Calicivirus VP2 forms a portal-like assembly following receptor engagement

VP2 mediates the release of the feline calicivirus RNA genome by puncturing the endosome membrane of infected cells

Feline calicivirus (FCV) is one of the few members of the Caliciviridae family that grows well in cell lines and, therefore, serves as a surrogate to study the biology of other viruses in the family. Conley et al. (14) demonstrated that upon the receptor engagement to the capsid, FCV VP2 forms a portal-like assembly, which might provide a channel for RNA release. However, the process of calicivirus RNA release is not yet fully understood. Our findings suggest that the separation of the FCV capsid from its genome RNA (gRNA) occurs rapidly in the early endosomes of infected cells. Using a liposome model decorated with the FCV cell receptor fJAM-A, we demonstrate that FCV releases its gRNA into the liposomes by penetrating membranes under low pH conditions. Furthermore, we found that VP2, which is rich in hydrophobic residues at its N-terminus, functions as the pore-forming protein. When we substituted the VP2 N-terminal hydrophobic residues, the gRNA release efficacy of the FCV mutants decreased. In conclusion, our results suggest that in the acidic environment of early endosomes, FCV VP2 functions as the pore-forming protein to mediate gRNA release into the cytoplasm of infected cells. This provides insight into the mechanism of calicivirus genome release.IMPORTANCEResearch on the biology and pathogenicity of certain caliciviruses, such as Norovirus and Sapovirus, is hindered by the lack of easy-to-use cell culture system. Feline calicivirus (FCV), which grows effectively in cell lines, is used as a substitute. At present, there is limited understanding of the genome release mechanism in caliciviruses. Our findings suggest that FCV uses VP2 to pierce the endosome membrane for genome release and provide new insights into the calicivirus gRNA release mechanism.

Structural analyses of the GI.4 norovirus by cryo-electron microscopy and X-ray crystallography revealing binding sites for human monoclonal antibodies

Noroviruses are major causative agents of acute nonbacterial gastroenteritis in humans. There are neither antiviral therapeutic agents nor vaccines for noroviruses at this time. To evaluate the potential usefulness of two previously isolated human monoclonal antibody fragments, CV-1A1 and CV-2F5, we first conducted a single-particle analysis to determine the cryo-electron microscopy structure of virus-like particles (VLPs) from the genogroup I genotype 4 (GI.4) Chiba strain uniformly coated with CV-1A1 fragments. The results revealed that the GI.4-specific CV-1A1 antibody bound to the P2 subdomain, in which amino acids are less conserved and variable. Interestingly, a part of the CV-1A1 intrudes into the histo-blood group antigen-binding site, suggesting that this antibody might exert neutralizing activity. Next, we determined the crystal structure of the protruding (P) domain of the capsid protein in the complex form with the CV-2F5 antibody fragment. Consistent with the cross-reactivity, the CV-2F5 bound to the P1 subdomain, which is rich in amino acids conserved among the GI strains, and moreover induced a disruption of Chiba VLPs. These results suggest that the broadly reactive CV-2F5 antibody can be used as both a universal detection reagent and an antiviral drug for GI noroviruses.

IMPORTANCE

We conducted the structural analyses of the VP1 protein from the GI.4 Chiba norovirus to identify the binding sites of the previously isolated human monoclonal antibodies CV-1A1 and CV-2F5. The cryo-electron microscopy of the Chiba virus-like particles (VLPs) complexed with the Fv-clasp forms of GI.4-specific CV-1A1 revealed that this antibody binds to the highly variable P2 subdomain, suggesting that this antibody may have neutralizing ability against the GI.4 strains. X-ray crystallography revealed that the CV-2F5 antibody bound to the P1 subdomain, which is rich in conserved amino acids. This result is consistent with the ability of the CV-2F5 antibody to react with a wide variety of GI norovirus strains. It is also found that the CV-2F5 antibody caused a disruption of VLPs. Our findings, together with previous reports on the structures of VP1 proteins and VLPs, are expected to open a path for the structure-based development of antivirals and vaccines against norovirus disease.

Update on feline calicivirus: viral evolution, pathogenesis, epidemiology, prevention and control

Feline calicivirus (FCV) is a prevalent and impactful viral pathogen affecting domestic cats. As an RNA virus, FCV exhibits high mutability and genetic plasticity, enabling its persistence within cat populations. Viral genetic diversity is associated with a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations, ranging from asymptomatic infections and mild oral and upper respiratory tract diseases to the potential development of virulent systemic, and even fatal conditions. This diversity poses distinctive challenges in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases caused by FCV. Over the past four decades, research has significantly deepened understanding of this pathogen, with an emphasis on molecular biology, evolutionary dynamics, vaccine development, and disease management strategies. This review discusses various facets of FCV, including its genomic structure, evolution, innate immunity, pathogenesis, epidemiology, and approaches to disease management. FCV remains a complex and evolving concern in feline health, requiring continuous research to enhance understanding of its genetic diversity, to improve vaccine efficacy, and to explore novel treatment options.

Mechanism of enterovirus VP0 maturation cleavage based on the structure of a stabilised assembly intermediate

Molecular details of genome packaging are little understood for the majority of viruses. In enteroviruses (EVs), cleavage of the structural protein VP0 into VP4 and VP2 is initiated by the incorporation of RNA into the assembling virion and is essential for infectivity. We have applied a combination of bioinformatic, molecular and structural approaches to generate the first high-resolution structure of an intermediate in the assembly pathway, termed a provirion, which contains RNA and intact VP0. We have demonstrated an essential role of VP0 E096 in VP0 cleavage independent of RNA encapsidation and generated a new model of capsid maturation, supported by bioinformatic analysis. This provides a molecular basis for RNA-dependence, where RNA induces conformational changes required for VP0 maturation, but that RNA packaging itself is not sufficient to induce maturation. These data have implications for understanding production of infectious virions and potential relevance for future vaccine and antiviral drug design.

The rotavirus VP5*/VP8* conformational transition permeabilizes membranes to Ca2

Rotaviruses infect cells by delivering into the cytosol a transcriptionally active inner capsid particle (a "double-layer particle": DLP). Delivery is the function of a third, outer layer, which drives uptake from the cell surface into small vesicles from which the DLPs escape. In published work, we followed stages of rhesus rotavirus (RRV) entry by live-cell imaging and correlated them with structures from cryogenic electron microscopy and tomography (cryo-EM and cryo-ET). The virus appears to wrap itself in membrane, leading to complete engulfment and loss of Ca2+ from the vesicle produced by the wrapping. One of the outer-layer proteins, VP7, is a Ca2+-stabilized trimer; loss of Ca2+ releases both VP7 and the other outer-layer protein, VP4, from the particle. VP4, activated by cleavage into VP8* and VP5*, is a trimer that undergoes a large-scale conformational rearrangement, reminiscent of the transition that viral fusion proteins undergo to penetrate a membrane. The rearrangement of VP5* thrusts a 250-residue, C-terminal segment of each of the three subunits outward, while allowing the protein to remain attached to the virus particle and to the cell being infected. We proposed that this segment inserts into the membrane of the target cell, enabling Ca2+ to cross. In the work reported here, we show the validity of key aspects of this proposed sequence. By cryo-EM studies of liposome-attached virions ("triple-layer particles": TLPs) and single-particle fluorescence imaging of liposome-attached TLPs, we confirm insertion of the VP4 C-terminal segment into the membrane and ensuing generation of a Ca2+ "leak". The results allow us to formulate a molecular description of early events in entry. We also discuss our observations in the context of other work on double-strand RNA virus entry.

First Detection of Benign Rabbit Caliciviruses in Chile

Pathogenic lagoviruses (Rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus, RHDV) are widely spread across the world and are used in Australia and New Zealand to control populations of feral European rabbits. The spread of the non-pathogenic lagoviruses, e.g., rabbit calicivirus (RCV), is less well studied as the infection results in no clinical signs. Nonetheless, RCV has important implications for the spread of RHDV and rabbit biocontrol as it can provide varying levels of cross-protection against fatal infection with pathogenic lagoviruses. In Chile, where European rabbits are also an introduced species, myxoma virus was used for localised biocontrol of rabbits in the 1950s. To date, there have been no studies investigating the presence of lagoviruses in the Chilean feral rabbit population. In this study, liver and duodenum rabbit samples from central Chile were tested for the presence of lagoviruses and positive samples were subject to whole RNA sequencing and subsequent data analysis. Phylogenetic analysis revealed a novel RCV variant in duodenal samples that likely originated from European RCVs. Sequencing analysis also detected the presence of a rabbit astrovirus in one of the lagovirus-positive samples.

Current trends and new approaches for human norovirus replication in cell culture: a literature review

Human norovirus (HuNoV) is one of the world's leading causes of acute gastroenteritis. At present, effective reproduction of the virus in cell cultures remains a challenge for virologists, as there is a lack of a permissive cell line that allows the entire viral life cycle to be reproduced. This is a barrier to the study of the HuNoV life cycle, its tropism, and virus-host interactions. It is also a major hurdle for the development of viral detection platforms, and ultimately for the development of therapeutics. The lack of an inexpensive, technically simple, and easily implemented cultivation method also negatively affects our ability to evaluate the efficacy of a variety of control measures (disinfectants, food processes) for human norovirus. In the process of monitoring this pathogen, it is necessary to detect infectious viral particles in water, food, and other environmental samples. Therefore, improvement of in vitro replication of HuNoV is still needed. In this review, we discuss current trends and new approaches to HuNoV replication in cell culture. We highlight ways in which previous research on HuNoV and other noroviruses has guided and influenced the development of new HuNoV culture systems and discuss the improvement of in vitro replication of HuNoV.

Molecular epidemiology and phylogenetic analysis of feline calicivirus in Kunshan, China

Feline calicivirus (FCV) is a highly contagious virus in cats, which typically causes respiratory tract and oral infections. Despite vaccination against FCV being a regular practice in China, new FCV cases still occur. Antigenic diversity of FCV hinders the effective control by vaccination. This is first report which aims to investigate the molecular epidemiology and molecular characteristics of FCV in Kunshan, China. The nasopharyngeal swabs were collected from cats showing variable clinical signs from different animal clinics in Kunshan from 2022 to 2023. Preliminary detection and sequencing of the FCV capsid gene were performed to study genetic diversity and evolutionary characteristics. FCV-RNA was identified in 52 (26%) of the samples using RT-PCR. A significant association was found between FCV-positive detection rate, age, gender, vaccination status and living environment, while a non-significant association was found with breed of cats. Nucleotide analysis revealed two genotypes, GI and GII. GII predominated in Kunshan, with diverse strains and amino acid variations potentially affecting vaccination efficacy and FCV detection. Notably, analysis pinpointed certain strains' association with FCV-virulent systemic disease pathotypes. This investigation sheds light on FCV dynamics, which may aid in developing better prevention strategies and future vaccine designs against circulating FCV genotypes.

Production of infectious reporter murine norovirus by VP2 trans-complementation

Human norovirus (HuNoV) causes gastroenteritis, a disease with no effective therapy or vaccine, and does not grow well in culture. Murine norovirus (MNV) easily replicates in cell cultures and small animals and has often been used as a model to elucidate the structural and functional characteristics of HuNoV. An MNV plasmid-based reverse genetics system was developed to produce the modified recombinant virus. In this study, we attempted to construct the recombinant virus by integrating a foreign gene into MNV ORF3, which encodes the minor structural protein VP2. Deletion of VP2 expression abolished infectious particles from MNV cDNA clones, and supplying exogenous VP2 to the cells rescued the infectivity of cDNA clones without VP2 expression. In addition, the coding sequence of C-terminal ORF3 was essential for cDNA clones compensated with VP2 to produce infectious particles. Furthermore, the recombinant virus with exogenous reporter genes in place of the dispensable region of ORF3 was propagated when VP2 was constitutively supplied. Our findings indicate that foreign genes can be transduced into the norovirus ORF3 region when VP2 is supplied and that successive propagation of modified recombinant norovirus could lead to the development of norovirus-based vaccines or therapeutics.IMPORTANCEIn this study, we revealed that some of the coding regions of ORF3 could be replaced by a foreign gene and infectious virus could be produced when VP2 was supplied. Propagation of this virus depended on VP2 being supplied in trans, indicating that this virus could infect only once. Our findings help to elucidate the functions of VP2 in the virus lifecycle and to develop other caliciviral vectors for recombinant attenuated live enteric virus vaccines or therapeutics tools.

The 2.6 Å Structure of a Tulane Virus Variant with Minor Mutations Leading to Receptor Change

Human noroviruses (HuNoVs) are a major cause of acute gastroenteritis, contributing significantly to annual foodborne illness cases. However, studying these viruses has been challenging due to limitations in tissue culture techniques for over four decades. Tulane virus (TV) has emerged as a crucial surrogate for HuNoVs due to its close resemblance in amino acid composition and the availability of a robust cell culture system. Initially isolated from rhesus macaques in 2008, TV represents a novel Calicivirus belonging to the Recovirus genus. Its significance lies in sharing the same host cell receptor, histo-blood group antigen (HBGA), as HuNoVs. In this study, we introduce, through cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), the structure of a specific TV variant (the 9-6-17 TV) that has notably lost its ability to bind to its receptor, B-type HBGA-a finding confirmed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). These results offer a profound insight into the genetic modifications occurring in TV that are necessary for adaptation to cell culture environments. This research significantly contributes to advancing our understanding of the genetic changes that are pivotal to successful adaptation, shedding light on fundamental aspects of Calicivirus evolution.

CryoVirusDB: A Labeled Cryo-EM Image Dataset for AI-Driven Virus Particle Picking

With the advancements in instrumentation, image processing algorithms, and computational capabilities, single-particle electron cryo-microscopy (cryo-EM) has achieved nearly atomic resolution in determining the 3D structures of viruses. The virus structures play a crucial role in studying their biological function and advancing the development of antiviral vaccines and treatments. Despite the effectiveness of artificial intelligence (AI) in general image processing, its development for identifying and extracting virus particles from cryo-EM micrographs (images) has been hindered by the lack of manually labelled high-quality datasets. To fill the gap, we introduce CryoVirusDB, a labeled dataset containing the coordinates of expert-picked virus particles in cryo-EM micrographs. CryoVirusDB comprises 9,941 micrographs of 9 different viruses along with the coordinates of 339,398 labeled virus particles. It can be used to train and test AI and machine learning (e.g., deep learning) methods to accurately identify virus particles in cryo-EM micrographs for building atomic 3D structural models for viruses.

Amino acid substitutions in norovirus VP1 dictate host dissemination via variations in cellular attachment

IMPORTANCE

All viruses initiate infection by utilizing receptors to attach to target host cells. These virus-receptor interactions can therefore dictate viral replication and pathogenesis. Understanding the nature of virus-receptor interactions could also be important for the development of novel therapies. Noroviruses are non-enveloped icosahedral viruses of medical importance. They are a common cause of acute gastroenteritis with no approved vaccine or therapy and are a tractable model for studying fundamental virus biology. In this study, we utilized the murine norovirus model system to show that variation in a single amino acid of the major capsid protein alone can affect viral infectivity through improved attachment to suspension cells. Modulating plasma membrane mobility reduced infectivity, suggesting an importance of membrane mobility for receptor recruitment and/or receptor conformation. Furthermore, different substitutions at this site altered viral tissue distribution in a murine model, illustrating how in-host capsid evolution could influence viral infectivity and/or immune evasion.

Utilizing Molecular Epidemiology and Citizen Science for the Surveillance of Lagoviruses in Australia

Australia has multiple lagoviruses with differing pathogenicity. The circulation of these viruses was traditionally determined through opportunistic sampling events. In the lead up to the nationwide release of RHDVa-K5 (GI.1aP-GI.1a) in 2017, an existing citizen science program, RabbitScan, was augmented to allow members of the public to submit samples collected from dead leporids for lagovirus testing. This study describes the information obtained from the increased number of leporid samples received between 2015 and 2022 and focuses on the recent epidemiological interactions and evolutionary trajectory of circulating lagoviruses in Australia between October 2020 and December 2022. A total of 2771 samples were tested from January 2015 to December 2022, of which 1643 were lagovirus-positive. Notable changes in the distribution of lagovirus variants were observed, predominantly in Western Australia, where RHDV2-4c (GI.4cP-GI.2) was detected again in 2021 after initially being reported to be present in 2018. Interestingly, we found evidence that the deliberately released RHDVa-K5 was able to establish and circulate in wild rabbit populations in WA. Overall, the incorporation of citizen science approaches proved to be a cost-efficient method to increase the sampling area and enable an in-depth analysis of lagovirus distribution, genetic diversity, and interactions. The maintenance of such programs is essential to enable continued investigations of the critical parameters affecting the biocontrol of feral rabbit populations in Australia, as well as to enable the detection of any potential future incursions.

Biological and physico-chemical characterization of human norovirus-like particles under various environmental conditions

Human noroviruses (HuNoVs) are the predominant etiological agent of viral gastroenteritis in all age groups worldwide. Mutations over the years have affected noroviruses' responses to environmental conditions due to the arrangement of amino acid residues exposed on the VP1 capsid surface of each strain. The GII.4 HuNoV genotype has been the predominant variant for decades, while the GII.17 genotype has often been detected in East Asia since 2014. Here, GII.17 and GII.4 baculovirus-expressed VLPs (virus-like particles) were used to study the biological (binding to HuNoV ligand, namely the ABO and Lewis antigens) and physicochemical properties (size, morphology, and charge) of the HuNoV capsid under different conditions (temperature, pH, and ionic strength). GII.17 showed stability at low and high ionic strength, while GII.4 aggregated at an ionic strength of 10 mM. The nature of the buffers influences the morphology and stability of the VLPs. Here, both VLPs were highly stable from pH 7-8.5 at 25 °C. VLPs retained HBGA binding capability for the pH, ionic strength and temperature encountered in the stomach (fed state) and the small intestine. Increasing the temperature to above 65 °C altered the morphology of VLPs, causing aggregation, and decreased their affinity to HBGAs. Comparing both isolates, GII.17 showed a better stability profile and higher affinity to HBGAs than GII.4, making them interesting candidate particles for a future norovirus vaccine. Biological and physicochemical studies of VLPs are as pertinent as ever in view of the future arrival of VLP-based HuNoV vaccines.

Structure-Based In Silico Screening of Marine Phlorotannins for Potential Walrus Calicivirus Inhibitor

A new calicivirus isolated from a walrus was reported in 2004. Since unknown marine mammalian zoonotic viruses could pose great risks to human health, this study aimed to develop therapeutic countermeasures to quell any potential outbreak of a pandemic caused by this virus. We first generated a 3D model of the walrus calicivirus capsid protein and identified compounds from marine natural products, especially phlorotannins, as potential walrus calicivirus inhibitors. A 3D model of the target protein was generated using homology modeling based on two publicly available template sequences. The sequence of the capsid protein exhibited 31.3% identity and 42.7% similarity with the reference templates. The accuracy and reliability of the predicted residues were validated via Ramachandran plotting. Molecular docking simulations were performed between the capsid protein 3D model and 17 phlorotannins. Among them, five phlorotannins demonstrated markedly stable docking profiles; in particular, 2,7-phloroglucinol-6,6-bieckol showed favorable structural integrity and stability during molecular dynamics simulations. The results indicate that the phlorotannins are promising walrus calicivirus inhibitors. Overall, the study findings showcase the rapid turnaround of in silico-based drug discovery approaches, providing useful insights for developing potential therapies against novel pathogenic viruses, especially when the 3D structures of the viruses remain experimentally unknown.

A single nanobody neutralizes multiple epochally evolving human noroviruses by modulating capsid plasticity

Acute gastroenteritis caused by human noroviruses (HuNoVs) is a significant global health and economic burden and is without licensed vaccines or antiviral drugs. The GII.4 HuNoV causes most epidemics worldwide. This virus undergoes epochal evolution with periodic emergence of variants with new antigenic profiles and altered specificity for histo-blood group antigens (HBGA), the determinants of cell attachment and susceptibility, hampering the development of immunotherapeutics. Here, we show that a llama-derived nanobody M4 neutralizes multiple GII.4 variants with high potency in human intestinal enteroids. The crystal structure of M4 complexed with the protruding domain of the GII.4 capsid protein VP1 revealed a conserved epitope, away from the HBGA binding site, fully accessible only when VP1 transitions to a "raised" conformation in the capsid. Together with dynamic light scattering and electron microscopy of the GII.4 VLPs, our studies suggest a mechanism in which M4 accesses the epitope by altering the conformational dynamics of the capsid and triggering its disassembly to neutralize GII.4 infection.

Genetic Evolution and Biological Characteristics of Feline Caliciviruses Isolated from Dogs

Feline calicivirus (FCV) is a highly contagious pathogen associated with oral and upper respiratory tract diseases (URTD), and it is also possibly considered as an enteric pathogen. Some studies found FCV-like viruses in the enteric tract of dogs, but there was a lack of understanding regarding the epidemiology and biological properties of FCVs in dogs. In this study, 252 fecal/feces samples were collected from dogs, with or without diarrhea, from 2020 to 2021. There were 6 FCV-positive samples (2.41%, 6/252), from which only two FCVs were successfully isolated and the complete genome sequences obtained. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the two canine-origin FCV isolates belonged to genogroup I and formed a monophyletic cluster with previous FCV strains, sharing a common ancestor. However, there was genetic diversity when the nt identity of the VP1 proteins between the two canine-origin FCV isolates (77.4% nt identity) was compared. In particular, the genomic sequence of the canine/GXHC01-21 isolate showed evidence of recombination at the 3ʹ end of the ORF1 gene with sequence identity very similar to the FCV strain, GX2019, previously isolated from cats in Guangxi in 2019. A comparison of their replication properties indicated that the two isolates could not replicate efficiently in MDCK cells. This was also seen in the enteric FCV isolate, GXNN04-20. However, both displayed similar plaque phenotypes to the respiratory FCV isolate, GX01-13. In addition, it was found that sera from vaccinated cats had low cross-reactivity in a neutralizing antibody test against the two canine-origin FCV isolates. Moreover, high neutralizing antibody titers (≥1 : 128) against canine-origin FCV viruses were observed in the two canine serum samples. This confirmed that interspecies transmission had occurred between cats and dogs. Our results provided an in-depth understanding of the genetic evolution and characteristics of FCVs circulating in dogs.

VelcroVax: a "Bolt-On" Vaccine Platform for Glycoprotein Display

Having varied approaches to the design and manufacture of vaccines is critical in being able to respond to worldwide needs and newly emerging pathogens. Virus-like particles (VLPs) form the basis of two of the most successful licensed vaccines (against hepatitis B virus [HBV] and human papillomavirus). They are produced by recombinant expression of viral structural proteins, which assemble into immunogenic nanoparticles. VLPs can be modified to present unrelated antigens, and here we describe a universal "bolt-on" platform (termed VelcroVax) where the capturing VLP and the target antigen are produced separately. We utilize a modified HBV core (HBcAg) VLP with surface expression of a high-affinity binding sequence (Affimer) directed against a SUMO tag and use this to capture SUMO-tagged gp1 glycoprotein from the arenavirus Junín virus (JUNV). Using this model system, we have solved the first high-resolution structures of VelcroVax VLPs and shown that the VelcroVax-JUNV gp1 complex induces superior humoral immune responses compared to the noncomplexed viral protein. We propose that this system could be modified to present a range of antigens and therefore form the foundation of future rapid-response vaccination strategies. IMPORTANCE The hepatitis B core protein (HBc) forms noninfectious virus-like particles, which can be modified to present a capturing molecule, allowing suitably tagged antigens to be bound on their surface. This system can be adapted and provides the foundation for a universal "bolt-on" vaccine platform (termed VelcroVax) that can be easily and rapidly modified to generate nanoparticle vaccine candidates.

Amino acid substitutions in norovirus VP1 dictate cell tropism via an attachment process dependent on membrane mobility

Viruses interact with receptors on the cell surface to initiate and co-ordinate infection. The distribution of receptors on host cells can be a key determinant of viral tropism and host infection. Unravelling the complex nature of virus-receptor interactions is, therefore, of fundamental importance to understanding viral pathogenesis. Noroviruses are non-enveloped, icosahedral, positive-sense RNA viruses of global importance to human health, with no approved vaccine or antiviral agent available. Here we use murine norovirus as a model for the study of molecular mechanisms of virus-receptor interactions. We show that variation at a single amino acid residue in the major viral capsid protein had a key impact on the interaction between virus and receptor. This variation did not affect virion production or virus growth kinetics, but a specific amino acid was rapidly selected through evolution experiments, and significantly improved cellular attachment when infecting immune cells in suspension. However, reducing plasma membrane mobility counteracted this phenotype, providing insight into for the role of membrane fluidity and receptor recruitment in norovirus cellular attachment. When the infectivity of a panel of recombinant viruses with single amino acid variations was compared in vivo, there were significant differences in the distribution of viruses in a murine model, demonstrating a role in cellular tropism in vivo. Overall, these results highlight the importance of lipid rafts and virus-induced receptor recruitment in viral infection, as well as how capsid evolution can greatly influence cellular tropism, within-host spread and pathogenicity.

Characterization of surface-exposed structural loops as insertion sites for foreign antigen delivery in calicivirus-derived VLP platform

Chimeric virus-like particles (cVLPs) show great potential in improving public health as they are safe and effective vaccine candidates. The capsid protein of caliciviruses has been described previously as a self-assembling, highly immunogenic delivery platform. The ability to significantly induce cellular and humoral immunity can be used to boost the immune response to low immunogenic foreign antigens displayed on the surface of VLPs. Capsid proteins of caliciviruses despite sequence differences share similar architecture with structural loops that can be genetically modified to present foreign epitopes on the surface of cVLPs. Here, based on the VP1 protein of norovirus (NoV), we investigated the impact of the localization of the epitope in different structural loops of the P domain on the immunogenicity of the presented epitope. In this study, three distinct loops of NoV VP1 protein were genetically modified to present a multivalent influenza virus epitope consisting of a tandem repeat of M2/NP epitopes. cVLPs presenting influenza virus-conserved epitopes in different localizations were produced in the insect cells and used to immunize BALB/c mice. Specific reaction to influenza epitopes was compared in sera from vaccinated mice to determine whether the localization of the foreign epitope has an impact on the immunogenicity.

Molecular Characterization and Phylogenetic Analysis of Feline Calicivirus Isolated in Guangdong Province, China from 2018 to 2022

Feline calicivirus (FCV) is a common feline infectious pathogen that mainly causes upper respiratory tract disease. To investigate the prevalence of FCV in Guangdong Province in China, a total of 152 nasal and throat swabs from cats suspected of FCV infection were collected in veterinary clinics or shelters from 2018 to 2022. The positive detection rate of FCV was 28.9% (44/152) by RT-PCR. In addition, twenty FCV isolates were successfully isolated and purified. Eleven out of twenty isolates were selected for further phylogenetic analyses based on the capsid protein VP1; our results revealed that seven isolates were in genogroup I, and four were in genogroup II. Notably, according to the whole genome phylogenetic tree, FCV-SCAU-11 was in the same branch as Korean isolates, and recombination analysis revealed that the FCV-SCAU-11 isolate showed potential recombinant events between the FCV-SH isolate and FCV-GXNN03-20 isolate. Furthermore, the virus replication kinetics indicated that FCV-SCAU-10, with clinically severe symptoms in patient cats, performed a more efficient replication in vitro. In conclusion, this study revealed the genetic diversity of FCVs in Guangdong Province, providing a reference for novel vaccine candidate strains and the development of effective strategies for preventing FCV infection in cats.

Nanoparticle entry into cells; the cell biology weak link

Nanoparticles (NP) are attractive options for the therapeutic delivery of active pharmaceutical drugs, proteins and nucleic acids into cells, tissues and organs. Research into the development and application of NP most often starts with a diverse group of scientists, including chemists, bioengineers and material and pharmaceutical scientists, who design, fabricate and characterize NP in vitro (Stage 1). The next step (Stage 2) generally investigates cell toxicity as well as the processes by which NP bind, are internalized and deliver their cargo to appropriate model tissue culture cells. Subsequently, in Stage 3, selected NP are tested in animal systems, mostly mouse. Whereas the chemistry-based development and analysis in Stage 1 is increasingly sophisticated, the investigations in Stage 2 are not what could be regarded as 'state-of-the-art' for the cell biology field and the quality of research into NP interactions with cells is often sub-standard. In this review we describe our current understanding of the mechanisms by which particles gain entry into mammalian cells via endocytosis. We summarize the most important areas for concern, highlight some of the most common mis-conceptions, and identify areas where NP scientists could engage with trained cell biologists. Our survey of the different mechanisms of uptake into cells makes us suspect that claims for roles for caveolae, as well as macropinocytosis, in NP uptake into cells have been exaggerated, whereas phagocytosis has been under-appreciated.

Co-circulation and evolution of genogroups I and II of respiratory and enteric feline calicivirus isolates in cats

Feline calicivirus (FCV) is a highly infectious pathogen that causes upper respiratory tract disease (URTD), but the enteric FCVs raise concerns regarding their role of an enteric pathogen. In this study, between 2019 and 2020, 101 clinical samples from domestic cats with symptoms of URTD, with or without enteritis, were collected for FCV-specific detection. The FCV-positive rate reached to 42.4% (28/66) in cats with respiratory symptoms. The rates were 11.1% (3/27) and 12.5% (1/8) when faeces and serum samples were measured using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), respectively. Ten FCV strains were successfully isolated from respiratory and enteric sources in domestic cats from Guangxi. Phylogenetic analysis based on the genome sequences of 11 isolates (including GX01-13 isolated in 2013) indicated that the newly characterized FCV strains had two recombinant events in comparison with other FCVs and were of respiratory and enteric origins. These strains displayed high genetic diversity, and they were divided into two genogroups (I and II). Of these, the GXNN02-19 isolate was grouped with previously published Chinese isolates that were identified as genogroup II, which contained three specific amino acid residues (377K, 539V and 557S) in the VP1 protein. In addition, the three enteric viruses appeared genetically heterogeneous to each other. All isolates were found to be more sensitive when exposed to low pH conditions, but they were resistant to treatment with trypsin and bile salts. Furthermore, there were no significant differences between the respiratory and enteric FCVs. Our results showed that the genetically distinct FCV strains with genogroups I and II from respiratory and enteric origins were co-circulating in this geographical area. Also, it was revealed that the potential recombinant events between the enteric and respiratory FCVs suggested an important role of enteric FCV during the evolution.

Complete Genome Sequence, Molecular Characterization and Phylogenetic Relationships of a Temminck's Stint Calicivirus: Evidence for a New Genus within Caliciviridae Family

Caliciviridae is a family of viral pathogens that naturally infects vertebrates, including humans, and causes a range of highly contagious infectious diseases. Caliciviruses are not well studied because of the lack of a universal approach to their cultivation; however, the development of molecular genetics and bioinformatics methods can shed light on their genetic architecture and evolutionary relationships. Here, we present and characterize the complete genome sequence of calicivirus isolated from a sandpiper-Temminck's stint (Calidris temminckii), preliminarily named Temminck's stint calicivirus (TsCV). Its genome is a linear, non-segmented, single-stranded (+sense) RNA with genome organization typical of avian caliciviruses. Comparative studies have shown significant divergence of the nucleotide sequence of the TsCV genome, as well as the amino acid sequence of the major capsid protein from all publicly available genomic and protein sequences, with the highest genome sequence similarity to unclassified Ruddy turnstone calicivirus A (43.68%) and the lowest pairwise divergence of the major capsid protein with unclassified goose calicivirus (57.44%). Phylogenetic analysis, as well as a comparative analysis of the homologous proteins, showed evidence of another separate genus within the Caliciviridae family-previously proposed, but not yet accepted by International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV)-the Sanovirus genus, which combines seven previously unclassified genomic sequences of avian caliciviruses, including the newly discovered TsCV, which we propose to consider as a separate species.

Characterization of a Human Sapovirus Genotype GII.3 Strain Generated by a Reverse Genetics System: VP2 Is a Minor Structural Protein of the Virion

We devised a reverse genetics system to generate an infectious human sapovirus (HuSaV) GII.3 virus. Capped/uncapped full-length RNAs derived from HuSaV GII.3 AK11 strain generated by in vitro transcription were used to transfect HuTu80 human duodenum carcinoma cells; infectious viruses were recovered from the capped RNA-transfected cells and passaged in the cells. Genome-wide analyses indicated no nucleotide sequence change in the virus genomes in the cell-culture supernatants recovered from the transfection or those from the subsequent infection. No virus growth was detected in the uncapped RNA-transfected cells, suggesting that the 5′-cap structure is essential for the virus’ generation and replication. Two types of virus particles were purified from the cell-culture supernatant. The complete particles were 39.2-nm-dia., at 1.350 g/cm3 density; the empty particles were 42.2-nm-dia. at 1.286 g/cm3. Two proteins (58-kDa p58 and 17-kDa p17) were detected from the purified particles; their molecular weight were similar to those of VP1 (~60-kDa) and VP2 (~16-kDa) of AK11 strain deduced from their amino acids (aa) sequences. Protein p58 interacted with HuSaV GII.3-VP1-specific antiserum, suggesting that p58 is HuSaV VP1. A total of 94 (57%) aa of p17 were identified by mass spectrometry; the sequences were identical to those of VP2, indicating that the p17 is the VP2 of AK11. Our new method produced infectious HuSaVs and demonstrated that VP2 is the minor protein of the virion, suggested to be involved in the HuSaV assembly.

Membranes under the Magnetic Lens: A Dive into the Diverse World of Membrane Protein Structures Using Cryo-EM

Membrane proteins are highly diverse in both structure and function and can, therefore, present different challenges for structure determination. They are biologically important for cells and organisms as gatekeepers for information and molecule transfer across membranes, but each class of membrane proteins can present unique obstacles to structure determination. Historically, many membrane protein structures have been investigated using highly engineered constructs or using larger fusion proteins to improve solubility and/or increase particle size. Other strategies included the deconstruction of the full-length protein to target smaller soluble domains. These manipulations were often required for crystal formation to support X-ray crystallography or to circumvent lower resolution due to high noise and dynamic motions of protein subdomains. However, recent revolutions in membrane protein biochemistry and cryo-electron microscopy now provide an opportunity to solve high resolution structures of both large, >1 megadalton (MDa), and small, <100 kDa (kDa), drug targets in near-native conditions, routinely reaching resolutions around or below 3 Å. This review provides insights into how the recent advances in membrane biology and biochemistry, as well as technical advances in cryo-electron microscopy, help us to solve structures of a large variety of membrane protein groups, from small receptors to large transporters and more complex machineries.

Epochal coevolution of minor capsid protein in norovirus GII.4 variants with major capsid protein based on their interactions over the last five decades

Norovirus is a leading cause of viral gastroenteritis outbreaks worldwide, with GII.4 responsible for the majority of infections. Minor capsid protein VP2 has been found to have functions such as stabilizing virus particles, and VP2 is one of the highly variable proteins of norovirus, similar to major capsid protein VP1. However, whether the variation of VP2 is functionally driven still remains unclear. In this study, VP2 showed a higher evolutionary rate (2.642×10^-3 substitutions/site/year) than VP1 (1.587×10^-3 substitutions/site/year), and a hypervariable region in VP2 in a serial of norovirus GII.4 over the past 50 years had been observed. Notably, the high variation of VP2 was not haphazard. The evolutionary process of VP2 is similar to that of VP1 with comparable topologies when the phylogenetic trees were constructed. Moreover, VP2 was found to interact with VP1 among epidemic variants of GII.4 using the yeast two-hybrid experiments. The results of interactions were grouped into time-adjacent (e.g. Ancestral-VP1 plus US95-VP2) and non-adjacent (e.g. Ancestral-VP1 plus Sydney-VP2) according to the epochal chronologically based prevalence of GII.4 norovirus. Interestingly, the interaction of the former group was significantly stronger than that of the latter group (P=0.0001). Furthermore, the interaction regions on VP2 (residues 131-160 and 171-180) were mapped to the hypervariable region. And these interaction regions did show an important role in the evolutionary process of VP2, which was consistent with that of VP1. In summary, the minor capsid protein VP2 of GII.4 noroviruses had shown the epochal coevolution with VP1 based on their interactions over the past 50 years. The findings of this study provided valuable information for further understanding and completing the evolutionary mechanism of norovirus.

Identification of amino acid substitutions escaping from a broadly neutralizing monoclonal antibody of feline calicivirus

Feline calicivirus (FCV) causes upper respiratory tract diseases in cats and has highly variable antigenicity for neutralization of each strain. Neutralizing epitopes of FCV are currently found in the hypervariable region (HVR) in the P2 domain of the major capsid protein VP1. Due to its unique ability to neutralize various FCV strains, 1D7 is a monoclonal antibody that may recognize a novel neutralizing epitope. While other neutralizing epitopes were characterized by producing neutralization-resistant variants, only 1D7-resistant variants could not be obtained, and its epitope has not been identified in the previous studies. In this study, we successfully generated these variants by multiple passaging of the FCV F4 strain in the presence of 1D7 and discovered that several amino acid substitutions (K638N, R662G, and T666I in the P1 domain of VP1) are involved in the decreased binding of 1D7. These substitution sites are also highly conserved among FCV strains compared with the substitution sites of other neutralization-resistant variants found in the HVR. Our results indicate that amino acid substitutions in the P1 domain, which are not responsible for direct interaction with the FCV receptor, are associated with neutralization escape. Since FCV can be conveniently cultured in vitro and the receptor required for infection is known, a detailed analysis of the 1D7 epitope could shed more light on the neutralization mechanism of the epitopes of viruses belonging to the Caliciviridae.

The VP2 protein exhibits cross-interaction to the VP1 protein in norovirus GII.17

Norovirus is a major cause of acute gastroenteritis worldwide. Like the major capsid protein (VP1), the minor capsid protein (VP2) also contains a hypervariable domain. Generally, a hypervariable domain is functionally driven. However, many functions of VP2 remain unknown and worth exploring. Without sufficient sequences and an available crystallographic model, it is difficult to explore VP2's mysteries. As a helper of stabilizing and coordinating the formation of virus-like particles (VLPs), we asked whether VP2 interacted with the major capsid protein (VP1) in GII.17 and if so, what the key interaction residues were. Here, we reported cross-interaction among four strains represented four clusters of GII.17, and the VP1 interaction domain of VP2 (174-179aa) was found. However, the VP1 interaction domain of VP2 was not universal in different clusters of GII.17. VP2 might evolve in a different pattern from VP1. Additionally, in contrast to previous reports, we found that VP2 localized in the cytoplasm. More possibilities of VP2 should be further explored.

Purification-induced damage to calicivirus particles at near-atomic resolution

The purification of virus particles is an essential process for the manufacture of vaccines. However, the application of different purification processes may affect the quality of the virus particles, such as structural integrity and homogeneity, which may further influence the infectivity and immunogenicity of the purified virus. In this study, we took Feline calicivirus (FCV), a common natural pathogen in cats belonging to Caliciviridae, as a research model. By using cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), we incorporated the 3D classification process as a virus flexibility evaluation system. Cryo-EM images of virus particles resulting from different purification processes were compared at near-atomic resolution. The results indicated that molecular sieving purification will impact the stability of P-domains through increasing flexibility as determined by the evaluation system, which can be extended to assess the purification effect on the entire particle. This evaluation process can be further applied to all non-enveloped viruses.

Calicivirus Infection in Cats

Feline calicivirus (FCV) is a common pathogen in domestic cats that is highly contagious, resistant to many disinfectants and demonstrates a high genetic variability. FCV infection can lead to serious or even fatal diseases. In this review, the European Advisory Board on Cat Diseases (ABCD), a scientifically independent board of experts in feline medicine from 11 European countries, presents the current knowledge of FCV infection and fills gaps with expert opinions. FCV infections are particularly problematic in multicat environments. FCV-infected cats often show painful erosions in the mouth and mild upper respiratory disease and, particularly in kittens, even fatal pneumonia. However, infection can be associated with chronic gingivostomatitis. Rarely, highly virulent FCV variants can induce severe systemic disease with epizootic spread and high mortality. FCV can best be detected by reverse-transcriptase PCR. However, a negative result does not rule out FCV infection and healthy cats can test positive. All cats should be vaccinated against FCV (core vaccine); however, vaccination protects cats from disease but not from infection. Considering the high variability of FCV, changing to different vaccine strain(s) may be of benefit if disease occurs in fully vaccinated cats. Infection-induced immunity is not life-long and does not protect against all strains; therefore, vaccination of cats that have recovered from caliciviral disease is recommended.

Atomic Structure of the Human Sapovirus Capsid Reveals a Unique Capsid Protein Conformation in Caliciviruses

Sapovirus (SaV) is a member of the Caliciviridae family, which causes acute gastroenteritis in humans and animals. Human sapoviruses (HuSaVs) are genetically and antigenically diverse, but the lack of a viral replication system and structural information has hampered the development of vaccines and therapeutics. Here, we successfully produced a self-assembled virus-like particle (VLP) from the HuSaV GI.6 VP1 protein, and the first atomic structure was determined using single-particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) at a 2.9-Å resolution. The atomic model of the VP1 protein revealed a unique capsid protein conformation in caliciviruses. All N-terminal arms in the A, B, and C subunits interacted with adjacent shell domains after extending through their subunits. The roof of the arched VP1 dimer was formed between the P2 subdomains by the interconnected β strands and loops, and its buried surface was minimized compared to those of other caliciviruses. Four hypervariable regions that are potentially involved in the antigenic diversity of SaV formed extensive clusters on top of the P domain. Potential receptor binding regions implied by tissue culture mutants of porcine SaV were also located near these hypervariable clusters. Conserved sequence motifs of the VP1 protein, “PPG” and “GWS,” may stabilize the inner capsid shell and the outer protruding domain, respectively. These findings will provide the structural basis for the medical treatment of HuSaV infections and facilitate the development of vaccines, antivirals, and diagnostic systems.

IMPORTANCE SaV and norovirus, belonging to the Caliciviridae family, are common causes of acute gastroenteritis in humans and animals. SaV and norovirus infections are public health problems in all age groups, which occur explosively and sporadically worldwide. HuSaV is genetically and antigenically diverse and is currently classified into 4 genogroups consisting of 18 genotypes based on the sequence similarity of the VP1 proteins. Despite these detailed genetic analyses, the lack of structural information on viral capsids has become a problem for the development of vaccines or antiviral drugs. The 2.9-Å atomic model of the HuSaV GI.6 VLP presented here not only revealed the location of the amino acid residues involved in immune responses and potential receptor binding sites but also provided essential information for the design of stable constructs needed for the development of vaccines and antivirals.

Evolutionary Analyses of Emerging GII.2[P16] and GII.4 Sydney [P16] Noroviruses

GII.2[P16] and GII.4 Sydney [P16] are currently the two predominant norovirus genotypes. This study sought to clarify their evolutionary patterns by analyzing the major capsid VP1 and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) genes. Sequence diversities were analyzed at both nucleotide and amino acid levels. Selective pressures were evaluated with the Hyphy package in different models. Phylogenetic trees were constructed by the maximum likelihood method from full VP1 sequences, and evolutionary rates were estimated by the Bayesian Markov Chain Monte Carlo approach. The results showed that (1) several groups of tightly linked mutations between the RdRp and VP1 genes were detected in the GII.2[P16] and GII.4[P16] noroviruses, and most of these mutations were synonymous, which may lead to a better viral fitness to the host; (2) although the pattern of having new GII.4 variants every 2–4 years has been broken, both the pre- and the post-2015 Sydney VP1 had comparable evolutionary rates to previously epidemic GII.4 variants, and half of the major antigenic sites on GII.4 Sydney had residue substitutions and several caused obvious changes in the carbohydrate-binding surface that may potentially alter the property of the virus; and (3) GII.4 Sydney variants during 2018–21 showed geographical specificity in East Asia, South Asia, and North America; the antigenic sites of GII.2 are strictly conserved, but the GII.2 VP1 chronologically evolved into nine different sublineages over time, with sublineage IX being the most prevalent one since 2018. This study suggested that both VP1 and RdRp of the GII.2[P16] and GII.4 Sydney [P16] noroviruses exhibited different evolutionary directions. GII.4[P16] is likely to generate potential novel epidemic variants by accumulating mutations in the P2 domain, similar to previously epidemic GII.4 variants, while GII.2[P16] has conserved predicted antigenicity and may evolve by changing the properties of nonstructural proteins, such as polymerase replicational fidelity and efficiency. This study expands the understanding of the evolutionary dynamics of GII.2[P16] and GII.4[P16] noroviruses and may predict the emergence of new variants.

Experimental Adaptation of Murine Norovirus to Calcium Hydroxide

Slaked lime (calcium hydroxide) is a commonly used disinfectant for fecal sludge. Although viruses are inactivated by lime treatment, whether RNA viruses adapt to lime treatment has not yet been determined. Here, we show that murine norovirus developed higher tolerance during serial passages with lime treatment. We compared synonymous and non-synonymous nucleotide diversities of the three open reading frames of viral genome and revealed that virus populations were subjected to enhanced purifying selection over the course of serial passages with lime treatment. Virus adaptation to lime treatment was coincident with amino acid substitution of lysine to arginine at position 345 (K345R) on the major capsid protein VP1, which accounted for more than 90% of the population. The infectious clones with the K345R produced using a plasmid-based reverse genetics system exhibited greater tolerance in a lime solution, which indicated that the specific amino acid substitution was solely involved in the viral tolerance in lime treatment.

Cryo-EM structures of infectious bursal disease viruses with different virulences provide insights into their assembly and invasion

Infectious bursal disease virus (IBDV) causes a highly contagious immunosuppressive disease in chickens, resulting in significant economic losses. The very virulent IBDV strain (vvIBDV) causes high mortality and cannot adapt to cell culture. In contrast, attenuated strains of IBDV are nonpathogenic to chickens and can replicate in cell culture. Although the crystal structure of T = 1 subviral particles (SVP) has been reported, the structures of intact IBDV virions with different virulences remain elusive. Here, we determined the cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of the vvIBDV Gx strain and its attenuated IBDV strain Gt at resolutions of 3.3 Å and 3.2 Å, respectively. Compared with the structure of T = 1 SVP, IBDV contains several conserved structural elements unique to the T = 13 virion. Notably, the N-terminus of VP2, which is disordered in the SVP, interacts with the S_F strand of VP2 from its neighboring trimer, completing the β-sheet of the S domain. This interaction helps to form a contact network by tethering the adjacent VP2 trimers and contributes to the assembly and stability of the IBDV virion. Structural comparison of the Gx and Gt strains indicates that H253 and T284 in the VP2 P domain of Gt, in contrast to Gx, form a hydrogen bond with a positively charged surface. This suggests that the combined mutations Q253H/A284T and the associated structural electrostatic features of the attenuated Gt strain may contribute to adaptation to cell culture. Furthermore, a negatively charged groove in VP2, containing an integrin binding IDA motif that is critical for virus attachment, was speculated to play a functional role in the entry of IBDV.

Atomic structure of the predominant GII.4 human norovirus capsid reveals novel stability and plasticity

Human noroviruses (HuNoVs) cause sporadic and epidemic viral gastroenteritis worldwide. The GII.4 variants are responsible for most HuNoV infections, and GII.4 virus-like particles (VLPs) are being used in vaccine development. The atomic structure of the GII.4 capsid in the native T = 3 state has not been determined. Here we present the GII.4 VLP structure with T = 3 symmetry determined using X-ray crystallography and cryo-EM at 3.0 Å and 3.8 Å resolution, respectively, which reveals unanticipated novel features. A novel aspect in the crystal structure determined without imposing icosahedral symmetry is the remarkable adaptability of the capsid protein VP1 driven by the flexible hinge between the shell and the protruding domains. In both crystal and cryo-EM structures, VP1 adopts a stable conformation with the protruding domain resting on the shell domain, in contrast to the 'rising' conformation observed in recent cryo-EM structures of other GII.4 VLPs. Our studies further revealed that the resting state of VP1 dimer is stabilized by a divalent ion, and chelation using EDTA increases capsid diameter, exposing new hydrophobic and antigenic sites and suggesting a transition to the rising conformation. These novel insights into GII.4 capsid structure, stability, and antigen presentation may be useful for ongoing vaccine development.

Lewis fucose is a key moiety for the recognition of histo-blood group antigens by GI.9 norovirus, as revealed by structural analysis

Noroviruses have been identified as major causative agents of acute nonbacterial gastroenteritis in humans. Histo‐blood group antigens (HBGAs) are thought to play a major role among the host cellular factors influencing norovirus infection. Genogroup I, genotype 9 (GI.9) is the most recently identified genotype within genogroup I, whose representative strain is the Vancouver 730 norovirus. However, the molecular interactions between host antigens and the GI.9 capsid protein have not been investigated in detail. In this study, we demonstrate that the GI.9 norovirus preferentially binds Lewis antigens over blood group A, B, and H antigens, as revealed by an HBGA binding assay using virus‐like particles. We determined the crystal structures of the protruding domain of the GI.9 capsid protein in the presence or absence of Lewis antigens. Our analysis demonstrated that Lewis fucose (α1–3/4 fucose) represents a key moiety for the GI.9 protein–HBGA interaction, thus suggesting that Lewis antigens might play a critical role during norovirus infection. In addition to previously reported findings, our observations may support the future design of antiviral agents and vaccines against noroviruses.

In vitro functional analysis of gRNA sites regulating assembly of hepatitis B virus

The roles of RNA sequence/structure motifs, Packaging Signals (PSs), for regulating assembly of an HBV genome transcript have been investigated in an efficient in vitro assay containing only core protein (Cp) and RNA. Variants of three conserved PSs, within the genome of a strain not used previously, preventing correct presentation of a Cp-recognition loop motif are differentially deleterious for assembly of nucleocapsid-like particles (NCPs). Cryo-electron microscopy reconstruction of the T = 4 NCPs formed with the wild-type gRNA transcript, reveal that the interior of the Cp shell is in contact with lower resolution density, potentially encompassing the arginine-rich protein domains and gRNA. Symmetry relaxation followed by asymmetric reconstruction reveal that such contacts are made at every symmetry axis. We infer from their regulation of assembly that some of these contacts would involve gRNA PSs, and confirmed this by X-ray RNA footprinting. Mutation of the ε stem-loop in the gRNA, where polymerase binds in vivo, produces a poor RNA assembly substrate with Cp alone, largely due to alterations in its conformation. The results show that RNA PSs regulate assembly of HBV genomic transcripts in vitro, and therefore may play similar roles in vivo, in concert with other molecular factors.

Frequent intergenotypic recombination between the non-structural and structural genes is a major driver of epidemiological fitness in caliciviruses

The diversity of lagoviruses (Caliciviridae) in Australia has increased considerably in recent years. By the end of 2017, five variants from three viral genotypes were present in populations of Australian rabbits, while prior to 2014 only two variants were known. To understand the evolutionary interactions among these lagovirus variants, we monitored their geographical distribution and relative incidence over time in a continental-scale competition study. Within 3 years of the incursion of rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus 2 (RHDV2, denoted genotype GI.1bP-GI.2 [polymerase genotype]P-[capsid genotype]) into Australia, two novel recombinant lagovirus variants emerged: RHDV2-4e (genotype GI.4eP-GI.2) in New South Wales and RHDV2-4c (genotype GI.4cP-GI.2) in Victoria. Although both novel recombinants contain non-structural genes related to those from benign, rabbit-specific, enterotropic viruses, these variants were recovered from the livers of both rabbits and hares that had died acutely. This suggests that the determinants of host and tissue tropism for lagoviruses are associated with the structural genes, and that tropism is intricately connected with pathogenicity. Phylogenetic analyses demonstrated that the RHDV2-4c recombinant emerged independently on multiple occasions, with five distinct lineages observed. Both the new RHDV2-4e and -4c recombinant variants replaced the previous dominant parental RHDV2 (genotype GI.1bP-GI.2) in their respective geographical areas, despite sharing an identical or near-identical (i.e. single amino acid change) VP60 major capsid protein with the parental virus. This suggests that the observed replacement by these recombinants was not driven by antigenic variation in VP60, implicating the non-structural genes as key drivers of epidemiological fitness. Molecular clock estimates place the RHDV2-4e recombination event in early to mid-2015, while the five RHDV2-4c recombination events occurred from late 2015 through to early 2017. The emergence of at least six viable recombinant variants within a 2-year period highlights the high frequency of these events, detectable only through intensive surveillance, and demonstrates the importance of recombination in lagovirus evolution.

Interferon responses to norovirus infections: current and future perspectives

Human noroviruses (HuNoVs) are increasingly becoming the main cause of transmissible gastroenteritis worldwide, with hundreds of thousands of deaths recorded annually. Yet, decades after their discovery, there is still no effective treatment or vaccine. Efforts aimed at developing vaccines or treatment will benefit from a greater understanding of norovirus-host interactions, including the host response to infection. In this review, we provide a concise overview of the evidence establishing the significance of type I and type III interferon (IFN) responses in the restriction of noroviruses. We also critically examine our current understanding of the molecular mechanisms of IFN induction in norovirus-infected cells, and outline the diverse strategies deployed by noroviruses to supress and/or avoid host IFN responses. It is our hope that this review will facilitate further discussion and increase interest in this area.

Structural basis of rotavirus RNA chaperone displacement and RNA annealing

Rotavirus genomes are distributed between 11 distinct RNA molecules, all of which must be selectively copackaged during virus assembly. This likely occurs through sequence-specific RNA interactions facilitated by the RNA chaperone NSP2. Here, we report that NSP2 autoregulates its chaperone activity through its C-terminal region (CTR) that promotes RNA-RNA interactions by limiting its helix-unwinding activity. Unexpectedly, structural proteomics data revealed that the CTR does not directly interact with RNA, while accelerating RNA release from NSP2. Cryo-electron microscopy reconstructions of an NSP2-RNA complex reveal a highly conserved acidic patch on the CTR, which is poised toward the bound RNA. Virus replication was abrogated by charge-disrupting mutations within the acidic patch but completely restored by charge-preserving mutations. Mechanistic similarities between NSP2 and the unrelated bacterial RNA chaperone Hfq suggest that accelerating RNA dissociation while promoting intermolecular RNA interactions may be a widespread strategy of RNA chaperone recycling.

Structural changes in bacteriophage T7 upon receptor-induced genome ejection

Many tailed bacteriophages assemble ejection proteins and a portal-tail complex at a unique vertex of the capsid. The ejection proteins form a transenvelope channel extending the portal-tail channel for the delivery of genomic DNA in cell infection. Here, we report the structure of the mature bacteriophage T7, including the ejection proteins, as well as the structures of the full and empty T7 particles in complex with their cell receptor lipopolysaccharide. Our near-atomic-resolution reconstruction shows that the ejection proteins in the mature T7 assemble into a core, which comprises a fourfold gene product 16 (gp16) ring, an eightfold gp15 ring, and a putative eightfold gp14 ring. The gp15 and gp16 are mainly composed of helix bundles, and gp16 harbors a lytic transglycosylase domain for degrading the bacterial peptidoglycan layer. When interacting with the lipopolysaccharide, the T7 tail nozzle opens. Six copies of gp14 anchor to the tail nozzle, extending the nozzle across the lipopolysaccharide lipid bilayer. The structures of gp15 and gp16 in the mature T7 suggest that they should undergo remarkable conformational changes to form the transenvelope channel. Hydrophobic α-helices were observed in gp16 but not in gp15, suggesting that gp15 forms the channel in the hydrophilic periplasm and gp16 forms the channel in the cytoplasmic membrane.

Noroviruses-The State of the Art, Nearly Fifty Years after Their Initial Discovery

Human noroviruses are recognised as the major global cause of viral gastroenteritis. Here, we provide an overview of notable advances in norovirus research and provide a short recap of the novel model systems to which much of the recent progress is owed. Significant advances include an updated classification system, the description of alternative virus-like protein morphologies and capsid dynamics, and the further elucidation of the functions and roles of various viral proteins. Important milestones include new insights into cell tropism, host and microbial attachment factors and receptors, interactions with the cellular translational apparatus, and viral egress from cells. Noroviruses have been detected in previously unrecognised hosts and detection itself is facilitated by improved analytical techniques. New potential transmission routes and/or viral reservoirs have been proposed. Recent in vivo and in vitro findings have added to the understanding of host immunity in response to norovirus infection, and vaccine development has progressed to preclinical and even clinical trial testing. Ongoing development of therapeutics includes promising direct-acting small molecules and host-factor drugs.

Current and Future Antiviral Strategies to Tackle Gastrointestinal Viral Infections

Acute gastroenteritis caused by virus has a major impact on public health worldwide in terms of morbidity, mortality, and economic burden. The main culprits are rotaviruses, noroviruses, sapoviruses, astroviruses, and enteric adenoviruses. Currently, there are no antiviral drugs available for the prevention or treatment of viral gastroenteritis. Here, we describe the antivirals that were identified as having in vitro and/or in vivo activity against these viruses, originating from in silico design or library screening, natural sources or being repurposed drugs. We also highlight recent advances in model systems available for this (hard to cultivate) group of viruses, such as organoid technologies, and that will facilitate antiviral studies as well as fill some of current knowledge gaps that hamper the development of highly efficient therapies against gastroenteric viruses.

Icariin, Formononetin and Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester Inhibit Feline Calicivirus Replication In Vitro

Cats infected with feline calicivirus (FCV) often display oral ulcers and inflammation of the upper respiratory tract, which can lead to death in severe cases. Antiviral therapy is one of the most effective ways to control FCV infection. Natural compounds in Chinese herbal medicines and medicinal plants provide abundant resources for research on antiviral drugs. In this study, we found that icariin (ICA), formononetin (FMN) and caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CPAE) show low cytotoxicity towards F81 cells, that the three natural compounds have apparent antiviral effects on FCV in vitro, and that they can inhibit different FCV strains. Then, we found that ICA and FMN mainly function in the early stage of FCV infection, while CAPE can function in both the early and late stages of FCV infection. Finally, we found that ICA has an antagonistic effect on FMN and CAPE in FCV infection, and FMN has a synergistic effect with CAPE against FCV infection. Our results showed that ICA, FMN and CAPE may be potential drug candidates for FCV-induced diseases.

The Cryo-EM Structure of Vesivirus 2117 Highlights Functional Variations in Entry Pathways for Viruses in Different Clades of the Vesivirus Genus

Vesivirus 2117 is an adventitious agent that has been responsible for lost productivity in biopharmaceutical production following contamination of Chinese hamster ovary cell cultures in commercial bioreactors. A member of the Caliciviridae, 2117 is classified within the Vesivirus genus in a clade that includes canine and mink caliciviruses but is distinct from the vesicular exanthema of swine virus (VESV) clade, which includes the extensively studied feline calicivirus (FCV). We have used cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) to determine the structure of the capsid of this small, icosahedral, positive-sense-RNA-containing virus. We show that the outer face of the dimeric capsomeres, which contains the receptor binding site and major immunodominant epitopes in all caliciviruses studied thus far, is quite different from that of FCV. This is a consequence of a 22-amino-acid insertion in the sequence of the FCV major capsid protein that forms a "cantilevered arm" that both plays an important role in receptor engagement and undergoes structural rearrangements thought to be important for genome delivery to the cytosol. Our data highlight a potentially important difference in the attachment and entry pathways employed by the different clades of the Vesivirus genus. IMPORTANCE Vesivirus 2117 has caused significant losses in manufacturing of biopharmaceutical products following contamination of cell cultures used in their production. We report the structure of the vesivirus 2117 capsid, the shell that encloses the virus's genome. Comparison of this structure with that of a related vesivirus, feline calicivirus (FCV), highlighted potentially important differences related to virus attachment and entry. Our findings suggest that these two viruses may bind differently to receptors at the host cell surface. We also show that a region of the capsid protein of FCV that rearranges following receptor engagement is not present in vesivirus 2117. These structural changes in the FCV capsid have been shown to allow the assembly of a portal-like structure that is hypothesized to deliver the viral genome to the cell's interior. Our data suggest that the 2117 portal assembly may employ a different means of anchoring to the outer face of the capsid.

Bile Goes Viral

Laboratory cultivation of viruses is critical for determining requirements for viral replication, developing detection methods, identifying drug targets, and developing antivirals. Several viruses have a history of recalcitrance towards robust replication in laboratory cell lines, including human noroviruses and hepatitis B and C viruses. These viruses have tropism for tissue components of the enterohepatic circulation system: the intestine and liver, respectively. The purpose of this review is to discuss how key enterohepatic signaling molecules, bile acids (BAs), and BA receptors are involved in the replication of these viruses and how manipulation of these factors was useful in the development and/or optimization of culture systems for these viruses. BAs have replication-promoting activities through several key mechanisms: (1) affecting cellular uptake, membrane lipid composition, and endocytic acidification; (2) directly interacting with viral capsids to influence binding to cells; and (3) modulating the innate immune response. Additionally, expression of the Na+-taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide BA receptor in continuous liver cell lines is critical for hepatitis B virus entry and robust replication in laboratory culture. Viruses are capable of hijacking normal cellular functions, and understanding the role of BAs and BA receptors, components of the enterohepatic system, is valuable for expanding our knowledge on the mechanisms of norovirus and hepatitis B and C virus replication.

Structural insight into Pichia pastoris fatty acid synthase

Type I fatty acid synthases (FASs) are critical metabolic enzymes which are common targets for bioengineering in the production of biofuels and other products. Serendipitously, we identified FAS as a contaminant in a cryoEM dataset of virus-like particles (VLPs) purified from P. pastoris, an important model organism and common expression system used in protein production. From these data, we determined the structure of P. pastoris FAS to 3.1 Å resolution. While the overall organisation of the complex was typical of type I FASs, we identified several differences in both structural and enzymatic domains through comparison with the prototypical yeast FAS from S. cerevisiae. Using focussed classification, we were also able to resolve and model the mobile acyl-carrier protein (ACP) domain, which is key for function. Ultimately, the structure reported here will be a useful resource for further efforts to engineer yeast FAS for synthesis of alternate products.

Viruses for Landscape-Scale Therapy: Biological Control of Rabbits in Australia

Viral diseases, whether of animals or humans, are normally considered as problems to be managed. However, in Australia, two viruses have been used as landscape-scale therapeutics to control European rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus), the preeminent invasive vertebrate pest species. Rabbits have caused major environmental and agricultural losses and contributed to extinction of native species. It was not until the introduction of Myxoma virus that effective control of this pest was obtained at a continental scale. Subsequent coevolution of rabbit and virus saw a gradual reduction in the effectiveness of biological control that was partially ameliorated by the introduction of the European rabbit flea to act as an additional vector for the virus. In 1995, a completely different virus, Rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV), escaped from testing and spread through the Australian rabbit population and again significantly reduced rabbit numbers and environmental impacts. The evolutionary pressures on this virus appear to be producing quite different outcomes to those that occurred with myxoma virus and the emergence and invasion of a novel genotype of RHDV in 2014 have further augmented control. Molecular studies on myxoma virus have demonstrated multiple proteins that manipulate the host innate and adaptive immune response; however the molecular basis of virus attenuation and reversion to virulence are not yet understood.

Complete genome characterization of human noroviruses allows comparison of minor alleles during acute and chronic infections

Human noroviruses (HuNoVs) circulate globally, affect all age groups and place a substantial burden upon health services. High genetic diversity leading to antigenic variation plays a significant role in HuNoV epidemiology, driving periodic global emergence of epidemic variants. Studies have suggested that immunocompromised individuals may be a reservoir for such epidemic variants, but studies investigating the diversity and emergence of HuNoV variants in immunocompetent individuals are underrepresented. To address this, we sequenced the genomes of HuNoVs present in samples collected longitudinally from one immunocompetent (acute infection) and one immunocompromised (chronic infection) patient. A broadly reactive HuNoV capture-based method was used to concentrate the virus present in these specimens prior to massively parallel sequencing to recover near complete viral genomes. Using a novel bioinformatics pipeline, we demonstrated that persistent minor alleles were present in both acute and chronic infections, and that minor allele frequencies represented a larger proportion of the population during chronic infection. In acute infection, minor alleles were more evenly spread across the genome, although present at much lower frequencies, and therefore difficult to discern from error. By contrast, in the chronic infection, more minor alleles were present in the minor structural protein. No non-synonymous minor alleles were detected in the major structural protein over the short sampling period of the HuNoV chronic infection, suggesting where immune pressure is variable or non-existent, epidemic variants could emerge over longer periods of infection by random chance.