostina EV, Bodnev SA, Sivolobova GF, Grazhdantseva AA, Ivkina DI, Zadorozhny AM, Karpenko LI, P’yankov OV. Immunogenicity and Protective Efficacy of a Single Intranasal Dose Vectored Vaccine Based on Sendai Virus (Moscow Strain) against SARS-CoV-2 Variant of Concern. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:783. [PMID: 39066421 PMCID: PMC11281413 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12070783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2024] [Revised: 07/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The mouse paramyxovirus Sendai, which is capable of limited replication in human bronchial epithelial cells without causing disease, is well suited for the development of vector-based intranasal vaccines against respiratory infections, including SARS-CoV-2. Using the Moscow strain of the Sendai virus, we developed a vaccine construct, Sen-Sdelta(M), which expresses the full-length spike (S) protein of the SARS-CoV-2 delta variant. A single intranasal delivery of Sen-Sdelta(M) to Syrian hamsters and BALB/c mice induced high titers of virus-neutralizing antibodies specific to the SARS-CoV-2 delta variant. A significant T-cell response, as determined by IFN-γ ELISpot and ICS methods, was also demonstrated in the mouse model. Mice and hamsters vaccinated with Sen-Sdelta(M) were well protected against SARS-CoV-2 challenge. The viral load in the lungs and nasal turbinates, measured by RT-qPCR and TCID50 assay, decreased dramatically in vaccinated groups. The most prominent effect was revealed in a highly sensitive hamster model, where no tissue samples contained detectable levels of infectious SARS-CoV-2. These results indicate that Sen-Sdelta(M) is a promising candidate as a single-dose intranasal vaccine against SARS-CoV-2, including variants of concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Galina V. Kochneva
- Federal Budgetary Research Institution State Research Center of Virology and Biotechnology «Vector», Rospotrebnadzor, 630559 Koltsovo, Russia; (G.A.K.); (S.S.Z.); (I.S.S.); (A.V.S.); (A.V.Z.); (M.B.B.); (E.V.S.); (S.A.B.); (G.F.S.); (A.A.G.); (D.I.I.); (A.M.Z.); (L.I.K.); (O.V.P.)
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Tse AL, Acreman CM, Ricardo-Lax I, Berrigan J, Lasso G, Balogun T, Kearns FL, Casalino L, McClain GL, Chandran AM, Lemeunier C, Amaro RE, Rice CM, Jangra RK, McLellan JS, Chandran K, Miller EH. Distinct pathway for evolution of enhanced receptor binding and cell entry in SARS-like bat coronaviruses. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.06.24.600393. [PMID: 38979151 PMCID: PMC11230278 DOI: 10.1101/2024.06.24.600393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
Understanding the zoonotic risks posed by bat coronaviruses (CoVs) is critical for pandemic preparedness. Herein, we generated recombinant vesicular stomatitis viruses (rVSVs) bearing spikes from divergent bat CoVs to investigate their cell entry mechanisms. Unexpectedly, the successful recovery of rVSVs bearing the spike from SHC014, a SARS-like bat CoV, was associated with the acquisition of a novel substitution in the S2 fusion peptide-proximal region (FPPR). This substitution enhanced viral entry in both VSV and coronavirus contexts by increasing the availability of the spike receptor-binding domain to recognize its cellular receptor, ACE2. A second substitution in the spike N-terminal domain, uncovered through forward-genetic selection, interacted epistatically with the FPPR substitution to synergistically enhance spike:ACE2 interaction and viral entry. Our findings identify genetic pathways for adaptation by bat CoVs during spillover and host-to-host transmission, fitness trade-offs inherent to these pathways, and potential Achilles' heels that could be targeted with countermeasures.
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4
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Jiang X, Li D, Maghsoudloo M, Zhang X, Ma W, Fu J. Targeting furin, a cellular proprotein convertase, for COVID-19 prevention and therapeutics. Drug Discov Today 2024; 29:104026. [PMID: 38762086 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.104026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 has triggered an international outbreak of the highly contagious acute respiratory disease known as COVID-19. Identifying key targets in the virus infection lifecycle is crucial for developing effective prevention and therapeutic strategies against it. Furin is a serine endoprotease that belongs to the family of proprotein convertases and plays a critical role in the entry of host cells by SARS-CoV-2. Furin can cleave a specific S1/S2 site, PRRAR, on the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, which promotes viral transmission by facilitating membrane fusion. Hence, targeting furin could hold clinical implications for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19. This review offers an overview of furin's structure, substrates, function, and inhibitors, with a focus on its potential role in SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China; Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China; The State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau
| | - Dabing Li
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China; School of Basic Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China
| | - Mazaher Maghsoudloo
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Xinghai Zhang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Special Pathogens and Biosafety, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, Hubei 430071, China
| | - Wenzhe Ma
- The State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau.
| | - Junjiang Fu
- Key Laboratory of Epigenetics and Oncology, The Research Center for Preclinical Medicine, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China; Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan, China.
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5
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Grewal T, Nguyen MKL, Buechler C. Cholesterol and COVID-19-therapeutic opportunities at the host/virus interface during cell entry. Life Sci Alliance 2024; 7:e202302453. [PMID: 38388172 PMCID: PMC10883773 DOI: 10.26508/lsa.202302453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The rapid development of vaccines to combat severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections has been critical to reduce the severity of COVID-19. However, the continuous emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 subtypes highlights the need to develop additional approaches that oppose viral infections. Targeting host factors that support virus entry, replication, and propagation provide opportunities to lower SARS-CoV-2 infection rates and improve COVID-19 outcome. This includes cellular cholesterol, which is critical for viral spike proteins to capture the host machinery for SARS-CoV-2 cell entry. Once endocytosed, exit of SARS-CoV-2 from the late endosomal/lysosomal compartment occurs in a cholesterol-sensitive manner. In addition, effective release of new viral particles also requires cholesterol. Hence, cholesterol-lowering statins, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 antibodies, and ezetimibe have revealed potential to protect against COVID-19. In addition, pharmacological inhibition of cholesterol exiting late endosomes/lysosomes identified drug candidates, including antifungals, to block SARS-CoV-2 infection. This review describes the multiple roles of cholesterol at the cell surface and endolysosomes for SARS-CoV-2 entry and the potential of drugs targeting cholesterol homeostasis to reduce SARS-CoV-2 infectivity and COVID-19 disease severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Grewal
- https://ror.org/0384j8v12 School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Mai Khanh Linh Nguyen
- https://ror.org/0384j8v12 School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Christa Buechler
- https://ror.org/01226dv09 Department of Internal Medicine I, Regensburg University Hospital, Regensburg, Germany
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6
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Shah AU, Hemida MG. The Potential Roles of Host Cell miRNAs in Fine-Tuning Bovine Coronavirus (BCoV) Molecular Pathogenesis, Tissue Tropism, and Immune Regulation. Microorganisms 2024; 12:897. [PMID: 38792727 PMCID: PMC11124416 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12050897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Bovine coronavirus (BCoV) infection causes significant economic loss to the dairy and beef industries worldwide. BCoV exhibits dual tropism, infecting the respiratory and enteric tracts of cattle. The enteric BCoV isolates could also induce respiratory manifestations under certain circumstances. However, the mechanism of this dual tropism of BCoV infection has not yet been studied well. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression and play a dual role in virus infection, mediating virus or modulating host immune regulatory genes through complex virus-host cell interactions. However, their role in BCoV infection remains unclear. This study aims to identify bovine miRNAs crucial for regulating virus-host interaction, influencing tissue tropism, and explore their potential as biomarkers and therapeutic agents against BCoV. We downloaded 18 full-length BCoV genomes (10 enteric and eight respiratory) from GenBank. We applied several bioinformatic tools to study the host miRNAs targeting various regions in the viral genome. We used the criteria of differential targeting between the enteric/respiratory isolates to identify some critical miRNAs as biological markers for BCoV infection. Using various online bioinformatic tools, we also searched for host miRNA target genes involved in BCoV infection, immune evasion, and regulation. Our results show that four bovine miRNAs (miR-2375, miR-193a-3p, miR-12059, and miR-494) potentially target the BCoV spike protein at multiple sites. These miRNAs also regulate the host immune suppressor pathways, which negatively impacts BCoV replication. Furthermore, we found that bta-(miR-2338, miR-6535, miR-2392, and miR-12054) also target the BCoV genome at certain regions but are involved in regulating host immune signal transduction pathways, i.e., type I interferon (IFN) and retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I) pathways. Moreover, both miR-2338 and miR-2392 also target host transcriptional factors RORA, YY1, and HLF, which are potential diagnostic markers for BCoV infection. Therefore, miR-2338, miR-6535, miR-2392, and miR-12054 have the potential to fine-tune BCoV tropism and immune evasion and enhance viral pathogenesis. Our results indicate that host miRNAs play essential roles in the BCoV tissue tropism, pathogenesis, and immune regulation. Four bovine miRNAs (miR-2375, bta-miR-193a-3p, bta-miR-12059, and bta-miR-494) target BCoV-S glycoprotein and are potentially involved in several immune suppression pathways during the viral infection. These miRNA candidates could serve as good genetic markers for BCoV infection. However, further studies are urgently needed to validate these identified miRNAs and their target genes in the context of BCoV infection and dual tropism and as genetic markers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maged Gomaa Hemida
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Long Island University, Brookville, NY 11548, USA;
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7
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Garg P, Hsueh SCC, Plotkin SS. Testing the feasibility of targeting a conserved region on the S2 domain of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. Biophys J 2024; 123:992-1005. [PMID: 38491772 PMCID: PMC11052916 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2024.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
The efficacy of vaccines against the SARS-CoV-2 virus significantly declines with the emergence of mutant strains, prompting investigation into the feasibility of targeting highly conserved but often cryptic regions on the S2 domain of spike protein. Using tools from molecular dynamics, we find that exposure of a conserved S2 epitope located in the central helices below the receptor binding domains would require large-scale motion beyond receptor binding domain up-down motion, but, along the reaction coordinates we explored, it is unlikely to be exposed by such large-scale dynamic fluctuations of the S1 domain without any external facilitating factors, despite some previous computational evidence suggesting transient exposure of this region. Furthermore, glycans, particularly those on N165 and N234, hinder S2-exposing opening dynamics, and thus stabilize spike in addition to immunologically shielding the protein surface. Although the S2 epitope region examined here is central to large-scale conformational changes during viral entry, free energy landscape analysis obtained using the path coordinate formalism reveals no inherent "loaded spring" effect, suggesting that a vaccine immunogen would tend to present the epitope in a prefusion-like conformation and may be effective in neutralization. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the dynamic origins of the function of the spike protein, as well as further characterizing the feasibility of the S2 epitope as a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pranav Garg
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Shawn C C Hsueh
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Steven S Plotkin
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada; Genome Sciences and Technology Program, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
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8
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Purwono PB, Vacharathit V, Manopwisedjaroen S, Ludowyke N, Suksatu A, Thitithanyanont A. Infection kinetics, syncytia formation, and inflammatory biomarkers as predictive indicators for the pathogenicity of SARS-CoV-2 Variants of Concern in Calu-3 cells. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0301330. [PMID: 38568894 PMCID: PMC10990222 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0301330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has led to the emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants as a result of continued host-virus interaction and viral genome mutations. These variants have been associated with varying levels of transmissibility and disease severity. We investigated the phenotypic profiles of six SARS-CoV-2 variants (WT, D614G, Alpha, Beta, Delta, and Omicron) in Calu-3 cells, a human lung epithelial cell line. In our model demonstrated that all variants, except for Omicron, had higher efficiency in virus entry compared to the wild-type. The Delta variant had the greatest phenotypic advantage in terms of early infection kinetics and marked syncytia formation, which could facilitate cell-to-cell spreading, while the Omicron variant displayed slower replication and fewer syncytia formation. We also identified the Delta variant as the strongest inducer of inflammatory biomarkers, including pro-inflammatory cytokines/chemokines (IP-10/CXCL10, TNF-α, and IL-6), anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-1RA), and growth factors (FGF-2 and VEGF-A), while these inflammatory mediators were not significantly elevated with Omicron infection. These findings are consistent with the observations that there was a generally more pronounced inflammatory response and angiogenesis activity within the lungs of COVID-19 patients as well as more severe symptoms and higher mortality rate during the Delta wave, as compared to less severe symptoms and lower mortality observed during the current Omicron wave in Thailand. Our findings suggest that early infectivity kinetics, enhanced syncytia formation, and specific inflammatory mediator production may serve as predictive indicators for the virulence potential of future SARS-CoV-2 variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priyo Budi Purwono
- Faculty of Science, Department of Microbiology, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Microbiology, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Vimvara Vacharathit
- Faculty of Science, Department of Microbiology, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Faculty of Science, Systems Biology of Diseases Research Unit, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Natali Ludowyke
- Faculty of Science, Department of Microbiology, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Ampa Suksatu
- Faculty of Science, Department of Microbiology, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Arunee Thitithanyanont
- Faculty of Science, Department of Microbiology, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Faculty of Science, Department of Microbiology, Pornchai Matangkasombut Center for Microbial Genomics, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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9
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Shaik KM, Patibandla V, Nandi S. Impact of anabolic androgenic steroids on COVID-19. Steroids 2024; 203:109361. [PMID: 38176451 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2023.109361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
In the wake of the Novel Coronavirus arrival, the world witnessed the fragility of healthcare systems and the resilience of healthcare workers who stood on the front lines. SARS-CoV-2, also known as COVID-19 or severe acute respiratory syndrome, first appeared in China in December 2019. The infection quickly spread across the nation and the world. All countries severely restricted social interaction to stop the virus's transmission, impacting all sporting, social, and recreational activities. Anabolic androgenic steroids (AASs) are frequently used illegally to enhance strength and physical attractiveness. However, they could hurt immune system health. Much research hasn't been done yet on the connection between Covid-19 and AASs. Synthetic testosterone analogs known as anabolic androgenic steroids (AASs) can have an immune-system-altering effect. Sportspeople and bodybuilders are vulnerable to AAS abuse. Governmental reactions to the coronavirus infection issue over the last year have drawn much attention and discussion regarding public services, the experience and lessons learned from different limitations, and strategies for dealing with potential future pandemics. Using AAS has the potential to cause a variety of adverse reactions, including cardiovascular issues (including high blood pressure, heart disease, and blood clots), liver damage, renal failure, mood swings, aggressiveness, and psychiatric disorders. Individuals already suffering from severe respiratory conditions like COVID-19 may have these risks increased. This review mainly highlights the anabolic androgen steroids use and its unseen effects on coronavirus patients and gymnastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaja Moinuddin Shaik
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Sector 67, S.A.S. Nagar, 160062, Punjab, India
| | - Vijay Patibandla
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Sector 67, S.A.S. Nagar, 160062, Punjab, India
| | - Sukhendu Nandi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Sector 67, S.A.S. Nagar, 160062, Punjab, India.
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10
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Ali MA, Caetano-Anollés G. AlphaFold2 Reveals Structural Patterns of Seasonal Haplotype Diversification in SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Variants. BIOLOGY 2024; 13:134. [PMID: 38534404 DOI: 10.3390/biology13030134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
The slow experimental acquisition of high-quality atomic structures of the rapidly changing proteins of the COVID-19 virus challenges vaccine and therapeutic drug development efforts. Fortunately, deep learning tools such as AlphaFold2 can quickly generate reliable models of atomic structure at experimental resolution. Current modeling studies have focused solely on definitions of mutant constellations of Variants of Concern (VOCs), leaving out the impact of haplotypes on protein structure. Here, we conduct a thorough comparative structural analysis of S-proteins belonging to major VOCs and corresponding latitude-delimited haplotypes that affect viral seasonal behavior. Our approach identified molecular regions of importance as well as patterns of structural recruitment. The S1 subunit hosted the majority of structural changes, especially those involving the N-terminal domain (NTD) and the receptor-binding domain (RBD). In particular, structural changes in the NTD were much greater than just translations in three-dimensional space, altering the sub-structures to greater extents. We also revealed a notable pattern of structural recruitment with the early VOCs Alpha and Delta behaving antagonistically by suppressing regions of structural change introduced by their corresponding haplotypes, and the current VOC Omicron behaving synergistically by amplifying or collecting structural change. Remarkably, haplotypes altering the galectin-like structure of the NTD were major contributors to seasonal behavior, supporting its putative environmental-sensing role. Our results provide an extensive view of the evolutionary landscape of the S-protein across the COVID-19 pandemic. This view will help predict important regions of structural change in future variants and haplotypes for more efficient vaccine and drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Asif Ali
- Evolutionary Bioinformatics Laboratory, Department of Crop Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | - Gustavo Caetano-Anollés
- Evolutionary Bioinformatics Laboratory, Department of Crop Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
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11
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Carten JD, Khelashvili G, Bidon MK, Straus MR, Tang T, Jaimes JA, Whittaker GR, Weinstein H, Daniel S. A Mechanistic Understanding of the Modes of Ca 2+ Ion Binding to the SARS-CoV-1 Fusion Peptide and Their Role in the Dynamics of Host Membrane Penetration. ACS Infect Dis 2024; 10:398-411. [PMID: 38270149 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.3c00260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-1 spike glycoprotein contains a fusion peptide (FP) segment that mediates the fusion of the viral and host cell membranes. Calcium ions are thought to position the FP optimally for membrane insertion by interacting with negatively charged residues in this segment (E801, D802, D812, E821, D825, and D830); however, which residues bind to calcium and in what combinations supportive of membrane insertion are unknown. Using biological assays and molecular dynamics studies, we have determined the functional configurations of FP-Ca2+ binding that likely promote membrane insertion. We first individually mutated the negatively charged residues in the SARS CoV-1 FP to assay their roles in cell entry and syncytia formation, finding that charge loss in the D802A or D830A mutants greatly reduced syncytia formation and pseudoparticle transduction of VeroE6 cells. Interestingly, one mutation (D812A) led to a modest increase in cell transduction, further indicating that FP function likely depends on calcium binding at specific residues and in specific combinations. To interpret these results mechanistically and identify specific modes of FP-Ca2+ binding that modulate membrane insertion, we performed molecular dynamics simulations of the SARS-CoV-1 FP and Ca2+ions. The preferred residue pairs for Ca2+ binding we identified (E801/D802, E801/D830, and D812/E821) include the two residues found to be essential for S function in our biological studies (D802 and D830). The three preferred Ca2+ binding pairs were also predicted to promote FP membrane insertion. We also identified a Ca2+ binding pair (E821/D825) predicted to inhibit FP membrane insertion. We then carried out simulations in the presence of membranes and found that binding of Ca2+ to SARS-CoV-1 FP residue pairs E801/D802 and D812/E821 facilitates membrane insertion by enabling the peptide to adopt conformations that shield the negative charges of the FP to reduce repulsion by the membrane phospholipid headgroups. This calcium binding mode also optimally positions the hydrophobic LLF region of the FP for membrane penetration. Conversely, Ca2+ binding to the FP E801/D802 and D821/D825 pairs eliminates the negative charge screening and instead creates a repulsive negative charge that hinders membrane penetration of the LLF motif. These computational results, taken together with our biological studies, provide an improved and nuanced mechanistic understanding of the dymanics of SARS-CoV-1 calcium binding and their potential effects on host cell entry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Debrito Carten
- Robert Frederick Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
| | - George Khelashvili
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York 10065, United States
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York 10065, United States
| | - Miya K Bidon
- Robert Frederick Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
| | - Marco R Straus
- Departments of Microbiology & Immunology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
| | - Tiffany Tang
- Robert Frederick Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
| | - Javier A Jaimes
- Departments of Microbiology & Immunology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
| | - Gary R Whittaker
- Departments of Microbiology & Immunology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
- Public & Ecosystem Health, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
| | - Harel Weinstein
- Department of Physiology & Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York 10065, United States
- Institute for Computational Biomedicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York 10065, United States
| | - Susan Daniel
- Robert Frederick Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
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12
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Matveev EV, Ponomarev GV, Kazanov MD. Genome-wide bioinformatics analysis of human protease capacity for proteolytic cleavage of the SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0353023. [PMID: 38189333 PMCID: PMC10846095 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.03530-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) primarily enters the cell by binding the virus's spike (S) glycoprotein to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 receptor on the cell surface, followed by proteolytic cleavage by host proteases. Studies have identified furin and transmembrane protease serine 2 proteases in priming and triggering cleavages of the S glycoprotein, converting it into a fusion-competent form and initiating membrane fusion, respectively. Alternatively, SARS-CoV-2 can enter the cell through the endocytic pathway, where activation is triggered by lysosomal cathepsin L. However, other proteases are also suspected to be involved in both entry routes. In this study, we conducted a genome-wide bioinformatics analysis to explore the capacity of human proteases in hydrolyzing peptide bonds of the S glycoprotein. Predictive models of sequence specificity for 169 human proteases were constructed and applied to the S glycoprotein together with the method for predicting structural susceptibility to proteolysis of protein regions. After validating our approach on extensively studied S2' and S1/S2 cleavage sites, we applied our method to each peptide bond of the S glycoprotein across all 169 proteases. Our results indicate that various members of the proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type, type II transmembrane family serine protease, and kallikrein families, as well as specific coagulation factors, are capable of cleaving S2' or S1/S2 sites. We have also identified a potential cleavage site of cathepsin L at the K790 position within the S2' loop. Structural analysis suggests that cleavage of this site induces conformational changes similar to the cleavage at the R815 (S2') position, leading to the exposure of the fusion peptide and subsequent fusion with the membrane. Other potential cleavage sites and the influence of mutations in common SARS-CoV-2 variants on proteolytic efficiency are discussed.IMPORTANCEThe entry of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) into the cell, activated by host proteases, is considerably more complex in coronaviruses than in most other viruses and is not fully understood. There is evidence that other proteases beyond the known furin and transmembrane protease serine 2 can activate the spike protein. Another example of uncertainty is the cleavage site for the alternative endocytic route of SARS-CoV-2 entrance, which is still unknown. Bioinformatics methods, modeling protease specificity and estimating the structural susceptibility of protein regions to proteolysis, can aid in studying this topic by predicting the involved proteases and their cleavage sites, thereby substantially reducing the amount of experimental work. Elucidating the mechanisms of spike protein activation is crucial for preventing possible future coronavirus pandemics and developing antiviral drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evgenii V. Matveev
- Center for Molecular and Cellular Biology, Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, Moscow, Russia
- Research and Training Center on Bioinformatics, A.A.Kharkevich Institute for Information Transmission Problems, Moscow, Russia
- Laboratory of Cytogenetics and Molecular Genetics, Dmitry Rogachev National Medical Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, Moscow, Russia
| | - Gennady V. Ponomarev
- Center for Molecular and Cellular Biology, Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, Moscow, Russia
- Research and Training Center on Bioinformatics, A.A.Kharkevich Institute for Information Transmission Problems, Moscow, Russia
| | - Marat D. Kazanov
- Center for Molecular and Cellular Biology, Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, Moscow, Russia
- Research and Training Center on Bioinformatics, A.A.Kharkevich Institute for Information Transmission Problems, Moscow, Russia
- Laboratory of Cytogenetics and Molecular Genetics, Dmitry Rogachev National Medical Research Center of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and Immunology, Moscow, Russia
- Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Sabanci University, Istanbul, Turkey
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13
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Pennisi R, Gentile D, Rescifina A, Napoli E, Trischitta P, Piperno A, Sciortino MT. An Integrated In Silico and In Vitro Approach for the Identification of Natural Products Active against SARS-CoV-2. Biomolecules 2023; 14:43. [PMID: 38254643 PMCID: PMC10813393 DOI: 10.3390/biom14010043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has provoked a global health crisis due to the absence of a specific therapeutic agent. 3CLpro (also known as the main protease or Mpro) and PLpro are chymotrypsin-like proteases encoded by the SARS-CoV-2 genome, and play essential roles during the virus lifecycle. Therefore, they are recognized as a prospective therapeutic target in drug discovery against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Thus, this work aims to collectively present potential natural 3CLpro and PLpro inhibitors by in silico simulations and in vitro entry pseudotype-entry models. We screened luteolin-7-O-glucuronide (L7OG), cynarin (CY), folic acid (FA), and rosmarinic acid (RA) molecules against PLpro and 3CLpro through a luminogenic substrate assay. We only reported moderate inhibitory activity on the recombinant 3CLpro and PLpro by L7OG and FA. Afterward, the entry inhibitory activity of L7OG and FA was tested in cell lines transduced with the two different SARS-CoV-2 pseudotypes harboring alpha (α) and omicron (o) spike (S) protein. The results showed that both compounds have a consistent inhibitory activity on the entry for both variants. However, L7OG showed a greater degree of entry inhibition against α-SARS-CoV-2. Molecular modeling studies were used to determine the inhibitory mechanism of the candidate molecules by focusing on their interactions with residues recognized by the protease active site and receptor-binding domain (RBD) of spike SARS-CoV-2. This work allowed us to identify the binding sites of FA and L7OG within the RBD domain in the alpha and omicron variants, demonstrating how FA is active in both variants. We have confidence that future in vivo studies testing the safety and effectiveness of these natural compounds are warranted, given that they are effective against a variant of concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosamaria Pennisi
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Science, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (P.T.); (A.P.); (M.T.S.)
| | - Davide Gentile
- Department of Chemistry, Materials and Chemical Engineering “G. Natta”, Politecnico di Milano, Via Mancinelli 7, 20131 Milano, Italy
| | - Antonio Rescifina
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, V.le A. Doria 6, 95125 Catania, Italy;
| | - Edoardo Napoli
- Istituto di Chimica Biomolecolare—Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 95126 Catania, Italy;
| | - Paola Trischitta
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Science, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (P.T.); (A.P.); (M.T.S.)
- Department of Chemistry, Biology and Biotechnology, University of Perugia, Via Elce di Sotto 8, 06123 Perugia, Italy
| | - Anna Piperno
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Science, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (P.T.); (A.P.); (M.T.S.)
| | - Maria Teresa Sciortino
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Science, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno d’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (P.T.); (A.P.); (M.T.S.)
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14
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Olarte-Castillo XA, Plimpton L, McQueary H, Sun Y, Yu YT, Cover S, Richardson AN, Jin Y, Grenier JK, Cummings KJ, Bunting E, Diuk-Wasser M, Needle D, Schuler K, Stanhope MJ, Whittaker G, Goodman LB. Detection and characterization of novel luchacoviruses, genus Alphacoronavirus, in saliva and feces of meso-carnivores in the northeastern United States. J Virol 2023; 97:e0082923. [PMID: 37882520 PMCID: PMC10688340 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00829-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Several coronaviruses (CoVs) have been detected in domesticated, farmed, and wild meso-carnivores, causing a wide range of diseases and infecting diverse species, highlighting their important but understudied role in the epidemiology of these viruses. Assessing the viral diversity hosted in wildlife species is essential to understand their significance in the cross-species transmission of CoVs. Our focus here was on CoV discovery in meso-carnivores in the Northeast United States as a potential "hotspot" area with high density of humans and urban wildlife. This study identifies novel alphacoronaviruses circulating in multiple free-ranging wild and domestic species in this area and explores their potential epidemiological importance based on regions of the Spike gene, which are relevant for virus-host interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ximena A. Olarte-Castillo
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
- James A. Baker Institute for Animal Health, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Laura Plimpton
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York, USA
| | - Holly McQueary
- James A. Baker Institute for Animal Health, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, New York, USA
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Yining Sun
- James A. Baker Institute for Animal Health, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, New York, USA
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Y. Tina Yu
- James A. Baker Institute for Animal Health, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, New York, USA
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Sarah Cover
- James A. Baker Institute for Animal Health, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, New York, USA
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Amy N. Richardson
- James A. Baker Institute for Animal Health, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, New York, USA
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Yuhan Jin
- James A. Baker Institute for Animal Health, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, New York, USA
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Jennifer K. Grenier
- Transcriptional Regulation and Expression Facility, Biotechnology Resource Center, Institute of Biotechnology, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Kevin J. Cummings
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Elizabeth Bunting
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Maria Diuk-Wasser
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York, USA
| | - David Needle
- New Hampshire Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Life Sciences and Agriculture, University of New Hampshire, Durham, USA
| | - Krysten Schuler
- Cornell Wildlife Health Lab, Animal Health Diagnostic Center, Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Michael J. Stanhope
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Gary Whittaker
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Laura B. Goodman
- James A. Baker Institute for Animal Health, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, New York, USA
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
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15
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Ho C, Nazarie WFWM, Lee PC. An In Silico Design of Peptides Targeting the S1/S2 Cleavage Site of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein. Viruses 2023; 15:1930. [PMID: 37766336 PMCID: PMC10536081 DOI: 10.3390/v15091930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2, responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, invades host cells via its spike protein, which includes critical binding regions, such as the receptor-binding domain (RBD), the S1/S2 cleavage site, the S2 cleavage site, and heptad-repeat (HR) sections. Peptides targeting the RBD and HR1 inhibit binding to host ACE2 receptors and the formation of the fusion core. Other peptides target proteases, such as TMPRSS2 and cathepsin L, to prevent the cleavage of the S protein. However, research has largely ignored peptides targeting the S1/S2 cleavage site. In this study, bioinformatics was used to investigate the binding of the S1/S2 cleavage site to host proteases, including furin, trypsin, TMPRSS2, matriptase, cathepsin B, and cathepsin L. Peptides targeting the S1/S2 site were designed by identifying binding residues. Peptides were docked to the S1/S2 site using HADDOCK (High-Ambiguity-Driven protein-protein DOCKing). Nine peptides with the lowest HADDOCK scores and strong binding affinities were selected, which was followed by molecular dynamics simulations (MDSs) for further investigation. Among these peptides, BR582 and BR599 stand out. They exhibited relatively high interaction energies with the S protein at -1004.769 ± 21.2 kJ/mol and -1040.334 ± 24.1 kJ/mol, respectively. It is noteworthy that the binding of these peptides to the S protein remained stable during the MDSs. In conclusion, this research highlights the potential of peptides targeting the S1/S2 cleavage site as a means to prevent SARS-CoV-2 from entering cells, and contributes to the development of therapeutic interventions against COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chian Ho
- Faculty of Science and Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Sabah, Malaysia; (C.H.); (W.F.W.M.N.)
| | - Wan Fahmi Wan Mohamad Nazarie
- Faculty of Science and Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Sabah, Malaysia; (C.H.); (W.F.W.M.N.)
| | - Ping-Chin Lee
- Faculty of Science and Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Sabah, Malaysia; (C.H.); (W.F.W.M.N.)
- Biotechnology Research Institute, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu 88400, Sabah, Malaysia
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16
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Olarte-Castillo XA, Plimpton L, McQueary H, Sun Y, Yu YT, Cover S, Richardson AN, Jin Y, Grenier JK, Cummings KJ, Bunting E, Diuk-Wasser M, Needle D, Schuler K, Stanhope MJ, Whittaker G, Goodman LB. Detection and characterization of novel luchacoviruses, genus Alphacoronavirus, shed in saliva and feces of meso-carnivores in the northeastern United States. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.05.31.541188. [PMID: 37745528 PMCID: PMC10515766 DOI: 10.1101/2023.05.31.541188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Small to mid-sized carnivores, or meso-carnivores, comprise a group of diverse mammals, many of which can adapt to anthropogenically disturbed environments. Wild meso-carnivores living in urban areas may get exposed to or spread pathogens to other species, including stray/feral domestic animals. Several coronaviruses (CoVs) have been detected in domesticated and farmed meso-carnivores, but knowledge of CoVs circulating in free-ranging wild meso-carnivores remains limited. In this study, we analyzed 321 samples collected between 2016 and 2022 from 9 species of free-ranging wild meso-carnivores and stray/feral domestic cats in the northeastern United States. Using a pan-CoV PCR, we screened tissues, feces, and saliva, nasal, and rectal swabs. We detected CoV RNA in fecal and saliva samples of animals in four species: fisher (Pekania pennanti), bobcat (Lynx rufus), red fox (Vulpes vulpes), and domestic cat (Felis catus). Next-generation sequencing revealed that all these viruses belonged to the Luchacovirus subgenus (Alphacoronavirus genus), previously reported only in rodents and lagomorphs (i.e., rabbits). Genetic comparison of the 3'-end of the genome (~12,000bp) revealed that although the viruses detected group with, and have a genetic organization similar to other luchacoviruses, they are genetically distinct from those from rodents and lagomorphs. Genetic characterization of the spike protein revealed that the meso-carnivore luchacoviruses do not have an S1/S2 cleavage motif but do have highly variable structural loops containing cleavage motifs similar to those identified in certain pathogenic CoVs. This study highlights the importance of characterizing the spike protein of CoVs in wild species for further targeted epidemiologic monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ximena A. Olarte-Castillo
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
- James A. Baker Institute for Animal Health, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Laura Plimpton
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Holly McQueary
- James A. Baker Institute for Animal Health, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Yining Sun
- James A. Baker Institute for Animal Health, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Y. Tina Yu
- James A. Baker Institute for Animal Health, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Sarah Cover
- James A. Baker Institute for Animal Health, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Amy N. Richardson
- James A. Baker Institute for Animal Health, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Yuhan Jin
- James A. Baker Institute for Animal Health, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Jennifer K. Grenier
- Transcriptional Regulation and Expression Facility, Biotechnology Resource Center, Institute of Biotechnology, Cornell University
| | - Kevin J. Cummings
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Elizabeth Bunting
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Maria Diuk-Wasser
- Department of Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - David Needle
- New Hampshire Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, College of Life Sciences and Agriculture, University of New Hampshire
| | - Krysten Schuler
- Cornell Wildlife Health Lab, Animal Health Diagnostic Center, Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine, 240 Farrier Road, Ithaca, NY 14853
| | - Michael J. Stanhope
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Gary Whittaker
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
| | - Laura B. Goodman
- James A. Baker Institute for Animal Health, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA
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17
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Resnick JD, Wilson JL, Anaya E, Conte A, Li M, Zhong W, Beer MA, Pekosz A. Growth media affects susceptibility of air-lifted human nasal epithelial cell cultures to SARS-CoV2, but not Influenza A, virus infection. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.31.551381. [PMID: 37577692 PMCID: PMC10418194 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.31.551381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/15/2023]
Abstract
Primary differentiated human epithelial cell cultures have been widely used by researchers to study viral fitness and virus-host interactions, especially during the COVID19 pandemic. These cultures recapitulate important characteristics of the respiratory epithelium such as diverse cell type composition, polarization, and innate immune responses. However, standardization and validation of these cultures remains an open issue. In this study, two different expansion medias were evaluated and the impact on the resulting differentiated culture was determined. Use of both Airway and Ex Plus media types resulted in high quality, consistent cultures that were able to be used for these studies. Upon histological evaluation, Airway-grown cultures were more organized and had a higher proportion of basal progenitor cells while Ex Plus- grown cultures had a higher proportion terminally differentiated cell types. In addition to having different cell type proportions and organization, the two different growth medias led to cultures with altered susceptibility to infection with SARS-CoV-2 but not Influenza A virus. RNAseq comparing cultures grown in different growth medias prior to differentiation uncovered a high degree of differentially expressed genes in cultures from the same donor. RNAseq on differentiated cultures showed less variation between growth medias but alterations in pathways that control the expression of human transmembrane proteases including TMPRSS11 and TMPRSS2 were documented. Enhanced susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 cannot be explained by altered cell type proportions alone, rather serine protease cofactor expression also contributes to the enhanced replication of SARS-CoV-2 as inhibition with camostat affected replication of an early SARS-CoV-2 variant and a Delta, but not Omicron, variant showed difference in replication efficiency between culture types. Therefore, it is important for the research community to standardize cell culture protocols particularly when characterizing novel viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica D Resnick
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- McKusick- Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Jo L Wilson
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- Deparment of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Eddy Anaya
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Abigail Conte
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Maggie Li
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - William Zhong
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Michael A Beer
- McKusick- Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Andrew Pekosz
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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18
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Spinello A, D'Anna L, Bignon E, Miclot T, Grandemange S, Terenzi A, Barone G, Barbault F, Monari A. Mechanism of the Covalent Inhibition of Human Transmembrane Protease Serine 2 as an Original Antiviral Strategy. J Phys Chem B 2023. [PMID: 37428676 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpcb.3c02910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/12/2023]
Abstract
The Transmembrane Protease Serine 2 (TMPRSS2) is a human enzyme which is involved in the maturation and post-translation of different proteins. In addition to being overexpressed in cancer cells, TMPRSS2 plays a further fundamental role in favoring viral infections by allowing the fusion of the virus envelope with the cellular membrane, notably in SARS-CoV-2. In this contribution, we resort to multiscale molecular modeling to unravel the structural and dynamical features of TMPRSS2 and its interaction with a model lipid bilayer. Furthermore, we shed light on the mechanism of action of a potential inhibitor (nafamostat), determining the free-energy profile associated with the inhibition reaction and showing the facile poisoning of the enzyme. Our study, while providing the first atomistically resolved mechanism of TMPRSS2 inhibition, is also fundamental in furnishing a solid framework for further rational design targeting transmembrane proteases in a host-directed antiviral strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Spinello
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Palermo, 90126 Palermo, Italy
| | - Luisa D'Anna
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Palermo, 90126 Palermo, Italy
| | - Emmanuelle Bignon
- Université de Lorraine and CNRS, UMR 7019 LPCT, F-54000 Nancy, France
| | - Tom Miclot
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Palermo, 90126 Palermo, Italy
- Université de Lorraine and CNRS, UMR 7019 LPCT, F-54000 Nancy, France
| | | | - Alessio Terenzi
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Palermo, 90126 Palermo, Italy
| | - Giampaolo Barone
- Department of Biological, Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Palermo, 90126 Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Antonio Monari
- Université Paris Cité and CNRS, ITODYS, F-75006 Paris, France
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19
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Low Z, Lani R, Tiong V, Poh C, AbuBakar S, Hassandarvish P. COVID-19 Therapeutic Potential of Natural Products. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119589. [PMID: 37298539 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the fact that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) treatment and management are now considerably regulated, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is still one of the leading causes of death in 2022. The availability of COVID-19 vaccines, FDA-approved antivirals, and monoclonal antibodies in low-income countries still poses an issue to be addressed. Natural products, particularly traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) and medicinal plant extracts (or their active component), have challenged the dominance of drug repurposing and synthetic compound libraries in COVID-19 therapeutics. Their abundant resources and excellent antiviral performance make natural products a relatively cheap and readily available alternative for COVID-19 therapeutics. Here, we deliberately review the anti-SARS-CoV-2 mechanisms of the natural products, their potency (pharmacological profiles), and application strategies for COVID-19 intervention. In light of their advantages, this review is intended to acknowledge the potential of natural products as COVID-19 therapeutic candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoxuan Low
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research & Education Centre (TIDREC), Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Rafidah Lani
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Vunjia Tiong
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research & Education Centre (TIDREC), Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Chitlaa Poh
- Centre for Virus and Vaccine Research, School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Petaling Jaya 47500, Malaysia
| | - Sazaly AbuBakar
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research & Education Centre (TIDREC), Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
| | - Pouya Hassandarvish
- Tropical Infectious Diseases Research & Education Centre (TIDREC), Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur 50603, Malaysia
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20
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Barkhordarian M, Behbood A, Ranjbar M, Rahimian Z, Prasad A. Overview of the cardio-metabolic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Endocrine 2023; 80:477-490. [PMID: 37103684 PMCID: PMC10133915 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-023-03337-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Evidence has shown that cardiometabolic disorders (CMDs) are amongst the top contributors to COVID-19 infection morbidity and mortality. The reciprocal impact of COVID-19 infection and the most common CMDs, the risk factors for poor composite outcome among patients with one or several underlying diseases, the effect of common medical management on CMDs and their safety in the context of acute COVID-19 infection are reviewed. Later on, the changes brought by the COVID-19 pandemic quarantine on the general population's lifestyle (diet, exercise patterns) and metabolic health, acute cardiac complications of different COVID-19 vaccines and the effect of CMDs on the vaccine efficacy are discussed. Our review identified that the incidence of COVID-19 infection is higher among patients with underlying CMDs such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular disease. Also, CMDs increase the risk of COVID-19 infection progression to severe disease phenotypes (e.g. hospital and/or ICU admission, use of mechanical ventilation). Lifestyle modification during COVID-19 era had a great impact on inducing and worsening of CMDs. Finally, the lower efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines was found in patients with metabolic disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Barkhordarian
- Department of Medicine, Division of Cardiology, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Arezoo Behbood
- MPH department, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Fars, Iran
| | - Maryam Ranjbar
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Fars, Iran
| | - Zahra Rahimian
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Fars, Iran
| | - Anand Prasad
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA.
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21
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Resnick JD, Beer MA, Pekosz A. Early Transcriptional Responses of Human Nasal Epithelial Cells to Infection with Influenza A and SARS-CoV-2 Virus Differ and Are Influenced by Physiological Temperature. Pathogens 2023; 12:480. [PMID: 36986402 PMCID: PMC10051809 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12030480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Influenza A (IAV) and SARS-CoV-2 (SCV2) viruses represent an ongoing threat to public health. Both viruses target the respiratory tract, which consists of a gradient of cell types, receptor expression, and temperature. Environmental temperature has been an understudied contributor to infection susceptibility and understanding its impact on host responses to infection could help uncover new insight into severe disease risk factors. As the nasal passageways are the initial site of respiratory virus infection, in this study we investigated the effect of temperature on host responses in human nasal epithelial cells (hNECs) utilizing IAV and SCV2 in vitro infection models. We demonstrate that temperature affected SCV2, but not IAV, viral replicative fitness and that SCV2-infected cultures were slower to mount an infection-induced response, likely due to suppression by the virus. Additionally, we show that that temperature not only changed the basal transcriptomic landscape of epithelial cells, but that it also impacted the response to infection. The induction of interferon and other innate immune responses was not drastically affected by temperature, suggesting that while the baseline antiviral response at different temperatures remained consistent, there may be metabolic or signaling changes that affect how well the cultures were able to adapt to new pressures, such as infection. Finally, we show that hNECs responded differently to IAV and SCV2 infection in ways that give insight into how the virus is able to manipulate the cell to allow for replication and release. Taken together, these data give new insight into the innate immune response to respiratory infections and can assist in identifying new treatment strategies for respiratory infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica D. Resnick
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
- McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Michael A. Beer
- McKusick-Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Andrew Pekosz
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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22
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Maya C. Using PyMOL to Understand Why COVID-19 Vaccines Save Lives. JOURNAL OF CHEMICAL EDUCATION 2023; 100:1351-1356. [PMID: 36920160 PMCID: PMC9999942 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jchemed.2c00779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Chemistry and biochemistry instructors must help students to develop the ability to visualize and manipulate 3D biomolecular structures and critically analyze them and their relationship to their functions. To do this, representative systems must be strategically selected to stimulate students' motivation. Since the World Health Organization declared a global pandemic caused by a new beta-coronavirus, called SARS-CoV-2 in early 2020, huge efforts are being taken by researchers to learn in depth how this virus works and a lot of scientific results are continuously reported. Many of them focus on the structural features of the viral spike glycoprotein and their relation with the vaccine development. This paper presents a series of workouts that deep into the structural characteristics of the spike protein S SARS-CoV-2 virus and the structural features involved in its infection process, using free online resources such as the PDB and the computer program PyMOL. This type of activity is intended to engage structural biology students in examining these macromolecules and others to help establish procedures for controlling COVID-19 and other future infectious diseases. PyMOL session files and student activities are provided.
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23
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Resnick JD, Beer MA, Pekosz A. Early transcriptional responses of human nasal epithelial cells to infection with Influenza A and SARS-CoV-2 virus differ and are influenced by physiological temperature. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.07.531609. [PMID: 36945583 PMCID: PMC10028862 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.07.531609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/23/2023]
Abstract
Influenza A (IAV) and SARS-CoV-2 (SCV2) viruses represent an ongoing threat to public health. Both viruses target the respiratory tract, which consists of a gradient of cell types, receptor expression, and temperature. Environmental temperature has been an un-derstudied contributor to infection susceptibility and understanding its impact on host responses to infection could help uncover new insights into severe disease risk factors. As the nasal passageways are the initial site of respiratory virus infection, in this study we investigated the effect of temperature on host responses in human nasal epithelial cells (hNECs) utilizing IAV and SCV2 in vitro infection models. We demonstrate that temperature affects SCV2, but not IAV, viral replicative fitness and that SCV2 infected cultures are slower to mount an infection-induced response, likely due to suppression by the virus. Additionally, we show that that temperature not only changes the basal transcriptomic landscape of epithelial cells, but that it also impacts the response to infection. The induction of interferon and other innate immune responses were not drastically affected by temperature, suggesting that while the baseline antiviral response at different temperatures remains consistent, there may be metabolic or signaling changes that affect how well the cultures are able to adapt to new pressures such as infection. Finally, we show that hNECs respond differently to IAV and SCV2 infection in ways that give insight into how the virus is able to manipulate the cell to allow for replication and release. Taken together, these data give new insight into the innate immune response to respiratory infections and can assist in identifying new treatment strategies for respiratory infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica D Resnick
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
- McKusick- Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Michael A Beer
- McKusick- Nathans Institute of Genetic Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Andrew Pekosz
- W. Harry Feinstone Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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24
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Mironov AA, Savin MA, Beznoussenko GV. COVID-19 Biogenesis and Intracellular Transport. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24054523. [PMID: 36901955 PMCID: PMC10002980 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24054523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. The structure of SARS-CoV-2 and most of its proteins of have been deciphered. SARS-CoV-2 enters cells through the endocytic pathway and perforates the endosomes' membranes, and its (+) RNA appears in the cytosol. Then, SARS-CoV-2 starts to use the protein machines of host cells and their membranes for its biogenesis. SARS-CoV-2 generates a replication organelle in the reticulo-vesicular network of the zippered endoplasmic reticulum and double membrane vesicles. Then, viral proteins start to oligomerize and are subjected to budding within the ER exit sites, and its virions are passed through the Golgi complex, where the proteins are subjected to glycosylation and appear in post-Golgi carriers. After their fusion with the plasma membrane, glycosylated virions are secreted into the lumen of airways or (seemingly rarely) into the space between epithelial cells. This review focuses on the biology of SARS-CoV-2's interactions with cells and its transport within cells. Our analysis revealed a significant number of unclear points related to intracellular transport in SARS-CoV-2-infected cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander A. Mironov
- Department of Cell Biology, IFOM ETS—The AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Via Adamello, 16, 20139 Milan, Italy
- Correspondence:
| | - Maksim A. Savin
- The Department for Welding Production and Technology of Constructional Materials, Perm National Research Polytechnic University, Komsomolsky Prospekt, 29, 614990 Perm, Russia
| | - Galina V. Beznoussenko
- Department of Cell Biology, IFOM ETS—The AIRC Institute of Molecular Oncology, Via Adamello, 16, 20139 Milan, Italy
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25
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Lim SP. Targeting SARS-CoV-2 and host cell receptor interactions. Antiviral Res 2023; 210:105514. [PMID: 36581047 PMCID: PMC9792186 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2022.105514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Despite the availability of vaccines and therapeutics, continual genetic alterations render the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) a persistent threat, particularly for the immunocompromised and elderly. Through interactions of its spike (S) protein with different receptors and coreceptors on host cell surfaces, the virus enters the cell either via fusion with the plasma membrane or through endocytosis. Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) has been identified as a key receptor utilized by SARS-CoV-2 and related human coronaviruses to mediate cell entry in the lung airways. Auxiliary SARS-CoV-2 entry receptors such as ASGPR1, Kremen protein 1, integrins have also been reported. In this review, therapeutic approaches to block SARS-CoV-2 and host cell receptor interactions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siew Pheng Lim
- Experimental Drug Development Centre (EDDC), A*STAR, 10, Biopolis Road, #05-01, Chromos, 138670, Singapore.
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26
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Gillespie PF, Wang Y, Hofmann C, Kuczynski LE, Winters MA, Teyral JL, Tubbs CM, Shiflett K, Patel N, Rustandi RR. Understanding the Spike Protein in COVID-19 Vaccine in Recombinant Vesicular Stomatitis Virus (rVSV) Using Automated Capillary Western Blots. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:3319-3328. [PMID: 36685032 PMCID: PMC9843631 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.2c06937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the viral agent that is responsible for the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. One of the live virus vaccine candidates Merck and Co., Inc. was developing to help combat the pandemic was V590. V590 was a live-attenuated, replication-competent, recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus (rVSV) in which the envelope VSV glycoprotein (G protein) gene was replaced with the gene for the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (S protein), the protein responsible for viral binding and fusion to the cell membrane. To assist with product and process development, a quantitative Simple Western (SW) assay was successfully developed and phase-appropriately qualified to quantitate the concentration of S protein expressed in V590 samples. A strong correlation was established between potency and S-protein concentration, which suggested that the S-protein SW assay could be used as a proxy for virus productivity optimization with faster data turnaround time (3 h vs 3 days). In addition, unlike potency, the SW assay was able to provide a qualitative profile assessment of the forms of S protein (S protein, S1 subunit, and S multimer) to ensure appropriate levels of S protein were maintained throughout process and product development. Finally, V590 stressed stability studies suggested that time and temperature contributed to the instability of S protein demonstrated by cleavage into its subunits, S1 and S2, and aggregation into S multimer. Both of which could potentially have a deleterious effect on the vaccine immunogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul F. Gillespie
- Analytical
Research Development, Merck & Co., Inc., 770 Sumneytown Pike, West Point, Pennsylvania19486, United States
| | - Yanjie Wang
- Analytical
Research Development, Merck & Co., Inc., 770 Sumneytown Pike, West Point, Pennsylvania19486, United States
| | - Carl Hofmann
- Analytical
Research Development, Merck & Co., Inc., 770 Sumneytown Pike, West Point, Pennsylvania19486, United States
| | - Laura E. Kuczynski
- Vaccine
Process Development, Merck & Co., Inc., 770 Sumneytown Pike, West Point, Pennsylvania19486, United States
| | - Michael A. Winters
- Vaccine
Process Development, Merck & Co., Inc., 770 Sumneytown Pike, West Point, Pennsylvania19486, United States
| | - Jennifer L. Teyral
- Research
CMC Statistics, Merck & Co., Inc., 770 Sumneytown Pike, West Point, Pennsylvania19486, United States
| | - Christopher M. Tubbs
- Analytical
Research Development, Merck & Co., Inc., 770 Sumneytown Pike, West Point, Pennsylvania19486, United States
| | - Kelsey Shiflett
- Analytical
Research Development, Merck & Co., Inc., 770 Sumneytown Pike, West Point, Pennsylvania19486, United States
| | - Nisarg Patel
- Analytical
Research Development, Merck & Co., Inc., 770 Sumneytown Pike, West Point, Pennsylvania19486, United States
| | - Richard R. Rustandi
- Analytical
Research Development, Merck & Co., Inc., 770 Sumneytown Pike, West Point, Pennsylvania19486, United States
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27
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Nejat R, Torshizi MF, Najafi DJ. S Protein, ACE2 and Host Cell Proteases in SARS-CoV-2 Cell Entry and Infectivity; Is Soluble ACE2 a Two Blade Sword? A Narrative Review. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:vaccines11020204. [PMID: 36851081 PMCID: PMC9968219 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11020204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the spread of the deadly virus SARS-CoV-2 in late 2019, researchers have restlessly sought to unravel how the virus enters the host cells. Some proteins on each side of the interaction between the virus and the host cells are involved as the major contributors to this process: (1) the nano-machine spike protein on behalf of the virus, (2) angiotensin converting enzyme II, the mono-carboxypeptidase and the key component of renin angiotensin system on behalf of the host cell, (3) some host proteases and proteins exploited by SARS-CoV-2. In this review, the complex process of SARS-CoV-2 entrance into the host cells with the contribution of the involved host proteins as well as the sequential conformational changes in the spike protein tending to increase the probability of complexification of the latter with angiotensin converting enzyme II, the receptor of the virus on the host cells, are discussed. Moreover, the release of the catalytic ectodomain of angiotensin converting enzyme II as its soluble form in the extracellular space and its positive or negative impact on the infectivity of the virus are considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Nejat
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Laleh Hospital, Tehran 1467684595, Iran
- Correspondence:
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28
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Moumbock AFA, Tran HTT, Lamy E, Günther S. BC-11 is a covalent TMPRSS2 fragment inhibitor that impedes SARS-CoV-2 host cell entry. Arch Pharm (Weinheim) 2023; 356:e2200371. [PMID: 36316225 PMCID: PMC9874818 DOI: 10.1002/ardp.202200371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Host cell entry of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is facilitated via priming of its spike glycoprotein by the human transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2). Although camostat and nafamostat are two highly potent covalent TMPRSS2 inhibitors, they nevertheless did not hold promise in COVID-19 clinical trials, presumably due to their short plasma half-lives. Herein, we report an integrative chemogenomics approach based on computational modeling and in vitro enzymatic assays, for repurposing serine-targeted covalent inhibitors. This led to the identification of BC-11 as a covalent TMPRSS2 inhibitor displaying a unique selectivity profile for serine proteases, ascribable to its boronic acid warhead. BC-11 showed modest inhibition of SARS-CoV-2 (omicron variant) spike pseudotyped particles in a cell-based entry assay, and a combination of BC-11 and AHN 1-055 (a spike glycoprotein inhibitor) demonstrated better viral entry inhibition than either compound alone. Given its low molecular weight and good activity against TMPRSS2, BC-11 qualifies as a good starting point for further structural optimizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélien F. A. Moumbock
- Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmaceutical SciencesAlbert‐Ludwigs‐Universität FreiburgFreiburgGermany
| | - Hoai T. T. Tran
- Molecular Preventive Medicine, Faculty of MedicineUniversity Medical Center, Albert‐Ludwigs‐Universität FreiburgFreiburgGermany
| | - Evelyn Lamy
- Molecular Preventive Medicine, Faculty of MedicineUniversity Medical Center, Albert‐Ludwigs‐Universität FreiburgFreiburgGermany
| | - Stefan Günther
- Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmaceutical SciencesAlbert‐Ludwigs‐Universität FreiburgFreiburgGermany
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29
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Some natural compounds and their analogues having potent anti- SARS-CoV-2 and anti-proteases activities as lead molecules in drug discovery for COVID-19. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY REPORTS 2022; 6:100079. [PMID: 36060987 PMCID: PMC9420082 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmcr.2022.100079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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30
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Zhang Y, Zhang L, Wu J, Yu Y, Liu S, Li T, Li Q, Ding R, Wang H, Nie J, Cui Z, Wang Y, Huang W, Wang Y. A second functional furin site in the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. Emerg Microbes Infect 2022; 11:182-194. [PMID: 34856891 PMCID: PMC8741242 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2021.2014284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The ubiquitously-expressed proteolytic enzyme furin is closely related to the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 and therefore represents a key target for antiviral therapy. Based on bioinformatic analysis and pseudovirus tests, we discovered a second functional furin site located in the spike protein. Furin still increased the infectivity of mutated SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus in 293T-ACE2 cells when the canonical polybasic cleavage site (682-686) was deleted. However, K814A mutation eliminated the enhancing effect of furin on virus infection. Furin inhibitor prevented infection by 682-686-deleted SARS-CoV-2 in 293T-ACE2-furin cells, but not the K814A mutant. K814A mutation did not affect the activity of TMPRSS2 and cathepsin L but did impact the cleavage of S2 into S2' and cell-cell fusion. Additionally, we showed that this functional furin site exists in RaTG13 from bat and PCoV-GD/GX from pangolin. Therefore, we discovered a new functional furin site that is pivotal in promoting SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Zhang
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-transmitted Virus Vaccines, Institute for Biological Product Control, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC), Beijing, People's Republic of China
- National Vaccine & Serum Institute, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Li Zhang
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-transmitted Virus Vaccines, Institute for Biological Product Control, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC), Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiajing Wu
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-transmitted Virus Vaccines, Institute for Biological Product Control, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC), Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanling Yu
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-transmitted Virus Vaccines, Institute for Biological Product Control, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC), Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuo Liu
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-transmitted Virus Vaccines, Institute for Biological Product Control, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC), Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Tao Li
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-transmitted Virus Vaccines, Institute for Biological Product Control, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC), Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Qianqian Li
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-transmitted Virus Vaccines, Institute for Biological Product Control, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC), Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ruxia Ding
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-transmitted Virus Vaccines, Institute for Biological Product Control, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC), Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Haixin Wang
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-transmitted Virus Vaccines, Institute for Biological Product Control, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC), Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jianhui Nie
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-transmitted Virus Vaccines, Institute for Biological Product Control, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC), Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhimin Cui
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-transmitted Virus Vaccines, Institute for Biological Product Control, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC), Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yulin Wang
- National Vaccine & Serum Institute, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Weijin Huang
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-transmitted Virus Vaccines, Institute for Biological Product Control, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC), Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Youchun Wang
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-transmitted Virus Vaccines, Institute for Biological Product Control, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control (NIFDC), Beijing, People's Republic of China
- Lead Contact
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31
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Valenzuela-Fernández A, Cabrera-Rodriguez R, Ciuffreda L, Perez-Yanes S, Estevez-Herrera J, González-Montelongo R, Alcoba-Florez J, Trujillo-González R, García-Martínez de Artola D, Gil-Campesino H, Díez-Gil O, Lorenzo-Salazar JM, Flores C, Garcia-Luis J. Nanomaterials to combat SARS-CoV-2: Strategies to prevent, diagnose and treat COVID-19. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:1052436. [PMID: 36507266 PMCID: PMC9732709 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.1052436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and the associated coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which severely affect the respiratory system and several organs and tissues, and may lead to death, have shown how science can respond when challenged by a global emergency, offering as a response a myriad of rapid technological developments. Development of vaccines at lightning speed is one of them. SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks have stressed healthcare systems, questioning patients care by using standard non-adapted therapies and diagnostic tools. In this scenario, nanotechnology has offered new tools, techniques and opportunities for prevention, for rapid, accurate and sensitive diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19. In this review, we focus on the nanotechnological applications and nano-based materials (i.e., personal protective equipment) to combat SARS-CoV-2 transmission, infection, organ damage and for the development of new tools for virosurveillance, diagnose and immune protection by mRNA and other nano-based vaccines. All the nano-based developed tools have allowed a historical, unprecedented, real time epidemiological surveillance and diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection, at community and international levels. The nano-based technology has help to predict and detect how this Sarbecovirus is mutating and the severity of the associated COVID-19 disease, thereby assisting the administration and public health services to make decisions and measures for preparedness against the emerging variants of SARS-CoV-2 and severe or lethal COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agustín Valenzuela-Fernández
- Laboratorio de Inmunología Celular y Viral, Unidad de Farmacología, Sección de Medicina, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Romina Cabrera-Rodriguez
- Laboratorio de Inmunología Celular y Viral, Unidad de Farmacología, Sección de Medicina, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Laura Ciuffreda
- Research Unit, Hospital Universitario N. S. de Candelaria, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Silvia Perez-Yanes
- Laboratorio de Inmunología Celular y Viral, Unidad de Farmacología, Sección de Medicina, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | - Judith Estevez-Herrera
- Laboratorio de Inmunología Celular y Viral, Unidad de Farmacología, Sección de Medicina, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
| | | | - Julia Alcoba-Florez
- Servicio de Microbiología, Hospital Universitario N. S. de Candelaria, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Rodrigo Trujillo-González
- Laboratorio de Inmunología Celular y Viral, Unidad de Farmacología, Sección de Medicina, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
- Departamento de Análisis Matemático, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de La Laguna, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | | | - Helena Gil-Campesino
- Servicio de Microbiología, Hospital Universitario N. S. de Candelaria, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Oscar Díez-Gil
- Servicio de Microbiología, Hospital Universitario N. S. de Candelaria, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - José M. Lorenzo-Salazar
- Genomics Division, Instituto Tecnológico y de Energías Renovables, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
| | - Carlos Flores
- Research Unit, Hospital Universitario N. S. de Candelaria, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
- Genomics Division, Instituto Tecnológico y de Energías Renovables, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
- CIBER de Enfermedades Respiratorias, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Fernando Pessoa Canarias, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - Jonay Garcia-Luis
- Laboratorio de Inmunología Celular y Viral, Unidad de Farmacología, Sección de Medicina, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Spain
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32
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Benlarbi M, Laroche G, Fink C, Fu K, Mulloy RP, Phan A, Ariana A, Stewart CM, Prévost J, Beaudoin-Bussières G, Daniel R, Bo Y, El Ferri O, Yockell-Lelièvre J, Stanford WL, Giguère PM, Mubareka S, Finzi A, Dekaban GA, Dikeakos JD, Côté M. Identification and differential usage of a host metalloproteinase entry pathway by SARS-CoV-2 Delta and Omicron. iScience 2022; 25:105316. [PMID: 36254158 PMCID: PMC9549715 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) spike glycoprotein (S) binds to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) to mediate membrane fusion via two distinct pathways: 1) a surface, serine protease-dependent or 2) an endosomal, cysteine protease-dependent pathway. In this study, we found that SARS-CoV-2 S has a wider protease usage and can also be activated by TMPRSS13 and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). We found that MMP-2 and MMP-9 played roles in SARS-CoV-2 S cell-cell fusion and TMPRSS2- and cathepsin-independent viral entry in cells expressing high MMP levels. MMP-dependent viral entry required cleavage at the S1/S2 junction in viral producer cells, and differential processing of variants of concern S dictated its usage; the efficiently processed Delta S preferred metalloproteinase-dependent entry when available, and less processed Omicron S was unable to us metalloproteinases for entry. As MMP-2/9 are released during inflammation, they may play roles in S-mediated cytopathic effects, tropism, and disease outcome. MMP-2 and MMP-9 enable SARS-CoV-2 S-mediated syncytia in the absence of TMPRSS2 SARS-CoV-2 can enter cells via MMPs in a TMPRSS2- and cathepsin-independent manner MMP-dependent S activation requires prior S1/S2 processing Delta S can readily use MMPs for entry while Omicron S cannot
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehdi Benlarbi
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Geneviève Laroche
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Corby Fink
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada,Molecular Medicine Research Laboratories, Robarts Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Kathy Fu
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Rory P. Mulloy
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Alexandra Phan
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Ardeshir Ariana
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Corina M. Stewart
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Jérémie Prévost
- Centre de Recherche du CHUM, Montréal, QC H2X 0A9, Canada,Département de Microbiologie, Infectiologie et Immunologie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Guillaume Beaudoin-Bussières
- Centre de Recherche du CHUM, Montréal, QC H2X 0A9, Canada,Département de Microbiologie, Infectiologie et Immunologie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Redaet Daniel
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Yuxia Bo
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Omar El Ferri
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Julien Yockell-Lelièvre
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - William L. Stanford
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada,Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Patrick M. Giguère
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada
| | - Samira Mubareka
- Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5, Canada,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada
| | - Andrés Finzi
- Centre de Recherche du CHUM, Montréal, QC H2X 0A9, Canada,Département de Microbiologie, Infectiologie et Immunologie, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada
| | - Gregory A. Dekaban
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada,Molecular Medicine Research Laboratories, Robarts Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Jimmy D. Dikeakos
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry Western University, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada,Molecular Medicine Research Laboratories, Robarts Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 5C1, Canada
| | - Marceline Côté
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Centre for Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8M5, Canada,Corresponding author
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Prasad V, Bartenschlager R. A snapshot of protein trafficking in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Biol Cell 2022; 115:e2200073. [PMID: 36314261 PMCID: PMC9874443 DOI: 10.1111/boc.202200073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is a human pathogenic virus responsible for the COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic. The infection cycle of SARS-CoV-2 involves several related steps, including virus entry, gene expression, RNA replication, assembly of infectious virions and their egress. For all of these steps, the virus relies on and exploits host cell factors, cellular organelles, and processes such as endocytosis, nuclear transport, protein secretion, metabolite transport at membrane contact sites (MSC) and exocytotic pathways. To do this, SARS-CoV-2 has evolved multifunctional viral proteins that hijack cellular factors and modulate their function by unique strategies. In this Review, we highlight cellular trafficking factors, processes, and organelles of relevance to the SARS-CoV-2 infection cycle and how viral proteins make use of and perturb cellular transport during the viral infection cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vibhu Prasad
- Department of Infectious DiseasesMolecular VirologyHeidelberg UniversityHeidelbergGermany
| | - Ralf Bartenschlager
- Department of Infectious DiseasesMolecular VirologyHeidelberg UniversityHeidelbergGermany,Division Virus‐Associated CarcinogenesisGerman Cancer Research CenterHeidelbergGermany,German Center for Infection ResearchHeidelberg Partner SiteHeidelbergGermany
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34
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Iyer P, Chino T, Ojcius DM. Infection of the oral cavity with SARS-CoV-2 variants: Scope of salivary diagnostics. FRONTIERS IN ORAL HEALTH 2022; 3:1001790. [PMID: 36389278 PMCID: PMC9659966 DOI: 10.3389/froh.2022.1001790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 10/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2, have caused pandemics in the past two decades. The most prevalent SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern can re-infect individuals who have been previously infected with other variants or had protection from vaccines targeting the original SARS-CoV-2 variant. Given the high risk of transmission of coronavirus via aerosols produced during dental procedures, it is important to understand the future risk of coronavirus infection for oral health professionals and to diagnose quickly early stages of outbreaks. Testing of saliva for coronavirus may be the least invasive and most convenient method for following the outbreak at the individual and community level. This review will describe strategies for diagnosis of coronavirus in saliva.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parvati Iyer
- Department of Diagnostic Sciences, University of the Pacific, Arthur Dugoni School of Dentistry, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Takahiro Chino
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - David M. Ojcius
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry, San Francisco, CA, United States
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35
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Negi G, Sharma A, Dey M, Dhanawat G, Parveen N. Membrane attachment and fusion of HIV-1, influenza A, and SARS-CoV-2: resolving the mechanisms with biophysical methods. Biophys Rev 2022; 14:1109-1140. [PMID: 36249860 PMCID: PMC9552142 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-022-00999-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Attachment to and fusion with cell membranes are two major steps in the replication cycle of many human viruses. We focus on these steps for three enveloped viruses, i.e., HIV-1, IAVs, and SARS-CoV-2. Viral spike proteins drive the membrane attachment and fusion of these viruses. Dynamic interactions between the spike proteins and membrane receptors trigger their specific attachment to the plasma membrane of host cells. A single virion on cell membranes can engage in binding with multiple receptors of the same or different types. Such dynamic and multivalent binding of these viruses result in an optimal attachment strength which in turn leads to their cellular entry and membrane fusion. The latter process is driven by conformational changes of the spike proteins which are also class I fusion proteins, providing the energetics of membrane tethering, bending, and fusion. These viruses exploit cellular and membrane factors in regulating the conformation changes and membrane processes. Herein, we describe the major structural and functional features of spike proteins of the enveloped viruses including highlights on their structural dynamics. The review delves into some of the case studies in the literature discussing the findings on multivalent binding, membrane hemifusion, and fusion of these viruses. The focus is on applications of biophysical tools with an emphasis on single-particle methods for evaluating mechanisms of these processes at the molecular and cellular levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geetanjali Negi
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, India
| | - Anurag Sharma
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, India
| | - Manorama Dey
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, India
| | - Garvita Dhanawat
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, India
| | - Nagma Parveen
- Department of Chemistry, Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur, Kanpur, India
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36
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Banerjee S, Wang X, Du S, Zhu C, Jia Y, Wang Y, Cai Q. Comprehensive role of SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein in regulating host signaling pathway. J Med Virol 2022; 94:4071-4087. [PMID: 35488404 PMCID: PMC9348444 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.27820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Since the outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, global public health and the economy have suffered unprecedented damage. Based on the increasing related literature, the characteristics and pathogenic mechanisms of the virus, and epidemiological and clinical features of the disease are being rapidly discovered. The spike glycoprotein (S protein), as a key antigen of SARS-CoV-2 for developing vaccines, antibodies, and drug targets, has been shown to play an important role in viral entry, tissue tropism, and pathogenesis. In this review, we summarize the molecular mechanisms of interaction between S protein and host factors, especially receptor-mediated viral modulation of host signaling pathways, and highlight the progression of potential therapeutic targets, prophylactic and therapeutic agents for prevention and treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuvomoy Banerjee
- Department of Biotechnology and BioengineeringKoba Institutional AreaGandhinagarGujaratIndia
| | - Xinyu Wang
- MOE&NHC&CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, Shanghai Institute of Infections Disease and Biosecurity, & School of Basic Medical Science, Shanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Shujuan Du
- MOE&NHC&CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, Shanghai Institute of Infections Disease and Biosecurity, & School of Basic Medical Science, Shanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Caixia Zhu
- MOE&NHC&CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, Shanghai Institute of Infections Disease and Biosecurity, & School of Basic Medical Science, Shanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Yuping Jia
- Shandong Academy of Pharmaceutical SciencesJinanChina
| | - Yuyan Wang
- MOE&NHC&CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, Shanghai Institute of Infections Disease and Biosecurity, & School of Basic Medical Science, Shanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
| | - Qiliang Cai
- MOE&NHC&CAMS Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology, Shanghai Institute of Infections Disease and Biosecurity, & School of Basic Medical Science, Shanghai Medical CollegeFudan UniversityShanghaiChina
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37
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Structure and activity of human TMPRSS2 protease implicated in SARS-CoV-2 activation. Nat Chem Biol 2022; 18:963-971. [PMID: 35676539 DOI: 10.1038/s41589-022-01059-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Transmembrane protease, serine 2 (TMPRSS2) has been identified as key host cell factor for viral entry and pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2. Specifically, TMPRSS2 proteolytically processes the SARS-CoV-2 Spike (S) protein, enabling virus-host membrane fusion and infection of the airways. We present here a recombinant production strategy for enzymatically active TMPRSS2 and characterization of its matured proteolytic activity, as well as its 1.95 Å X-ray cocrystal structure with the synthetic protease inhibitor nafamostat. Our study provides a structural basis for the potent but nonspecific inhibition by nafamostat and identifies distinguishing features of the TMPRSS2 substrate binding pocket that explain specificity. TMPRSS2 cleaved SARS-CoV-2 S protein at multiple sites, including the canonical S1/S2 cleavage site. We ranked the potency of clinical protease inhibitors with half-maximal inhibitory concentrations ranging from 1.4 nM to 120 µM and determined inhibitor mechanisms of action, providing the groundwork for drug development efforts to selectively inhibit TMPRSS2.
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38
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Ohradanova-Repic A, Skrabana R, Gebetsberger L, Tajti G, Baráth P, Ondrovičová G, Praženicová R, Jantova N, Hrasnova P, Stockinger H, Leksa V. Blockade of TMPRSS2-mediated priming of SARS-CoV-2 by lactoferricin. Front Immunol 2022; 13:958581. [PMID: 36081512 PMCID: PMC9445877 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.958581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In addition to vaccines, there is an urgent need for supplemental antiviral therapeutics to dampen the persistent COVID-19 pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). The transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2), that is responsible for proteolytic priming of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, appears as a rational therapeutic target. Accordingly, selective inhibitors of TMPRSS2 represent potential tools for prevention and treatment of COVID-19. Previously, we identified the human milk glycoprotein lactoferrin as a natural inhibitor of plasminogen conversion to plasmin, a serine protease homologous to TMPRSS2. Here, we tested whether lactoferrin and lactoferricin, a biologically active natural peptide produced by pepsin-mediated digestion of lactoferrin, together with synthetic peptides derived from lactoferrin, were able to block TMPRSS2 and SARS-CoV-2 infection. Particularly, we revealed that both lactoferricin and the N-terminal synthetic peptide pLF1 significantly inhibited: i) proteolytic activity of TMPRSS2 and plasmin, ii) proteolytic processing of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, and iii) SARS-CoV-2 infection of SARS-CoV-2-permissive cells. Thus, natural and synthetic peptides derived from lactoferrin represent feasible candidates for supporting prevention and treatment of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Ohradanova-Repic
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Institute for Hygiene and Applied Immunology, Vienna, Austria
- *Correspondence: Vladimir Leksa, ; Anna Ohradanova-Repic,
| | - Rostislav Skrabana
- Laboratory of Structural Biology of Neurodegeneration, Institute of Neuroimmunology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Laura Gebetsberger
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Institute for Hygiene and Applied Immunology, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gabor Tajti
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Institute for Hygiene and Applied Immunology, Vienna, Austria
| | - Peter Baráth
- Department of Glycobiology, Institute of Chemistry, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Gabriela Ondrovičová
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Institute of Molecular Biology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Romana Praženicová
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Institute of Molecular Biology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
- Department of Biochemistry, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Nikola Jantova
- Laboratory of Structural Biology of Neurodegeneration, Institute of Neuroimmunology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
- Department of Biochemistry, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Patricia Hrasnova
- Laboratory of Structural Biology of Neurodegeneration, Institute of Neuroimmunology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
- Department of Biochemistry, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Hannes Stockinger
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Institute for Hygiene and Applied Immunology, Vienna, Austria
| | - Vladimir Leksa
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Institute for Hygiene and Applied Immunology, Vienna, Austria
- Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Institute of Molecular Biology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Bratislava, Slovakia
- *Correspondence: Vladimir Leksa, ; Anna Ohradanova-Repic,
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Srisutthisamphan K, Saenboonrueng J, Wanitchang A, Viriyakitkosol R, Jongkaewwattana A. Cross-Neutralization of SARS-CoV-2-Specific Antibodies in Convalescent and Immunized Human Sera against the Bat and Pangolin Coronaviruses. Viruses 2022; 14:v14081793. [PMID: 36016415 PMCID: PMC9413129 DOI: 10.3390/v14081793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronaviruses isolated from bats and pangolins are closely related to SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19. These so-called sarbecoviruses are thought to pose an acute pandemic threat. As SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination have become more widespread, it is not known whether neutralizing antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 can cross-neutralize coronaviruses transmitted by bats or pangolins. In this study, we analyzed antibody-mediated neutralization with serum samples from COVID-19 patients (n = 31) and those immunized with inactivated SARS-CoV-2 vaccines (n = 20) against lentivirus-based pseudo-viruses carrying the spike derived from ancestral SARS-CoV-2, bat (RaTG13 or RshSTT182), or pangolin coronaviruses (PCoV-GD). While SARS-CoV-2, PCoV-GD, and RshSTT182 spikes could promote cell-cell fusion in VeroE6 cells, the RaTG13 spike did not. RaTG13, on the other hand, was able to induce cell-cell fusion in cells overexpressing ACE2. Dramatic differences in neutralization activity were observed, with the highest level observed for RaTG13, which was even significantly higher than SARS-CoV-2, PCoV-GD, and RshSTT182 pseudo-viruses. Interestingly, pseudo-viruses containing the chimeric protein in which the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of PCoV-GD spike was replaced by that of RaTG13 could be strongly neutralized, whereas those carrying RaTG13 with the RBD of PCoV-GD were significantly less neutralized. Because the high neutralizing activity against RaTG13 appears to correlate with its low affinity for binding to the human ACE2 receptor, our data presented here might shed light on how pre-existing immunity to SARS-CoV-2 might contribute to protection against related sarbecoviruses with potential spillover to the human host.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanjana Srisutthisamphan
- Virology and Cell Technology Laboratory, National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Pathumthani 12120, Thailand
| | - Janya Saenboonrueng
- Virology and Cell Technology Laboratory, National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Pathumthani 12120, Thailand
| | - Asawin Wanitchang
- Virology and Cell Technology Laboratory, National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Pathumthani 12120, Thailand
| | - Ratchanont Viriyakitkosol
- Virology and Cell Technology Laboratory, National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Pathumthani 12120, Thailand
| | - Anan Jongkaewwattana
- Veterinary Health and Innovation Management Research Group, National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (BIOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), Pathumthani 12120, Thailand
- Correspondence:
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40
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(+)-Usnic acid and its salts, inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2, identified by using in silico methods and in vitro assay. Sci Rep 2022; 12:13118. [PMID: 35908082 PMCID: PMC9338942 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-17506-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been ongoing for over two years, and treatment for COVID-19, other than monoclonal antibodies, is urgently required. Accordingly, we have investigated the inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 protein targets by high-throughput virtual screening using a marine natural products database. Considering the calculated molecular properties and availability of the compounds, (+)-usnic acid was selected as a suitable hit. In the in vitro antiviral assay of (+)-usnic acid by the immunofluorescence method, IC50 was 7.99 μM, which is similar to that of remdesivir used as a positive control. The generalized Born and surface area continuum solvation (MM/GBSA) method was performed to find the potent target of (+)-usnic acid, and the Mpro protein showed the most prominent value, -52.05 kcal/mol, among other SARS-CoV-2 protein targets. Thereafter, RMSD and protein-ligand interactions were profiled using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. Sodium usnate (NaU) improved in vitro assay results with an IC50 of 5.33 μM and a selectivity index (SI) of 9.38. Additionally, when (+)-usnic acid was assayed against SARS-CoV-2 variants, it showed enhanced efficacy toward beta variants with an IC50 of 2.92 μM and SI of 11.1. We report the in vitro anti-SARS-CoV-2 efficacy of (+)-usnic acid in this study and propose that it has the potential to be developed as a COVID-19 treatment if its in vivo efficacy has been confirmed.
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Brault A, Néré R, Prados J, Boudreault S, Bisaillon M, Marchand P, Couture P, Labbé S. Cellulosic copper nanoparticles and a hydrogen peroxide-based disinfectant trigger rapid inactivation of pseudoviral particles expressing the Spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV, and MERS-CoV. Metallomics 2022; 14:mfac044. [PMID: 35731587 DOI: 10.1093/mtomcs/mfac044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a viral respiratory infection caused by human coronaviruses that include SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV, and Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV). Although their primary mode of transmission is through contaminated respiratory droplets from infected carriers, the deposition of expelled virus particles onto surfaces and fomites could contribute to viral transmission. Here, we use replication-deficient murine leukemia virus (MLV) pseudoviral particles expressing SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV, or MERS-CoV Spike (S) protein on their surface. These surrogates of native coronavirus counterparts serve as a model to analyze the S-mediated entry into target cells. Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) nanofibers that are combined with copper (Cu) exhibit strong antimicrobial properties. S-pseudovirions that are exposed to CMC-Cu nanoparticles (30 s) display a dramatic reduction in their ability to infect target Vero E6 cells, with ∼97% less infectivity as compared to untreated pseudovirions. In contrast, addition of the Cu chelator tetrathiomolybdate protects S-pseudovirions from CMC-Cu-mediated inactivation. When S-pseudovirions were treated with a hydrogen peroxide-based disinfectant (denoted SaberTM) used at 1:250 dilution, their infectivity was dramatically reduced by ∼98%. However, the combined use of SaberTM and CMC-Cu is the most effective approach to restrict infectivity of SARS-CoV-2-S, SARS-CoV-S, and MERS-CoV-S pseudovirions in Vero E6 cell assays. Together, these results show that cellulosic Cu nanoparticles enhance the effectiveness of diluted SaberTM sanitizer, setting up an improved strategy to lower the risk of surface- and fomite-mediated transmission of enveloped respiratory viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ariane Brault
- Département de Biochimie et de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Faculté de médecine et des sciences de la santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, J1E 4K8, Canada
| | - Raphael Néré
- Département de Biochimie et de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Faculté de médecine et des sciences de la santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, J1E 4K8, Canada
| | - Jérôme Prados
- Département de Biochimie et de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Faculté de médecine et des sciences de la santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, J1E 4K8, Canada
| | - Simon Boudreault
- Département de Biochimie et de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Faculté de médecine et des sciences de la santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, J1E 4K8, Canada
| | - Martin Bisaillon
- Département de Biochimie et de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Faculté de médecine et des sciences de la santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, J1E 4K8, Canada
| | | | | | - Simon Labbé
- Département de Biochimie et de Génomique Fonctionnelle, Faculté de médecine et des sciences de la santé, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, J1E 4K8, Canada
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Zhang C, Meng X, Zhao H. Comparison of Cell Fusions Induced by Influenza Virus and SARS-CoV-2. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137365. [PMID: 35806369 PMCID: PMC9266613 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Virus–cell fusion is the key step for viral infection in host cells. Studies on virus binding and fusion with host cells are important for understanding the virus–host interaction and viral pathogenesis for the discovery of antiviral drugs. In this review, we focus on the virus–cell fusions induced by the two major pandemic viruses, including the influenza virus and SARS-CoV-2. We further compare the cell fusions induced by the influenza virus and SARS-CoV-2, especially the pH-dependent fusion of the influenza virus and the fusion of SARS-CoV-2 in the type-II transmembrane serine protease 2 negative (TMPRSS2-) cells with syncytia formation. Finally, we present the development of drugs used against SARA-CoV-2 and the influenza virus through the discovery of anti-fusion drugs and the prevention of pandemic respiratory viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuyuan Zhang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (C.Z.); (X.M.)
| | - Xinjie Meng
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (C.Z.); (X.M.)
- Centre for Virology, Vaccinology and Therapeutics, Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hanjun Zhao
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; (C.Z.); (X.M.)
- Centre for Virology, Vaccinology and Therapeutics, Hong Kong Science and Technology Park, Hong Kong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Correspondence: or ; Tel.: +852-2255-4892
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The Cellular Characterization of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein in Virus-Infected Cells Using the Receptor Binding Domain Binding Specific Human Monoclonal Antibodies. J Virol 2022; 96:e0045522. [PMID: 35727030 PMCID: PMC9278116 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00455-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A human monoclonal antibody panel (PD4, PD5, PD7, SC23, and SC29) was isolated from the B cells of convalescent patients and used to examine the S protein in SARS-CoV-2-infected cells. While all five antibodies bound conformational-specific epitopes within SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein, only PD5, PD7, and SC23 were able to bind to the receptor binding domain (RBD). Immunofluorescence microscopy was used to examine the S protein RBD in cells infected with the Singapore isolates SARS-CoV-2/0334 and SARS-CoV-2/1302. The RBD-binders exhibited a distinct cytoplasmic staining pattern that was primarily localized within the Golgi complex and was distinct from the diffuse cytoplasmic staining pattern exhibited by the non-RBD-binders (PD4 and SC29). These data indicated that the S protein adopted a conformation in the Golgi complex that enabled the RBD recognition by the RBD-binders. The RBD-binders also recognized the uncleaved S protein, indicating that S protein cleavage was not required for RBD recognition. Electron microscopy indicated high levels of cell-associated virus particles, and multiple cycle virus infection using RBD-binder staining provided evidence for direct cell-to-cell transmission for both isolates. Although similar levels of RBD-binder staining were demonstrated for each isolate, SARS-CoV-2/1302 exhibited slower rates of cell-to-cell transmission. These data suggest that a conformational change in the S protein occurs during its transit through the Golgi complex that enables RBD recognition by the RBD-binders and suggests that these antibodies can be used to monitor S protein RBD formation during the early stages of infection. IMPORTANCE The SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein receptor binding domain (RBD) mediates the attachment of SARS-CoV-2 to the host cell. This interaction plays an essential role in initiating virus infection, and the S protein RBD is therefore a focus of therapeutic and vaccine interventions. However, new virus variants have emerged with altered biological properties in the RBD that can potentially negate these interventions. Therefore, an improved understanding of the biological properties of the RBD in virus-infected cells may offer future therapeutic strategies to mitigate SARS- CoV-2 infection. We used physiologically relevant antibodies that were isolated from the B cells of convalescent COVID-19 patients to monitor the RBD in cells infected with SARS-CoV-2 clinical isolates. These immunological reagents specifically recognize the correctly folded RBD and were used to monitor the appearance of the RBD in SARS-CoV-2-infected cells and identified the site where the RBD first appears.
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Rangu R, Wander PL, Barrow BM, Zraika S. Going viral in the islet: mediators of SARS-CoV-2 entry beyond ACE2. J Mol Endocrinol 2022; 69:R63-R79. [PMID: 35521990 PMCID: PMC10622140 DOI: 10.1530/jme-21-0282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Following initial infection of airway epithelia, SARS-CoV-2 invades a wide range of cells in multiple organs, including pancreatic islet cells. Diabetes is now recognised as a risk factor for severe COVID-19 outcomes, including hospitalisation and death. Additionally, COVID-19 is associated with a higher risk of new-onset diabetes and metabolic complications of diabetes. One mechanism by which these deleterious outcomes may occur is via the destruction of insulin-producing islet β cells, either directly by SARS-CoV-2 entry into β cells or indirectly due to inflammation and fibrosis in the surrounding microenvironment. While the canonical pathway of viral entry via angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) has been established as a major route of SARS-CoV-2 infection in the lung, it may not be solely responsible for viral entry into the endocrine pancreas. This is likely due to the divergent expression of viral entry factors among different tissues. For example, expression of ACE2 has not been unequivocally demonstrated in β cells. Thus, it is important to understand how other proteins known to be highly expressed in pancreatic endocrine cells may be involved in SARS-CoV-2 entry, with the view that these could be targeted to prevent the demise of the β cell in COVID-19. To that end, this review discusses alternate receptors of SARS-CoV-2 (CD147 and GRP78), as well as mediators (furin, TMPRSS2, cathepsin L, ADAM17, neuropilin-1, and heparan sulphate) that may facilitate SARS-CoV-2 entry into pancreatic islets independent of or in conjunction with ACE2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohita Rangu
- Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA 98108, United States
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, United States
| | - Pandora L. Wander
- Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA 98108, United States
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, United States
| | - Breanne M. Barrow
- Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA 98108, United States
| | - Sakeneh Zraika
- Veterans Affairs Puget Sound Health Care System, Seattle, WA 98108, United States
- Division of Metabolism, Endocrinology and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, United States
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Kastenhuber ER, Johnson JL, Yaron TM, Mercadante M, Cantley LC. Evolution of host protease interactions among SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern and related coronaviruses. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2022:2022.06.16.496428. [PMID: 35734085 PMCID: PMC9216717 DOI: 10.1101/2022.06.16.496428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Previously, we showed that coagulation factors directly cleave SARS-CoV-2 spike and promote viral entry (Kastenhuber et al., 2022). Here, we show that substitutions in the S1/S2 cleavage site observed in SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) exhibit divergent interactions with host proteases, including factor Xa and furin. Nafamostat remains effective to block coagulation factor-mediated cleavage of variant spike sequences. Furthermore, host protease usage has likely been a selection pressure throughout coronavirus evolution, and we observe convergence of distantly related coronaviruses to attain common host protease interactions, including coagulation factors. Interpretation of genomic surveillance of emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants and future zoonotic spillover is supported by functional characterization of recurrent emerging features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward R. Kastenhuber
- Meyer Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jared L. Johnson
- Meyer Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Tomer M. Yaron
- Meyer Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Marisa Mercadante
- Meyer Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Lewis C. Cantley
- Meyer Cancer Center, Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
- Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
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Mezger MC, Conzelmann C, Weil T, von Maltitz P, Albers DPJ, Münch J, Stamminger T, Schilling EM. Inhibitors of Activin Receptor-like Kinase 5 Interfere with SARS-CoV-2 S-Protein Processing and Spike-Mediated Cell Fusion via Attenuation of Furin Expression. Viruses 2022; 14:v14061308. [PMID: 35746781 PMCID: PMC9228453 DOI: 10.3390/v14061308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Screening of a protein kinase inhibitor library identified SB431542, targeting activin receptor-like kinase 5 (ALK5), as a compound interfering with SARS-CoV-2 replication. Since ALK5 is implicated in transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) signaling and regulation of the cellular endoprotease furin, we pursued this research to clarify the role of this protein kinase for SARS-CoV-2 infection. We show that TGF-β1 induces the expression of furin in a broad spectrum of cells including Huh-7 and Calu-3 that are permissive for SARS-CoV-2. The inhibition of ALK5 by incubation with SB431542 revealed a dose-dependent downregulation of both basal and TGF-β1 induced furin expression. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the ALK5 inhibitors SB431542 and Vactosertib negatively affect the proteolytic processing of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein and significantly reduce spike-mediated cell-cell fusion. This correlated with an inhibitory effect of ALK5 inhibition on the production of infectious SARS-CoV-2. Altogether, our study shows that interference with ALK5 signaling attenuates SARS-CoV-2 infectivity and cell-cell spread via downregulation of furin which is most pronounced upon TGF-β stimulation. Since a TGF-β dominated cytokine storm is a hallmark of severe COVID-19, ALK5 inhibitors undergoing clinical trials might represent a potential therapy option for COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja C. Mezger
- Institute of Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (M.C.M.); (E.-M.S.)
| | - Carina Conzelmann
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (C.C.); (T.W.); (P.v.M.); (D.P.J.A.); (J.M.)
| | - Tatjana Weil
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (C.C.); (T.W.); (P.v.M.); (D.P.J.A.); (J.M.)
| | - Pascal von Maltitz
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (C.C.); (T.W.); (P.v.M.); (D.P.J.A.); (J.M.)
| | - Dan P. J. Albers
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (C.C.); (T.W.); (P.v.M.); (D.P.J.A.); (J.M.)
| | - Jan Münch
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (C.C.); (T.W.); (P.v.M.); (D.P.J.A.); (J.M.)
| | - Thomas Stamminger
- Institute of Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (M.C.M.); (E.-M.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-731-50065100
| | - Eva-Maria Schilling
- Institute of Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (M.C.M.); (E.-M.S.)
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Bohlin J, Page CM, Lee Y, Pettersson JHO, Jugessur A, Magnus P, Håberg SE. Age and sex effects on DNA methylation sites linked to genes implicated in severe COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2 host cell entry. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0269105. [PMID: 35679253 PMCID: PMC9182232 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0269105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Male sex and advanced age are associated with severe symptoms of COVID-19. Sex and age also exhibit substantial associations with genome-wide DNA methylation (DNAm) differences in humans. Using a random sample of Illumina EPIC-based genome-wide methylomes from peripheral whole blood of 1,976 parents, participating in The Norwegian Mother, Father and Child Cohort Study (MoBa), we explored whether DNAm in genes linked to SARS-CoV-2 host cell entry and to severe COVID-19 were associated with sex and age. This was carried out by testing 1,572 DNAm sites (CpGs) located near 45 genes for associations with age and sex. We found that DNAm in 281 and 231 of 1,572 CpGs were associated (pFDR<0.01) with sex and aging, respectively. CpGs linked to SARS-CoV-2 host cell entry genes were all associated with age and sex, except for the ACE2 receptor gene (located on the X-chromosome), which was only associated with sex (pFDR<0.01). Furthermore, we examined whether 1,487 autosomal CpGs associated with host-cell entry and severe COVID-19 were more or less associated with sex and age than what would be expected from the same number of randomly sampled genome-wide CpGs. We found that the CpGs associated with host-cell entry and severe COVID-19 were not more or less associated with sex (R2 = 0.77, p = 0.09) than the CpGs sampled from random genomic regions; age was actually found to be significantly less so (R2 = 0.36, p = 0.04). Hence, while we found wide-spread associations between sex and age at CpGs linked to genes implicated with SARS-CoV-2 host cell entry and severe COVID-19, the effect from the sum of these CpGs was not stronger than that from randomly sampled CpGs; for age it was significantly less so. These findings could suggest that advanced age and male sex may not be unsurmountable barriers for the SARS-CoV-2 virus to evolve increased infectiousness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jon Bohlin
- Department of Method Development and analytics, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Center for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- * E-mail:
| | - Christian M. Page
- Center for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Mathematics, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Yunsung Lee
- Center for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - John H.-O. Pettersson
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, School of Life and Environmental Sciences and School of Medical Sciences, the University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Zoonosis Science Center, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, University of Uppsala, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Astanand Jugessur
- Center for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Per Magnus
- Center for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Siri E. Håberg
- Center for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
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SARS-CoV-2 Spike Furin Cleavage Site and S2' Basic Residues Modulate the Entry Process in a Host Cell-Dependent Manner. J Virol 2022; 96:e0047422. [PMID: 35678602 PMCID: PMC9278140 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00474-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) envelope glycoprotein constitutes the main determinant of virus entry and the target of host immune response, thus being of great interest for antiviral research. It is constituted of S1 and S2 subunits, which are involved in ACE2 receptor binding and fusion between the viral envelope and host cell membrane, respectively. Induction of the fusion process requires S cleavage at the S1-S2 junction and the S2′ site located upstream of the fusion peptide. Interestingly, the SARS-CoV-2 spike harbors a 4-residue insertion at the S1-S2 junction that is absent in its closest relatives and constitutes a polybasic motif recognized by furin-like proteases. In addition, the S2′ site is characterized by the presence of conserved basic residues. Here, we sought to determine the importance of the furin cleavage site (FCS) and the S2′ basic residues for S-mediated entry functions. We determined the impact of mutations introduced at these sites on S processing, fusogenic activity, and its ability to mediate entry in different cellular backgrounds. Strikingly, mutation phenotypes were highly dependent on the host cell background. We confirmed that although the FCS was not absolutely required for virus entry, it contributed to extending the fusogenic potential of S. Cleavage site mutations, as well as inhibition of furin protease activity, affected the cell surface expression of S in a host cell-dependent manner. Finally, inhibition of furin activity differentially affected SARS-CoV-2 virus infectivity in the tested host cells, thereby confirming the host cell-dependent effect of spike processing for the viral life cycle. IMPORTANCE SARS-CoV-2 is responsible for the current global pandemic that has resulted in several million deaths. As the key determinant of virus entry into host cells and the main target of host immune response, the spike glycoprotein constitutes an attractive target for therapeutics development. Entry functions of spike rely on its processing at two sites by host cell proteases. While SARS-CoV-2 spike differs from its closest relatives by the insertion of a basic furin cleavage motif at the first site, it harbors conserved basic residues at the second cleavage site. Characterization of the importance of the basic sequences present at the two cleavage sites revealed that they were influencing spike processing, intracellular localization, induction of fusion, and entry in a host cell-dependent manner. Thus, our results revealed a high heterogeneity in spike sequence requirement for entry functions in the different host cells, in agreement with the high adaptability of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
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Faraji SN, Raee MJ, Hashemi SMA, Daryabor G, Tabrizi R, Dashti FS, Behboudi E, Heidarnejad K, Nowrouzi-Sohrabi P, Hatam G. Human interaction targets of SARS-COV-2 spike protein: A systematic review. EUR J INFLAMM 2022. [PMCID: PMC9160582 DOI: 10.1177/1721727x221095382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives: The development of effective targeted therapy and drug-design approaches against the SARS-CoV-2 is a universal health priority. Therefore, it is important to assess possible therapeutic strategies against SARS-CoV-2 via its most interaction targets. The present study aimed to perform a systematic review on clinical and experimental investigations regarding SARS-COV-2 interaction targets for human cell entry. Methods: A systematic search using relevant MeSH terms and keywords was performed in PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science (ISI) databases up to July 2021. Two reviewers independently assessed the eligibility of the studies, extracted the data, and evaluated the methodological quality of the included studies. Additionally, a narrative synthesis was done as a qualitative method for data gathering and synthesis of each outcome measure. Results: A total of 5610 studies were identified, and 128 articles were included in the systematic review. Based on the results, spike antigen was the only interaction protein from SARS-CoV-2. However, the interaction proteins from humans varied including different spike receptors and several cleavage enzymes. The most common interactions of the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 for cell entry were ACE2 (entry receptor) and TMPRSS2 (for spike priming). A lot of published studies have mainly focused on the ACE2 receptor followed by the TMPRSS family and furin. Based on the results, ACE2 polymorphisms as well as spike RBD mutations affected the SARS-CoV-2 binding affinity. Conclusion: The included studies shed more light on SARS-CoV-2 cellular entry mechanisms and detailed interactions, which could enhance the understanding of SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis and the development of new and comprehensive therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyed Nooreddin Faraji
- School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohamad Javad Raee
- Center for Nanotechnology in Drug Delivery, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohamad Ali Hashemi
- Department of Bacteriology and Virology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Department of Microbiology, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Daryabor
- Autoimmune Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Reza Tabrizi
- Non-communicable Diseases Research Center, Fasa University of Medical Sciences, Fasa, Iran
| | - Fateme Sadat Dashti
- Research Center for Food Hygiene and Safety, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Emad Behboudi
- Department of Microbiology, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Kamran Heidarnejad
- Recombinant Antibody Laboratory, Department of Immunology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Peyman Nowrouzi-Sohrabi
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Hatam
- Basic Sciences in Infectious Diseases Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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Yoon E, Kim D, Jeon H, Kwon Y, Jang Y, Kim S, Yeon Hwang K. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Variants—Possibility of Universal Vaccine Design: A Review. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2022; 20:3533-3544. [PMID: 35765543 PMCID: PMC9221512 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2022.06.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Both novel and conventional vaccination strategies have been implemented worldwide since the onset of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Despite various medical advances in the treatment and prevention of the spread of this contagious disease, it remains a major public health threat with a high mortality rate. As several lethal SARS-CoV-2 variants continue to emerge, the development of several vaccines and medicines, each with certain advantages and disadvantages, is underway. Additionally, many modalities are at various stages of research and development or clinical trials. Here, we summarize emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants, including delta, omicron, and “stealth omicron,” as well as available oral drugs for COVID-19. We also discuss possible antigen candidates other than the receptor-binding domain protein for the development of a universal COVID-19 vaccine. The present review will serve as a helpful resource for future vaccine and drug development to combat COVID-19.
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