Inhibition of clathrin-dependent endocytosis has multiple effects on human rhinovirus serotype 2 cell entry

Lipid droplet: A functionally active organelle in monocyte to macrophage differentiation and its inflammatory properties

Lipid droplets (LDs) perform several important functions like inflammatory responses, membrane trafficking, acts as secondary messengers, etc. rather than simply working as an energy reservoir. LDs have been implicated as a controlling factor in the progression of atherosclerosis followed by foam cell formation that derives from macrophages during the differentiation process. However, the role of LDs in monocyte differentiation or its further immunological function is still an area that mandates in-depth investigation. We report that LD dynamics is important for differentiation of monocytes and is absolutely required for sustained and prolonged functional activity of differentiated macrophages. In THP-1 cell line model system, we elucidated that increase in total LD content in monocyte by external lipid supplements, can induce monocyte differentiation independent of classical stimuli, PMA. Differential expression of PLIN2 and ATGL during the event, together with abrogation of de novo lipogenesis further confirmed the fact. Besides, an increase in LD content by free fatty acid supplement was able to exert a synergistic effect with PMA on differentiation and phagocytic activity compared to when they are used alone. Additionally, we have shown Rab5a to play a vital role in LDs biosynthesis/maturation in monocytes and thereby directly affecting differentiation of monocytes into macrophages via AKT pathway. Thus our study reveals the multi-faceted function of LDs during the process of monocyte to macrophage differentiation and thereby helping to maintain the functional activity.

Endocytosis in the adaptation to cellular stress

Cellular life is challenged by a multitude of stress conditions, triggered for example by alterations in osmolarity, oxygen or nutrient supply. Hence, cells have developed sophisticated stress responses to cope with these challenges. Some of these stress programs such as the heat shock response are understood in great detail, while other aspects remain largely elusive including potential stress-dependent adaptations of the plasma membrane proteome. The plasma membrane is not only the first point of encounter for many types of environmental stress, but given the diversity of receptor proteins and their associated molecules also represents the site at which many cellular signal cascades originate. Since these signaling pathways affect virtually all aspects of cellular life, changes in the plasma membrane proteome appear ideally suited to contribute to the cellular adaptation to stress. The most rapid means to alter the cell surface proteome in response to stress is by alterations in endocytosis. Changes in the overall endocytic flux or in the endocytic regulation of select proteins conceivably can help to counteract adverse environmental conditions. In this review we summarize recent data regarding stress-induced changes in endocytosis and discuss how these changes might contribute to the cellular adaptation to stress in different systems. Future studies will be needed to uncover the underlying mechanisms in detail and to arrive at a coherent picture.

Impairing the function of MLCK, myosin Va or myosin Vb disrupts Rhinovirus B14 replication

Together, the three human rhinovirus (RV) species are the most frequent cause of the common cold. Because of their high similarity with other viral species of the genus Enterovirus, within the large family Picornaviridae, studies on RV infectious activities often offer a less pathogenic model for more aggressive enteroviruses, e.g. poliovirus or EV71. Picornaviruses enter via receptor mediated endocytosis and replicate in the cytosol. Most of them depend on functional F-actin, Rab proteins, and probably motor proteins. To assess the latter, we evaluated the role of myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) and two myosin V isoforms (Va and Vb) in RV-B14 infection. We report that ML-9, a very specific MLCK inhibitor, dramatically reduced RV-B14 entry. We also demonstrate that RV-B14 infection in cells expressing dominant-negative forms of myosin Va and Vb was impaired after virus entry. Using immunofluorescent localization and immunoprecipitation, we show that myosin Va co-localized with RV-B14 exclusively after viral entry (15 min post infection) and that myosin Vb was present in the clusters of newly synthesized RNA in infected cells. These clusters, observed at 180 min post infection, are reminiscent of replication sites. Taken together, these results identify myosin light chain kinase, myosin Va and myosin Vb as new players in RV-B14 infection that participate directly or indirectly in different stages of the viral cycle.

Redox and pH dual sensitive bone targeting nanoparticles to treat breast cancer bone metastases and inhibit bone resorption

Bone is an especially prone metastatic site for breast cancer, and to block the vicious cycle between bone resorption and tumor growth is an important strategy for the treatment of breast cancer bone metastasis. In this paper, pH- and redox-sensitive as well as breast cancer bone metastasis-targeting nanoparticles (DOX@ALN-(HA-PASP)_CL) were prepared, and also their anti-tumor activity and anti-bone resorption effect were investigated in detail. The in vitro experimental results indicated that DOX released from DOX@ALN-(HA-PASP)_CL exhibited a GSH-, DTT- and pH-dependent manner. Moreover, in an in vitro 3D breast cancer bone metastasis model, DOX@ALN-(HA-PASP)_CL decreased bone resorption through inhibiting the proliferation of human breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231 cells) and reducing the activity of osteoclasts. The in vivo experimental results indicated that a large amount of DOX was delivered to a breast cancer bone metastasis site after tumor-bearing mice were treated with DOX@ALN-(HA-PASP)_CL; meanwhile, DOX@ALN-(HA-PASP)_CL significantly decreased the tumor volume and bone resorption in tumor-bearing mice without causing obvious systemic toxicity. In conclusion, the in vitro and in vivo experimental results indicate that DOX@ALN-(HA-PASP)_CL has great potential in the treatment of breast cancer bone metastasis.

Rhinoviruses and Their Receptors: Implications for Allergic Disease

Human rhinoviruses (RVs) are picornaviruses that can cause a variety of illnesses including the common cold, lower respiratory tract illnesses such as bronchitis and pneumonia, and exacerbations of asthma. RVs are classified into three species, RV-A, B, and C, which include over 160 types. They utilize three major types of cellular membrane glycoproteins to gain entry into the host cell: intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) (the majority of RV-A and all RV-B), low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) family members (12 RV-A types), and cadherin-related family member 3 (CDHR3) (RV-C). CDHR3 is a member of cadherin superfamily of transmembrane proteins with yet unknown biological function, and there is relatively little information available about the mechanisms of RV-C interaction with CDHR3. A coding single nucleotide polymorphism (rs6967330) in CDHR3 could promote RV-C infections and illnesses in infancy, which could in turn adversely affect the developing lung to increase the risk of asthma. Further studies are needed to determine how RV infections contribute to pathogenesis of asthma and to develop the optimal treatment approach to control asthma exacerbations.

Viral entry pathways: the example of common cold viruses

For infection, viruses deliver their genomes into the host cell. These nucleic acids are usually tightly packed within the viral capsid, which, in turn, is often further enveloped within a lipid membrane. Both protect them against the hostile environment. Proteins and/or lipids on the viral particle promote attachment to the cell surface and internalization. They are likewise often involved in release of the genome inside the cell for its use as a blueprint for production of new viruses. In the following, I shall cursorily discuss the early more general steps of viral infection that include receptor recognition, uptake into the cell, and uncoating of the viral genome. The later sections will concentrate on human rhinoviruses, the main cause of the common cold, with respect to the above processes. Much of what is known on the underlying mechanisms has been worked out by Renate Fuchs at the Medical University of Vienna.

Principles of Virus Uncoating: Cues and the Snooker Ball

Viruses are spherical or complex shaped carriers of proteins, nucleic acids and sometimes lipids and sugars. They are metastable and poised for structural changes. These features allow viruses to communicate with host cells during entry, and to release the viral genome, a process known as uncoating. Studies have shown that hundreds of host factors directly or indirectly support this process. The cell provides molecules that promote stepwise virus uncoating, and direct the virus to the site of replication. It acts akin to a snooker player who delivers accurate and timely shots (cues) to the ball (virus) to score. The viruses, on the other hand, trick (snooker) the host, hijack its homeostasis systems, and dampen innate immune responses directed against danger signals. In this review, we discuss how cellular cues, facilitators, and built‐in viral mechanisms promote uncoating. Cues come from receptors, enzymes and chemicals that act directly on the virus particle to alter its structure, trafficking and infectivity. Facilitators are defined as host factors that are involved in processes which indirectly enhance entry or uncoating. Unraveling the mechanisms of virus uncoating will continue to enhance understanding of cell functions, and help counteracting infections with chemicals and vaccines.

Lipid Membranes Facilitate Conformational Changes Required for Reovirus Cell Entry

Cellular entry of nonenveloped and enveloped viruses is often accompanied by dramatic conformational changes within viral structural proteins. These rearrangements are triggered by a variety of mechanisms, such as low pH, virus-receptor interactions, and virus-host chaperone interactions. Reoviruses, a model system for entry of nonenveloped viruses, undergo a series of disassembly steps within the host endosome. One of these steps, infectious subviral particle (ISVP)-to-ISVP* conversion, is necessary for delivering the genome-containing viral core into host cells, but the physiological trigger that mediates ISVP-to-ISVP* conversion during cell entry is unknown. Structural studies of the reovirus membrane penetration protein, μ1, predict that interactions between μ1 and negatively charged lipid head groups may promote ISVP* formation; however, experimental evidence for this idea is lacking. Here, we show that the presence of polyanions (SO4(2-) and HPO4(2-)) or lipids in the form of liposomes facilitates ISVP-to-ISVP* conversion. The requirement for charged lipids appears to be selective, since phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylethanolamine promoted ISVP* formation, whereas other lipids, such as sphingomyelin and sulfatide, either did not affect ISVP* formation or prevented ISVP* formation. Thus, our work provides evidence that interactions with membranes can function as a trigger for a nonenveloped virus to gain entry into host cells.

IMPORTANCE

Cell entry, a critical stage in the virus life cycle, concludes with the delivery of the viral genetic material across host membranes. Regulated structural transitions within nonenveloped and enveloped viruses are necessary for accomplishing this step; these conformational changes are predominantly triggered by low pH and/or interactions with host proteins. In this work, we describe a previously unknown trigger, interactions with lipid membranes, which can induce the structural rearrangements required for cell entry. This mechanism operates during entry of mammalian orthoreoviruses. We show that interactions between reovirus entry intermediates and lipid membranes devoid of host proteins promote conformational changes within the viral outer capsid that lead to membrane penetration. Thus, this work illustrates a novel strategy that nonenveloped viruses can use to gain access into cells and how viruses usurp disparate host factors to initiate infection.

Picornavirus entry

The essential event in picornavirus entry is the delivery of the RNA genome to the cytoplasm of a target cell, where replication occurs. In the past several years progress has been made in understanding the structural changes in the virion important for uncoating and RNA release. In addition, for several viruses the endocytic mechanisms responsible for internalization have been identified, as have the cellular sites at which uncoating occurs. It has become clear that entry is not a passive process, and that viruses initiate specific signals required for entry. And we have begun to recognize that for a given virus, there may be multiple routes of entry, depending on the particular target cell and the receptors available on that cell.

Productive entry pathways of human rhinoviruses

Currently, complete or partial genome sequences of more than 150 human rhinovirus (HRV) isolates are known. Twelve species A use members of the low-density lipoprotein receptor family for cell entry, whereas the remaining HRV-A and all HRV-B bind ICAM-1. HRV-Cs exploit an unknown receptor. At least all A and B type viruses depend on receptor-mediated endocytosis for infection. In HeLa cells, they are internalized mainly by a clathrin- and dynamin-dependent mechanism. Upon uptake into acidic compartments, the icosahedral HRV capsid expands by ~4% and holes open at the 2-fold axes, close to the pseudo-3-fold axes and at the base of the star-shaped dome protruding at the vertices. RNA-protein interactions are broken and new ones are established, the small internal myristoylated capsid protein VP4 is expelled, and amphipathic N-terminal sequences of VP1 become exposed. The now hydrophobic subviral particle attaches to the inner surface of endosomes and transfers its genomic (+) ssRNA into the cytosol. The RNA leaves the virus starting with the poly(A) tail at its 3′-end and passes through a membrane pore contiguous with one of the holes in the capsid wall. Alternatively, the endosome is disrupted and the RNA freely diffuses into the cytoplasm.

False cell lines: The problem and a solution

Hundreds of misleading reports are published every year containing data on human cancer cell lines that are derived from some other species, tissue or individual to that claimed. In consequence, millions of dollars provided for cancer research are being spent on the production of misleading data. This review describes how cross-contamination occurs, catalogues the use of false cell lines in leading biomedical journals, and suggests ways to resolve the problem.

Acid-dependent viral entry

Virus infection of host cells requires that entry into the cell results in efficient genome release leading to translation and replication. These initial steps revolving around the entry and genomic release processes are crucial for viral progeny generation. Despite the variety of receptors used by viruses to initiate entry, evidence from both enveloped and non-enveloped viral infections is highlighting the important role played by intracellular acidic compartments in the entry of many viruses. These compartments provide connecting nodes within the endocytic network, presenting multiple viral internalization pathways. Endosomal compartments employing an internal acidic pH can trigger molecular mechanisms leading to disassembly of viral particles, thus providing appropriate genome delivery. Accordingly, viruses have evolved to select optimal intracellular conditions for promoting efficient genome release, leading to propagation of the infectious agent. This review will address the implications of cellular compartment involvement in virus infectious processes, and the roles played by the viruses' own machinery, including pH sensing mechanisms and the methodologies applied for studying acid-dependent viral entry into host cells.

Human SCARB2-mediated entry and endocytosis of EV71

Enterovirus (EV) 71 infection is known to cause hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD) and in severe cases, induces neurological disorders culminating in fatality. An outbreak of EV71 in South East Asia in 1997 affected over 120,000 people and caused neurological disorders in a few individuals. The control of EV71 infection through public health interventions remains minimal and treatments are only symptomatic. Recently, human scavenger receptor class B, member 2 (SCARB2) has been reported to be a cellular receptor of EV71. We expressed human SCARB2 gene in NIH3T3 cells (3T3-SCARB2) to study the mechanisms of EV71 entry and infection. We demonstrated that human SCARB2 serves as a cellular receptor for EV71 entry. Disruption of expression of SCARB2 using siRNAs can interfere EV71 infection and subsequent inhibit the expression of viral capsid proteins in RD and 3T3-SCARB2 but not Vero cells. SiRNAs specific to clathrin or dynamin or chemical inhibitor of clathrin-mediated endocytosis were all capable of interfering with the entry of EV71 into 3T3-SCARB2 cells. On the other hand, caveolin specific siRNA or inhibitors of caveolae-mediated endocytosis had no effect, confirming that only clathrin-mediated pathway was involved in EV71 infection. Endocytosis of EV71 was also found to be pH-dependent requiring endosomal acidification and also required intact membrane cholesterol. In summary, the mechanism of EV71 entry through SCARB2 as the receptor for attachment, and its cellular entry is through a clathrin-mediated and pH-dependent endocytic pathway. This study on the receptor and endocytic mechanisms of EV71 infection is useful for the development of effective medications and prophylactic treatment against the enterovirus.

Analyzing lysosomes in live cells

Lysosomes are an important cellular organelle that receive and degrade macromolecules from the secretory, endocytic, autophagic, and phagocytic membrane-trafficking pathways. Defects in lysosome function lead to the development of disease with often-severe consequences to the individual. Since the discovery of lysosomes by Christian de Duve over 50 years ago, research into endocytic and lysosomal biology has allowed for the development of tools to understand further the role of lysosomes in cells. There are now several fluorescent probes that can be used to visualize and assess membrane traffic to the lysosome as well as probes to assess the activity of lysosomal hydrolases in live cells. This chapter describes the current methods used to measure lysosome function in live cells.

Mechanism of ribonuclease A endocytosis: analogies to cell-penetrating peptides

Pancreatic-type ribonucleases can exert toxic activity by catalyzing the degradation of cellular RNA. Their ability to enter cells is essential for their cytotoxicity. Here, we determine the mechanism by which bovine pancreatic ribonuclease (RNase A) enters human cells. Inhibiting clathrin-dependent endocytosis with dynasore or chlorpromazine decreases RNase A-uptake by ~70%. Limited colocalization between RNase A and transferrin indicates that RNase A is not routed through recycling endosomes. Instead, vesicular staining of RNase A overlaps substantially with that of nona-arginine and the cationic peptide corresponding to residues 47-57 of the HIV-1 TAT protein. At low concentrations (<5 μM), internalization of RNase A and these cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs) is inhibited by chlorpromazine as well as the macropinocytosis inhibitors cytochalasin D and 5-(N-ethyl-N-isopropyl)amiloride to a similar extent, indicative of common endocytic mechanism. At high concentrations, CPPs adopt a nonendocytic mechanism of cellular entry that is not shared by RNase A. Collectively, these data suggest that RNase A is internalized via a multipathway mechanism that involves both clathrin-coated vesicles and macropinosomes. The parallel between the uptake of RNase A and CPPs validates reference to RNase A as a "cell-penetrating protein".

α1A-adrenergic receptor induces activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 through endocytic pathway

G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) activate mitogen-activated protein kinases through a number of distinct pathways in cells. Increasing evidence has suggested that endosomal signaling has an important role in receptor signal transduction. Here we investigated the involvement of endocytosis in α_1A-adrenergic receptor (α_1A-AR)-induced activation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2). Agonist-mediated endocytic traffic of α_1A-AR was assessed by real-time imaging of living, stably transfected human embryonic kidney 293A cells (HEK-293A). α_1A-AR was internalized dynamically in cells with agonist stimulation, and actin filaments regulated the initial trafficking of α_1A-AR. α_1A-AR-induced activation of ERK1/2 but not p38 MAPK was sensitive to disruption of endocytosis, as demonstrated by 4°C chilling, dynamin mutation and treatment with cytochalasin D (actin depolymerizing agent). Activation of protein kinase C (PKC) and C-Raf by α_1A-AR was not affected by 4°C chilling or cytochalasin D treatment. U73122 (a phospholipase C [PLC] inhibitor) and Ro 31–8220 (a PKC inhibitor) inhibited α_1B-AR- but not α_1A-AR-induced ERK1/2 activation. These data suggest that the endocytic pathway is involved in α_1A-AR-induced ERK1/2 activation, which is independent of G_q/PLC/PKC signaling.

Cell entry of avian reovirus follows a caveolin-1-mediated and dynamin-2-dependent endocytic pathway that requires activation of p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and Src signaling pathways as well as microtubules and small GTPase Rab5 protein

Very little is known about the mechanism of cell entry of avian reovirus (ARV). The aim of this study was to explore the mechanism of ARV entry and subsequent infection. Cholesterol mainly affected the early steps of the ARV life cycle, because the presence of cholesterol before and during viral adsorption greatly blocked ARV infectivity. Although we have demonstrated that ARV facilitating p38 MAPK is beneficial for virus replication, its mechanism remains unknown. Here, we show that ARV-induced phosphorylation of caveolin-1 (Tyr(14)), dynamin-2 expression, and Rac1 activation through activation of p38 MAPK and Src in the early stage of the virus life cycle is beneficial for virus entry and productive infection. The strong inhibition by dynasore, a specific inhibitor of dynamin-2, and depletion of endogenous caveolin-1 or dynamin-2 by siRNAs as well as the caveolin-1 colocalization study implicate caveolin-1-mediated and dynamin-2-dependent endocytosis as a significant avenue of ARV entry. By means of pharmacological inhibitors, dominant negative mutants, and siRNA of various cellular proteins and signaling molecules, phosphorylation of caveolin-1, dynamin-2 expression, and Rac1 activation were suppressed, suggesting that by orchestrating p38 MAPK, Src, and Rac1 signaling cascade in the target cells, ARV creates an appropriate intracellular environment facilitating virus entry and productive infection. Furthermore, disruption of microtubules, Rab5, or endosome acidification all inhibited ARV infection, suggesting that microtubules and small GTPase Rab5, which regulate transport to early endosome, are crucial for survival of ARV and that exposure of the virus to acidic pH is required for productive infection.

Mechanisms of single-stranded phosphorothioate modified antisense oligonucleotide accumulation in hepatocytes

Single-stranded antisense oligonucleotides (SSOs) are used to modulate the expression of genes in animal models and are being investigated as potential therapeutics. To better understand why synthetic SSOs accumulate in the same intracellular location as the target RNA, we have isolated a novel mouse hepatocellular SV40 large T-antigen carcinoma cell line, MHT that maintains the ability to efficiently take up SSOs over several years in culture. Sequence-specific antisense effects are demonstrated at low nanomolar concentrations. SSO accumulation into cells is both time and concentration dependent. At least two distinct cellular pathways are responsible for SSO accumulation in cells: a non-productive pathway resulting in accumulation in lysosomes, and a functional uptake pathway in which the SSO gains access to the targeted RNA. We demonstrate that functional uptake, as defined by a sequence-specific reduction in target mRNA, is inhibited by brefeldin A and chloroquine. Functional uptake is blocked by siRNA inhibitors of the adaptor protein AP2M1, but not by clathrin or caveolin. Furthermore, we document that treatment of mice with an AP2M1 siRNA blocks functional uptake into liver tissue. Functional uptake of SSO appears to be mediated by a novel clathrin- and caveolin-independent endocytotic process.

Uncoating of human rhinoviruses

Human rhinoviruses (HRVs) are a major cause of the common cold. The more than one hundred serotypes, divided into species HRV-A and HRV-B, either bind intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (major group viruses) or members of the low-density lipoprotein receptor (minor group viruses) for cell entry. Some major group HRVs can also access the host cell via heparan sulphate proteoglycans. The cell attachment protein(s) of the recently discovered phylogenetic clade HRV-C is unknown. The respective receptors direct virus uptake via clathrin-dependent or independent endocytosis or via macropinocytosis. Triggered by ICAM-1 and/or the low pH environment in endosomes the virions undergo conformational alterations giving rise to hydrophobic subviral particles. These are handed over from the receptors to the endosomal membrane. According to the current view, the RNA genome is released through an opening at one of the fivefold axes of the icosahedral capsid and crosses the membrane through a pore presumably formed by viral proteins. Alternatively, the membrane may be ruptured allowing subviral particles and RNA to enter the cytosol. Whether a channel is formed or the membrane is disrupted most probably depends on the respective HRV receptor.

Endocytosis of hepatitis C virus non-enveloped capsid-like particles induces MAPK-ERK1/2 signaling events

Although HCV is an enveloped virus, naked nucleocapsids have been reported in the serum of infected patients. The HCV core particle serves as a protective capsid shell for the viral genome and recombinant in vitro assembled HCV core particles induce strong specific immunity. We investigated the post-binding mechanism of recombinant core particle uptake and its intracellular fate. In hepatic cells, these particles are internalized, most likely in a clathrin-dependent pathway, reaching early to late endosomes and finally lysosomes. The endocytic acidic milieu is implicated in trafficking process. Using specific phosphoantibodies, signaling pathway inhibitors and chemical agents, ERK(1/2) was found to be activated in a sustained way after endocytosis, followed by downstream immediate early genes (c-fos and egr-1) modulation. We propose that the intriguing properties of cellular internalization of HCV non-enveloped particles can induce specific ERK(1/2)-MAPKs events that could be important in HCV life cycle and pathogenesis of HCV infection.

Cell entry of the aphthovirus equine rhinitis A virus is dependent on endosome acidification

Equine rhinitis A virus (ERAV) is genetically closely related to foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV), and both are now classified within the genus Aphthovirus of the family Picornaviridae. For disease security reasons, FMDV can be handled only in high-containment facilities, but these constraints do not apply to ERAV, making it an attractive alternative for the study of aphthovirus biology. Here, we show, using immunofluorescence, pharmacological agents, and dominant negative inhibitors, that ERAV entry occurs (as for FMDV) via clathrin-mediated endocytosis and acidification of early endosomes. This validates the use of ERAV as a model system to study the mechanism of cell entry by FMDV.

Human rhinovirus 14 enters rhabdomyosarcoma cells expressing icam-1 by a clathrin-, caveolin-, and flotillin-independent pathway

Intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1) mediates binding and entry of major group human rhinoviruses (HRVs). Whereas the entry pathway of minor group HRVs has been studied in detail and is comparatively well understood, the pathway taken by major group HRVs is largely unknown. Use of immunofluorescence microscopy, colocalization with specific endocytic markers, dominant negative mutants, and pharmacological inhibitors allowed us to demonstrate that the major group virus HRV14 enters rhabdomyosarcoma cells transfected to express human ICAM-1 in a clathrin-, caveolin-, and flotillin-independent manner. Electron microscopy revealed that many virions accumulated in long tubular structures, easily distinguishable from clathrin-coated pits and caveolae. Virus entry was strongly sensitive to the Na(+)/H(+) ion exchange inhibitor amiloride and moderately sensitive to cytochalasin D. Thus, cellular uptake of HRV14 occurs via a pathway exhibiting some, but not all, characteristics of macropinocytosis and is similar to that recently described for adenovirus 3 entry via alpha(v) integrin/CD46 in HeLa cells.

Picornaviruses

The picornavirus family consists of a large number of small RNA viruses, many of which are significant pathogens of humans and livestock. They are amongst the simplest of vertebrate viruses comprising a single stranded positive sense RNA genome within a T = 1 (quasi T = 3) icosahedral protein capsid of approximately 30 nm diameter. The structures of a number of picornaviruses have been determined at close to atomic resolution by X-ray crystallography. The structures of cell entry intermediate particles and complexes of virus particles with receptor molecules or antibodies have also been obtained by X-ray crystallography or at a lower resolution by cryo-electron microscopy. Many of the receptors used by different picornaviruses have been identified, and it is becoming increasingly apparent that many use co-receptors and alternative receptors to bind to and infect cells. However, the mechanisms by which these viruses release their genomes and transport them across a cellular membrane to gain access to the cytoplasm are still poorly understood. Indeed, detailed studies of cell entry mechanisms have been made only on a few members of the family, and it is yet to be established how broadly the results of these are applicable across the full spectrum of picornaviruses. Working models of the cell entry process are being developed for the best studied picornaviruses, the enteroviruses. These viruses maintain particle integrity throughout the infection process and function as genome delivery modules. However, there is currently no model to explain how viruses such as cardio- and aphthoviruses that appear to simply dissociate into subunits during uncoating deliver their genomes into the cytoplasm.

Differential binding patterns to host cells associated with particles of several human alphapapillomavirus types

The focus of this research was to compare the binding profiles of human papillomavirus (HPV) 11, 16, 18 and 45 virus-like particles (VLPs) to HaCaT cells and to the extracellular matrix (ECM) secreted by these cells. All four HPV types tested bind to a component(s) of the ECM. HPV11 VLP binding is blocked when the ECM is pretreated with an anti-laminin 5 (LN5) polyclonal antibody. A series of treatments utilizing heparins and heparinase revealed that HPV18 VLPs are dependent on heparan sulfates (HS) for binding to cells and ECM. HPV16 and HPV45 VLPs are dependent on HS for binding to HaCaT cells and dependent on both HS and LN5 for binding to ECM. These studies emphasize the need to study the binding characteristics of different HPV types before applying universal binding principles to all papillomaviruses.

Low pH-triggered beta-propeller switch of the low-density lipoprotein receptor assists rhinovirus infection

Minor group human rhinoviruses (HRVs) bind three members of the low-density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) family: LDLR proper, very-LDLR (VLDLR) and LDLR-related protein (LRP). Whereas ICAM-1, the receptor of major group HRVs actively contributes to viral uncoating, LDLRs are rather considered passive vehicles for cargo delivery to the low-pH environment of endosomes. Since the Tyr-Trp-Thr-Asp beta-propeller domain of LDLR has been shown to be involved in the dissociation of bound LDL via intramolecular competition at low pH, we studied whether it also plays a role in HRV infection. Human cell lines deficient in LDLR family proteins are not available. Therefore, we used CHO-ldla7 cells that lack endogenous LDLR. These were stably transfected to express either wild-type (wt) human LDLR or a mutant with a deletion of the beta-propeller. When HRV2 was attached to the propeller-negative LDLR, a lower pH was required for conversion to subviral particles than when attached to wt LDLR. This indicates that high-avidity receptor binding maintains the virus in its native conformation. HRV2 internalization directed the mutant LDLR but not wt LDLR to lysosomes, resulting in reduced plasma membrane expression of propeller-negative LDLR. Infection assays using a CHO-adapted HRV2 variant showed a delay in intracellular viral conversion and de novo viral synthesis in cells expressing the truncated LDLR. Our data indicate that the beta-propeller attenuates the virus-stabilizing effect of LDLR binding and thereby facilitates RNA release from endosomes, resulting in the enhancement of infection. This is a nice example of a virus exploiting high-avidity multimodule receptor binding with an intrinsic release mechanism.

Human rhinovirus type 2 uncoating at the plasma membrane is not affected by a pH gradient but is affected by the membrane potential

The minor receptor group human rhinovirus type 2 enters host cells by endocytosis via members of the low-density-lipoprotein receptor family. In late endosomes, it undergoes a conformational change solely induced by a pH of < or =5.6, resulting in RNA transfer across the endosomal membrane into the cytoplasm. To determine potential driving forces of this process, we investigated whether RNA penetration might depend on the pH gradient and/or the membrane potential between the acidic endosome lumen and the neutral cytoplasm. Since these parameters are difficult to assess in endosomes, we took advantage of the possibility of inducing structural changes, RNA release, and consequently infection from the plasma membrane. To manipulate the pH gradient, cell-bound virus was exposed to membrane-permeant or -impermeant acidic buffers at 4 degrees C, and this was followed by a shift to 34 degrees C in medium containing bafilomycin to prevent RNA release from endosomes. To manipulate the plasma membrane potential, similar experiments were carried out, but these included K(+) diffusion potentials in the presence of the K(+) ionophore valinomycin. We demonstrated that infection does not depend on a pH gradient but is enhanced by plasma membrane hyperpolarization compared to plasma membrane depolarization.

The availability of surface GABA B receptors is independent of gamma-aminobutyric acid but controlled by glutamate in central neurons

The efficacy of synaptic transmission depends on the availability of ionotropic and metabotropic neurotransmitter receptors at the plasma membrane, but the contribution of the endocytic and recycling pathways in the regulation of gamma-aminobutyric acid type B (GABA(B)) receptors remains controversial. To understand the mechanisms that regulate the abundance of GABA(B) receptors, we have studied their turnover combining surface biotin labeling and a microscopic immunoendocytosis assay in hippocampal and cortical neurons. We report that internalization of GABA(B) receptors is agonist-independent. We also demonstrate that receptors endocytose in the cell body and dendrites but not in axons. Additionally, we show that GABA(B) receptors endocytose as heterodimers via clathrin- and dynamin-1-dependent mechanisms and that they recycle to the plasma membrane after endocytosis. More importantly, we show that glutamate decreases the levels of cell surface receptors in a manner dependent on an intact proteasome pathway. These observations indicate that glutamate and not GABA controls the abundance of surface GABA(B) receptors in central neurons, consistent with their enrichment at glutamatergic synapses.

Syk associates with clathrin and mediates phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase activation during human rhinovirus internalization

Human rhinovirus (HRV) causes the common cold. The most common acute infection in humans, HRV is a leading cause of exacerbations of asthma and chronic obstruction pulmonary disease because of its ability to exacerbate airway inflammation by altering epithelial cell biology upon binding to its receptor, ICAM-1. ICAM-1 regulates not only viral entry and replication but also signaling pathways that lead to inflammatory mediator production. We recently demonstrated the Syk tyrosine kinase to be an important mediator of HRV-ICAM-1 signaling: Syk regulates replication-independent p38 MAPK activation and IL-8 expression. In leukocytes, Syk regulates receptor-mediated internalization via PI3K. Although PI3K has been shown to regulate HRV-induced IL-8 expression and clathrin-mediated endocytosis of HRV, the role of airway epithelial Syk in this signaling pathway is not known. We postulated that Syk regulates PI3K activation and HRV endocytosis in the airway epithelium. Using confocal microscopy and immunoprecipitation, we demonstrated recruitment of the normally cytosolic Syk to the plasma membrane upon HRV16-ICAM-1 binding, along with Syk-clathrin coassociation. Subsequent incubation at 37 degrees C to permit internalization revealed redistribution of Syk to punctate structures resembling endosomes and colocalization with HRV16. Internalized HRV was not detected in cells overexpressing the kinase inactive Syk(K396R) mutant, indicating that kinase activity was necessary for endocytosis. HRV-induced PI3K activation was dependent on Syk; Syk knockdown by small interfering RNA significantly decreased phosphorylation of the PI3K substrate Akt. Together, these data reveal Syk to be an important mediator of HRV endocytosis and HRV-induced PI3K activation.

Role of endocytosis and low pH in murine hepatitis virus strain A59 cell entry

Infection by the coronavirus mouse hepatitis virus strain A59 (MHV-A59) requires the release of the viral genome by fusion with the respective target membrane of the host cell. Fusion is mediated by the viral S protein. Here, the entry pathway of MHV-A59 into murine fibroblast cells was studied by independent approaches. Infection of cells assessed by plaque reduction assay was strongly inhibited by lysosomotropic compounds and substances that interfere with clathrin-dependent endocytosis, suggesting that MHV-A59 is taken up via endocytosis and delivered to acidic endosomal compartments. Infection was only slightly reduced in the presence of substances inhibiting proteases of endosomal compartments, precluding that the endocytic uptake is required to activate the fusion potential of the S protein by its cleavage. Fluorescence confocal microscopy of labeled MHV-A59 confirmed that virus is taken up via endocytosis. Bright labeling of intracellular compartments suggests their fusion with the viral envelope. No fusion with the plasma membrane was observed at neutral pH conditions. However, when virus was bound to cells and the pH was lowered to 5.0, we observed a strong labeling of the plasma membrane. Electron microscopy revealed low pH triggered conformational alterations of the S ectodomain. Very likely, these alterations are irreversible because low-pH treatment of viruses in the absence of target membranes caused an irreversible loss of the fusion activity. The results imply that endocytosis plays a major role in MHV-A59 infection and the acidic pH of the endosomal compartment triggers a conformational change of the S protein mediating fusion.

Intracellular pathway of Onconase that enables its delivery to the cytosol

Onconase is an RNase with a very specific property because it is selectively toxic to transformed cells. This toxin is thought to recognize cell surface receptors, and the protection conferred by metabolic poisons against Onconase toxicity indicated that this RNase relies on endocytic uptake to kill cells. Nevertheless, its internalization pathway has yet to be unraveled. We show here that Onconase enters cells using AP-2/clathrin-mediated endocytosis. It is then routed, together with transferrin, to the receptor recycling compartment. Increasing the Onconase concentration in this structure using tetanus toxin light chain expression enhanced Onconase toxicity, indicating that recycling endosomes are a key compartment for Onconase cytosolic delivery. This intracellular destination is specific to Onconase because other (and much less toxic) RNases follow the default pathway to late endosomes/lysosomes. Drugs neutralizing endosomal pH increased Onconase translocation efficiency from purified endosomes during cell-free translocation assays by preventing Onconase dissociation from its receptor at endosomal pH. Consistently, endosome neutralization enhanced Onconase toxicity up to 100-fold. Onconase translocation also required cytosolic ATP hydrolysis. This toxin therefore shows an unusual entry process that relies on clathrin-dependent endocytic uptake and then neutralization of low endosomal pH for efficient translocation from the endosomal lumen to the cytosol.

H. influenzae potentiates airway epithelial cell responses to rhinovirus by increasing ICAM-1 and TLR3 expression

Rhinovirus (RV) is an important trigger of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations. In addition, respiratory viruses are more likely to be isolated in patients with a history of frequent exacerbations, suggesting that these patients are more susceptible to viral infection. To examine potential mechanisms for cooperative effects between bacterial and viral infection in COPD, we studied the responses of cultured human airway epithelial cells to nontypeable Hemophilus influenzae and RV. In both 16HBE14o- and primary mucociliary-differentiated cells, preincubation with H. influenzae enhanced RV serotype 39-induced protein expression of interleukin (IL)-8, epithelial-derived neutrophil attractant-78, and growth-related oncogene-alpha. H. influenzae infection also increased the binding of RV39 to cultured cells, as well as expression of intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1 and Toll-like receptor (TLR)-3, receptors for RV and dsRNA, respectively. Neutralizing antibody against tumor necrosis factor-alpha inhibited IL-8 expression induced by H. influenzae and RV39. Finally, siRNA against TLR3 attenuated RV-induced IL-8 expression. We conclude that H. influenzae infection increases airway epithelial cell ICAM-1 and TLR3 expression, leading to enhanced binding of RV and a potentiation of RV-induced chemokine release. These data provide a cellular mechanism by which H. influenzae infection may increase the susceptibility of COPD patients to RV-induced exacerbations.

Human papillomaviruses bind a basal extracellular matrix component secreted by keratinocytes which is distinct from a membrane-associated receptor

Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) have previously been shown to adsorb to cultured cells via membrane-associated heparan sulfate (HS) and alpha6 integrin. We demonstrate that cultured keratinocytes uniquely secrete a component into the basal extracellular matrix (ECM) which can function to adsorb HPV particles which can then be internalized by adherent cells. This uncharacterized basal ECM adsorption receptor was secreted by normal human epidermal keratinocytes (NHEK) and by each of the four keratinocyte-derived cell lines we examined, but not by non-keratinocyte cell lines. Multiple HPV types bound preferentially to this keratinocyte-specific receptor over the membrane-associated receptor, and binding to the basal ECM adsorption receptor was refractory to inhibition by heparin. Like the membrane-associated receptor, this basal ECM component was functional as an adsorption receptor in our in vitro infection model using HPV-11. Unlike particle adsorption, however, successful infection with HPV-11 virions remained sensitive to the pretreatment of virions with heparin. The secreted basal ECM receptor did not colocalize with antibodies against HS, perlecan, or alpha6 integrin, but colocalized with antibody against laminin-5, a marker of keratinocyte ECM and an abundant component of the basement membrane in mucosa and skin. These findings suggest a model for natural infections in which HPV virions, nonspecifically adsorbed to HS on suprabasal keratinocytes throughout an epithelial wound, might be transferred to mitotically active migrating keratinocytes via an intermediate association with the ECM secreted by these cells as they reestablish the basement membrane.

Early events in integrin alphavbeta6-mediated cell entry of foot-and-mouth disease virus

We have shown that foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) infection mediated by the integrin alphavbeta6 takes place through clathrin-dependent endocytosis but not caveolae or other endocytic pathways that depend on lipid rafts. Inhibition of clathrin-dependent endocytosis by sucrose treatment or expression of a dominant-negative version of AP180 inhibited virus entry and infection. Similarly, inhibition of endosomal acidification inhibited an early step in infection. Blocking endosomal acidification did not interfere with surface expression of alphavbeta6, virus binding to the cells, uptake of the virus into endosomes, or cytoplasmic virus replication, suggesting that the low pH within endosomes is a prerequisite for delivery of viral RNA into the cytosol. Using immunofluorescence confocal microscopy, FMDV colocalized with alphavbeta6 at the cell surface but not with the B subunit of cholera toxin, a marker for lipid rafts. At 37 degrees C, virus was rapidly taken up into the cells and colocalized with markers for early and recycling endosomes but not with a marker for lysosomes, suggesting that infection occurs from within the early or recycling endosomal compartments. This conclusion was supported by the observation that FMDV infection is not inhibited by nocodazole, a reagent that inhibits vesicular trafficking between early and late endosomes (and hence trafficking to lysosomes). The integrin alphavbeta6 was also seen to accumulate in early and recycling endosomes on virus entry, suggesting that the integrin serves not only as an attachment receptor but also to deliver the virus to the acidic endosomes. These findings are all consistent with FMDV infection proceeding via clathrin-dependent endocytosis.

Analysis of foot-and-mouth disease virus internalization events in cultured cells

It has been demonstrated that foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) can utilize at least four members of the alpha(V) subgroup of the integrin family of receptors in vitro. The virus interacts with these receptors via a highly conserved arginine-glycine-aspartic acid amino acid sequence motif located within the betaG-betaH loop of VP1. While there have been extensive studies of virus-receptor interactions at the cell surface, our understanding of the events during viral entry into the infected cell is still not clear. We have utilized confocal microscopy to analyze the entry of two FMDV serotypes (types A and O) after interaction with integrin receptors at the cell surface. In cell cultures expressing both the alphaVbeta3 and alphaVbeta6 integrins, virus adsorbed to the cells at 4 degrees C appears to colocalize almost exclusively with the alphaVbeta6 integrin. Upon shifting the infected cells to 37 degrees C, FMDV capsid proteins were detected within 15 min after the temperature shift, in association with the integrin in vesicular structures that were positive for a marker of clathrin-mediated endocytosis. In contrast, virus did not colocalize with a marker for caveola-mediated endocytosis. Virus remained associated with the integrin until about 1 h after the temperature shift, when viral proteins appeared around the perinuclear region of the cell. By 15 min after the temperature shift, viral proteins were seen colocalizing with a marker for early endosomes, while no colocalization with late endosomal markers was observed. In the presence of monensin, which raises the pH of endocytic vesicles and has been shown to inhibit FMDV replication, viral proteins were not released from the recycling endosome structures. Viral proteins were not observed associated with the endoplasmic reticulum or the Golgi. These data indicate that FMDV utilizes the clathrin-mediated endocytosis pathway to infect the cells and that viral replication begins due to acidification of endocytic vesicles, causing the breakdown of the viral capsid structure and release of the genome by an as-yet-unidentified mechanism.

Acid-resistant bovine pestivirus requires activation for pH-triggered fusion during entry

The route of internalization of the pestivirus bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) was studied by using different chemical and biophysical inhibitors of endocytosis. Expression of the dominant-negative mutant Dyn(K44A) of the GTPase dynamin in MDBK cells, as well as the treatment of the cells with chlorpromazine and beta-methyl-cyclodextrin inhibited BVDV entry. BVDV infection was also abolished by potassium (K+) depletion, hyperosmolarity, and different inhibitors of endosomal acidification. We conclude that BVDV likely enters the cell by clathrin-dependent endocytosis and that acidification initiates fusion with the endosomal membrane. Further studies revealed that BVDV was unable to undergo "fusion from without" at low pH. The finding that low pH is not sufficient to force adsorbed BVDV into fusion with the plasma membrane is compatible with the remarkable resistance of pestiviruses to inactivation by low pH. The importance of the abundant intra- and intermolecular disulfide bonds in BVDV glycoproteins for virus stability was studied by the use of reducing agents. The combination of dithiothreitol and acidic pH led to partial inactivation of BVDV and allowed fusion from without at low efficiency. Evidence is provided here that acid-resistant BVDV is destabilized during endocytosis to become fusogenic at an endosomal acidic pH. We suggest that destabilization of the virion occurs by breakage of disulfide bonds in the glycoproteins by an unknown mechanism.

Endocytosis of plasma-derived factor V by megakaryocytes occurs via a clathrin-dependent, specific membrane binding event

Megakaryocytes were analyzed for their ability to endocytose factor V to define the cellular mechanisms regulating this process. In contrast to fibrinogen, factor V was endocytosed by megakaryocytes derived from CD34(+) cells or megakaryocyte-like cell lines, but not by platelets. CD41(+)ex vivo-derived megakaryocytes endocytosed factor V, as did subpopulations of the megakaryocyte-like cells MEG-01, and CMK. Similar observations were made for fibrinogen. Phorbol diester-induced megakaryocytic differentiation of the cell lines resulted in a substantial increase in endocytosis of both proteins as compared to untreated cells that did not merely reflect their disparate plasma concentrations. Factor IX, which does not associate with platelets or megakaryocytes, was not endocytosed by any of the cells examined. Endocytosis of factor V by megakaryocytes proceeds through a specific and independent mechanism as CHRF-288 cells endocytosed fibrinogen but not factor V, and the presence of other plasma proteins had no effect on the endocytosis of factor V by MEG-01 cells. Furthermore, as the endocytosis of factor V was also demonstrated to occur through a clathrin-dependent mechanism, these combined data demonstrate that endocytosis of factor V by megakaryocytes occurs via a specific, independent, and most probably receptor-mediated, event.

Viral entry

Virus entry is initiated by recognition by receptors present on the surface of host cells. Receptors can be major mediators of virus tropism, and in many cases receptor interactions occur in an apparently programmed series of events utilizing multiple receptors. After receptor interaction, both enveloped and nonenveloped viruses must deliver their genome across either the endosomal or plasma membrane for infection to proceed. Genome delivery occurs either by membrane fusion (in the case of enveloped viruses) or by pore formation or other means of permeabilizing the lipid bilayer (in the case of nonenveloped viruses). For those viruses that enter cells via endosomes, specific receptor interactions (and the signaling events that ensue) may control the particular route of endocytosis and/or the ultimate destination of the incoming virus particles. Our conception of virus entry is increasingly becoming more complex; however, the specificity involved in entry processes, once ascertained, may ultimately lead to the production of effective antiviral agents.

Antigen Targeting to CD11b Allows Efficient Presentation of CD4+ and CD8+ T Cell Epitopes and In Vivo Th1-Polarized T Cell Priming

Bordetella pertussis adenylate cyclase (CyaA) is an invasive bacterial toxin that delivers its N-terminal catalytic domain into the cytosol of eukaryotic cells bearing the alpha(M)beta(2) integrin (CD11b/CD18), such as myeloid dendritic cells. This allows use of engineered CyaA for targeted delivery of CD8(+) T cell epitopes into the MHC class I pathway of APC and induction of robust and protective cytotoxic responses. In this study, we demonstrate that CyaA can efficiently codeliver both a CD8(+) T cell epitope (OVA(257-264)) and a CD4(+) T cell epitope (MalE(100-114)) into, respectively, the conventional cytosolic or endocytic routes of processing of murine bone marrow-derived dendritic cells. Upon CyaA delivery, a strong potentiation of the MalE(100-114) CD4(+) T cell epitope presentation is observed as compared with the MalE protein, which depends on CyaA interaction with its CD11b receptor and its subsequent clathrin-mediated endocytosis. In vivo, CyaA induces strong and specific Th1 CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cell responses against, respectively, the MalE(100-114) and OVA(257-264) epitopes. These results underscore the potency of CyaA for design of new vaccines.

Infectious entry of West Nile virus occurs through a clathrin-mediated endocytic pathway

The pathway of West Nile flavivirus early internalization events was mapped in detail in this study. Overexpression of dominant-negative mutants of Eps15 strongly inhibits West Nile virus (WNV) internalization, and pharmacological drugs that blocks clathrin also caused a marked reduction in virus entry but not caveola-dependent endocytosis inhibitory agent, filipin. Using immunocryoelectron microscopy, WNV particles were seen within clathrin-coated pits after 2 min postinfection. Double-labeling immunofluorescence assays and immunoelectron microscopy performed with anti-WNV envelope or capsid proteins and cellular markers (EEA1 and LAMP1) revealed the trafficking pathway of internalized virus particles from early endosomes to lysosomes and finally the uncoating of the virus particles. Disruption of host cell cytoskeleton (actin filaments and microtubules) with cytochalasin D and nocodazole showed significant reduction in virus infectivity. Actin filaments are shown to be essential during the initial penetration of the virus across the plasma membrane, whereas microtubules are involved in the trafficking of internalized virus from early endosomes to lysosomes for uncoating. Cells treated with lysosomotropic agents were largely resistant to infection, indicating that a low-pH-dependent step is required for WNV infection. In situ hybridization of DNA probes specific for viral RNA demonstrated the trafficking of uncoated viral RNA genomes to the endoplasmic reticulum.

Human rhinovirus type 2-antibody complexes enter and infect cells via Fc-gamma receptor IIB1

HeLa cells were stably transfected with a cDNA clone encoding the B1 isoform of the mouse FcgammaRII receptor (hereafter referred to as HeLa-FcRII cells). The receptor was expressed at high level at the plasma membrane in about 90% of the cells. These cells bound and internalized mouse monoclonal virus-neutralizing antibodies 8F5 and 3B10 of the subtype immunoglobulin G2a (IgG2a) and IgG1, respectively. Binding of the minor-group human rhinovirus type 2 (HRV2) to its natural receptors, members of the low-density lipoprotein receptor family, is dependent on the presence of Ca(2+) ions. Thus, chelating Ca(2+) ions with EDTA prevented HRV2 binding, entry, and infection. However, upon complex formation of (35)S-labeled HRV2 with 8F5 or 3B10, virus was bound, internalized, and degraded in HeLa-FcRII cells. Furthermore, challenge of these cells with HRV2-8F5 or HRV2-3B10 complexes resulted in de novo synthesis of viral proteins, as shown by indirect immunofluorescence microscopy. These data demonstrate that minor-group receptors can be replaced by surrogate receptors to mediate HRV2 cell entry, delivery into endosomal compartments, and productive uncoating. Consequently, the conformational change and uncoating of HRV2 appears to be solely triggered by the low-pH (pH </= 5.6) environment in these compartments.

Receptor priming of major group human rhinoviruses for uncoating and entry at mild low-pH environments

Receptor priming of low-pH-triggered virus entry has been described for an enveloped virus (15). Here we show with major group human rhinoviruses (HRV) and its intercellular adhesion molecule-1 receptor that nonenveloped viruses follow this novel cell entry principle. In vitro the receptor primed HRV for efficient uncoating at mild low pH (5.5 to 6.0). Agents preventing endosomal acidification reduced or blocked rhinovirus cell infection, while nocodazole had no effect on infection of any serotype tested. The entry inhibitory effect of lysosomotropic agents was overcome by exposing cell-internalized HRV to mild low pH (5.5 to 6.0). We therefore conclude that receptor priming of major group HRV must occur in vivo as well. Cooperation of a cellular receptor and low pH in virus uncoating will polarize the exit of the genome to the receptor-bound, membrane-proximal region of the virus particle during acidification of endosomes. This process must be required for efficient penetration of the cellular membrane by viruses.

In vivo, dendritic cells can cross-present virus-like particles using an endosome-to-cytosol pathway

Recombinant parvovirus-like particles (PPV-VLPs) are particulate exogenous Ags that induce strong CTL response in the absence of adjuvant. In the present report to decipher the mechanisms responsible for CTL activation by such exogenous Ag, we analyzed ex vivo and in vitro the mechanisms of capture and processing of PPV-VLPs by dendritic cells (DCs). In vivo, PPV-VLPs are very efficiently captured by CD8alpha- and CD8alpha+ DCs and then localize in late endosomes of DCs. Macropinocytosis and lipid rafts participate in PPV-VLPs capture. Processing of PPV-VLPs does not depend upon recycling of MHC class I molecules, but requires vacuolar acidification as well as proteasome activity, TAP translocation, and neosynthesis of MHC class I molecules. This study therefore shows that in vivo DCs can cross-present PPV-VLPs using an endosome-to-cytosol processing pathway.

Cryptosporidium parvum invasion of biliary epithelia requires host cell tyrosine phosphorylation of cortactin via c-Src

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Cryptosporidium parvum invasion of epithelia requires polymerization of host cell actin at the attachment site. We analyzed the role of host cell c-Src, a cytoskeleton-associated protein tyrosine kinase, in C. parvum invasion of biliary epithelia.

METHODS

In vitro models of biliary cryptosporidiosis using a human biliary epithelial cell line were used to assay the role of c-Src signaling pathway in C. parvum invasion.

RESULTS

c-Src and cortactin, an actin-binding protein and a substrate for c-Src, were recruited to the parasite-host cell interface during C. parvum invasion. Tyrosine phosphorylation of cortactin in infected cells was also detected. Inhibition of host cell c-Src significantly blocked C. parvum -induced accumulation and tyrosine phosphorylation of cortactin and actin polymerization at the attachment sites, thereby inhibiting C. parvum invasion of biliary epithelial cells. A triple mutation of tyrosine of cortactin in the epithelia also diminished C. parvum invasion. In addition, proteins originating from the parasite were detected within infected cells at the parasite-host cell interface. Antiserum against C. parvum membrane proteins blocked accumulation of c-Src and cortactin and significantly decreased C. parvum invasion. No accumulation of the endocytosis-related proteins, dynamin 2 and clathrin, was found at the parasite-host cell interface; also, inhibition of dynamin 2 did not block C. parvum invasion.

CONCLUSIONS

C. parvum invasion of biliary epithelial cells requires host cell tyrosine phosphorylation of cortactin by a c-Src-mediated signaling pathway to induce actin polymerization at the attachment site, a process associated with microbial secretion but independent of host cell endocytosis.

Human rhinovirus type 2 is internalized by clathrin-mediated endocytosis

Using several approaches, we investigated the importance of clathrin-mediated endocytosis in the uptake of human rhinovirus serotype 2 (HRV2). By means of confocal immunofluorescence microscopy, we show that K(+) depletion strongly reduces HRV2 internalization. Viral uptake was also substantially reduced by extraction of cholesterol from the plasma membrane with methyl-beta-cyclodextrin, which can inhibit clathrin-mediated endocytosis. In accordance with these data, overexpression of dynamin K44A in HeLa cells prevented HRV2 internalization, as judged by confocal immunofluorescence microscopy, and strongly reduced infection. We also demonstrate that HRV2 bound to the surface of HeLa cells is localized in coated pits but not in caveolae. Finally, transient overexpression of the specific dominant-negative inhibitors of clathrin-mediated endocytosis, the SH3 domain of amphiphysin and the C-terminal domain of AP180, potently inhibited internalization of HRV2. Taken together, these results indicate that HRV2 uses clathrin-mediated endocytosis to infect cells.

Entry of viruses through the epithelial barrier: pathogenic trickery

Mucosal surfaces--such as the lining of the gut or the reproductive tract--are the main point of entry for viruses into the body. As such, almost all viruses interact with epithelial cells, and make use of the normal epithelial signalling and trafficking pathways of the host cell. In addition to protein receptors, carbohydrate chains of proteoglycans and epithelial-membrane glycosphingolipids have emerged as a new class of receptors for viral attachment to the host cell.

Influenza virus can enter and infect cells in the absence of clathrin-mediated endocytosis

Influenza virus has been described to enter host cells via clathrin-mediated endocytosis. However, it has also been suggested that other endocytic routes may provide additional entry pathways. Here we show that influenza virus may enter and infect HeLa cells that are unable to take up ligands by clathrin-mediated endocytosis. By overexpressing a dominant-negative form of the Eps15 protein to inhibit clathrin-mediated endocytosis, we demonstrate that while transferrin uptake and Semliki Forest virus infection were prevented, influenza virus could enter and infect cells expressing Eps15Delta95/295. This finding is supported by the successful infection of cells with influenza virus in the presence of chemical treatments that block endocytosis, namely, chlorpromazine and potassium depletion. We show also that influenza virus may infect cells incapable of uptake by caveolae. Treatment with the inhibitors nystatin, methyl-beta-cyclodextrin, and genistein, as well as transfection of cells with dominant-negative caveolin-1, had no effect on influenza virus infection. By combining inhibitory methods to block both clathrin-mediated endocytosis and uptake by caveolae in the same cell, we demonstrate that influenza virus may infect cells by an additional non-clathrin-dependent, non-caveola-dependent endocytic pathway. We believe this to be the first conclusive analysis of virus entry via such a non-clathrin-dependent pathway, in addition to the traditional clathrin-dependent route.

Dissecting virus entry via endocytosis

Numerous virus families utilize endocytosis to infect host cells, mediating virus internalization as well as trafficking to the site of replication. Recent research has demonstrated that viruses employ the full endocytic capabilities of the cell. The endocytic pathways utilized include clathrin-mediated endocytosis, caveolae, macropinocytosis and novel non-clathrin, non-caveolae pathways. The tools to study endocytosis and, consequently, virus entry are becoming more effective and specific as the amount of information on endocytic component structure and function increases. The use of inhibitory drugs, although still quite common, often leads to non-specific disruptions in the cell. Molecular inhibitors in the form of dominant-negative proteins have surpassed the use of chemical inhibitors in terms of specificity to individual pathways. Dominant-negative molecules are derived from both structural proteins of endocytosis, such as dynamin and caveolin, and regulatory proteins, primarily small GTPases and kinases. This review focuses on the experimental approaches taken to examine virus entry and provides both classic examples and recent research on a variety of virus families.

Elevated endosomal pH in HeLa cells overexpressing mutant dynamin can affect infection by pH-sensitive viruses

Many viruses gain access to the cell via the endosomal route and require low endosomal pH for infectivity. The GTPase dynamin is essential for clathrin-dependent endocytosis, and in HeLa cells overexpressing the nonfunctional dynaminK44A mutant the formation of clathrin-coated vesicles is halted. HRV2, a human minor group rhinovirus, is internalized by members of the low-density lipoprotein receptor family in a clathrin-independent manner. The low endosomal pH then leads to conversion of the capsid to C-antigen, which is required for release (uncoating) and transfer of the viral RNA into the cytosol and de novo synthesis of infectious virus. We here demonstrate that overexpression of dynaminK44A reduces this antigenic conversion and results in diminished viral synthesis. In contrast, lysosomal degradation is unaffected. The kinetics of the formation of C-antigen in vitro and in vivo suggest that the pH in endosomes is elevated by about 0.4 units upon overexpression of dynaminK44A. As a consequence, HRV2 uncoating is diminished early after internalization but attains control levels upon prolonged internalization. Thus, overexpression of dynaminK44A, in addition to trafficking defects, results in an elevated endosomal pH and thereby affects virus infection and most likely endosomal sorting and processing.