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Deng J, Yang S, Li Y, Tan X, Liu J, Yu Y, Ding Q, Fan C, Wang H, Chen X, Liu Q, Guo X, Gong F, Zhou L, Chen Y. Natural evidence of coronaviral 2'-O-methyltransferase activity affecting viral pathogenesis via improved substrate RNA binding. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:140. [PMID: 38811528 PMCID: PMC11137015 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01860-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Previous studies through targeted mutagenesis of K-D-K-E motif have demonstrated that 2'-O-MTase activity is essential for efficient viral replication and immune evasion. However, the K-D-K-E catalytic motif of 2'-O-MTase is highly conserved across numerous viruses, including flaviviruses, vaccinia viruses, coronaviruses, and extends even to mammals. Here, we observed a stronger 2'-O-MTase activity in SARS-CoV-2 compared to SARS-CoV, despite the presence of a consistently active catalytic center. We further identified critical residues (Leu-36, Asn-138 and Ile-153) which served as determinants of discrepancy in 2'-O-MTase activity between SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV. These residues significantly enhanced the RNA binding affinity of 2'-O-MTase and boosted its versatility toward RNA substrates. Of interest, a triple substitution (Leu36 → Ile36, Asn138 → His138, Ile153 → Leu153, from SARS-CoV-2 to SARS-CoV) within nsp16 resulted in a proportional reduction in viral 2'-O-methylation and impaired viral replication. Furthermore, it led to a significant upregulation of type I interferon (IFN-I) and proinflammatory cytokines both in vitro and vivo, relying on the cooperative sensing of melanoma differentiation-associated protein 5 (MDA5) and laboratory of genetics and physiology 2 (LGP2). In conclusion, our findings demonstrated that alterations in residues other than K-D-K-E of 2'-O-MTase may affect viral replication and subsequently influence pathogenesis. Monitoring changes in nsp16 residues is crucial as it may aid in identifying and assessing future alteration in viral pathogenicity resulting from natural mutations occurring in nsp16.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jikai Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, RNA Institute, College of Life Sciences and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Shimin Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, RNA Institute, College of Life Sciences and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yingjian Li
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, RNA Institute, College of Life Sciences and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xue Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, RNA Institute, College of Life Sciences and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiejie Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, RNA Institute, College of Life Sciences and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yanying Yu
- School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Qiang Ding
- School of Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Chengpeng Fan
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hongyun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, RNA Institute, College of Life Sciences and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xianyin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, RNA Institute, College of Life Sciences and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Qianyun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, RNA Institute, College of Life Sciences and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiao Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, RNA Institute, College of Life Sciences and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Feiyu Gong
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, RNA Institute, College of Life Sciences and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Li Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, RNA Institute, College of Life Sciences and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Animal Bio-Safety Level III Laboratory/Institute for Vaccine Research, Wuhan University School of Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Yu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, RNA Institute, College of Life Sciences and Frontier Science Center for Immunology and Metabolism, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
- Animal Bio-Safety Level III Laboratory/Institute for Vaccine Research, Wuhan University School of Medicine, Wuhan, China.
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Chen S, Jiang Z, Li Q, Pan W, Chen Y, Liu J. Viral RNA capping: Mechanisms and antiviral therapy. J Med Virol 2024; 96:e29622. [PMID: 38682614 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
RNA capping is an essential trigger for protein translation in eukaryotic cells. Many viruses have evolved various strategies for initiating the translation of viral genes and generating progeny virions in infected cells via synthesizing cap structure or stealing the RNA cap from nascent host messenger ribonucleotide acid (mRNA). In addition to protein translation, a new understanding of the role of the RNA cap in antiviral innate immunity has advanced the field of mRNA synthesis in vitro and therapeutic applications. Recent studies on these viral RNA capping systems have revealed startlingly diverse ways and molecular machinery. A comprehensive understanding of how viruses accomplish the RNA capping in infected cells is pivotal for designing effective broad-spectrum antiviral therapies. Here we systematically review the contemporary insights into the RNA-capping mechanisms employed by viruses causing human and animal infectious diseases, while also highlighting its impact on host antiviral innate immune response. The therapeutic applications of targeting RNA capping against viral infections and the development of RNA-capping inhibitors are also summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saini Chen
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhimin Jiang
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Qiuchen Li
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Wenliang Pan
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Yu Chen
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Jinhua Liu
- National Key Laboratory of Veterinary Public Health and Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Prevention and Control of Avian Influenza and Other Major Poultry Diseases, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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3
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Otter CJ, Bracci N, Parenti NA, Ye C, Asthana A, Blomqvist EK, Tan LH, Pfannenstiel JJ, Jackson N, Fehr AR, Silverman RH, Burke JM, Cohen NA, Martinez-Sobrido L, Weiss SR. SARS-CoV-2 nsp15 endoribonuclease antagonizes dsRNA-induced antiviral signaling. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2320194121. [PMID: 38568967 PMCID: PMC11009620 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2320194121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV)-2 has caused millions of deaths since its emergence in 2019. Innate immune antagonism by lethal CoVs such as SARS-CoV-2 is crucial for optimal replication and pathogenesis. The conserved nonstructural protein 15 (nsp15) endoribonuclease (EndoU) limits activation of double-stranded (ds)RNA-induced pathways, including interferon (IFN) signaling, protein kinase R (PKR), and oligoadenylate synthetase/ribonuclease L (OAS/RNase L) during diverse CoV infections including murine coronavirus and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)-CoV. To determine how nsp15 functions during SARS-CoV-2 infection, we constructed a recombinant SARS-CoV-2 (nsp15mut) expressing catalytically inactivated nsp15, which we show promoted increased dsRNA accumulation. Infection with SARS-CoV-2 nsp15mut led to increased activation of the IFN signaling and PKR pathways in lung-derived epithelial cell lines and primary nasal epithelial air-liquid interface (ALI) cultures as well as significant attenuation of replication in ALI cultures compared to wild-type virus. This replication defect was rescued when IFN signaling was inhibited with the Janus activated kinase (JAK) inhibitor ruxolitinib. Finally, to assess nsp15 function in the context of minimal (MERS-CoV) or moderate (SARS-CoV-2) innate immune induction, we compared infections with SARS-CoV-2 nsp15mut and previously described MERS-CoV nsp15 mutants. Inactivation of nsp15 had a more dramatic impact on MERS-CoV replication than SARS-CoV-2 in both Calu3 cells and nasal ALI cultures suggesting that SARS-CoV-2 can better tolerate innate immune responses. Taken together, SARS-CoV-2 nsp15 is a potent inhibitor of dsRNA-induced innate immune response and its antagonism of IFN signaling is necessary for optimal viral replication in primary nasal ALI cultures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clayton J. Otter
- Department of Microbiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
- Penn Center for Research on Coronaviruses and Other Emerging Pathogens, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Nicole Bracci
- Department of Microbiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
- Penn Center for Research on Coronaviruses and Other Emerging Pathogens, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Nicholas A. Parenti
- Department of Microbiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
- Penn Center for Research on Coronaviruses and Other Emerging Pathogens, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Chengjin Ye
- Disease Intervention and Prevention, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX78227
| | - Abhishek Asthana
- Department of Cancer Biology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH44195
| | - Ebba K. Blomqvist
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Herbert Wertheim University of Florida Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology, Jupiter, FL33458
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, The Herbert Wertheim University of Florida Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology, Jupiter, FL33458
| | - Li Hui Tan
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
- Department of Surgery, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Administration Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | | | - Nathaniel Jackson
- Disease Intervention and Prevention, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX78227
| | - Anthony R. Fehr
- Department of Molecular Biosciences, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS66045
| | - Robert H. Silverman
- Department of Cancer Biology, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH44195
| | - James M. Burke
- Department of Molecular Medicine, The Herbert Wertheim University of Florida Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology, Jupiter, FL33458
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, The Herbert Wertheim University of Florida Scripps Institute for Biomedical Innovation & Technology, Jupiter, FL33458
| | - Noam A. Cohen
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
- Department of Surgery, Corporal Michael J. Crescenz Veterans Administration Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA19104
| | - Luis Martinez-Sobrido
- Disease Intervention and Prevention, Texas Biomedical Research Institute, San Antonio, TX78227
| | - Susan R. Weiss
- Department of Microbiology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
- Penn Center for Research on Coronaviruses and Other Emerging Pathogens, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA19104
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4
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Garvanska DH, Alvarado RE, Mundt FO, Lindqvist R, Duel JK, Coscia F, Nilsson E, Lokugamage K, Johnson BA, Plante JA, Morris DR, Vu MN, Estes LK, McLeland AM, Walker J, Crocquet-Valdes PA, Mendez BL, Plante KS, Walker DH, Weisser MB, Överby AK, Mann M, Menachery VD, Nilsson J. The NSP3 protein of SARS-CoV-2 binds fragile X mental retardation proteins to disrupt UBAP2L interactions. EMBO Rep 2024; 25:902-926. [PMID: 38177924 PMCID: PMC10897489 DOI: 10.1038/s44319-023-00043-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Viruses interact with numerous host factors to facilitate viral replication and to dampen antiviral defense mechanisms. We currently have a limited mechanistic understanding of how SARS-CoV-2 binds host factors and the functional role of these interactions. Here, we uncover a novel interaction between the viral NSP3 protein and the fragile X mental retardation proteins (FMRPs: FMR1, FXR1-2). SARS-CoV-2 NSP3 mutant viruses preventing FMRP binding have attenuated replication in vitro and reduced levels of viral antigen in lungs during the early stages of infection. We show that a unique peptide motif in NSP3 binds directly to the two central KH domains of FMRPs and that this interaction is disrupted by the I304N mutation found in a patient with fragile X syndrome. NSP3 binding to FMRPs disrupts their interaction with the stress granule component UBAP2L through direct competition with a peptide motif in UBAP2L to prevent FMRP incorporation into stress granules. Collectively, our results provide novel insight into how SARS-CoV-2 hijacks host cell proteins and provides molecular insight into the possible underlying molecular defects in fragile X syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitriya H Garvanska
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - R Elias Alvarado
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
- Institute for Translational Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Filip Oskar Mundt
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Josephine Kerzel Duel
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Fabian Coscia
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Emma Nilsson
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Kumari Lokugamage
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Bryan A Johnson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Jessica A Plante
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
- World Reference Center of Emerging Viruses and Arboviruses, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Dorothea R Morris
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
- Institute for Translational Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Michelle N Vu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Leah K Estes
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Alyssa M McLeland
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Jordyn Walker
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
- World Reference Center of Emerging Viruses and Arboviruses, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | | | - Blanca Lopez Mendez
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kenneth S Plante
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
- World Reference Center of Emerging Viruses and Arboviruses, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - David H Walker
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Melanie Bianca Weisser
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anna K Överby
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Matthias Mann
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Vineet D Menachery
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
- World Reference Center of Emerging Viruses and Arboviruses, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Jakob Nilsson
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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5
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He M, Cao L, Liu L, Jin X, Zheng B, Liu X, Zhuang J, Zhang F, Yang Z, Ji Y, Xu T, Huang S, Chen J, Xie L, Li K, Hou P, Pan J, Guo D, Li C. Reconstitution of RNA cap methylation reveals different features of SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV methyltransferases. J Med Virol 2024; 96:e29411. [PMID: 38285434 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Cap RNA methylations play important roles in the replication, evasion of host RNA sensor recognition, and pathogenesis. Coronaviruses possess both guanine N7- and 2'-O-ribose methyltransferases (N7-MTase and 2'-O-MTase) encoded by nonstructural protein (nsp) 14 and nsp16/10 complex, respectively. In this study, we reconstituted the two-step RNA methylations of N7-MTase and 2'-O-MTase of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in vitro and demonstrated its common and different features in comparison with that of SARS-CoV. We revealed that the nsp16/10 2'-O-MTase of SARS-CoV-2 has a broader substrate selectivity than the counterpart of SARS-CoV and can accommodate both unmethylated and uncapped RNA substrates in a sequence-independent manner. Most intriguingly, the substrate selectivity of nsp16/10 complex is not determined by the apoenzyme of nsp16 MTase but by its cofactor nsp10. These results provide insight into the unique features of SARS-CoV-2 MTases and may help develop strategies to precisely intervene in the methylation pathway and pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miao He
- MOE Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Centre for Infection and Immunity Studies, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Liu Cao
- MOE Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Centre for Infection and Immunity Studies, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Lihong Liu
- Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou International Bio-Island, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xu Jin
- MOE Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Centre for Infection and Immunity Studies, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Birong Zheng
- MOE Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Centre for Infection and Immunity Studies, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou International Bio-Island, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Xue Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Centre for Infection and Immunity Studies, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiaxin Zhuang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Centre for Infection and Immunity Studies, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Fushi Zhang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Centre for Infection and Immunity Studies, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Zixiao Yang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Centre for Infection and Immunity Studies, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou International Bio-Island, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yanxi Ji
- MOE Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Centre for Infection and Immunity Studies, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Tiefeng Xu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Centre for Infection and Immunity Studies, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou International Bio-Island, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Siyao Huang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Centre for Infection and Immunity Studies, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou International Bio-Island, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Junhai Chen
- MOE Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Centre for Infection and Immunity Studies, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Luyang Xie
- MOE Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Centre for Infection and Immunity Studies, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Kun Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Centre for Infection and Immunity Studies, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
- Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou International Bio-Island, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Panpan Hou
- MOE Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Centre for Infection and Immunity Studies, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Jian Pan
- MOE Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Centre for Infection and Immunity Studies, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Deyin Guo
- Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou International Bio-Island, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- State Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Guangzhou Institute of Respiratory Health, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Chunmei Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Tropical Disease Control, Centre for Infection and Immunity Studies, School of Medicine, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
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Tsukamoto Y, Igarashi M, Kato H. Targeting cap1 RNA methyltransferases as an antiviral strategy. Cell Chem Biol 2024; 31:86-99. [PMID: 38091983 DOI: 10.1016/j.chembiol.2023.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2024]
Abstract
Methylation is one of the critical modifications that regulates numerous biological processes. Guanine capping and methylation at the 7th position (m7G) have been shown to mature mRNA for increased RNA stability and translational efficiency. The m7G capped cap0 RNA remains immature and requires additional methylation at the first nucleotide (N1-2'-O-Me), designated as cap1, to achieve full maturation. This cap1 RNA with N1-2'-O-Me prevents its recognition by innate immune sensors as non-self. Viruses have also evolved various strategies to produce self-like capped RNAs with the N1-2'-O-Me that potentially evades the antiviral response and establishes an efficient replication. In this review, we focus on the importance of the presence of N1-2'-O-Me in viral RNAs and discuss the potential for drug development by targeting host and viral N1-2'-O-methyltransferases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuta Tsukamoto
- Institute of Cardiovascular Immunology, Medical Faculty, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Manabu Igarashi
- Division of Global Epidemiology, International Institute for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan; International Collaboration Unit, International Institute for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Hiroki Kato
- Institute of Cardiovascular Immunology, Medical Faculty, University Hospital Bonn, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany.
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7
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Cai HL, Huang YW. Reverse genetics systems for SARS-CoV-2: Development and applications. Virol Sin 2023; 38:837-850. [PMID: 37832720 PMCID: PMC10786661 DOI: 10.1016/j.virs.2023.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The recent emergence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) caused serious harm to human health and struck a blow to global economic development. Research on SARS-CoV-2 has greatly benefited from the use of reverse genetics systems, which have been established to artificially manipulate the viral genome, generating recombinant and reporter infectious viruses or biosafety level 2 (BSL-2)-adapted non-infectious replicons with desired modifications. These tools have been instrumental in studying the molecular biological characteristics of the virus, investigating antiviral therapeutics, and facilitating the development of attenuated vaccine candidates. Here, we review the construction strategies, development, and applications of reverse genetics systems for SARS-CoV-2, which may be applied to other CoVs as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hou-Li Cai
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Yao-Wei Huang
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China; State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China.
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8
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Giriyappagoudar M, Vastrad B, Horakeri R, Vastrad C. Study on Potential Differentially Expressed Genes in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis by Bioinformatics and Next-Generation Sequencing Data Analysis. Biomedicines 2023; 11:3109. [PMID: 38137330 PMCID: PMC10740779 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11123109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic progressive lung disease with reduced quality of life and earlier mortality, but its pathogenesis and key genes are still unclear. In this investigation, bioinformatics was used to deeply analyze the pathogenesis of IPF and related key genes, so as to investigate the potential molecular pathogenesis of IPF and provide guidance for clinical treatment. Next-generation sequencing dataset GSE213001 was obtained from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), and the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified between IPF and normal control group. The DEGs between IPF and normal control group were screened with the DESeq2 package of R language. The Gene Ontology (GO) and REACTOME pathway enrichment analyses of the DEGs were performed. Using the g:Profiler, the function and pathway enrichment analyses of DEGs were performed. Then, a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed via the Integrated Interactions Database (IID) database. Cytoscape with Network Analyzer was used to identify the hub genes. miRNet and NetworkAnalyst databaseswereused to construct the targeted microRNAs (miRNAs), transcription factors (TFs), and small drug molecules. Finally, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to validate the hub genes. A total of 958 DEGs were screened out in this study, including 479 up regulated genes and 479 down regulated genes. Most of the DEGs were significantly enriched in response to stimulus, GPCR ligand binding, microtubule-based process, and defective GALNT3 causes HFTC. In combination with the results of the PPI network, miRNA-hub gene regulatory network and TF-hub gene regulatory network, hub genes including LRRK2, BMI1, EBP, MNDA, KBTBD7, KRT15, OTX1, TEKT4, SPAG8, and EFHC2 were selected. Cyclothiazide and rotigotinethe are predicted small drug molecules for IPF treatment. Our findings will contribute to identification of potential biomarkers and novel strategies for the treatment of IPF, and provide a novel strategy for clinical therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muttanagouda Giriyappagoudar
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Karnataka Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), Hubballi 580022, Karnataka, India;
| | - Basavaraj Vastrad
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, K.L.E. Socitey’s College of Pharmacy, Gadag 582101, Karnataka, India;
| | - Rajeshwari Horakeri
- Department of Computer Science, Govt First Grade College, Hubballi 580032, Karnataka, India;
| | - Chanabasayya Vastrad
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Chanabasava Nilaya, Bharthinagar, Dharwad 580001, Karnataka, India
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9
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Wang X, Chang Z, Zhao T, Zhong W, Shi J, Wang G, Xu X. The role of post-transcriptional regulation in SARS-CoV-2 infection and pathogenicity. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1256574. [PMID: 38035086 PMCID: PMC10684767 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1256574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus has had a significant impact on global social and economic stability. To combat this, researchers have turned to omics approaches, particularly epitranscriptomics, to limit infection and develop effective therapeutic strategies. Multi-omics can provide the host response dynamics during multiple disease phases to reveal the molecular and cellular landscapes. Epitranscriptomics focuses on the mechanisms of gene transcription in cells and tissues and the relationship between genetic material and epigenetic regulation. This review highlights the role of post-transcriptional regulation in SARS-CoV-2, which affect various processes such as virus infection, replication, immunogenicity, and pathogenicity. The review also explains the formation mechanism of post-transcriptional modifications and how they can be regulated to combat viral infection and pathogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Guoqing Wang
- Key Laboratory of Pathobiology Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences/China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xuesong Xu
- Key Laboratory of Pathobiology Ministry of Education, College of Basic Medical Sciences/China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Jilin University, Changchun, China
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10
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Schindewolf C, Menachery VD. Coronavirus 2'-O-methyltransferase: A promising therapeutic target. Virus Res 2023; 336:199211. [PMID: 37634741 PMCID: PMC10485632 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2023.199211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Coronaviruses (CoVs) have been the source of multiple epidemics and a global pandemic since the start of century, and there is an urgent need to understand CoV biology and develop better therapeutics. Here, we review the role of NSP16 in CoV replication, specifically its importance to 2'-O-methylation and CoV RNA capping. We describe the attenuation phenotypes of NSP16-mutant CoVs, the roles of MDA5 and IFITs in sensing and antagonizing viral RNA lacking 2'O methylation, and the dependence on 2'-O-methylation in other virus families. We also detail the growing body of research into targeting 2'-O-methylation for therapeutics or as a platform for live attenuated vaccines. Beyond its role in RNA capping, NSP16 may have yet uncharacterized importance to CoV replication, highlighting the need for continued studies into NSP16 functions. Understanding the full contribution of NSP16 to the replicative fitness of CoVs will better inform the development of treatments against future CoV outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig Schindewolf
- Center for Immunity and Immunotherapies, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA; Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Vineet D Menachery
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA; Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA; World Reference Center for Emerging Viruses and Arboviruses, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA.
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11
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Garvanska DH, Alvarado RE, Mundt FO, Nilsson E, Duel JK, Coscia F, Lindqvist R, Lokugamage K, Johnson BA, Plante JA, Morris DR, Vu MN, Estes LK, McLeland AM, Walker J, Crocquet-Valdes PA, Mendez BL, Plante KS, Walker DH, Weisser MB, Overby AK, Mann M, Menachery VD, Nilsson J. SARS-CoV-2 hijacks fragile X mental retardation proteins for efficient infection. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.01.555899. [PMID: 37693415 PMCID: PMC10491247 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.01.555899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Viruses interact with numerous host factors to facilitate viral replication and to dampen antiviral defense mechanisms. We currently have a limited mechanistic understanding of how SARS-CoV-2 binds host factors and the functional role of these interactions. Here, we uncover a novel interaction between the viral NSP3 protein and the fragile X mental retardation proteins (FMRPs: FMR1 and FXR1-2). SARS-CoV-2 NSP3 mutant viruses preventing FMRP binding have attenuated replication in vitro and have delayed disease onset in vivo. We show that a unique peptide motif in NSP3 binds directly to the two central KH domains of FMRPs and that this interaction is disrupted by the I304N mutation found in a patient with fragile X syndrome. NSP3 binding to FMRPs disrupts their interaction with the stress granule component UBAP2L through direct competition with a peptide motif in UBAP2L to prevent FMRP incorporation into stress granules. Collectively, our results provide novel insight into how SARS-CoV-2 hijacks host cell proteins for efficient infection and provides molecular insight to the possible underlying molecular defects in fragile X syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitriya H Garvanska
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rojelio E Alvarado
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Institute for Translational Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Filip Oskar Mundt
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Emma Nilsson
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Josephine Kerzel Duel
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Fabian Coscia
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Kumari Lokugamage
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Bryan A Johnson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Jessica A Plante
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
- World Reference Center of Emerging Viruses and Arboviruses, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Dorothea R Morris
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
- Institute for Translational Sciences, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Michelle N Vu
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Leah K Estes
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Alyssa M McLeland
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Jordyn Walker
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
- World Reference Center of Emerging Viruses and Arboviruses, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | | | - Blanca Lopez Mendez
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Kenneth S Plante
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
- World Reference Center of Emerging Viruses and Arboviruses, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - David H Walker
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Melanie Bianca Weisser
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anna K Overby
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Matthias Mann
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Vineet D Menachery
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, USA
- World Reference Center of Emerging Viruses and Arboviruses, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Jakob Nilsson
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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12
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Silva Júnior JVJ, Durães-Carvalho R, de Souza JR, Ramos Janini LM, Weiblen R, Flores EF. Emergence of SARS-CoV-2 serotype(s): Is it a matter of time? Virology 2023; 585:78-81. [PMID: 37321144 PMCID: PMC10240909 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2023.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 04/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Since its identification in late 2019, SARS-CoV-2 has undergone numerous mutations, resulting in the emergence of several viral variants, which may differ in transmissibility, virulence and/or evasion from host immunity. Particularly, immunity-related changes have been well documented in the Omicron variant, including reports of escaping neutralizing antibodies induced by infection/vaccination with heterologous SARS-CoV-2 or used in serological therapy. These findings may encourage some discussions about the possibility that Omicron is a distinct SARS-CoV-2 serotype. To contribute to this issue, we combined concepts from immunology, virology and evolution and performed an interesting brainstorm on the hypothesis that Omicron is a distinct SARS-CoV-2 serotype. Furthermore, we also discussed the likelihood of emergence of SARS-CoV-2 serotypes over time, which may not necessarily be related to Omicron. Finally, insights into this topic may have direct implications for vaccine formulations, immunodiagnostic platforms and serological therapies, contributing to better management of future outbreaks or waves.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Valter Joaquim Silva Júnior
- Virology Sector, Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Center for Rural Sciences, Federal University of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil; Virology Sector, Keizo Asami Institute, Federal University of Pernambuco, Pernambuco, Brazil; Department of Clinical Analysis, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
| | - Ricardo Durães-Carvalho
- São Paulo School of Medicine, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil; Graduate Program in Structural and Functional Biology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | | | - Luiz Mário Ramos Janini
- São Paulo School of Medicine, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Parasitology, Federal University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rudi Weiblen
- Virology Sector, Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Center for Rural Sciences, Federal University of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Furtado Flores
- Virology Sector, Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, Center for Rural Sciences, Federal University of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
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13
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Lin X, Sha Z, Trimpert J, Kunec D, Jiang C, Xiong Y, Xu B, Zhu Z, Xue W, Wu H. The NSP4 T492I mutation increases SARS-CoV-2 infectivity by altering non-structural protein cleavage. Cell Host Microbe 2023; 31:1170-1184.e7. [PMID: 37402373 DOI: 10.1016/j.chom.2023.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023]
Abstract
The historically dominant SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant and the currently dominant Omicron variants carry a T492I substitution within the non-structural protein 4 (NSP4). Based on in silico analyses, we hypothesized that the T492I mutation increases viral transmissibility and adaptability, which we confirmed with competition experiments in hamster and human airway tissue culture models. Furthermore, we showed that the T492I mutation increases the replication capacity and infectiveness of the virus and improves its ability to evade host immune responses. Mechanistically, the T492I mutation increases the cleavage efficiency of the viral main protease NSP5 by enhancing enzyme-substrate binding, which increases production of nearly all non-structural proteins processed by NSP5. Importantly, the T492I mutation suppresses viral-RNA-associated chemokine production in monocytic macrophages, which may contribute to the attenuated pathogenicity of Omicron variants. Our results highlight the importance of NSP4 adaptation in the evolutionary dynamics of SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyuan Lin
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, No.55 Daxuecheng South Road, Shapingba, Chongqing 401331, China; Institut für Virologie, Freie Universität Berlin, Robert-von-Ostertag-Straße 7, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - Zhou Sha
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, No.55 Daxuecheng South Road, Shapingba, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Jakob Trimpert
- Institut für Virologie, Freie Universität Berlin, Robert-von-Ostertag-Straße 7, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - Dusan Kunec
- Institut für Virologie, Freie Universität Berlin, Robert-von-Ostertag-Straße 7, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - Chen Jiang
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, No.55 Daxuecheng South Road, Shapingba, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Yan Xiong
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, No.55 Daxuecheng South Road, Shapingba, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Binbin Xu
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, No.55 Daxuecheng South Road, Shapingba, Chongqing 401331, China
| | - Zhenglin Zhu
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, No.55 Daxuecheng South Road, Shapingba, Chongqing 401331, China.
| | - Weiwei Xue
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chongqing University, No.55 Daxuecheng South Road, Shapingba, Chongqing 401331, China.
| | - Haibo Wu
- School of Life Sciences, Chongqing University, No.55 Daxuecheng South Road, Shapingba, Chongqing 401331, China.
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14
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Sacchi A, Giannessi F, Sabatini A, Percario ZA, Affabris E. SARS-CoV-2 Evasion of the Interferon System: Can We Restore Its Effectiveness? Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119353. [PMID: 37298304 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Type I and III Interferons (IFNs) are the first lines of defense in microbial infections. They critically block early animal virus infection, replication, spread, and tropism to promote the adaptive immune response. Type I IFNs induce a systemic response that impacts nearly every cell in the host, while type III IFNs' susceptibility is restricted to anatomic barriers and selected immune cells. Both IFN types are critical cytokines for the antiviral response against epithelium-tropic viruses being effectors of innate immunity and regulators of the development of the adaptive immune response. Indeed, the innate antiviral immune response is essential to limit virus replication at the early stages of infection, thus reducing viral spread and pathogenesis. However, many animal viruses have evolved strategies to evade the antiviral immune response. The Coronaviridae are viruses with the largest genome among the RNA viruses. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome-Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) caused the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The virus has evolved numerous strategies to contrast the IFN system immunity. We intend to describe the virus-mediated evasion of the IFN responses by going through the main phases: First, the molecular mechanisms involved; second, the role of the genetic background of IFN production during SARS-CoV-2 infection; and third, the potential novel approaches to contrast viral pathogenesis by restoring endogenous type I and III IFNs production and sensitivity at the sites of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Sacchi
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Antimicrobial Immunity, Department of Science, Roma Tre University, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Flavia Giannessi
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Antimicrobial Immunity, Department of Science, Roma Tre University, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Sabatini
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Antimicrobial Immunity, Department of Science, Roma Tre University, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Zulema Antonia Percario
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Antimicrobial Immunity, Department of Science, Roma Tre University, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Affabris
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology and Antimicrobial Immunity, Department of Science, Roma Tre University, 00146 Rome, Italy
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