1
|
Han L, Wang B, Sun K, Sitara M, Li M, Wang P, Chen N, Yu XA, Tian J. A SARS-CoV-2 M pro fluorescent sensor for exploring pharmacodynamic substances from traditional Chinese medicine. Analyst 2024; 149:3585-3595. [PMID: 38767148 DOI: 10.1039/d4an00372a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
The main protease of SARS-CoV-2 (SARS-CoV-2 Mpro) plays a critical role in the replication and life cycle of the virus. Currently, how to screen SARS-CoV-2 Mpro inhibitors from complex traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) is the bottleneck for exploring the pharmacodynamic substances of TCM against SARS-CoV-2. In this study, a simple, cost-effective, rapid, and selective fluorescent sensor (TPE-S-TLG sensor) was designed with an AIE (aggregation-induced emission) probe (TPE-Ph-In) and the SARS-CoV-2 Mpro substrate (S-TLG). The TPE-S-TLG sensor was characterized using UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), zeta potential, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy techniques. The limit of detection of this method to detect SARS-CoV-2 Mpro was measured to be 5 ng mL-1. Furthermore, the TPE-S-TLG sensor was also successfully applied to screen Mpro inhibitors from Xuebijing injection using the separation and collection of the HPLC-fully automatic partial fraction collector (HPLC-FC). Six active compounds, including protocatechualdehyde, chlorogenic acid, hydroxysafflower yellow A, caffeic acid, isoquercetin, and pentagalloylglucose, were identified using UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS that could achieve 90% of the Mpro inhibition rate for the Xuebijing injection. Accordingly, the strategy can be broadly applied in the detection of disease-related proteases as well as screening active substances from TCM.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Han
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China.
| | - Bing Wang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Quality Research and Evaluation of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen Institute for Drug Control, Shenzhen, 518057, People's Republic of China.
| | - Kunhui Sun
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Quality Research and Evaluation of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen Institute for Drug Control, Shenzhen, 518057, People's Republic of China.
| | - Muqadas Sitara
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China.
| | - Meifang Li
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Quality Research and Evaluation of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen Institute for Drug Control, Shenzhen, 518057, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ping Wang
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Quality Research and Evaluation of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen Institute for Drug Control, Shenzhen, 518057, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ning Chen
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Quality Research and Evaluation of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen Institute for Drug Control, Shenzhen, 518057, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xie-An Yu
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Quality Research and Evaluation of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen Institute for Drug Control, Shenzhen, 518057, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jiangwei Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, School of Traditional Chinese Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, 211198, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Adami FL, de Castro MV, Almeida BDS, Daher IP, Yamamoto MM, Souza Santos K, Zatz M, Naslavsky MS, Rosa DS, Cunha-Neto E, de Oliveira VL, Kalil J, Boscardin SB. Anti-RBD IgG antibodies from endemic coronaviruses do not protect against the acquisition of SARS-CoV-2 infection among exposed uninfected individuals. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1396603. [PMID: 38846944 PMCID: PMC11153698 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1396603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The Coronaviridae family comprises seven viruses known to infect humans, classified into alphacoronaviruses (HCoV-229E and HCoV-NL63) and betacoronaviruses (HCoV-OC43 and HCoV-HKU1), which are considered endemic. Additionally, it includes SARS-CoV (severe acute respiratory syndrome), MERS-CoV (Middle East respiratory syndrome), and the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, responsible for COVID-19. SARS-CoV-2 induces severe respiratory complications, particularly in the elderly, immunocompromised individuals and those with underlying diseases. An essential question since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic has been to determine whether prior exposure to seasonal coronaviruses influences immunity or protection against SARS-CoV-2. Methods In this study, we investigated a cohort of 47 couples (N=94), where one partner tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 infection via real-time PCR while the other remained negative. Plasma samples, collected at least 30 days post-PCR reaction, were assessed using indirect ELISA and competition assays to measure specific antibodies against the receptor-binding domain (RBD) portion of the Spike (S) protein from SARS-CoV-2, HCoV-229E, HCoV-NL63, HCoV-OC43, and HCoV-HKU1. Results IgG antibody levels against the four endemic coronavirus RBD proteins were similar between the PCR-positive and PCR-negative individuals, suggesting that IgG against endemic coronavirus RBD regions was not associated with protection from infection. Moreover, we found no significant IgG antibody cross-reactivity between endemic coronaviruses and SARS-CoV-2 RBDs. Conclusions Taken together, results suggest that anti-RBD antibodies induced by a previous infection with endemic HCoVs do not protect against acquisition of COVID-19 among exposed uninfected individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Flávia Lopes Adami
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mateus Vidigal de Castro
- Centro de Estudos do Genoma Humano e Células Tronco, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Departamento de Genética e Biologia Evolutiva, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Bianca da Silva Almeida
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Isabela Pazotti Daher
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Laboratório de Imunologia, LIM19, Instituto do Coração (InCor), Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (HCFMUSP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Márcio Massao Yamamoto
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Keity Souza Santos
- Laboratório de Imunologia, LIM19, Instituto do Coração (InCor), Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (HCFMUSP), São Paulo, Brazil
- Departamento de Clínica Médica, Disciplina de Alergia e Imunologia Clínica, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Instituto de Investigação em Imunologia-Instituto Nacional de Ciências e Tecnologia (iii-INCT), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mayana Zatz
- Centro de Estudos do Genoma Humano e Células Tronco, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Departamento de Genética e Biologia Evolutiva, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Michel Satya Naslavsky
- Centro de Estudos do Genoma Humano e Células Tronco, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Departamento de Genética e Biologia Evolutiva, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Daniela Santoro Rosa
- Instituto de Investigação em Imunologia-Instituto Nacional de Ciências e Tecnologia (iii-INCT), São Paulo, Brazil
- Departamento de Microbiologia, Imunologia e Parasitologia, Disciplina de Imunologia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Edecio Cunha-Neto
- Laboratório de Imunologia, LIM19, Instituto do Coração (InCor), Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (HCFMUSP), São Paulo, Brazil
- Departamento de Clínica Médica, Disciplina de Alergia e Imunologia Clínica, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Instituto de Investigação em Imunologia-Instituto Nacional de Ciências e Tecnologia (iii-INCT), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Vivian Leite de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Imunologia, LIM19, Instituto do Coração (InCor), Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (HCFMUSP), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jorge Kalil
- Laboratório de Imunologia, LIM19, Instituto do Coração (InCor), Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (HCFMUSP), São Paulo, Brazil
- Departamento de Clínica Médica, Disciplina de Alergia e Imunologia Clínica, Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (FMUSP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
- Instituto de Investigação em Imunologia-Instituto Nacional de Ciências e Tecnologia (iii-INCT), São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Silvia Beatriz Boscardin
- Departamento de Parasitologia, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Instituto de Investigação em Imunologia-Instituto Nacional de Ciências e Tecnologia (iii-INCT), São Paulo, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Shaik KM, Patibandla V, Nandi S. Impact of anabolic androgenic steroids on COVID-19. Steroids 2024; 203:109361. [PMID: 38176451 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2023.109361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
In the wake of the Novel Coronavirus arrival, the world witnessed the fragility of healthcare systems and the resilience of healthcare workers who stood on the front lines. SARS-CoV-2, also known as COVID-19 or severe acute respiratory syndrome, first appeared in China in December 2019. The infection quickly spread across the nation and the world. All countries severely restricted social interaction to stop the virus's transmission, impacting all sporting, social, and recreational activities. Anabolic androgenic steroids (AASs) are frequently used illegally to enhance strength and physical attractiveness. However, they could hurt immune system health. Much research hasn't been done yet on the connection between Covid-19 and AASs. Synthetic testosterone analogs known as anabolic androgenic steroids (AASs) can have an immune-system-altering effect. Sportspeople and bodybuilders are vulnerable to AAS abuse. Governmental reactions to the coronavirus infection issue over the last year have drawn much attention and discussion regarding public services, the experience and lessons learned from different limitations, and strategies for dealing with potential future pandemics. Using AAS has the potential to cause a variety of adverse reactions, including cardiovascular issues (including high blood pressure, heart disease, and blood clots), liver damage, renal failure, mood swings, aggressiveness, and psychiatric disorders. Individuals already suffering from severe respiratory conditions like COVID-19 may have these risks increased. This review mainly highlights the anabolic androgen steroids use and its unseen effects on coronavirus patients and gymnastics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khaja Moinuddin Shaik
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Sector 67, S.A.S. Nagar, 160062, Punjab, India
| | - Vijay Patibandla
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Sector 67, S.A.S. Nagar, 160062, Punjab, India
| | - Sukhendu Nandi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Sector 67, S.A.S. Nagar, 160062, Punjab, India.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Liu Y, Sun S, Li J, Wang W, Zhu HJ. Cell-Dependent Activation of ProTide Prodrugs and Its Implications in Antiviral Studies. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2023; 6:1340-1346. [PMID: 37854623 PMCID: PMC10580387 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.3c00050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
The ProTide prodrug design is a powerful tool to improve cell permeability and enhance the intracellular activation of nucleotide antiviral analogues. Previous in vitro studies showed that the activation of ProTide prodrugs varied in different cell lines. In the present study, we investigated the activation profiles of two antiviral prodrugs tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) and sofosbuvir (SOF) in five cell lines commonly used in antiviral research, namely, Vero E6, Huh-7, Calu-3, A549, and Caco-2. We found that TAF and SOF were activated in a cell-dependent manner with Vero E6 being the least efficient and Huh-7 being the most efficient cell line for activating the prodrugs. We also demonstrated that TAF was activated at a significantly higher rate than SOF. We further analyzed the protein expressions of the activating enzymes carboxylesterase 1, cathepsin A, histidine triad nucleotide-binding protein 1, and the relevant drug transporters P-glycoprotein and organic anion-transporting polypeptides 1B1 and 1B3 in the cell lines using the proteomics data extracted from the literature and proteome database. The results revealed significant differences in the expression patterns of the enzymes and transporters among the cell lines, which might partially contribute to the observed cell-dependent activation of TAF and SOF. These findings highlight the variability of the abundance of activating enzymes and transporters between cell lines and emphasize the importance of selecting appropriate cell lines for assessing the antiviral efficacy of nucleoside/nucleotide prodrugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jiapeng Li
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Michigan College of Pharmacy, 428 Church Street, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Weiwen Wang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Michigan College of Pharmacy, 428 Church Street, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| | - Hao-Jie Zhu
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Michigan College of Pharmacy, 428 Church Street, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, United States
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronaviruses contributing to mitochondrial dysfunction: Implications for post-COVID complications. Mitochondrion 2023; 69:43-56. [PMID: 36690315 PMCID: PMC9854144 DOI: 10.1016/j.mito.2023.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondria play a central role in oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS), bioenergetics linked with ATP production, fatty acids biosynthesis, calcium signaling, cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, and innate immune response. Severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV) infection manipulates the host cellular machinery for its survival and replication in the host cell. The infectiaon causes perturbed the cellular metabolism that favours viral replication leading to mitochondrial dysfunction and chronic inflammation. By localizing to the mitochondria, SARS CoV proteins increase reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, perturbation of Ca2+ signaling, changes in mtDNA copy number, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), mitochondrial mass, and induction of mitophagy. These proteins also influence the fusion and fission kinetics, size, structure, and distribution of mitochondria in the infected host cells. This results in compromised bioenergetics, altered metabolism, and innate immune signaling, and hence can be a key player in determining the outcome of SARS-CoV infection. SARS-CoV infection contributes to stress and activates apoptotic pathways. This review summarizes how mitochondrial function and dynamics are affected by SARS-CoV and how the mitochondria-SARS-CoV interaction benefits viral survival and growth by evading innate host immunity. We also highlight how the SARS-CoV-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to post-COVID complications. Besides, a discussion on targeting virus-mitochondria interactions as a therapeutic strategy is presented.
Collapse
|
6
|
Inactivation of various variant types of SARS-CoV-2 by indoor-light-sensitive TiO 2-based photocatalyst. Sci Rep 2022; 12:5804. [PMID: 35422456 PMCID: PMC9010443 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-09402-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Photocatalysts are promising materials for solid-state antiviral coatings to protect against the spread of pandemic coronavirus disease (COVID-19). This paper reports that copper oxide nanoclusters grafted with titanium dioxide (CuxO/TiO2) inactivated the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus, including its Delta variant, even under dark condition, and further inactivated it under illumination with a white fluorescent bulb. To investigate its inactivation mechanism, the denaturation of spike proteins of SARS-CoV-2 was examined by sodium dodecyl sulphate–polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In addition to spike proteins, fragmentation of ribonucleic acids in SARS-CoV-2 was investigated by real-time reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). As a result, both spike proteins and RNAs in the SARS-CoV-2 virus were damaged by the CuxO/TiO2 photocatalyst even under dark condition and were further damaged under white fluorescent bulb illumination. Based on the present antiviral mechanism, the CuxO/TiO2 photocatalyst will be effective in inactivating other potential mutant strains of SARS-CoV-2. The CuxO/TiO2 photocatalyst can thus be used to reduce the infectious risk of COVID-19 in an indoor environment, where light illumination is turned on during the day and off during the night.
Collapse
|
7
|
Yerukala Sathipati S, Shukla SK, Ho SY. Tracking the amino acid changes of spike proteins across diverse host species of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. iScience 2022; 25:103560. [PMID: 34877480 PMCID: PMC8638202 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.103560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Knowledge of the host-specific properties of the spike protein is of crucial importance to understand the adaptability of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) to infect multiple species and alter transmissibility, particularly in humans. Here, we propose a spike protein predictor SPIKES incorporating with an inheritable bi-objective combinatorial genetic algorithm to identify the biochemical properties of spike proteins and determine their specificity to human hosts. SPIKES identified 20 informative physicochemical properties of the spike protein, including information measures for alpha helix and relative mutability, and amino acid and dipeptide compositions, which have shown compositional difference at the amino acid sequence level between human and diverse animal coronaviruses. We suggest that alterations of these amino acids between human and animal coronaviruses may provide insights into the development and transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in human and other species and support the discovery of targeted antiviral therapies. Differences exist in the amino acids within the S protein of diverse host species CoVs We developed SPIKES to identify informative properties of S protein SARS-CoV-2 variants have amino acid changes that alter infection and transmission The SPIKES identified changes in S protein properties from animal to human host CoVs
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Srinivasulu Yerukala Sathipati
- Center for Precision Medicine Research, Marshfield Clinic Research Institute, Marshfield, WI 54449, USA
- Corresponding author
| | - Sanjay K. Shukla
- Center for Precision Medicine Research, Marshfield Clinic Research Institute, Marshfield, WI 54449, USA
| | - Shinn-Ying Ho
- Institute of Bioinformatics and Systems Biology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
- Department of Biological Science and Technology, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
- Center for intelligent Drug Systems and Smart Bio-Devices (IDSB), National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Tian Y, Zhang G, Liu H, Ding P, Jia R, Zhou J, Chen Y, Qi Y, Du J, Liang C, Zhu X, Wang A. Screening and identification of B cell epitope of the nucleocapsid protein in SARS-CoV-2 using the monoclonal antibodies. Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2022; 106:1151-1164. [PMID: 35037999 PMCID: PMC8762450 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-022-11769-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 12/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the virus that causes the coronavirus disease (COVID-19). It is confirmed that nucleocapsid (N) protein is closely related to viral pathogenesis, modulation of host immune response, RNA transcription, and replication and virus packaging. Therefore, the N protein is a preponderant antigen target for virus detection. The codon-optimized N gene was designed according to the encoding characteristics of insect cells and inserted into pFastBacTM1 vector with 6 × His-tag-fused N protein for expression in insect sf21 cells. Six anti-N mAbs (4G3, 5B3, 12B6, 18C7-A2, 21H10-A3, 21H10-E9) were prepared by recombinant N protein. The mAbs showed high titers, antibody affinity, and reactivity with the SARS-CoV-2 N protein. Then, fourteen overlapped peptides that covered the intact N protein were synthesized (N1-N14). Peptide N14 was identified as the main linear B-cell epitope region via peptide-ELISA and dot-blot assay, and this region was truncated gradually until mapping the peptide 401-DFSKQLQQ-408. Simultaneously, compared with the sequence of variants of concern (VOCs) and variants of interest (VOIs) strains among the several countries, epitope 401-DFSKQLQQ-408 is very conservative among them. The findings provide new guidance for the design and detection of COVID-19 targets. KEY POINTS: • The N protein was optimized according to the insect cell codon preference and was highly expressed. • The monoclonal antibodies prepared in this study were shown high antibody titers and high affinity. • Monoclonal antibodies were used to map the epitope 401-408 amino acids of N protein for the first time in this study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Tian
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, No. 100 Science Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450001, People's Republic of China
| | - Gaiping Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, No. 100 Science Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450001, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongliang Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, No. 100 Science Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450001, People's Republic of China
| | - Peiyang Ding
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, No. 100 Science Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450001, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui Jia
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, No. 100 Science Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450001, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingming Zhou
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, No. 100 Science Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450001, People's Republic of China
| | - Yumei Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, No. 100 Science Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450001, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanhua Qi
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, No. 100 Science Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450001, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinran Du
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, No. 100 Science Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450001, People's Republic of China
| | - Chao Liang
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, No. 100 Science Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450001, People's Republic of China
| | - Xifang Zhu
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, No. 100 Science Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450001, People's Republic of China
| | - Aiping Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Zhengzhou University, No. 100 Science Avenue, Zhengzhou, 450001, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Khan AT, Chowdhury GM, Hafsah J, Maruf M, Raihan MRH, Chowdhury MT, Nawal N, Tasnim N, Saha P, Roy P, Tabassum R, Rodrigues SP, Hasan W, Samanta ZT, Kamal S, Nazir MS, Ali MA, Halim MA. A student led computational screening of peptide inhibitors against main protease of SARS-CoV-2. BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY EDUCATION : A BIMONTHLY PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL UNION OF BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2022; 50:7-20. [PMID: 34626436 PMCID: PMC8653098 DOI: 10.1002/bmb.21580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The main protease of SARS-CoV-2 is a promising drug target due to its functional role as a catalytic dyad in mediating proteolysis during the viral life cycle. In this study, experimentally proven 14 HIV protease peptides were screened against the main protease of SARS-CoV-2. Fourteen middle and high school "student researchers" were trained on relevant computational tools, provided with necessary biological and chemical background and scientific article writing. They performed the primary screening via molecular docking and the best performing complexes were subjected to molecular dynamics simulations. Molecular docking revealed that HIP82 and HIP1079 can bind with the catalytic residues, however after molecular dynamics simulation only HIP1079 retained its interaction with the catalytic sites. The student researchers were also trained to write scientific article and were involved with drafting of the manuscript. This project provided the student researchers an insight into multi-disciplinary research in biology and chemistry, inspired them about practical approaches of computational chemistry in solving a real-world problem like a global pandemic. This project also serves as an example to introduce scientific inquiry, research methodology, critical thinking, scientific writing, and communication for high school students.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anika Tajrian Khan
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer‐Aided Drug DesignThe Red‐Green Research Centre, BICCBDhakaBangladesh
- South Breeze SchoolDhakaBangladesh
| | - Golam Mahmud Chowdhury
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer‐Aided Drug DesignThe Red‐Green Research Centre, BICCBDhakaBangladesh
- Cambridge Assessment International ExaminationsDhakaBangladesh
| | | | - Md Maruf
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer‐Aided Drug DesignThe Red‐Green Research Centre, BICCBDhakaBangladesh
- Kattali Nurul Haque Chawdhury High SchoolChattogramBangladesh
| | - Md Riyad Hossen Raihan
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer‐Aided Drug DesignThe Red‐Green Research Centre, BICCBDhakaBangladesh
- Nasirabad Government High SchoolChattogramBangladesh
| | - Md Talha Chowdhury
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer‐Aided Drug DesignThe Red‐Green Research Centre, BICCBDhakaBangladesh
- Shaheed Police Smrity CollegeDhakaBangladesh
| | - Nafisa Nawal
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer‐Aided Drug DesignThe Red‐Green Research Centre, BICCBDhakaBangladesh
- Chittagong Govt. Women CollegeChattogramBangladesh
| | - Nishat Tasnim
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer‐Aided Drug DesignThe Red‐Green Research Centre, BICCBDhakaBangladesh
- Holy Cross CollegeDhakaBangladesh
| | - Pranto Saha
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer‐Aided Drug DesignThe Red‐Green Research Centre, BICCBDhakaBangladesh
- Amirjan CollegeDhakaBangladesh
| | - Prottoy Roy
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer‐Aided Drug DesignThe Red‐Green Research Centre, BICCBDhakaBangladesh
- S.F.X. Greenherald International SchoolDhakaBangladesh
| | - Raya Tabassum
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer‐Aided Drug DesignThe Red‐Green Research Centre, BICCBDhakaBangladesh
- Holy Cross CollegeDhakaBangladesh
| | - Souvick Patrick Rodrigues
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer‐Aided Drug DesignThe Red‐Green Research Centre, BICCBDhakaBangladesh
- Notre Dame CollegeDhakaBangladesh
| | - Walid Hasan
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer‐Aided Drug DesignThe Red‐Green Research Centre, BICCBDhakaBangladesh
- Notre Dame CollegeDhakaBangladesh
| | - Zarin Tasnim Samanta
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer‐Aided Drug DesignThe Red‐Green Research Centre, BICCBDhakaBangladesh
- Govt. Kalachandpur High School and CollegeDhakaBangladesh
| | - Suprio Kamal
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer‐Aided Drug DesignThe Red‐Green Research Centre, BICCBDhakaBangladesh
| | - Md Shahoriar Nazir
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer‐Aided Drug DesignThe Red‐Green Research Centre, BICCBDhakaBangladesh
| | - Md Ackas Ali
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Division of Computer‐Aided Drug DesignThe Red‐Green Research Centre, BICCBDhakaBangladesh
| | - Mohammad A. Halim
- Department of Chemistry and BiochemistryKennesaw State UniversityKennesawGeorgiaUSA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Molecular docking, DFT analysis, and dynamics simulation of natural bioactive compounds targeting ACE2 and TMPRSS2 dual binding sites of spike protein of SARS CoV-2. J Mol Liq 2021; 342:116942. [PMID: 34305216 PMCID: PMC8267125 DOI: 10.1016/j.molliq.2021.116942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 06/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The scientific community is continuously working to discover drug candidates against potential targets of SARS-CoV-2, but effective treatment has not been discovered yet. The virus enters the host cell through molecular interaction with its enzymatic receptors i.e., ACE2 and TMPRSS2, which, if, synergistically blocked can lead to the development of novel drug candidates. In this study, 1503 natural bioactive compounds were screened by HTVS, followed by SP and XP docking using Schrodinger Maestro software. Bio-0357 (protozide) and Bio-597 (chrysin) were selected for dynamics simulation based on synergistic binding affinity on S1 (docking score −9.642 and −8.78 kcal/mol) and S2 domains (-5.83 and −5.3 kcal/mol), and the RMSD, RMSF and Rg analyses showed stable interaction. The DFT analysis showed that the adsorption of protozide/chrysin, the band gap of protozide/chrysin-F/G reduced significantly. From SERS, results, it can be concluded that QDs nanocluster will act as a sensor for the detection of drugs. The docking study showed Bio-0357 and Bio-0597 bind to both S1 and S2 domains through stable molecular interactions, which can lead to the discovery of new drug candidates to prevent the entry of SARS-CoV-2. This in-silico study may be helpful to researchers for further in vitro experimental validation and development of new therapy for COVID-19.
Collapse
|
11
|
Djukic T, Mladenovic M, Stanic-Vucinic D, Radosavljevic J, Smiljanic K, Sabljic L, Devic M, Cujic D, Vasovic T, Simovic A, Radomirovic M, Cirkovic Velickovic T. Expression, purification and immunological characterization of recombinant nucleocapsid protein fragment from SARS-CoV-2. Virology 2021; 557:15-22. [PMID: 33582454 PMCID: PMC7871913 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2021.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Serological testing is important method for diagnosis of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. Nucleocapsid (N) protein is the most abundant virus derived protein and strong immunogen. We aimed to find its efficient, low-cost production. SARS-CoV-2 recombinant fragment of nucleocapsid protein (rfNP; 58-419 aa) was expressed in E. coli in soluble form, purified and characterized biochemically and immunologically. Purified rfNP has secondary structure of full-length recombinant N protein, with high percentage of disordered structure (34.2%) and of β-sheet (40.7%). rfNP was tested in immunoblot using sera of COVID-19 convalescent patients. ELISA was optimized with sera of RT-PCR confirmed positive symptomatic patients and healthy individuals. IgG detection sensitivity was 96% (47/50) and specificity 97% (67/68), while IgM detection was slightly lower (94% and 96.5%, respectively). Cost-effective approach for soluble recombinant N protein fragment production was developed, with reliable IgG and IgM antibodies detection of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Teodora Djukic
- University of Belgrade-Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Centre of Excellence for Molecular Food Sciences, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Maja Mladenovic
- University of Belgrade-Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Centre of Excellence for Molecular Food Sciences, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Dragana Stanic-Vucinic
- University of Belgrade-Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Centre of Excellence for Molecular Food Sciences, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Jelena Radosavljevic
- University of Belgrade-Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Centre of Excellence for Molecular Food Sciences, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Katarina Smiljanic
- University of Belgrade-Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Centre of Excellence for Molecular Food Sciences, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ljiljana Sabljic
- University of Belgrade, Institute for the Application of Nuclear Energy - INEP, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Marija Devic
- University of Belgrade, Institute for the Application of Nuclear Energy - INEP, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Danica Cujic
- University of Belgrade, Institute for the Application of Nuclear Energy - INEP, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Tamara Vasovic
- University of Belgrade-Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Centre of Excellence for Molecular Food Sciences, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ana Simovic
- University of Belgrade-Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Centre of Excellence for Molecular Food Sciences, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Mirjana Radomirovic
- University of Belgrade-Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Centre of Excellence for Molecular Food Sciences, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Tanja Cirkovic Velickovic
- University of Belgrade-Faculty of Chemistry, Department of Biochemistry, Centre of Excellence for Molecular Food Sciences, Belgrade, Serbia; Ghent University Global Campus, Incheon, South Korea; Ghent University, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent, Belgium; Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, Belgrade, Serbia.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Yan S, Wu G. Is lymphopenia different between SARS and COVID-19 patients? FASEB J 2021; 35:e21245. [PMID: 33495994 PMCID: PMC7995142 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202002512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Lymphopenia is commonly observed in SARS and COVID‐19 patients although the lymphocyte count is not always below 0.8 × 109/L in all the patients. It is suggested that lymphopenia serves as a useful predictor for prognosis in the patients. It is also hypothesized that lymphopenia is related to glucocorticoids and apoptosis. However, the ordering between lymphopenia and apoptosis appears different between SARS and COVID‐19 patients, ie, lymphopenia is prior to apoptosis in SARS patients whereas apoptosis is prior to lymphopenia in COVID‐19 patients. This paper attempts to figure out this contradiction through three players, lymphopenia, glucocorticoids, and apoptosis. Although the literature does not provide a solid explanation, the level of glucocorticoids could determine the ordering between lymphopenia and apoptosis because the administration of high doses of glucocorticoids could lead to lymphopenia whereas low doses of glucocorticoids could benefit patients. In the meantime, this paper raises several questions, which need to be answered in order to better understand the whole course of COVID‐19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shaomin Yan
- National Engineering Research Center for Non-Food Biorefinery, State Key Laboratory of Non-Food Biomass and Enzyme Technology, Guangxi Biomass Engineering Technology Research Center, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Biorefinery, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Guang Wu
- National Engineering Research Center for Non-Food Biorefinery, State Key Laboratory of Non-Food Biomass and Enzyme Technology, Guangxi Biomass Engineering Technology Research Center, Guangxi Key Laboratory of Biorefinery, Guangxi Academy of Sciences, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Synthesis and Identification of Novel Potential Molecules Against COVID-19 Main Protease Through Structure-Guided Virtual Screening Approach. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2021; 193:3602-3623. [PMID: 34324152 PMCID: PMC8319192 DOI: 10.1007/s12010-021-03615-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The novel coronavirus disease that arises in the end of 2019 (COVID-19) in Wuhan, China, has rapidly spread over the globe and was considered as a world pandemic. Currently, various antiviral therapies or vaccines are available, and many researches are ongoing for further treatments. Targeting the coronavirus' main protease (key enzyme: 3CLpro) is growing in importance in anti-SARS-CoV-2 drug discovery process. The present study aims at predicting the antiviral activity of two novel compounds using in silico approaches that might become potential leads against SARS-CoV-2. The 3D structures of the new compounds are elucidated by single-crystal X-ray techniques. The interactions between different units of 4 and 5 were emphasized by analyzing their corresponding Hirshfeld surfaces and ESP plots. NBO and FMO analyses were investigated as well. Molecular docking combined with molecular dynamics simulations (MDs) was performed to investigate the binding modes and molecular interactions of 4 and 5 with the amino acids of coronavirus main protease (6LU7) protein. The best docking scores were obtained for both ligands through the major binding interactions via hydrogen/hydrophobic bonds with the key amino acids in the active site: HIS41, CYS145, MET49, MET165, HIS172, and GLU166 amino acids. A MD simulation study was also performed for 100 ns to validate the stability behavior of the main protease 3CLpro-ligand complexes. The MD simulation study successfully confirmed the stability of the ligands in the binding site as potent anti-SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) inhibitors. Additionally, MMPBSA energy of both docked complexes was determined as a validation assay of docking and MD simulations to validate compound conformation and interaction stability with 3CLpro. The synthesized compounds might be helpful in the fight against COVID-19 prior to biological activity confirmation in vitro and in vivo.
Collapse
|
14
|
Liu Y, Liang C, Xin L, Ren X, Tian L, Ju X, Li H, Wang Y, Zhao Q, Liu H, Cao W, Xie X, Zhang D, Wang Y, Jian Y. The development of Coronavirus 3C-Like protease (3CL pro) inhibitors from 2010 to 2020. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 206:112711. [PMID: 32810751 PMCID: PMC7409838 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
This review fully describes the coronavirus 3CLpro peptidomimetic inhibitors and nonpeptidic small molecule inhibitors developed from 2010 to 2020. Specifically, the structural characteristics, binding modes and SARs of these 3CLpro inhibitors are expounded in detail by division into two categories: peptidomimetic inhibitors mainly utilize electrophilic warhead groups to covalently bind the 3CLpro Cys145 residue and thereby achieve irreversible inhibition effects, whereas nonpeptidic small molecule inhibitors mainly interact with residues in the S1', S1, S2 and S4 pockets via hydrogen bonds, hydrophobic bonds and van der Waals forces. Based on the emerging PROTAC technology and the existing 3CLpro inhibitors, 3CLpro PROTAC degraders are hypothesised to be next-generation anti-coronavirus drugs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuzhi Liu
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Science & Technology, Xi'an, 710021, PR China
| | - Chengyuan Liang
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Science & Technology, Xi'an, 710021, PR China.
| | - Liang Xin
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Science & Technology, Xi'an, 710021, PR China
| | - Xiaodong Ren
- Medical College, Guizhou University, Guiyang, 550025, PR China
| | - Lei Tian
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Science & Technology, Xi'an, 710021, PR China
| | - Xingke Ju
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Science & Technology, Xi'an, 710021, PR China
| | - Han Li
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Science & Technology, Xi'an, 710021, PR China
| | - Yongbo Wang
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Science & Technology, Xi'an, 710021, PR China
| | - Qianqian Zhao
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Shaanxi University of Science & Technology, Xi'an, 710021, PR China
| | - Hong Liu
- Zhuhai Jinan Selenium Source Nanotechnology Co., Ltd., Hengqin, Zhuhai, Guangdong, 519030, PR China.
| | - Wenqiang Cao
- Zhuhai Jinan Selenium Source Nanotechnology Co., Ltd., Hengqin, Zhuhai, Guangdong, 519030, PR China
| | - Xiaolin Xie
- Shaanxi Panlong Pharmaceutical Group Co., Ltd., Xi'an, 710025, PR China
| | - Dezhu Zhang
- Shaanxi Panlong Pharmaceutical Group Co., Ltd., Xi'an, 710025, PR China
| | - Yu Wang
- Shaanxi Panlong Pharmaceutical Group Co., Ltd., Xi'an, 710025, PR China
| | - Yanlin Jian
- Laboratory for Medicinal Chemistry (FFW), Ghent University, Ottergemsesteenweg 460, B9000, Gent, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Haveri A, Smura T, Kuivanen S, Österlund P, Hepojoki J, Ikonen N, Pitkäpaasi M, Blomqvist S, Rönkkö E, Kantele A, Strandin T, Kallio-Kokko H, Mannonen L, Lappalainen M, Broas M, Jiang M, Siira L, Salminen M, Puumalainen T, Sane J, Melin M, Vapalahti O, Savolainen-Kopra C. Serological and molecular findings during SARS-CoV-2 infection: the first case study in Finland, January to February 2020. Euro Surveill 2020; 25:2000266. [PMID: 32209163 PMCID: PMC7096774 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2020.25.11.2000266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 188] [Impact Index Per Article: 47.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The first case of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Finland was confirmed on 29 January 2020. No secondary cases were detected. We describe the clinical picture and laboratory findings 3-23 days since the first symptoms. The SARS-CoV-2/Finland/1/2020 virus strain was isolated, the genome showing a single nucleotide substitution to the reference strain from Wuhan. Neutralising antibody response appeared within 9 days along with specific IgM and IgG response, targeting particularly nucleocapsid and spike proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anu Haveri
- Department of Health Security, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Teemu Smura
- University of Helsinki, Medicum, Department of Virology, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Suvi Kuivanen
- University of Helsinki, Medicum, Department of Virology, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Pamela Österlund
- Department of Health Security, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jussi Hepojoki
- University of Helsinki, Medicum, Department of Virology, Helsinki, Finland
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Niina Ikonen
- Department of Health Security, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Marjaana Pitkäpaasi
- Department of Health Security, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Soile Blomqvist
- Department of Health Security, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Esa Rönkkö
- Department of Health Security, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anu Kantele
- Inflammation Center, Infectious Diseases, Helsinki University Hospital (HUSLAB) and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tomas Strandin
- University of Helsinki, Medicum, Department of Virology, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hannimari Kallio-Kokko
- Department of Virology and Immunology, Helsinki University Hospital (HUSLAB) and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Laura Mannonen
- Department of Virology and Immunology, Helsinki University Hospital (HUSLAB) and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Maija Lappalainen
- Department of Virology and Immunology, Helsinki University Hospital (HUSLAB) and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Markku Broas
- Infection-Hospital Hygiene Unit, Lapland Central Hospital, Rovaniemi, Finland
| | - Miao Jiang
- Department of Health Security, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Helsinki, Finland
- Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Lotta Siira
- Department of Health Security, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Mika Salminen
- Department of Health Security, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Taneli Puumalainen
- Department of Health Security, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jussi Sane
- Department of Health Security, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Merit Melin
- Department of Health Security, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Helsinki, Finland
| | - Olli Vapalahti
- University of Helsinki, Medicum, Department of Virology, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Virology and Immunology, Helsinki University Hospital (HUSLAB) and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Carita Savolainen-Kopra
- Department of Health Security, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Helsinki, Finland
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Sheikh A, Al-Taher A, Al-Nazawi M, Al-Mubarak AI, Kandeel M. Analysis of preferred codon usage in the coronavirus N genes and their implications for genome evolution and vaccine design. J Virol Methods 2020; 277:113806. [PMID: 31911390 PMCID: PMC7119019 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2019.113806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2018] [Revised: 11/24/2019] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The nucleotide variations among the N genes of 13 different coronaviruses (CoVs) were interpreted. Overall, 18 amino acids observed with varying preferred codons. The effective number of codon values ranged from 40.43 to 53.85, revealing a slight codon bias. A highly significant correlation between GC3s and ENc values was observed in porcine epidemic diarrhea CoV, followed by Middle East respiratory syndrome CoV.
The nucleocapsid (N) protein of a coronavirus plays a crucial role in virus assembly and in its RNA transcription. It is important to characterize a virus at the nucleotide level to discover the virus’s genomic sequence variations and similarities relative to other viruses that could have an impact on the functions of its genes and proteins. This entails a comprehensive and comparative analysis of the viral genomes of interest for preferred nucleotides, codon bias, nucleotide changes at the 3rd position (NT3s), synonymous codon usage and relative synonymous codon usage. In this study, the variations in the N proteins among 13 different coronaviruses (CoVs) were analysed at the nucleotide and amino acid levels in an attempt to reveal how these viruses adapt to their hosts relative to their preferred codon usage in the N genes. The results revealed that, overall, eighteen amino acids had different preferred codons and eight of these were over-biased. The N genes had a higher AT% over GC% and the values of their effective number of codons ranged from 40.43 to 53.85, indicating a slight codon bias. Neutrality plots and correlation analyses showed a very high level of GC3s/GC correlation in porcine epidemic diarrhea CoV (pedCoV), followed by Middle East respiratory syndrome-CoV (MERS CoV), porcine delta CoV (dCoV), bat CoV (bCoV) and feline CoV (fCoV) with r values 0.81, 0.68, -0.47, 0.98 and 0.58, respectively. These data implied a high rate of evolution of the CoV genomes and a strong influence of mutation on evolutionary selection in the CoV N genes. This type of genetic analysis would be useful for evaluating a virus’s host adaptation, evolution and is thus of value to vaccine design strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Sheikh
- The Camel Research Center, King Faisal University, Alhofuf, Alahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulla Al-Taher
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, King Faisal University, Alhofuf, Alahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Al-Nazawi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, King Faisal University, Alhofuf, Alahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah I Al-Mubarak
- Department of Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, King Faisal University, Alhofuf, Alahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahmoud Kandeel
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, King Faisal University, Alhofuf, Alahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia; Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh 33516, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Zamanzadeh Z, Ataei M, Nabavi SM, Ahangari G, Sadeghi M, Sanati MH. In Silico Perspectives on the Prediction of the PLP's Epitopes involved in Multiple Sclerosis. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BIOTECHNOLOGY 2017; 15:10-21. [PMID: 28959348 PMCID: PMC5582249 DOI: 10.15171/ijb.1356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2015] [Revised: 05/29/2016] [Accepted: 03/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS). The main cause of the MS is yet to be revealed, but the most probable theory is based on the molecular mimicry that concludes some infections in the activation of T cells against brain auto-antigens that initiate the disease cascade. OBJECTIVES The Purpose of this research is the prediction of the auto-antigen potency of the myelin proteolipid protein (PLP) in multiple sclerosis. MATERIALS AND METHODS As there wasn't any tertiary structure of PLP available in the Protein Data Bank (PDB) and in order to characterize the structural properties of the protein, we modeled this protein using prediction servers. Meta prediction method, as a new perspective in silico, was performed to fi nd PLPs epitopes. For this purpose, several T cell epitope prediction web servers were used to predict PLPs epitopes against Human Leukocyte Antigens (HLA). The overlap regions, as were predicted by most web servers were selected as immunogenic epitopes and were subjected to the BLASTP against microorganisms. RESULTS Three common regions, AA58-74, AA161-177, and AA238-254 were detected as immunodominant regions through meta-prediction. Investigating peptides with more than 50% similarity to that of candidate epitope AA58-74 in bacteria showed a similar peptide in bacteria (mainly consistent with that of clostridium and mycobacterium) and spike protein of Alphacoronavirus 1, Canine coronavirus, and Feline coronavirus. These results suggest that cross reaction of the immune system to PLP may have originated from a bacteria or viral infection, and therefore molecular mimicry might have an important role in the progression of MS. CONCLUSIONS Through reliable and accurate prediction of the consensus epitopes, it is not necessary to synthesize all PLP fragments and examine their immunogenicity experimentally (in vitro). In this study, the best encephalitogenic antigens were predicted based on bioinformatics tools that may provide reliable results for researches in a shorter time and at a lower cost.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Zamanzadeh
- Department of medical biotechnology. Institute of Medical Genetic, National Institute of Genetics Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, 14965/161 Iran
| | - Mitra Ataei
- Department of medical biotechnology. Institute of Medical Genetic, National Institute of Genetics Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, 14965/161 Iran
| | - Seyed Massood Nabavi
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Public Health, Shahed University, Tehran, 18155/159, Iran
| | - Ghasem Ahangari
- Department of medical biotechnology. Institute of Medical Genetic, National Institute of Genetics Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, 14965/161 Iran
| | - Mehdi Sadeghi
- Department of medical biotechnology. Institute of Medical Genetic, National Institute of Genetics Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, 14965/161 Iran
| | - Mohammad Hosein Sanati
- Department of medical biotechnology. Institute of Medical Genetic, National Institute of Genetics Engineering and Biotechnology (NIGEB), Tehran, 14965/161 Iran
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Basso LGM, Vicente EF, Crusca E, Cilli EM, Costa-Filho AJ. SARS-CoV fusion peptides induce membrane surface ordering and curvature. Sci Rep 2016; 6:37131. [PMID: 27892522 PMCID: PMC5125003 DOI: 10.1038/srep37131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2016] [Accepted: 10/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Viral membrane fusion is an orchestrated process triggered by membrane-anchored viral fusion glycoproteins. The S2 subunit of the spike glycoprotein from severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) coronavirus (CoV) contains internal domains called fusion peptides (FP) that play essential roles in virus entry. Although membrane fusion has been broadly studied, there are still major gaps in the molecular details of lipid rearrangements in the bilayer during fusion peptide-membrane interactions. Here we employed differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and electron spin resonance (ESR) to gather information on the membrane fusion mechanism promoted by two putative SARS FPs. DSC data showed the peptides strongly perturb the structural integrity of anionic vesicles and support the hypothesis that the peptides generate opposing curvature stresses on phosphatidylethanolamine membranes. ESR showed that both FPs increase lipid packing and head group ordering as well as reduce the intramembrane water content for anionic membranes. Therefore, bending moment in the bilayer could be generated, promoting negative curvature. The significance of the ordering effect, membrane dehydration, changes in the curvature properties and the possible role of negatively charged phospholipids in helping to overcome the high kinetic barrier involved in the different stages of the SARS-CoV-mediated membrane fusion are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luis G M Basso
- Grupo de Biofísica Molecular Sérgio Mascarenhas, Instituto de Física de São Carlos, Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida Trabalhador São-carlense, 400, Centro, São Carlos, SP, Brazil.,Laboratório de Biofísica Molecular, Departamento de Física, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo. Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, 14040-901, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| | - Eduardo F Vicente
- Faculdade de Ciências e Engenharia, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista, Campus de Tupã. Rua Domingos da Costa Lopes, 780, 17602-496, Tupã, SP, Brazil
| | - Edson Crusca
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Tecnologia Química, Instituto de Química, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista. Rua Prof. Franscisco Degni, 55, 14800-900, Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | - Eduardo M Cilli
- Departamento de Bioquímica e Tecnologia Química, Instituto de Química, UNESP - Univ Estadual Paulista. Rua Prof. Franscisco Degni, 55, 14800-900, Araraquara, SP, Brazil
| | - Antonio J Costa-Filho
- Laboratório de Biofísica Molecular, Departamento de Física, Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo. Av. Bandeirantes, 3900, 14040-901, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Developments in the Search for Small-Molecule Inhibitors for Treatment of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus. Antiviral Res 2014. [DOI: 10.1128/9781555815493.ch12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
20
|
Simmons G, Bertram S, Glowacka I, Steffen I, Chaipan C, Agudelo J, Lu K, Rennekamp AJ, Hofmann H, Bates P, Pöhlmann S. Different host cell proteases activate the SARS-coronavirus spike-protein for cell-cell and virus-cell fusion. Virology 2011; 413:265-74. [PMID: 21435673 PMCID: PMC3086175 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2011.02.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2010] [Revised: 12/21/2010] [Accepted: 02/24/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) poses a considerable threat to human health. Activation of the viral spike (S)-protein by host cell proteases is essential for viral infectivity. However, the cleavage sites in SARS-S and the protease(s) activating SARS-S are incompletely defined. We found that R667 was dispensable for SARS-S-driven virus–cell fusion and for SARS-S-activation by trypsin and cathepsin L in a virus–virus fusion assay. Mutation T760R, which optimizes the minimal furin consensus motif 758-RXXR-762, and furin overexpression augmented SARS-S activity, but did not result in detectable SARS-S cleavage. Finally, SARS-S-driven cell–cell fusion was independent of cathepsin L, a protease essential for virus–cell fusion. Instead, a so far unknown leupeptin-sensitive host cell protease activated cellular SARS-S for fusion with target cells expressing high levels of ACE2. Thus, different host cell proteases activate SARS-S for virus–cell and cell–cell fusion and SARS-S cleavage at R667 and 758-RXXR-762 can be dispensable for SARS-S activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Graham Simmons
- Blood Systems Research Institute and Department of Laboratory Medicine, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Evidence that TMPRSS2 activates the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus spike protein for membrane fusion and reduces viral control by the humoral immune response. J Virol 2011; 85:4122-34. [PMID: 21325420 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.02232-10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 798] [Impact Index Per Article: 61.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The spike (S) protein of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) can be proteolytically activated by cathepsins B and L upon viral uptake into target cell endosomes. In contrast, it is largely unknown whether host cell proteases located in the secretory pathway of infected cells and/or on the surface of target cells can cleave SARS S. We along with others could previously show that the type II transmembrane protease TMPRSS2 activates the influenza virus hemagglutinin and the human metapneumovirus F protein by cleavage. Here, we assessed whether SARS S is proteolytically processed by TMPRSS2. Western blot analysis revealed that SARS S was cleaved into several fragments upon coexpression of TMPRSS2 (cis-cleavage) and upon contact between SARS S-expressing cells and TMPRSS2-positive cells (trans-cleavage). cis-cleavage resulted in release of SARS S fragments into the cellular supernatant and in inhibition of antibody-mediated neutralization, most likely because SARS S fragments function as antibody decoys. trans-cleavage activated SARS S on effector cells for fusion with target cells and allowed efficient SARS S-driven viral entry into targets treated with a lysosomotropic agent or a cathepsin inhibitor. Finally, ACE2, the cellular receptor for SARS-CoV, and TMPRSS2 were found to be coexpressed by type II pneumocytes, which represent important viral target cells, suggesting that SARS S is cleaved by TMPRSS2 in the lung of SARS-CoV-infected individuals. In summary, we show that TMPRSS2 might promote viral spread and pathogenesis by diminishing viral recognition by neutralizing antibodies and by activating SARS S for cell-cell and virus-cell fusion.
Collapse
|
22
|
Cellular Entry of the SARS Coronavirus: Implications for Transmission, Pathogenicity and Antiviral Strategies. MOLECULAR BIOLOGY OF THE SARS-CORONAVIRUS 2010. [PMCID: PMC7176234 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-642-03683-5_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
|
23
|
Guillén J, De Almeida RFM, Prieto M, Villalaín J. Interaction of a peptide corresponding to the loop domain of the S2 SARS-CoV virus protein with model membranes. Mol Membr Biol 2009; 26:236-48. [PMID: 19412834 PMCID: PMC7113911 DOI: 10.1080/09687680902926203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) envelope spike (S) glycoprotein is responsible for the fusion between the membranes of the virus and the target cell. In the case of the S2 domain of protein S, it has been found a highly hydrophobic and interfacial domain flanked by the heptad repeat 1 and 2 regions; significantly, different peptides pertaining to this domain have shown a significant leakage effect and an important plaque formation inhibition, which, similarly to HIV-1 gp41, support the role of this region in the fusion process. Therefore, we have carried out a study of the binding and interaction with model membranes of a peptide corresponding to segment 1073-1095 of the SARS-CoV S glycoprotein, peptide SARS(L) in the presence of different membrane model systems, as well as the structural changes taking place in both the lipid and the peptide induced by the binding of the peptide to the membrane. Our results show that SARS(L) strongly partitions into phospholipid membranes and organizes differently in lipid environments, displaying membrane activity modulated by the lipid composition of the membrane. These data would support its role in SARS-CoV mediated membrane fusion and suggest that the region where this peptide resides could be involved in the merging of the viral and target cell membranes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Guillén
- Instituto de Biologia Molecular y Celular, Universidad Miguel Hernandez, Elche-Alicante, Spain
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Du L, He Y, Zhou Y, Liu S, Zheng BJ, Jiang S. The spike protein of SARS-CoV--a target for vaccine and therapeutic development. Nat Rev Microbiol 2009; 7:226-36. [PMID: 19198616 PMCID: PMC2750777 DOI: 10.1038/nrmicro2090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1159] [Impact Index Per Article: 77.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
This Review provides an overview on the spike (S) protein of severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus (SARS-CoV) as a target for the development of vaccines and therapeutics for the prevention and treatment of SARS. SARS is a newly emerging infectious disease, caused by SARS-CoV, a novel coronavirus that caused a global outbreak of SARS. SARS-CoV S protein mediates binding of the virus with its receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 and promotes the fusion between the viral and host cell membranes and virus entry into the host cell. SARS-CoV S protein induces humoral and cellular immune responses against SARS-CoV. SARS S protein is the target of new SARS vaccines. These vaccines are based on SARS-CoV full-length S protein and its receptor-binding domain, including DNA-, viral vector- and subunit-based vaccines Peptides, antibodies, organic compounds and short interfering RNAs are additional anti-SARS-CoV therapeutics that target the S protein. The work on SARS-CoV S protein-based vaccines and drugs will be useful as a model for the development of prophylactic strategies and therapies against other viruses with class I fusion proteins that can cause emerging infectious diseases.
The outbreaks of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) between 2002 and 2004 killed hundreds of people. Vaccines against the SARS coronavirus (SARS-CoV) could protect the population during future outbreaks. In this Review, Shibo Jiang and colleagues describe such vaccines, as well as other therapeutics, based on the SARS-CoV spike protein. Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a newly emerging infectious disease caused by a novel coronavirus, SARS-coronavirus (SARS-CoV). The SARS-CoV spike (S) protein is composed of two subunits; the S1 subunit contains a receptor-binding domain that engages with the host cell receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 and the S2 subunit mediates fusion between the viral and host cell membranes. The S protein plays key parts in the induction of neutralizing-antibody and T-cell responses, as well as protective immunity, during infection with SARS-CoV. In this Review, we highlight recent advances in the development of vaccines and therapeutics based on the S protein.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lanying Du
- Lindsley F. Kimball Research Institute, New York Blood Center, 310 East 67th Street, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Bian C, Zhang X, Cai X, Zhang L, Chen Z, Zha Y, Xu Y, Xu K, Lu W, Yan L, Yuan J, Feng J, Hao P, Wang Q, Zhao G, Liu G, Zhu X, Shen H, Zheng B, Shen B, Sun B. Conserved amino acids W423 and N424 in receptor-binding domain of SARS-CoV are potential targets for therapeutic monoclonal antibody. Virology 2008; 383:39-46. [PMID: 18986662 PMCID: PMC7103409 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2008.09.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2008] [Revised: 08/04/2008] [Accepted: 09/29/2008] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The receptor-binding domain (RBD) on spike protein of severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV) is the main region interacting with the viral receptor-ACE2 and is a useful target for induction of neutralizing antibodies against SARS-CoV infection. Here we generated two monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), targeting RBD, with marked virus neutralizing activity. The mAbs recognize a new conformational epitope which consists of several discontinuous peptides (aa. 343–367, 373–390 and 411–428) and is spatially located neighboring the receptor-binding motif (RPM) region of the RBD. Importantly, W423 and N424 residues are essential for mAb recognition and are highly conserved among 107 different strains of SARS, indicating that the residues are the most critical in the epitope which is a novel potential target for therapeutic mAbs. A human–mouse chimeric antibody, based upon the original murine mAb, was also constructed and shown to possess good neutralizing activity and high affinity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chao Bian
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yueyang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
El-Manzalawy Y, Dobbs D, Honavar V. Predicting linear B-cell epitopes using string kernels. J Mol Recognit 2008; 21:243-55. [PMID: 18496882 PMCID: PMC2683948 DOI: 10.1002/jmr.893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 507] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The identification and characterization of B‐cell epitopes play an important role in vaccine design, immunodiagnostic tests, and antibody production. Therefore, computational tools for reliably predicting linear B‐cell epitopes are highly desirable. We evaluated Support Vector Machine (SVM) classifiers trained utilizing five different kernel methods using fivefold cross‐validation on a homology‐reduced data set of 701 linear B‐cell epitopes, extracted from Bcipep database, and 701 non‐epitopes, randomly extracted from SwissProt sequences. Based on the results of our computational experiments, we propose BCPred, a novel method for predicting linear B‐cell epitopes using the subsequence kernel. We show that the predictive performance of BCPred (AUC = 0.758) outperforms 11 SVM‐based classifiers developed and evaluated in our experiments as well as our implementation of AAP (AUC = 0.7), a recently proposed method for predicting linear B‐cell epitopes using amino acid pair antigenicity. Furthermore, we compared BCPred with AAP and ABCPred, a method that uses recurrent neural networks, using two data sets of unique B‐cell epitopes that had been previously used to evaluate ABCPred. Analysis of the data sets used and the results of this comparison show that conclusions about the relative performance of different B‐cell epitope prediction methods drawn on the basis of experiments using data sets of unique B‐cell epitopes are likely to yield overly optimistic estimates of performance of evaluated methods. This argues for the use of carefully homology‐reduced data sets in comparing B‐cell epitope prediction methods to avoid misleading conclusions about how different methods compare to each other. Our homology‐reduced data set and implementations of BCPred as well as the APP method are publicly available through our web‐based server, BCPREDS, at: http://ailab.cs.iastate.edu/bcpreds/. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yasser El-Manzalawy
- Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, Iowa State University, Ames, IA 50010, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Guillén J, Pérez-Berná AJ, Moreno MR, Villalaín J. A second SARS-CoV S2 glycoprotein internal membrane-active peptide. Biophysical characterization and membrane interaction. Biochemistry 2008; 47:8214-24. [PMID: 18616295 DOI: 10.1021/bi800814q] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) envelope spike (S) glycoprotein, a class I viral fusion protein, is responsible for the fusion between the membranes of the virus and the target cell. The S2 domain of protein S has been suggested to have two fusion peptides, one located at its N-terminus, downstream of the furin cleavage, and another, more internal, located immediately upstream of the HR1. Therefore, we have carried out a study of the binding and interaction with model membranes of a peptide corresponding to segment 873-888 of the SARS-CoV S glycoprotein, peptide SARS IFP, as well as the structural changes taking place in both the phospholipid and the peptide induced by the binding of the peptide to the membrane. We demonstrate that SARS IFP peptide binds to and interacts with phospholipid model membranes and shows a higher affinity for negatively charged phospholipids than for zwitterionic ones. SARS IFP peptide specifically decreases the mobility of the phospholipid acyl chains of negatively charged phospholipids and adopts different conformations in the membrane depending upon their composition. These data support its role in SARS-mediated membrane fusion and suggest that the regions where this peptide resides might assist the fusion peptide and/or the pretransmembrane segment of the SARS-CoV spike glycoprotein in the fusion process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Guillén
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular, Campus de Elche, Universidad Miguel Hernández, E-03202 Elche-Alicante, Spain
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Haga S, Yamamoto N, Nakai-Murakami C, Osawa Y, Tokunaga K, Sata T, Yamamoto N, Sasazuki T, Ishizaka Y. Modulation of TNF-alpha-converting enzyme by the spike protein of SARS-CoV and ACE2 induces TNF-alpha production and facilitates viral entry. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2008; 105:7809-14. [PMID: 18490652 PMCID: PMC2409424 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0711241105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 438] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2007] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) is a high-risk infectious pathogen. In the proposed model of respiratory failure, SARS-CoV down-regulates its receptor, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), but the mechanism involved is unknown. We found that the spike protein of SARS-CoV (SARS-S) induced TNF-alpha-converting enzyme (TACE)-dependent shedding of the ACE2 ectodomain. The modulation of TACE activity by SARS-S depended on the cytoplasmic domain of ACE2, because deletion mutants of ACE2 lacking the carboxyl-terminal region did not induce ACE2 shedding or TNF-alpha production. In contrast, the spike protein of HNL63-CoV (NL63-S), a CoV that uses ACE2 as a receptor and mainly induces the common cold, caused neither of these cellular responses. Intriguingly, viral infection, judged by real-time RT-PCR analysis of SARS-CoV mRNA expression, was significantly attenuated by deletion of the cytoplasmic tail of ACE2 or knock-down of TACE expression by siRNA. These data suggest that cellular signals triggered by the interaction of SARS-CoV with ACE2 are positively involved in viral entry but lead to tissue damage. These findings may lead to the development of anti-SARS-CoV agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shiori Haga
- *Department of Intractable Diseases
- International Medical Center of Japan, 162-8655 Tokyo, Japan
| | - Norio Yamamoto
- Department of Molecular Virology, Graduate School, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, 101-0062 Tokyo, Japan; and
| | - Chikako Nakai-Murakami
- *Department of Intractable Diseases
- International Medical Center of Japan, 162-8655 Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Osawa
- *Department of Intractable Diseases
- International Medical Center of Japan, 162-8655 Tokyo, Japan
| | | | | | - Naoki Yamamoto
- AIDS Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 162-8640 Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Yukihito Ishizaka
- *Department of Intractable Diseases
- International Medical Center of Japan, 162-8655 Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Sun D, Feng L, Shi H, Chen J, Cui X, Chen H, Liu S, Tong Y, Wang Y, Tong G. Identification of two novel B cell epitopes on porcine epidemic diarrhea virus spike protein. Vet Microbiol 2008; 131:73-81. [PMID: 18400422 PMCID: PMC7117171 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2008.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 151] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2007] [Revised: 02/18/2008] [Accepted: 02/28/2008] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
S1D (residues 636-789) is a neutralizing epitope region on the spike protein (S) of porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV). To accurately identify epitopes on S1D, the S1-phage library containing the gene encoding the S1D region of PEDV S protein was micropanned by six specific monoclonal antibodies (McAbs) against the S1D region. These micropanned epitope regions (MER) were focused on 696-779 amino acids of the S protein. To further map epitopes of the MER, seven overlapping mini-fragments covering MER nucleotides were separately synthesized and expressed in Escherichia coli BL21 with a GST tag. These mini-GST fusion proteins were scanned by ELISA and Western blotting with the six McAbs, and the result showed that S1D5 (residues 744-759) and S1D6 (residues 756-771) are two linear epitopes of the PEDV S protein. The antisera of the epitopes S1D5 and S1D6 could react with the native S protein of PEDV. Furthermore, Pepscan of the two linear epitopes demonstrated that SS2 ((748)YSNIGVCK(755)) and SS6 ((764)LQDGQVKI(771)) are two core epitopes on S1D5 and S1D6, respectively, located on the S protein of PEDV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dongbo Sun
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin 150001, People's Republic of China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Du L, Kao RY, Zhou Y, He Y, Zhao G, Wong C, Jiang S, Yuen KY, Jin DY, Zheng BJ. Cleavage of spike protein of SARS coronavirus by protease factor Xa is associated with viral infectivity. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2007; 359:174-9. [PMID: 17533109 PMCID: PMC2323977 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2007.05.092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2007] [Accepted: 05/16/2007] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The spike (S) protein of SARS coronavirus (SARS-CoV) has been known to recognize and bind to host receptors, whose conformational changes then facilitate fusion between the viral envelope and host cell membrane, leading to viral entry into target cells. However, other functions of SARS-CoV S protein such as proteolytic cleavage and its implications to viral infection are incompletely understood. In this study, we demonstrated that the infection of SARS-CoV and a pseudovirus bearing the S protein of SARS-CoV was inhibited by a protease inhibitor Ben-HCl. Also, the protease Factor Xa, a target of Ben-HCl abundantly expressed in infected cells, was able to cleave the recombinant and pseudoviral S protein into S1 and S2 subunits, and the cleavage was inhibited by Ben-HCl. Furthermore, this cleavage correlated with the infectivity of the pseudovirus. Taken together, our study suggests a plausible mechanism by which SARS-CoV cleaves its S protein to facilitate viral infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lanying Du
- Department of Microbiology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Petit CM, Chouljenko VN, Iyer A, Colgrove R, Farzan M, Knipe DM, Kousoulas KG. Palmitoylation of the cysteine-rich endodomain of the SARS-coronavirus spike glycoprotein is important for spike-mediated cell fusion. Virology 2006; 360:264-74. [PMID: 17134730 PMCID: PMC7103323 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2006.10.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2006] [Revised: 08/14/2006] [Accepted: 10/18/2006] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The SARS–coronavirus (SARS–CoV) is the etiological agent of the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). The SARS–CoV spike (S) glycoprotein mediates membrane fusion events during virus entry and virus-induced cell-to-cell fusion. The cytoplasmic portion of the S glycoprotein contains four cysteine-rich amino acid clusters. Individual cysteine clusters were altered via cysteine-to-alanine amino acid replacement and the modified S glycoproteins were tested for their transport to cell-surfaces and ability to cause cell fusion in transient transfection assays. Mutagenesis of the cysteine cluster I, located immediately proximal to the predicted transmembrane, domain did not appreciably reduce cell-surface expression, although S-mediated cell fusion was reduced by more than 50% in comparison to the wild-type S. Similarly, mutagenesis of the cysteine cluster II located adjacent to cluster I reduced S-mediated cell fusion by more than 60% compared to the wild-type S, while cell-surface expression was reduced by less than 20%. Mutagenesis of cysteine clusters III and IV did not appreciably affect S cell-surface expression or S-mediated cell fusion. The wild-type S was palmitoylated as evidenced by the efficient incorporation of 3H-palmitic acid in wild-type S molecules. S glycoprotein palmitoylation was significantly reduced for mutant glycoproteins having cluster I and II cysteine changes, but was largely unaffected for cysteine cluster III and IV mutants. These results show that the S cytoplasmic domain is palmitoylated and that palmitoylation of the membrane proximal cysteine clusters I and II may be important for S-mediated cell fusion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chad M Petit
- Division of Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine (BIOMMED), USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Jackwood MW. The relationship of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus with avian and other coronaviruses. Avian Dis 2006; 50:315-20. [PMID: 17039827 DOI: 10.1637/7612-042006r.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
In February 2003, a severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) emerged in humans in Guangdong Province, China, and caused an epidemic that had severe impact on public health, travel, and economic trade. Coronaviruses are worldwide in distribution, highly infectious, and extremely difficult to control because they have extensive genetic diversity, a short generation time, and a high mutation rate. They can cause respiratory, enteric, and in some cases hepatic and neurological diseases in a wide variety of animals and humans. An enormous, previously unrecognized reservoir of coronaviruses exists among animals. Because coronaviruses have been shown, both experimentally and in nature, to undergo genetic mutations and recombination at a rate similar to that of influenza viruses, it is not surprising that zoonosis and host switching that leads to epidemic diseases have occurred among coronaviruses. Analysis of coronavirus genomic sequence data indicates that SARS-CoV emerged from an animal reservoir. Scientists examining coronavirus isolates from a variety of animals in and around Guangdong Province reported that SARS-CoV has similarities with many different coronaviruses including avian coronaviruses and SARS-CoV-like viruses from a variety of mammals found in live-animal markets. Although a SARS-like coronavirus isolated from a bat is thought to be the progenitor of SARS-CoV, a lack of genomic sequences for the animal coronaviruses has prevented elucidation of the true origin of SARS-CoV. Sequence analysis of SARS-CoV shows that the 5' polymerase gene has a mammalian ancestry; whereas the 3' end structural genes (excluding the spike glycoprotein) have an avian origin. Spike glycoprotein, the host cell attachment viral surface protein, was shown to be a mosaic of feline coronavirus and avian coronavirus sequences resulting from a recombination event. Based on phylogenetic analysis designed to elucidate evolutionary links among viruses, SARS-CoV is believed to have branched from the modern Group 2 coronaviruses, suggesting that it evolved relatively rapidly. This is significant because SARS-CoV is likely still circulating in an animal reservoir (or reservoirs) and has the potential to quickly emerge and cause a new epidemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark W Jackwood
- Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Sainz B, Mossel EC, Gallaher WR, Wimley WC, Peters CJ, Wilson RB, Garry RF. Inhibition of severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV) infectivity by peptides analogous to the viral spike protein. Virus Res 2006; 120:146-55. [PMID: 16616792 PMCID: PMC2582734 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2006.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2005] [Revised: 02/09/2006] [Accepted: 03/01/2006] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV) is the cause of an atypical pneumonia that affected Asia, North America and Europe in 2002-2003. The viral spike (S) glycoprotein is responsible for mediating receptor binding and membrane fusion. Recent studies have proposed that the carboxyl terminal portion (S2 subunit) of the S protein is a class I viral fusion protein. The Wimley and White interfacial hydrophobicity scale was used to identify regions within the CoV S2 subunit that may preferentially associate with lipid membranes with the premise that peptides analogous to these regions may function as inhibitors of viral infectivity. Five regions of high interfacial hydrophobicity spanning the length of the S2 subunit of SARS-CoV and murine hepatitis virus (MHV) were identified. Peptides analogous to regions of the N-terminus or the pre-transmembrane domain of the S2 subunit inhibited SARS-CoV plaque formation by 40-70% at concentrations of 15-30 microM. Interestingly, peptides analogous to the SARS-CoV or MHV loop region inhibited viral plaque formation by >80% at similar concentrations. The observed effects were dose-dependent (IC50 values of 2-4 microM) and not a result of peptide-mediated cell cytotoxicity. The antiviral activity of the CoV peptides tested provides an attractive basis for the development of new fusion peptide inhibitors corresponding to regions outside the fusion protein heptad repeat regions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Sainz
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
34
|
Shin GC, Chung YS, Kim IS, Cho HW, Kang C. Preparation and characterization of a novel monoclonal antibody specific to severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus nucleocapsid protein. Virus Res 2006; 122:109-18. [PMID: 16942813 PMCID: PMC7114302 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2006.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2006] [Revised: 07/03/2006] [Accepted: 07/10/2006] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus nucleocapsid (SARS-CoV N) protein has been found to be important to the processes related to viral pathogenesis, such as virus replication, interference of the cell process and modulation of host immune response; detection of the antigen has been used for the early diagnosis of infection. We have used recombinant N protein expressed in insect cells to generate 17 mAbs directed against this protein. We selected five mAbs that could be used in various diagnostic assays, and all of these mAbs recognized linear epitopes. Three IgG2b mAbs were recognized within the N-terminus of N protein, whereas the epitope of two IgG1 mAbs localized within the C-terminus. These mAbs were found to have significant reactivity with both non-phosphorylated and phosphorylated N proteins, which resulted in high reactivity with native N protein in virus-infected cells; however, they did not show cross-reactivity with human coronavirus. Therefore, these results suggested that these mAbs would be useful in the development of various diagnostic kits and in future studies of SARS-CoV pathology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Chun Kang
- Corresponding author. Tel.: +82 2 380 1501; fax: +82 2 389 2014.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Yeung KS, Yamanaka GA, Meanwell NA. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus entry into host cells: Opportunities for therapeutic intervention. Med Res Rev 2006; 26:414-33. [PMID: 16521129 PMCID: PMC7168515 DOI: 10.1002/med.20055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
A novel human coronavirus (CoV) has been identified as the etiological agent that caused the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) outbreak in 2003. The spike (S) protein of this virus is a type I surface glycoprotein that mediates binding of the virus to the host receptor and the subsequent fusion between the viral and host membranes. Because of its critical role in viral entry, the S protein is an important target for the development of anti-SARS CoV therapeutics and prophylactics. This article reviews the structure and function of the SARS CoV S protein in the context of its role in virus entry. Topics that are discussed include: the interaction between the S1 domain of the SARS spike protein and the cellular receptor, angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), and the structural features of the ectodomain of ACE2; the antigenic determinants presented by the S protein and the nature of neutralizing monoclonal antibodies that are elicited in vivo; the structure of the 4,3-hydrophobic heptad repeats HR1 and HR2 of the S2 domain and their interaction to form a six-helical bundle during the final stages of fusion. Opportunities for the design and development of anti-SARS agents based on the inhibition of receptor binding, the therapeutic uses of S-directed monoclonal antibodies and inhibitors of HR1-HR2 complex formation are presented.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kap-Sun Yeung
- Department of Chemistry, The Bristol-Myers Squibb Pharmaceutical Research Institute, 5 Research Parkway, P.O. Box 5100, Wallingford, Connecticut 06492, USA.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Maache M, Komurian-Pradel F, Rajoharison A, Perret M, Berland JL, Pouzol S, Bagnaud A, Duverger B, Xu J, Osuna A, Paranhos-Baccalà G. False-positive results in a recombinant severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV) nucleocapsid-based western blot assay were rectified by the use of two subunits (S1 and S2) of spike for detection of antibody to SARS-CoV. CLINICAL AND VACCINE IMMUNOLOGY : CVI 2006; 13:409-14. [PMID: 16522785 PMCID: PMC1391961 DOI: 10.1128/cvi.13.3.409-414.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
To evaluate the reactivity of the recombinant proteins expressed in Escherichia coli strain BL21(DE3), a Western blot assay was performed by using a panel of 78 serum samples obtained, respectively, from convalescent-phase patients infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV) (30 samples) and from healthy donors (48 samples). As antigen for detection of SARS-CoV, the nucleocapsid protein (N) showed high sensitivity and strong reactivity with all samples from SARS-CoV patients and cross-reacted with all serum samples from healthy subjects, with either those obtained from China (10 samples) or those obtained from France (38 serum samples), giving then a significant rate of false positives. Specifically, our data indicated that the two subunits, S1 (residues 14 to 760) and S2 (residues 761 to 1190), resulted from the divided spike reacted with all samples from SARS-CoV patients and without any cross-reactivity with any of the healthy serum samples. Consequently, these data revealed the nonspecific nature of N protein in serodiagnosis of SARS-CoV compared with the S1 and S2, where the specificity is of 100%. Moreover, the reported results indicated that the use of one single protein as a detection antigen of SARS-CoV infection may lead to false-positive diagnosis. These may be rectified by using more than one protein for the serodiagnosis of SARS-CoV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mimoun Maache
- Emerging Pathogens Department of bioMérieux, CERVI, 21 Avenue Tony Garnier, 69365 cedex 07, Lyon, France.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
Ho TY, Wu SL, Chen JC, Wei YC, Cheng SE, Chang YH, Liu HJ, Hsiang CY. Design and biological activities of novel inhibitory peptides for SARS-CoV spike protein and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 interaction. Antiviral Res 2005; 69:70-6. [PMID: 16337697 PMCID: PMC7114127 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2005.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2005] [Revised: 10/24/2005] [Accepted: 10/24/2005] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is an emerging infectious disease caused by a novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV). The binding of SARS-CoV spike (S) protein to cellular angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is the first step in SARS-CoV infection. Therefore, we assayed the inhibitory effects of small peptides derived from S protein on the binding of S protein to ACE2 and on the S-protein-pseudotyped retrovirus infectivity. SP-4 (residues 192–203), SP-8 (residues 483–494), and SP-10 (residues 668–679) significantly blocked the interaction between S protein and ACE2 by biotinylated enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, with IC50 values of 4.30 ± 2.18, 6.99 ± 0.71, and 1.88 ± 0.52 nmol, respectively. Peptide scanning suggested the region spanning residues 660–683 might act as a receptor-binding domain. SP-10 blocked both binding of the S protein and infectivity of S protein-pseudotyped retrovirus to Vero E6 cells. In conclusion, this is the first report of small peptides designed to disrupt the binding of SARS-CoV S protein to ACE2. Our findings suggest that SP-10 may be developed as an anti-SARS-CoV agent for the treatment of SARS-CoV infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tin-Yun Ho
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Graduate Institute of Chinese Medical Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Shih-Lu Wu
- Department of Biochemistry, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Jaw-Chyun Chen
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Graduate Institute of Chinese Medical Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Chiao Wei
- Department of Microbiology, China Medical University, 91 Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung 404, Taiwan
| | - Shin-Ei Cheng
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Graduate Institute of Chinese Medical Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Hsien Chang
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Graduate Institute of Chinese Medical Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Hsu-Jan Liu
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Graduate Institute of Chinese Medical Science, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Chien-Yun Hsiang
- Department of Microbiology, China Medical University, 91 Hsueh-Shih Road, Taichung 404, Taiwan
- Corresponding author. Tel.: +886 4 2205 3366x8503; fax: +886 4 2205 3764.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Chow KY, Yeung YS, Hon CC, Zeng F, Law KM, Leung FC. Adenovirus-mediated expression of the C-terminal domain of SARS-CoV spike protein is sufficient to induce apoptosis in Vero E6 cells. FEBS Lett 2005; 579:6699-704. [PMID: 16310778 PMCID: PMC7094440 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2005.10.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2005] [Revised: 10/18/2005] [Accepted: 10/25/2005] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The pro-apoptotic properties of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) structural proteins were studied in vitro. By monitoring apoptosis indicators including chromatin condensation, cellular DNA fragmentation and cell membrane asymmetry, we demonstrated that the adenovirus-mediated over-expression of SARS-CoV spike (S) protein and its C-terminal domain (S2) induce apoptosis in Vero E6 cells in a time- and dosage-dependent manner, whereas the expression of its N-terminal domain (S1) and other structural proteins, including envelope (E), membrane (M) and nucleocapsid (N) protein do not. These findings suggest a possible role of S and S2 protein in SARS-CoV induced apoptosis and the molecular pathogenesis of SARS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ken Y.C. Chow
- Department of Zoology, Kadoorie Biological Science Building, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yin Shan Yeung
- Department of Zoology, Kadoorie Biological Science Building, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chung Chau Hon
- Department of Zoology, Kadoorie Biological Science Building, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Fanya Zeng
- Department of Zoology, Kadoorie Biological Science Building, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Ka Man Law
- Department of Zoology, Kadoorie Biological Science Building, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Frederick C.C. Leung
- Department of Zoology, Kadoorie Biological Science Building, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong SAR, China
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Shang B, Wang XY, Yuan JW, Vabret A, Wu XD, Yang RF, Tian L, Ji YY, Deubel V, Sun B. Characterization and application of monoclonal antibodies against N protein of SARS-coronavirus. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2005; 336:110-7. [PMID: 16112641 PMCID: PMC7092910 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2005.08.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2005] [Accepted: 08/09/2005] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus (SARS-CoV) causes an infectious disease through respiratory route. Diagnosing the disease effectively and accurately at early stage is essential for preventing the disease transmission and performing antiviral treatment. In this study, we raised monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against the nucleocapsid (N) protein of SARS-CoV and mapped epitopes by using different truncated N protein fragments. The mapping of those epitopes was valuable for constructing pair-Abs used in serological diagnosis. The results showed that all of the six raised mAbs were divided into two groups recognizing the region of amino acids 249–317 (A group) or 317–395 (B group). This region spanning amino acids 249–395 contains predominant B cell epitopes located at the C-terminus of N protein. One pair-Abs, consisting of N protein-specific rabbit polyclonal antibody and SARS-CoV N protein-specific mAb, was selected to construct a sandwich ELISA-kit. The kit was able to specifically detect SARS-CoV N proteins in serum samples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bo Shang
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institute of Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 320 Yue-Yang Road, Shanghai 200031, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Lau SKP, Woo PCY, Li KSM, Huang Y, Tsoi HW, Wong BHL, Wong SSY, Leung SY, Chan KH, Yuen KY. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-like virus in Chinese horseshoe bats. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2005; 102:14040-5. [PMID: 16169905 PMCID: PMC1236580 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0506735102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1079] [Impact Index Per Article: 56.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2005] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the finding of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) in caged palm civets from live animal markets in China has provided evidence for interspecies transmission in the genesis of the SARS epidemic, subsequent studies suggested that the civet may have served only as an amplification host for SARS-CoV. In a surveillance study for CoV in noncaged animals from the wild areas of the Hong Kong Special Administration Region, we identified a CoV closely related to SARS-CoV (bat-SARS-CoV) from 23 (39%) of 59 anal swabs of wild Chinese horseshoe bats (Rhinolophus sinicus) by using RT-PCR. Sequencing and analysis of three bat-SARS-CoV genomes from samples collected at different dates showed that bat-SARS-CoV is closely related to SARS-CoV from humans and civets. Phylogenetic analysis showed that bat-SARS-CoV formed a distinct cluster with SARS-CoV as group 2b CoV, distantly related to known group 2 CoV. Most differences between the bat-SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV genomes were observed in the spike genes, ORF 3 and ORF 8, which are the regions where most variations also were observed between human and civet SARS-CoV genomes. In addition, the presence of a 29-bp insertion in ORF 8 of bat-SARS-CoV genome, not in most human SARS-CoV genomes, suggests that it has a common ancestor with civet SARS-CoV. Antibody against recombinant bat-SARS-CoV nucleocapsid protein was detected in 84% of Chinese horseshoe bats by using an enzyme immunoassay. Neutralizing antibody to human SARS-CoV also was detected in bats with lower viral loads. Precautions should be exercised in the handling of these animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susanna K P Lau
- Department of Microbiology, Research Centre of Infection and Immunology, State Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Petit CM, Melancon JM, Chouljenko VN, Colgrove R, Farzan M, Knipe DM, Kousoulas KG. Genetic analysis of the SARS-coronavirus spike glycoprotein functional domains involved in cell-surface expression and cell-to-cell fusion. Virology 2005; 341:215-30. [PMID: 16099010 PMCID: PMC7111838 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2005.06.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2005] [Revised: 06/10/2005] [Accepted: 06/28/2005] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The SARS-coronavirus (SARS-CoV) is the etiological agent of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). The SARS-CoV spike (S) glycoprotein mediates membrane fusion events during virus entry and virus-induced cell-to-cell fusion. To delineate functional domains of the SARS-CoV S glycoprotein, single point mutations, cluster-to-lysine and cluster-to-alanine mutations, as well as carboxyl-terminal truncations were investigated in transient expression experiments. Mutagenesis of either the coiled-coil domain of the S glycoprotein amino terminal heptad repeat, the predicted fusion peptide, or an adjacent but distinct region, severely compromised S-mediated cell-to-cell fusion, while intracellular transport and cell-surface expression were not adversely affected. Surprisingly, a carboxyl-terminal truncation of 17 amino acids substantially increased S glycoprotein-mediated cell-to-cell fusion suggesting that the terminal 17 amino acids regulated the S fusogenic properties. In contrast, truncation of 26 or 39 amino acids eliminating either one or both of the two endodomain cysteine-rich motifs, respectively, inhibited cell fusion in comparison to the wild-type S. The 17 and 26 amino-acid deletions did not adversely affect S cell-surface expression, while the 39 amino-acid truncation inhibited S cell-surface expression suggesting that the membrane proximal cysteine-rich motif plays an essential role in S cell-surface expression. Mutagenesis of the acidic amino-acid cluster in the carboxyl terminus of the S glycoprotein as well as modification of a predicted phosphorylation site within the acidic cluster revealed that this amino-acid motif may play a functional role in the retention of S at cell surfaces. This genetic analysis reveals that the SARS-CoV S glycoprotein contains extracellular domains that regulate cell fusion as well as distinct endodomains that function in intracellular transport, cell-surface expression, and cell fusion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chad M Petit
- Division of Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine (BIOMMED), School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
Sainz B, Rausch JM, Gallaher WR, Garry RF, Wimley WC. Identification and characterization of the putative fusion peptide of the severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus spike protein. J Virol 2005; 79:7195-206. [PMID: 15890958 PMCID: PMC1112137 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.79.11.7195-7206.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV) is a newly identified member of the family Coronaviridae and poses a serious public health threat. Recent studies indicated that the SARS-CoV viral spike glycoprotein is a class I viral fusion protein. A fusion peptide present at the N-terminal region of class I viral fusion proteins is believed to initiate viral and cell membrane interactions and subsequent fusion. Although the SARS-CoV fusion protein heptad repeats have been well characterized, the fusion peptide has yet to be identified. Based on the conserved features of known viral fusion peptides and using Wimley and White interfacial hydrophobicity plots, we have identified two putative fusion peptides (SARS(WW-I) and SARS(WW-II)) at the N terminus of the SARS-CoV S2 subunit. Both peptides are hydrophobic and rich in alanine, glycine, and/or phenylalanine residues and contain a canonical fusion tripeptide along with a central proline residue. Only the SARS(WW-I) peptide strongly partitioned into the membranes of large unilamellar vesicles (LUV), adopting a beta-sheet structure. Likewise, only SARS(WW-I) induced the fusion of LUV and caused membrane leakage of vesicle contents at peptide/lipid ratios of 1:50 and 1:100, respectively. The activity of this synthetic peptide appeared to be dependent on its amino acid (aa) sequence, as scrambling the peptide rendered it unable to partition into LUV, assume a defined secondary structure, or induce both fusion and leakage of LUV. Based on the activity of SARS(WW-I), we propose that the hydrophobic stretch of 19 aa corresponding to residues 770 to 788 is a fusion peptide of the SARS-CoV S2 subunit.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Sainz
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Tulane University Health Sciences Center, 1430 Tulane Avenue, SL-43, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
Chou THW, Wang S, Sakhatskyy PV, Mboudjeka I, Mboudoudjeck I, Lawrence JM, Huang S, Coley S, Yang B, Li J, Zhu Q, Lu S. Epitope mapping and biological function analysis of antibodies produced by immunization of mice with an inactivated Chinese isolate of severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV). Virology 2005; 334:134-43. [PMID: 15749129 PMCID: PMC7111783 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2005.01.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2004] [Revised: 01/10/2005] [Accepted: 01/25/2005] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Inactivated severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV) has been tested as a candidate vaccine against the re-emergence of SARS. In order to understand the efficacy and safety of this approach, it is important to know the antibody specificities generated with inactivated SARS-CoV. In the current study, a panel of twelve monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) was established by immunizing Balb/c mice with the inactivated BJ01 strain of SARS-CoV isolated from the lung tissue of a SARS-infected Chinese patient. These mAbs could recognize SARS-CoV-infected cells by immunofluorescence analysis (IFA). Seven of them were mapped to the specific segments of recombinant spike (S) protein: six on S1 subunit (aa 12-798) and one on S2 subunit (aa 797-1192). High neutralizing titers against SARS-CoV were detected with two mAbs (1A5 and 2C5) targeting at a subdomain of S protein (aa 310-535), consistent with the previous report that this segment of S protein contains the major neutralizing domain. Some of these S-specific mAbs were able to recognize cleaved products of S protein in SARS-CoV-infected Vero E6 cells. None of the remaining five mAbs could recognize either of the recombinant S, N, M, or E antigens by ELISA. This study demonstrated that the inactivated SARS-CoV was able to preserve the immunogenicity of S protein including its major neutralizing domain. The relative ease with which these mAbs were generated against SARS-CoV virions further supports that subunit vaccination with S constructs may also be able to protect animals and perhaps humans. It is somewhat unexpected that no N-specific mAbs were identified albeit anti-N IgG was easily identified in SARS-CoV-infected patients. The availability of this panel of mAbs also provided potentially useful agents with applications in therapy, diagnosis, and basic research of SARS-CoV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Te-hui W Chou
- Laboratory of Nucleic Acid Vaccines, Department of Medicine, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 364 Plantation Street, Lazare Research Building, Worcester, MA 01605-2397, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Lu W, Wu XD, Shi MD, Yang RF, He YY, Bian C, Shi TL, Yang S, Zhu XL, Jiang WH, Li YX, Yan LC, Ji YY, Lin Y, Lin GM, Tian L, Wang J, Wang HX, Xie YH, Pei G, Wu JR, Sun B. Synthetic peptides derived from SARS coronavirus S protein with diagnostic and therapeutic potential. FEBS Lett 2005; 579:2130-6. [PMID: 15811330 PMCID: PMC7094314 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2005.02.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2005] [Revised: 02/12/2005] [Accepted: 02/25/2005] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The spike (S) protein of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) is an important viral structural protein. Based on bioinformatics analysis, 10 antigenic peptides derived from the S protein sequence were selected and synthesized. The antigenicity and immunoreactivity of all the peptides were tested in vivo and in vitro. Four peptides (P6, P8, P9 and P10) which contain B cell epitopes of the S protein were identified, and P8 peptide was confirmed in vivo to have a potential in serological diagnosis. By using a syncytia formation model, we tested the neutralization ability of all 10 peptides and their corresponding antibodies. It is interesting to find that P8 and P9 peptides inhibited syncytia formation, suggesting that the P8 and P9 spanning regions may provide a good target for anti-SARS-CoV drug design. Our data suggest that we have identified peptides derived from the S protein of SARS-CoV, which are useful for SARS treatment and diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Lu
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Xiao-Dong Wu
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Mu De Shi
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Rui Fu Yang
- Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - You Yu He
- Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Chao Bian
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Tie Liu Shi
- Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Sheng Yang
- Bioinformation Center, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Xue-Liang Zhu
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | | | - Yi Xue Li
- Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Beijing 100071, China
| | - Lin-Chen Yan
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Yong Yong Ji
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Ying Lin
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Guo-Mei Lin
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Lin Tian
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Jin Wang
- Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Hong Xia Wang
- Institute of Plant Physiology and Ecology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - You Hua Xie
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Gang Pei
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Jia Rui Wu
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Bing Sun
- Laboratory of Molecular Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
- E-institutes of Shanghai Universities Immunology Division, China
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Bergeron E, Vincent MJ, Wickham L, Hamelin J, Basak A, Nichol ST, Chrétien M, Seidah NG. Implication of proprotein convertases in the processing and spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2005; 326:554-63. [PMID: 15596135 PMCID: PMC7092861 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2004.11.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2004] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) is the etiological agent of SARS. Analysis of SARS-CoV spike glycoprotein (S) using recombinant plasmid and virus infections demonstrated that the S-precursor (proS) exists as a ∼190 kDa endoplasmic reticulum form and a ∼210 kDa Golgi-modified form. ProS is subsequently processed into two C-terminal proteins of ∼110 and ∼80 kDa. The membrane-bound proprotein convertases (PCs) furin, PC7 or PC5B enhanced the production of the ∼80 kDa protein. In agreement, proS processing, cytopathic effects, and viral titers were enhanced in recombinant Vero E6 cells overexpressing furin, PC7 or PC5B. The convertase inhibitor dec-RVKR-cmk significantly reduced proS cleavage and viral titers of SARS-CoV infected cells. In addition, inhibition of processing by dec-RVKR-cmk completely abrogated the virus-induced cellular cytopathicity. A fluorogenically quenched synthetic peptide encompassing Arg761 of the spike glycoprotein was efficiently cleaved by furin and the cleavage was inhibited by EDTA and dec-RVKR-cmk. Taken together, our data indicate that furin or PC-mediated processing plays a critical role in SARS-CoV spread and cytopathicity, and inhibitors of the PCs represent potential therapeutic anti-SARS-CoV agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric Bergeron
- Laboratory of Biochemical Neuroendocrinology, Clinical Research Institute of Montreal, Montreal, Que., Canada H2W 1R7
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Groneberg DA, Hilgenfeld R, Zabel P. Molecular mechanisms of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). Respir Res 2005; 6:8. [PMID: 15661082 PMCID: PMC548145 DOI: 10.1186/1465-9921-6-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2004] [Accepted: 01/20/2005] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) is a new infectious disease caused by a novel coronavirus that leads to deleterious pulmonary pathological features. Due to its high morbidity and mortality and widespread occurrence, SARS has evolved as an important respiratory disease which may be encountered everywhere in the world. The virus was identified as the causative agent of SARS due to the efforts of a WHO-led laboratory network. The potential mutability of the SARS-CoV genome may lead to new SARS outbreaks and several regions of the viral genomes open reading frames have been identified which may contribute to the severe virulence of the virus. With regard to the pathogenesis of SARS, several mechanisms involving both direct effects on target cells and indirect effects via the immune system may exist. Vaccination would offer the most attractive approach to prevent new epidemics of SARS, but the development of vaccines is difficult due to missing data on the role of immune system-virus interactions and the potential mutability of the virus. Even in a situation of no new infections, SARS remains a major health hazard, as new epidemics may arise. Therefore, further experimental and clinical research is required to control the disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David A Groneberg
- Pneumology and Immunology, Otto-Heubner-Centre, Charité School of Medicine, Free University and Humboldt-University, D-13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Rolf Hilgenfeld
- Institute of Biochemistry, University of Lübeck, D-23538 Lübeck, Germany
| | - Peter Zabel
- Division of Clinical Infectiology and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Research Center Borstel, D-23845 Borstel, Germany
- Division of Thoracic Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Lübeck, D-23538 Lübeck, Germany
| |
Collapse
|