1
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Shum MHH, Lee Y, Tam L, Xia H, Chung OLW, Guo Z, Lam TTY. Binding affinity between coronavirus spike protein and human ACE2 receptor. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2024; 23:759-770. [PMID: 38304547 PMCID: PMC10831124 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2024.01.009] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
Coronaviruses (CoVs) pose a major risk to global public health due to their ability to infect diverse animal species and potential for emergence in humans. The CoV spike protein mediates viral entry into the cell and plays a crucial role in determining the binding affinity to host cell receptors. With particular emphasis on α- and β-coronaviruses that infect humans and domestic animals, current research on CoV receptor use suggests that the exploitation of the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor poses a significant threat for viral emergence with pandemic potential. This review summarizes the approaches used to study binding interactions between CoV spike proteins and the human ACE2 (hACE2) receptor. Solid-phase enzyme immunoassays and cell binding assays allow qualitative assessment of binding but lack quantitative evaluation of affinity. Surface plasmon resonance, Bio-layer interferometry, and Microscale Thermophoresis on the other hand, provide accurate affinity measurement through equilibrium dissociation constants (KD). In silico modeling predicts affinity through binding structure modeling, protein-protein docking simulations, and binding energy calculations but reveals inconsistent results due to the lack of a standardized approach. Machine learning and deep learning models utilize simulated and experimental protein-protein interaction data to elucidate the critical residues associated with CoV binding affinity to hACE2. Further optimization and standardization of existing approaches for studying binding affinity could aid pandemic preparedness. Specifically, prioritizing surveillance of CoVs that can bind to human receptors stands to mitigate the risk of zoonotic spillover.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus Ho-Hin Shum
- State Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D24H), Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China
| | - Yang Lee
- School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Centre for Immunology and Infection (C2i), Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China
| | - Leighton Tam
- School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D24H), Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hui Xia
- Department of Chemistry, South University of Science and Technology of China, China
- Department of Chemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Oscar Lung-Wa Chung
- Department of Chemistry, South University of Science and Technology of China, China
| | - Zhihong Guo
- Department of Chemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tommy Tsan-Yuk Lam
- State Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D24H), Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China
- Centre for Immunology and Infection (C2i), Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong, China
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2
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Tang X, Liu Y, Wang J, Long T, Yee Mok BW, Huang Y, Peng Z, Jia Q, Liu C, So PK, Pui-Kam Tse S, Hei Ng C, Liu S, Sun F, Tang S, Yao ZP, Chen H, Guo Y. Identifications of novel host cell factors that interact with the receptor-binding domain of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. J Biol Chem 2024; 300:107390. [PMID: 38777146 PMCID: PMC11237930 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2024.107390] [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: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 entry into host cells is facilitated by the interaction between the receptor-binding domain of its spike protein (CoV2-RBD) and host cell receptor, ACE2, promoting viral membrane fusion. The virus also uses endocytic pathways for entry, but the mediating host factors remain largely unknown. It is also unknown whether mutations in the RBD of SARS-CoV-2 variants promote interactions with additional host factors to promote viral entry. Here, we used the GST pull-down approach to identify novel surface-located host factors that bind to CoV2-RBD. One of these factors, SH3BP4, regulates internalization of CoV2-RBD in an ACE2-independent but integrin- and clathrin-dependent manner and mediates SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus entry, suggesting that SH3BP4 promotes viral entry via the endocytic route. Many of the identified factors, including SH3BP4, ADAM9, and TMEM2, show stronger affinity to CoV2-RBD than to RBD of the less infective SARS-CoV, suggesting SARS-CoV-2-specific utilization. We also found factors preferentially binding to the RBD of the SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant, potentially enhancing its entry. These data identify the repertoire of host cell surface factors that function in the events leading to the entry of SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Tang
- Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Enzymology and Mechanism of Major Metabolic Diseases, College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal University, Wuhu, China; Division of Life Science and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yang Liu
- Division of Life Science and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Jinhui Wang
- Division of Life Science and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Teng Long
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Centre for Virology, Vaccinology and Therapeutics Limited, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Bobo Wing Yee Mok
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Centre for Virology, Vaccinology and Therapeutics Limited, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yan Huang
- Division of Life Science and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ziqing Peng
- Division of Life Science and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Qinyu Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Research Institute for Future Food, Research Centre for Chinese Medicine Innovation, and Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chengxi Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Research Institute for Future Food, Research Centre for Chinese Medicine Innovation, and Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Pui-Kin So
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Research Institute for Future Food, Research Centre for Chinese Medicine Innovation, and Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Sirius Pui-Kam Tse
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Research Institute for Future Food, Research Centre for Chinese Medicine Innovation, and Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Cheuk Hei Ng
- Division of Life Science and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Shiyi Liu
- Thrust of Bioscience and Biomedical Engineering, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou), Guangzhou, China
| | - Fei Sun
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Shaojun Tang
- Thrust of Bioscience and Biomedical Engineering, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (Guangzhou), Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhong-Ping Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Drug Discovery, Research Institute for Future Food, Research Centre for Chinese Medicine Innovation, and Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Honglin Chen
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Centre for Virology, Vaccinology and Therapeutics Limited, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yusong Guo
- Division of Life Science and State Key Laboratory of Molecular Neuroscience, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Hong Kong SAR, China; Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen, China.
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3
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Brinkkemper M, Poniman M, Siteur-van Rijnstra E, Iddouch WA, Bijl TP, Guerra D, Tejjani K, Grobben M, Bhoelan F, Bemelman D, Kempers R, van Gils MJ, Sliepen K, Stegmann T, van der Velden YU, Sanders RW. A spike virosome vaccine induces pan-sarbecovirus antibody responses in mice. iScience 2024; 27:109719. [PMID: 38706848 PMCID: PMC11068555 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Zoonotic events by sarbecoviruses have sparked an epidemic (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus [SARS-CoV]) and a pandemic (SARS-CoV-2) in the past two decades. The continued risk of spillovers from animals to humans is an ongoing threat to global health and a pan-sarbecovirus vaccine would be an important contribution to pandemic preparedness. Here, we describe multivalent virosome-based vaccines that present stabilized spike proteins from four sarbecovirus strains, one from each clade. A cocktail of four monovalent virosomes or a mosaic virosome preparation induced broad sarbecovirus binding and neutralizing antibody responses in mice. Pre-existing immunity against SARS-CoV-2 and extending the intervals between immunizations enhanced antibody responses. These results should inform the development of a pan-sarbecovirus vaccine, as part of our efforts to prepare for and/or avoid a next pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitch Brinkkemper
- Amsterdam UMC, location University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious diseases, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Meliawati Poniman
- Amsterdam UMC, location University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious diseases, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Esther Siteur-van Rijnstra
- Amsterdam UMC, location University of Amsterdam, Department of Experimental Immunology, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Widad Ait Iddouch
- Amsterdam UMC, location University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious diseases, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Tom P.L. Bijl
- Amsterdam UMC, location University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious diseases, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Denise Guerra
- Amsterdam UMC, location University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious diseases, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Khadija Tejjani
- Amsterdam UMC, location University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious diseases, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Marloes Grobben
- Amsterdam UMC, location University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious diseases, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Farien Bhoelan
- Mymetics BV, JH Oortweg 21, CH 2333 Leiden, the Netherlands
| | | | - Ronald Kempers
- Mymetics BV, JH Oortweg 21, CH 2333 Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Marit J. van Gils
- Amsterdam UMC, location University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious diseases, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Kwinten Sliepen
- Amsterdam UMC, location University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious diseases, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Toon Stegmann
- Mymetics BV, JH Oortweg 21, CH 2333 Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Yme U. van der Velden
- Amsterdam UMC, location University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious diseases, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Rogier W. Sanders
- Amsterdam UMC, location University of Amsterdam, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam institute for Infection and Immunity, Infectious diseases, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, USA
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Hills FR, Eruera AR, Hodgkinson-Bean J, Jorge F, Easingwood R, Brown SHJ, Bouwer JC, Li YP, Burga LN, Bostina M. Variation in structural motifs within SARS-related coronavirus spike proteins. PLoS Pathog 2024; 20:e1012158. [PMID: 38805567 PMCID: PMC11236199 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1012158] [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: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 07/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is the third known coronavirus (CoV) that has crossed the animal-human barrier in the last two decades. However, little structural information exists related to the close genetic species within the SARS-related coronaviruses. Here, we present three novel SARS-related CoV spike protein structures solved by single particle cryo-electron microscopy analysis derived from bat (bat SL-CoV WIV1) and civet (cCoV-SZ3, cCoV-007) hosts. We report complex glycan trees that decorate the glycoproteins and density for water molecules which facilitated modeling of the water molecule coordination networks within structurally important regions. We note structural conservation of the fatty acid binding pocket and presence of a linoleic acid molecule which are associated with stabilization of the receptor binding domains in the "down" conformation. Additionally, the N-terminal biliverdin binding pocket is occupied by a density in all the structures. Finally, we analyzed structural differences in a loop of the receptor binding motif between coronaviruses known to infect humans and the animal coronaviruses described in this study, which regulate binding to the human angiotensin converting enzyme 2 receptor. This study offers a structural framework to evaluate the close relatives of SARS-CoV-2, the ability to inform pandemic prevention, and aid in the development of pan-neutralizing treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca R. Hills
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Alice-Roza Eruera
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - James Hodgkinson-Bean
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Fátima Jorge
- Otago Microscopy and Nano Imaging Unit, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Richard Easingwood
- Otago Microscopy and Nano Imaging Unit, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Simon H. J. Brown
- ARC Centre for Cryo-electron Microscopy of Membrane Proteins, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - James C. Bouwer
- ARC Centre for Cryo-electron Microscopy of Membrane Proteins, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Yi-Ping Li
- Institute of Human Virology and Zhongshan School of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Laura N. Burga
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Mihnea Bostina
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Otago Microscopy and Nano Imaging Unit, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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5
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Tolentino JE, Lytras S, Ito J, Sato K. Recombination analysis on the receptor switching event of MERS-CoV and its close relatives: implications for the emergence of MERS-CoV. Virol J 2024; 21:84. [PMID: 38600521 PMCID: PMC11008012 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-024-02358-2] [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: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND PlMERS-CoV is a coronavirus known to cause severe disease in humans, taxonomically classified under the subgenus Merbecovirus. Recent findings showed that the close relatives of MERS-CoV infecting vespertillionid bats (family Vespertillionidae), named NeoCoV and PDF-2180, use their hosts' ACE2 as their entry receptor, unlike the DPP4 receptor usage of MERS-CoV. Previous research suggests that this difference in receptor usage between these related viruses is a result of recombination. However, the precise location of the recombination breakpoints and the details of the recombination event leading to the change of receptor usage remain unclear. METHODS We used maximum likelihood-based phylogenetics and genetic similarity comparisons to characterise the evolutionary history of all complete Merbecovirus genome sequences. Recombination events were detected by multiple computational methods implemented in the recombination detection program. To verify the influence of recombination, we inferred the phylogenetic relation of the merbecovirus genomes excluding recombinant segments and that of the viruses' receptor binding domains and examined the level of congruency between the phylogenies. Finally, the geographic distribution of the genomes was inspected to identify the possible location where the recombination event occurred. RESULTS Similarity plot analysis and the recombination-partitioned phylogenetic inference showed that MERS-CoV is highly similar to NeoCoV (and PDF-2180) across its whole genome except for the spike-encoding region. This is confirmed to be due to recombination by confidently detecting a recombination event between the proximal ancestor of MERS-CoV and a currently unsampled merbecovirus clade. Notably, the upstream recombination breakpoint was detected in the N-terminal domain and the downstream breakpoint at the S2 subunit of spike, indicating that the acquired recombined fragment includes the receptor-binding domain. A tanglegram comparison further confirmed that the receptor binding domain-encoding region of MERS-CoV was acquired via recombination. Geographic mapping analysis on sampling sites suggests the possibility that the recombination event occurred in Africa. CONCLUSION Together, our results suggest that recombination can lead to receptor switching of merbecoviruses during circulation in bats. These results are useful for future epidemiological assessments and surveillance to understand the spillover risk of bat coronaviruses to the human population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarel Elgin Tolentino
- Division of Systems Virology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Japan
| | - Spyros Lytras
- Division of Systems Virology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, UK
| | - Jumpei Ito
- Division of Systems Virology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
- International Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Kei Sato
- Division of Systems Virology, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
- Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Japan.
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, UK.
- International Vaccine Design Center, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
- Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
- CREST, Japan Science and Technology Agency, Kawaguchi, Japan.
- International Research Center for Infectious Diseases, The Institute of Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
- Collaboration Unit for Infection, Joint Research Center for Human Retrovirus Infection, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan.
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6
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Zech F, Jung C, Jacob T, Kirchhoff F. Causes and Consequences of Coronavirus Spike Protein Variability. Viruses 2024; 16:177. [PMID: 38399953 PMCID: PMC10892391 DOI: 10.3390/v16020177] [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: 12/28/2023] [Revised: 01/20/2024] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Coronaviruses are a large family of enveloped RNA viruses found in numerous animal species. They are well known for their ability to cross species barriers and have been transmitted from bats or intermediate hosts to humans on several occasions. Four of the seven human coronaviruses (hCoVs) are responsible for approximately 20% of common colds (hCoV-229E, -NL63, -OC43, -HKU1). Two others (SARS-CoV-1 and MERS-CoV) cause severe and frequently lethal respiratory syndromes but have only spread to very limited extents in the human population. In contrast the most recent human hCoV, SARS-CoV-2, while exhibiting intermediate pathogenicity, has a profound impact on public health due to its enormous spread. In this review, we discuss which initial features of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein and subsequent adaptations to the new human host may have helped this pathogen to cause the COVID-19 pandemic. Our focus is on host forces driving changes in the Spike protein and their consequences for virus infectivity, pathogenicity, immune evasion and resistance to preventive or therapeutic agents. In addition, we briefly address the significance and perspectives of broad-spectrum therapeutics and vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabian Zech
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Christoph Jung
- Institute of Electrochemistry, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (C.J.); (T.J.)
- Helmholtz-Institute Ulm (HIU) Electrochemical Energy Storage, 89081 Ulm, Germany
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), 76021 Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Timo Jacob
- Institute of Electrochemistry, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany; (C.J.); (T.J.)
- Helmholtz-Institute Ulm (HIU) Electrochemical Energy Storage, 89081 Ulm, Germany
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), 76021 Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Frank Kirchhoff
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081 Ulm, Germany
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7
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Conway MJ, Yang H, Revord LA, Novay MP, Lee RJ, Ward AS, Abel JD, Williams MR, Uzarski RL, Alm EW. Chronic shedding of a SARS-CoV-2 Alpha variant in wastewater. BMC Genomics 2024; 25:59. [PMID: 38218804 PMCID: PMC10787452 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-024-09977-7] [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: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Central Michigan University (CMU) participated in a state-wide SARS-CoV-2 wastewater monitoring program since 2021. Wastewater samples were collected from on-campus sites and nine off-campus wastewater treatment plants servicing small metropolitan and rural communities. SARS-CoV-2 genome copies were quantified using droplet digital PCR and results were reported to the health department. RESULTS One rural, off-campus site consistently produced higher concentrations of SARS-CoV-2 genome copies. Samples from this site were sequenced and contained predominately a derivative of Alpha variant lineage B.1.1.7, detected from fall 2021 through summer 2023. Mutational analysis of reconstructed genes revealed divergence from the Alpha variant lineage sequence over time, including numerous mutations in the Spike RBD and NTD. CONCLUSIONS We discuss the possibility that a chronic SARS-CoV-2 infection accumulated adaptive mutations that promoted long-term infection. This study reveals that small wastewater treatment plants can enhance resolution of rare events and facilitate reconstruction of viral genomes due to the relative lack of contaminating sequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Conway
- Foundational Sciences, Central Michigan University, College of Medicine, Mt. Pleasant, MI, USA.
- Institute for Great Lakes Research, Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant, MI, USA.
| | - Hannah Yang
- Foundational Sciences, Central Michigan University, College of Medicine, Mt. Pleasant, MI, USA
| | - Lauren A Revord
- Foundational Sciences, Central Michigan University, College of Medicine, Mt. Pleasant, MI, USA
| | - Michael P Novay
- Foundational Sciences, Central Michigan University, College of Medicine, Mt. Pleasant, MI, USA
| | - Rachel J Lee
- Foundational Sciences, Central Michigan University, College of Medicine, Mt. Pleasant, MI, USA
| | - Avery S Ward
- Foundational Sciences, Central Michigan University, College of Medicine, Mt. Pleasant, MI, USA
| | - Jackson D Abel
- Foundational Sciences, Central Michigan University, College of Medicine, Mt. Pleasant, MI, USA
| | - Maggie R Williams
- School of Engineering & Technology, Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant, MI, USA
- Institute for Great Lakes Research, Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant, MI, USA
| | - Rebecca L Uzarski
- Department of Biology and Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow College of Health, Professions, Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant, MI, USA
| | - Elizabeth W Alm
- Department of Biology, Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant, MI, USA
- Institute for Great Lakes Research, Central Michigan University, Mt. Pleasant, MI, USA
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8
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Pastorio C, Noettger S, Nchioua R, Zech F, Sparrer KM, Kirchhoff F. Impact of mutations defining SARS-CoV-2 Omicron subvariants BA.2.12.1 and BA.4/5 on Spike function and neutralization. iScience 2023; 26:108299. [PMID: 38026181 PMCID: PMC10661123 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108299] [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: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Additional mutations in the viral Spike protein helped the BA.2.12.1 and BA.4/5 SARS-CoV-2 Omicron subvariants to outcompete the parental BA.2 subvariant. Here, we determined the functional impact of mutations that newly emerged in the BA.2.12.1 (L452Q, S704L) and BA.4/5 (Δ69-70, L452R, F486V, R493Q) Spike proteins. Our results show that mutation of L452Q/R or F486V typically increases and R493Q or S704L impair BA.2 Spike-mediated infection. In combination, changes of Δ69-70, L452R, and F486V contribute to the higher infectiousness and fusogenicity of the BA.4/5 Spike. L452R/Q and F486V in Spike are mainly responsible for reduced sensitivity to neutralizing antibodies. However, the combined mutations are required for full infectivity, reduced TMPRSS2 dependency, and immune escape of BA.4/5 Spike. Thus, it is the specific combination of mutations in BA.4/5 Spike that allows increased functionality and immune evasion, which helps to explain the temporary dominance and increased pathogenicity of these Omicron subvariants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Pastorio
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Centre, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Sabrina Noettger
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Centre, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Rayhane Nchioua
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Centre, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Fabian Zech
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Centre, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | | | - Frank Kirchhoff
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Centre, 89081 Ulm, Germany
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9
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Dabrell SN, Li YC, Yamaguchi H, Chen HF, Hung MC. Herbal Compounds Dauricine and Isoliensinine Impede SARS-CoV-2 Viral Entry. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2914. [PMID: 38001915 PMCID: PMC10669532 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11112914] [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: 09/24/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Targeting viral entry has been the focal point for the last 3 years due to the continued threat posed by SARS-CoV-2. SARS-CoV-2's entry is highly dependent on the interaction between the virus's Spike protein and host receptors. The virus's Spike protein is a key modulator of viral entry, allowing sequential cleavage of ACE2 at the S1/S2 and S2 sites, resulting in the amalgamation of membranes and subsequent entry of the virus. A Polybasic insertion (PRRAR) conveniently located at the S1/S2 site can also be cleaved by furin or by serine protease, TMPRSS2, at the cell surface. Since ACE2 and TMPRSS2 are conveniently located on the surface of host cells, targeting one or both receptors may inhibit receptor-ligand interaction. Here, we show that Dauricine and Isoliensinine, two commonly used herbal compounds, were capable of inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 viral entry by reducing Spike-ACE2 interaction but not suppressing TMPRSS2 protease activity. Further, our biological assays using pseudoviruses engineered to express Spike proteins of different variants revealed a reduction in infection rates following treatment with these compounds. The molecular modeling revealed an interconnection between R403 of Spike protein and both two compounds. Spike mutations at residue R403 are critical, and often utilized by ACE2 to gain cell access. Overall, our findings strongly suggest that Dauricine and Isoliensinine are effective in blocking Spike-ACE2 interaction and may serve as effective therapeutic agents for targeting SARS-CoV-2's viral entry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaneek Natoya Dabrell
- International Master's Program of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung 406040, Taiwan
| | - Yi-Chuan Li
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, China Medical University, Taichung 406040, Taiwan
| | - Hirohito Yamaguchi
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung 406040, Taiwan
- Research Center for Cancer Biology, China Medical University, Taichung 406040, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Fan Chen
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung 406040, Taiwan
- Research Center for Cancer Biology, China Medical University, Taichung 406040, Taiwan
| | - Mien-Chie Hung
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Sciences, China Medical University, Taichung 406040, Taiwan
- Research Center for Cancer Biology, China Medical University, Taichung 406040, Taiwan
- Center for Molecular Medicine, China Medical University Hospital, China Medical University, Taichung 406040, Taiwan
- Cancer Biology and Precision Therapeutics Center, China Medical University, Taichung 406040, Taiwan
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, China Medical University, Taichung 406040, Taiwan
- Department of Biotechnology, Asia University, Taichung 413305, Taiwan
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10
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Wang Q, Noettger S, Xie Q, Pastorio C, Seidel A, Müller JA, Jung C, Jacob T, Sparrer KMJ, Zech F, Kirchhoff F. Determinants of species-specific utilization of ACE2 by human and animal coronaviruses. Commun Biol 2023; 6:1051. [PMID: 37848611 PMCID: PMC10582019 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05436-3] [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: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Utilization of human ACE2 allowed several bat coronaviruses (CoVs), including the causative agent of COVID-19, to infect humans directly or via intermediate hosts. However, the determinants of species-specific differences in ACE2 usage and the frequency of the ability of animal CoVs to use human ACE2 are poorly understood. Here we applied VSV pseudoviruses to analyze the ability of Spike proteins from 26 human or animal CoVs to use ACE2 receptors across nine reservoir, potential intermediate and human hosts. We show that SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variants evolved towards more efficient ACE2 usage but mutation of R493Q in BA.4/5 and XBB Spike proteins disrupts utilization of ACE2 from Greater horseshoe bats. Variations in ACE2 residues 31, 41 and 354 govern species-specific differences in usage by coronaviral Spike proteins. Mutation of T403R allows the RaTG13 bat CoV Spike to efficiently use all ACE2 orthologs for viral entry. Sera from COVID-19 vaccinated individuals neutralize the Spike proteins of various bat Sarbecoviruses. Our results define determinants of ACE2 receptor usage of diverse CoVs and suggest that COVID-19 vaccination may protect against future zoonoses of bat coronaviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingxing Wang
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Sabrina Noettger
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Qinya Xie
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Chiara Pastorio
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Alina Seidel
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Janis A Müller
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081, Ulm, Germany
- Institute of Virology, Philipps University Marburg, 35043, Marburg, Germany
| | - Christoph Jung
- Institute of Electrochemistry, Ulm University, 89081, Ulm, Germany
- Helmholtz-Institute Ulm (HIU) Electrochemical Energy Storage, 89081, Ulm, Germany
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), 76021, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Timo Jacob
- Institute of Electrochemistry, Ulm University, 89081, Ulm, Germany
- Helmholtz-Institute Ulm (HIU) Electrochemical Energy Storage, 89081, Ulm, Germany
- Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), 76021, Karlsruhe, Germany
| | | | - Fabian Zech
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081, Ulm, Germany
| | - Frank Kirchhoff
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, 89081, Ulm, Germany.
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11
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Richel E, Wagner JT, Klessing S, Di Vincenzo R, Temchura V, Überla K. Antigen-dependent modulation of immune responses to antigen-Fc fusion proteins by Fc-effector functions. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1275193. [PMID: 37868961 PMCID: PMC10585040 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1275193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Fc-fusion proteins have been successfully developed for therapeutic purposes, but are also a promising platform for the fast generation and purification of immunogens capable of inducing strong humoral immune responses in preclinical immunization studies. As the Fc-portion of immunoglobulins fused to an antigen confers functional properties of the parental antibody, such as dimerization, binding to Fc-receptors and complement activation, several studies reported that Fc-fusion proteins elicit stronger antigen-specific antibody responses than the unfused antigen. However, dimerization or half-life extension of an antigen have also been described to enhance immunogenicity. Methods To explore the role of Fc-effector functions for the immunogenicity of fusions proteins of viral glycoproteins and Fc fragments, the HIV-1 gp120 and the RBD of SARS-CoV-2 were fused to the wild type muIgG2a Fc fragment or mutants with impaired (LALA-PG) or improved (GASDIE) Fc-effector functions. Results Immunization of BALB/c mice with DNA vaccines encoding gp120 - Fc LALA-PG induced significantly higher antigen-specific antibody responses than gp120 - Fc WT and GASDIE. In contrast, immunization with DNA vaccines encoding the RBD fused to the same Fc mutants, resulted in comparable anti-RBD antibody levels and similar neutralization activity against several SARS-CoV-2 variants. Conclusion Depending on the antigen, Fc-effector functions either do not modulate or suppress the immunogenicity of DNA vaccines encoding Fc-antigen fusion proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elie Richel
- Institute of Clinical and Molecular Virology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | | | | | | | - Klaus Überla
- Institute of Clinical and Molecular Virology, University Hospital Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany
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12
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Xia X. Identification of host receptors for viral entry and beyond: a perspective from the spike of SARS-CoV-2. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1188249. [PMID: 37560522 PMCID: PMC10407229 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1188249] [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: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Identification of the interaction between the host membrane receptor and viral receptor-binding domain (RBD) represents a crucial step for understanding viral pathophysiology and for developing drugs against pathogenic viruses. While all membrane receptors and carbohydrate chains could potentially be used as receptors for viruses, prioritized searches focus typically on membrane receptors that are known to have been used by the relatives of the pathogenic virus, e.g., ACE2 used as a receptor for SARS-CoV is a prioritized candidate receptor for SARS-CoV-2. An ideal receptor protein from a viral perspective is one that is highly expressed in epithelial cell surface of mammalian respiratory or digestive tracts, strongly conserved in evolution so many mammalian species can serve as potential hosts, and functionally important so that its expression cannot be readily downregulated by the host in response to the infection. Experimental confirmation of host receptors includes (1) infection studies with cell cultures/tissues/organs with or without candidate receptor expression, (2) experimental determination of protein structure of the complex between the putative viral RDB and the candidate host receptor, and (3) experiments with mutant candidate receptor or homologues of the candidate receptor in other species. Successful identification of the host receptor opens the door for mechanism-based development of candidate drugs and vaccines and facilitates the inference of what other animal species are vulnerable to the viral pathogen. I illustrate these approaches with research on identification of the receptor and co-factors for SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuhua Xia
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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13
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Afewerki S, Stocco TD, Rosa da Silva AD, Aguiar Furtado AS, Fernandes de Sousa G, Ruiz-Esparza GU, Webster TJ, Marciano FR, Strømme M, Zhang YS, Lobo AO. In vitro high-content tissue models to address precision medicine challenges. Mol Aspects Med 2023; 91:101108. [PMID: 35987701 PMCID: PMC9384546 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2022.101108] [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: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The field of precision medicine allows for tailor-made treatments specific to a patient and thereby improve the efficiency and accuracy of disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment and at the same time would reduce the cost, redundant treatment, and side effects of current treatments. Here, the combination of organ-on-a-chip and bioprinting into engineering high-content in vitro tissue models is envisioned to address some precision medicine challenges. This strategy could be employed to tackle the current coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which has made a significant impact and paradigm shift in our society. Nevertheless, despite that vaccines against COVID-19 have been successfully developed and vaccination programs are already being deployed worldwide, it will likely require some time before it is available to everyone. Furthermore, there are still some uncertainties and lack of a full understanding of the virus as demonstrated in the high number new mutations arising worldwide and reinfections of already vaccinated individuals. To this end, efficient diagnostic tools and treatments are still urgently needed. In this context, the convergence of bioprinting and organ-on-a-chip technologies, either used alone or in combination, could possibly function as a prominent tool in addressing the current pandemic. This could enable facile advances of important tools, diagnostics, and better physiologically representative in vitro models specific to individuals allowing for faster and more accurate screening of therapeutics evaluating their efficacy and toxicity. This review will cover such technological advances and highlight what is needed for the field to mature for tackling the various needs for current and future pandemics as well as their relevancy towards precision medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samson Afewerki
- Division of Nanotechnology and Functional Materials, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Ångström Laboratory, Uppsala University, BOX 35, 751 03, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Thiago Domingues Stocco
- Bioengineering Program, Technological and Scientific Institute, Brazil University, 08230-030, São Paulo, SP, Brazil,Faculty of Medical Sciences, Unicamp - State University of Campinas, 13083-877, Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | | | - André Sales Aguiar Furtado
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory for Advanced Materials, BioMatLab, Department of Materials Engineering, Federal University of Piauí (UFPI), Teresina, PI, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Fernandes de Sousa
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory for Advanced Materials, BioMatLab, Department of Materials Engineering, Federal University of Piauí (UFPI), Teresina, PI, Brazil
| | - Guillermo U. Ruiz-Esparza
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, USA,Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Harvard University ‑ Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Thomas J. Webster
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory for Advanced Materials, BioMatLab, Department of Materials Engineering, Federal University of Piauí (UFPI), Teresina, PI, Brazil,Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin, China
| | | | - Maria Strømme
- Division of Nanotechnology and Functional Materials, Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Ångström Laboratory, Uppsala University, BOX 35, 751 03, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Yu Shrike Zhang
- Division of Engineering in Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, USA; Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Harvard University ‑ Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Anderson Oliveira Lobo
- Interdisciplinary Laboratory for Advanced Materials, BioMatLab, Department of Materials Engineering, Federal University of Piauí (UFPI), Teresina, PI, Brazil.
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14
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Norris EG, Pan XS, Hocking DC. Receptor-binding domain of SARS-CoV-2 is a functional αv-integrin agonist. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:102922. [PMID: 36669646 PMCID: PMC9846890 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.102922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Among the novel mutations distinguishing SARS-CoV-2 from similar coronaviruses is a K403R substitution in the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the viral spike (S) protein within its S1 region. This amino acid substitution occurs near the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2-binding interface and gives rise to a canonical RGD adhesion motif that is often found in native extracellular matrix proteins, including fibronectin. Here, the ability of recombinant S1-RBD to bind to cell surface integrins and trigger downstream signaling pathways was assessed and compared with RGD-containing, integrin-binding fragments of fibronectin. We determined that S1-RBD supported adhesion of fibronectin-null mouse embryonic fibroblasts as well as primary human small airway epithelial cells, while RBD-coated microparticles attached to epithelial monolayers in a cation-dependent manner. Cell adhesion to S1-RBD was RGD dependent and inhibited by blocking antibodies against αv and β3 but not α5 or β1 integrins. Similarly, we observed direct binding of S1-RBD to recombinant human αvβ3 and αvβ6 integrins, but not α5β1 integrins, using surface plasmon resonance. S1-RBD adhesion initiated cell spreading, focal adhesion formation, and actin stress fiber organization to a similar extent as fibronectin. Moreover, S1-RBD stimulated tyrosine phosphorylation of the adhesion mediators FAK, Src, and paxillin; triggered Akt activation; and supported cell proliferation. Thus, the RGD sequence of S1-RBD can function as an αv-selective integrin agonist. This study provides evidence that cell surface αv-containing integrins can respond functionally to spike protein and raises the possibility that S1-mediated dysregulation of extracellular matrix dynamics may contribute to the pathogenesis and/or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma G Norris
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Xuan Sabrina Pan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Denise C Hocking
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA.
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15
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Large interfacial relocation in RBD-ACE2 complex may explain fast-spreading property of Omicron. J Mol Struct 2022; 1270:133842. [PMID: 35937157 PMCID: PMC9339243 DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2022.133842] [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: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/31/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 emerged in South African in late 2021. This variant has a large number of mutations, and regarded as fastest-spreading Covid variant. The spike RBD region of SARS-CoV-2 and its interaction with human ACE2 play fundamental role in viral infection and transmission. To explore the reason of fast-spreading properties of Omicron variant, we have modeled the interactions of Omicron RBD and human ACE2 using docking and molecular dynamics simulations. Results show that RBD-ACE2 binding site may drastically relocate with an enlarged interface. The predicted interface has large negative binding energies and shows stable conformation in molecular dynamics simulations. It was found that the interfacial area in Omicron RBD-ACE2 complex is increased up to 40% in comparison to wild-type Sars-Cov-2. Moreover, the number of hydrogen bonds significantly increased up to 80%. The key interacting residues become also very different in Omicron variant. The new binding interface can significantly accommodate R403, as a key RBD residue, near ACE2 surface which leads to two new strong salt bridges. The exploration of the new binding interface can help to understand the reasons of high transmission rate of Omicron.
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16
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Genomic Determinants Potentially Associated with Clinical Manifestations of Human-Pathogenic Tick-Borne Flaviviruses. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232113404. [PMID: 36362200 PMCID: PMC9658301 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113404] [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: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The tick-borne flavivirus group contains at least five species that are pathogenic to humans, three of which induce encephalitis (tick-borne encephalitis virus, louping-ill virus, Powassan virus) and another two species induce hemorrhagic fever (Omsk hemorrhagic fever virus, Kyasanur Forest disease virus). To date, the molecular mechanisms responsible for these strikingly different clinical forms are not completely understood. Using a bioinformatic approach, we performed the analysis of each amino acid (aa) position in the alignment of 323 polyprotein sequences to calculate the fixation index (Fst) per site and find the regions (determinants) where sequences belonging to two designated groups were most different. Our algorithm revealed 36 potential determinants (Fst ranges from 0.91 to 1.0) located in all viral proteins except a capsid protein. In an envelope (E) protein, most of the determinants were located on the virion surface regions (domains II and III) and one (absolutely specific site 457) was located in the transmembrane region. Another 100% specific determinant site (E63D) with Fst = 1.0 was located in the central hydrophilic domain of the NS2b, which mediates NS3 protease activity. The NS5 protein contains the largest number of determinants (14) and two of them are absolutely specific (T226S, E290D) and are located near the RNA binding site 219 (methyltransferase domain) and the extension structure. We assume that even if not absolutely, highly specific sites, together with absolutely specific ones (Fst = 1.0) can play a supporting role in cell and tissue tropism determination.
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17
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Hao Y, Wang Y, Wang M, Zhou L, Shi J, Cao J, Wang D. The origins of COVID-19 pandemic: A brief overview. Transbound Emerg Dis 2022; 69:3181-3197. [PMID: 36218169 PMCID: PMC9874793 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak that emerged at the end of 2019 has now swept the world for more than 2 years, causing immeasurable damage to the lives and economies of the world. It has drawn so much attention to discovering how the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) originated and entered the human body. The current argument revolves around two contradictory theories: a scenario of laboratory spillover events and human contact with zoonotic diseases. Here, we reviewed the transmission, pathogenesis, possible hosts, as well as the genome and protein structure of SARS-CoV-2, which play key roles in the COVID-19 pandemic. We believe the coronavirus was originally transmitted to human by animals rather than by a laboratory leak. However, there still needs more investigations to determine the source of the pandemic. Understanding how COVID-19 emerged is vital to developing global strategies for mitigating future outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying‐Jian Hao
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Ministry of Education, Department of PhysiologyShanxi Medical UniversityTaiyuanChina
| | - Yu‐Lan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Ministry of Education, Department of PhysiologyShanxi Medical UniversityTaiyuanChina
| | - Mei‐Yue Wang
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Ministry of Education, Department of PhysiologyShanxi Medical UniversityTaiyuanChina
| | - Lan Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Ministry of Education, Department of PhysiologyShanxi Medical UniversityTaiyuanChina
| | - Jian‐Yun Shi
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Ministry of Education, Department of PhysiologyShanxi Medical UniversityTaiyuanChina
| | - Ji‐Min Cao
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Ministry of Education, Department of PhysiologyShanxi Medical UniversityTaiyuanChina
| | - De‐Ping Wang
- Key Laboratory of Cellular Physiology, Ministry of Education, Department of PhysiologyShanxi Medical UniversityTaiyuanChina
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18
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Pastorio C, Zech F, Noettger S, Jung C, Jacob T, Sanderson T, Sparrer KMJ, Kirchhoff F. Determinants of Spike infectivity, processing, and neutralization in SARS-CoV-2 Omicron subvariants BA.1 and BA.2. Cell Host Microbe 2022; 30:1255-1268.e5. [PMID: 35931073 PMCID: PMC9289044 DOI: 10.1016/j.chom.2022.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2022] [Revised: 06/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 Omicron rapidly outcompeted other variants and currently dominates the COVID-19 pandemic. Its enhanced transmission and immune evasion are thought to be driven by numerous mutations in the Omicron Spike protein. Here, we systematically introduced BA.1 and/or BA.2 Omicron Spike mutations into the ancestral Spike protein and examined the impacts on Spike function, processing, and susceptibility to neutralization. Individual mutations of S371F/L, S375F, and T376A in the ACE2-receptor-binding domain as well as Q954H and N969K in the hinge region 1 impaired infectivity, while changes to G339D, D614G, N764K, and L981F moderately enhanced it. Most mutations in the N-terminal region and receptor-binding domain reduced the sensitivity of the Spike protein to neutralization by sera from individuals vaccinated with the BNT162b2 vaccine and by therapeutic antibodies. Our results represent a systematic functional analysis of Omicron Spike adaptations that have allowed this SARS-CoV-2 variant to dominate the current pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Pastorio
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Centre, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Fabian Zech
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Centre, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Sabrina Noettger
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Centre, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Christoph Jung
- Institute of Electrochemistry, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany; Electrochemical Energy Storage, Helmholtz-Institute-Ulm (HIU), 89081 Ulm, Germany; Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), 76344 Karlsruhe, Germany
| | - Timo Jacob
- Institute of Electrochemistry, Ulm University, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | | | | | - Frank Kirchhoff
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Centre, 89081 Ulm, Germany.
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19
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Fan S, Sun W, Fan L, Wu N, Sun W, Ma H, Chen S, Li Z, Li Y, Zhang J, Yan J. The highly conserved RNA-binding specificity of nucleocapsid protein facilitates the identification of drugs with broad anti-coronavirus activity. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2022; 20:5040-5044. [PMID: 36097552 PMCID: PMC9454191 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2022.09.007] [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: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
The binding of SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid (N) protein to both the 5′- and 3′-ends of genomic RNA has different implications arising from its binding to the central region during virion assembly. However, the mechanism underlying selective binding remains unknown. Herein, we performed the high-throughput RNA-SELEX (HTR-SELEX) to determine the RNA-binding specificity of the N proteins of various SARS-CoV-2 variants as well as other β-coronaviruses and showed that N proteins could bind two unrelated sequences, both of which were highly conserved across all variants and species. Interestingly, both sequences are virtually absent from the human transcriptome; however, they exhibit a highly enriched, mutually complementary distribution in the coronavirus genome, highlighting their varied functions in genome packaging. Our results provide mechanistic insights into viral genome packaging, thereby increasing the feasibility of developing drugs with broad-spectrum anti-coronavirus activity by targeting RNA binding by N proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaorong Fan
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education and Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, China.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, The Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Wenju Sun
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education and Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ligang Fan
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education and Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, China.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, The Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.,Department of Precision Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, The City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Futian Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
| | - Nan Wu
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education and Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, China.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, The Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Wei Sun
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education and Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, China
| | - Haiqian Ma
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education and Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, China
| | - Siyuan Chen
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Zitong Li
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Yu Li
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Sha Tin, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Jilin Zhang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, The Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
| | - Jian Yan
- Key Laboratory of Resource Biology and Biotechnology in Western China, Ministry of Education and Provincial Key Laboratory of Biotechnology, School of Medicine, Northwest University, Xi'an, China.,Department of Biomedical Sciences, The Tung Biomedical Sciences Centre, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.,Department of Precision Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology, The City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Futian Research Institute, Shenzhen, China
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20
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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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21
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Pseudotyped Bat Coronavirus RaTG13 is efficiently neutralised by convalescent sera from SARS-CoV-2 infected patients. Commun Biol 2022; 5:409. [PMID: 35505237 PMCID: PMC9065041 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03325-9] [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: 08/31/2021] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
RaTG13 is a close relative of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, sharing 96% sequence similarity at the genome-wide level. The spike receptor binding domain (RBD) of RaTG13 contains a number of amino acid substitutions when compared to SARS-CoV-2, likely impacting affinity for the ACE2 receptor. Antigenic differences between the viruses are less well understood, especially whether RaTG13 spike can be efficiently neutralised by antibodies generated from infection with, or vaccination against, SARS-CoV-2. Using RaTG13 and SARS-CoV-2 pseudotypes we compared neutralisation using convalescent sera from previously infected patients or vaccinated healthcare workers. Surprisingly, our results revealed that RaTG13 was more efficiently neutralised than SARS-CoV-2. In addition, neutralisation assays using spike mutants harbouring single and combinatorial amino acid substitutions within the RBD demonstrated that both spike proteins can tolerate multiple changes without dramatically reducing neutralisation. Moreover, introducing the 484 K mutation into RaTG13 resulted in increased neutralisation, in contrast to the same mutation in SARS-CoV-2 (E484K). This is despite E484K having a well-documented role in immune evasion in variants of concern (VOC) such as B.1.351 (Beta). These results indicate that the future spill-over of RaTG13 and/or related sarbecoviruses could be mitigated using current SARS-CoV-2-based vaccination strategies.
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22
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Norris EG, Pan XS, Hocking DC. Receptor binding domain of SARS-CoV-2 is a functional αv-integrin agonist. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2022:2022.04.11.487882. [PMID: 35441172 PMCID: PMC9016641 DOI: 10.1101/2022.04.11.487882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Among the novel mutations distinguishing SARS-CoV-2 from similar respiratory coronaviruses is a K403R substitution in the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the viral spike (S) protein within its S1 region. This amino acid substitution occurs near the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2)-binding interface and gives rise to a canonical RGD adhesion motif that is often found in native extracellular matrix proteins, including fibronectin. In the present study, the ability of recombinant S1-RBD to bind to cell surface integrins and trigger downstream signaling pathways was assessed and compared to RGD-containing, integrin-binding fragments of fibronectin. S1-RBD supported adhesion of both fibronectin-null mouse embryonic fibroblasts as well as primary human small airway epithelial cells. Cell adhesion to S1-RBD was cation- and RGD-dependent, and was inhibited by blocking antibodies against α v and β 3 , but not α 5 or β 1 , integrins. Similarly, direct binding of S1-RBD to recombinant human α v β 3 and α v β 6 integrins, but not α 5 β 1 integrins, was observed by surface plasmon resonance. Adhesion to S1-RBD initiated cell spreading, focal adhesion formation, and actin stress fiber organization to a similar extent as fibronectin. Moreover, S1-RBD stimulated tyrosine phosphorylation of the adhesion mediators FAK, Src, and paxillin, Akt activation, and supported cell proliferation. Together, these data demonstrate that the RGD sequence within S1-RBD can function as an α v -selective integrin agonist. This study provides evidence that cell surface α v -containing integrins can respond functionally to spike protein and raise the possibility that S1-mediated dysregulation of ECM dynamics may contribute to the pathogenesis and/or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma G. Norris
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642
| | - Xuan Sabrina Pan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642
| | - Denise C. Hocking
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642
- Department of Biomedical Engineering University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642
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23
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Jung C, Kmiec D, Koepke L, Zech F, Jacob T, Sparrer KMJ, Kirchhoff F. Omicron: What Makes the Latest SARS-CoV-2 Variant of Concern So Concerning? J Virol 2022; 96:e0207721. [PMID: 35225672 PMCID: PMC8941872 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.02077-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 59.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Emerging strains of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, that show increased transmission fitness and/or immune evasion are classified as "variants of concern" (VOCs). Recently, a SARS-CoV-2 variant first identified in November 2021 in South Africa has been recognized as a fifth VOC, termed "Omicron." What makes this VOC so alarming is the high number of changes, especially in the viral Spike protein, and accumulating evidence for increased transmission efficiency and escape from neutralizing antibodies. In an amazingly short time, the Omicron VOC has outcompeted the previously dominating Delta VOC. However, it seems that the Omicron VOC is overall less pathogenic than other SARS-CoV-2 VOCs. Here, we provide an overview of the mutations in the Omicron genome and the resulting changes in viral proteins compared to other SARS-CoV-2 strains and discuss their potential functional consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christoph Jung
- Institute of Electrochemistry, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Dorota Kmiec
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Lennart Koepke
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Fabian Zech
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Timo Jacob
- Institute of Electrochemistry, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | | | - Frank Kirchhoff
- Institute of Molecular Virology, Ulm University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
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24
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Othman H, Messaoud HB, Khamessi O, Ben-Mabrouk H, Ghedira K, Bharuthram A, Treurnicht F, Achilonu I, Sayed Y, Srairi-Abid N. SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Unlikely to Bind to Integrins via the Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) Motif of the Receptor Binding Domain: Evidence From Structural Analysis and Microscale Accelerated Molecular Dynamics. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:834857. [PMID: 35237662 PMCID: PMC8883519 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.834857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The Receptor Binding Domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 virus harbors a sequence of Arg-Gly-Asp tripeptide named RGD motif, which has also been identified in extracellular matrix proteins that bind integrins as well as other disintegrins and viruses. Accordingly, integrins have been proposed as host receptors for SARS-CoV-2. However, given that the microenvironment of the RGD motif imposes a structural hindrance to the protein-protein association, the validity of this hypothesis is still uncertain. Here, we used normal mode analysis, accelerated molecular dynamics microscale simulation, and protein-protein docking to investigate the putative role of RGD motif of SARS-CoV-2 RBD for interacting with integrins. We found, that neither RGD motif nor its microenvironment showed any significant conformational shift in the RBD structure. Highly populated clusters of RBD showed no capability to interact with the RGD binding site in integrins. The free energy landscape revealed that the RGD conformation within RBD could not acquire an optimal geometry to allow the interaction with integrins. In light of these results, and in the event where integrins are confirmed to be host receptors for SARS-CoV-2, we suggest a possible involvement of other residues to stabilize the interaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Houcemeddine Othman
- Sydney Brenner Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Laboratory of Biomolecules, Venoms and Theranostic Applications, LR20IPT01, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- *Correspondence: Houcemeddine Othman, ; Najet Srairi-Abid,
| | - Haifa Ben Messaoud
- National Gene Bank of Tunisia, Boulevard du Leader Yesser Arafet, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Oussema Khamessi
- Université de Tunis El Manar, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, LR11IPT08 Venins et Biomolecules Therapeutiques, Tunis, Tunisie
| | - Hazem Ben-Mabrouk
- Laboratory of Biomolecules, Venoms and Theranostic Applications, LR20IPT01, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Kais Ghedira
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Biomathematics and Biostatistics (BIMS), Institut Pasteur de Tunis (IPT), University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Avani Bharuthram
- Department of Virology, National Health Laboratory Services and the School of Pathology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Florette Treurnicht
- Department of Virology, National Health Laboratory Services and the School of Pathology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Ikechukwu Achilonu
- Protein Structure-Function Research Unit, School of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Yasien Sayed
- Protein Structure-Function Research Unit, School of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Najet Srairi-Abid
- Laboratory of Biomolecules, Venoms and Theranostic Applications, LR20IPT01, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
- *Correspondence: Houcemeddine Othman, ; Najet Srairi-Abid,
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