1
|
Tuttolomondo M, Pham STD, Terp MG, Cendán Castillo V, Kalisi N, Vogel S, Langkjær N, Hansen UM, Thisgaard H, Schrøder HD, Palarasah Y, Ditzel HJ. A novel multitargeted self-assembling peptide-siRNA complex for simultaneous inhibition of SARS-CoV-2-host cell interaction and replication. MOLECULAR THERAPY. NUCLEIC ACIDS 2024; 35:102227. [PMID: 38939051 PMCID: PMC11203390 DOI: 10.1016/j.omtn.2024.102227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Effective therapeutics are necessary for managing severe COVID-19 disease despite the availability of vaccines. Small interfering RNA (siRNA) can silence viral genes and restrict SARS-CoV-2 replication. Cell-penetrating peptides is a robust method for siRNA delivery, enhancing siRNA stability and targeting specific receptors. We developed a peptide HE25 that blocks SARS-CoV-2 replication by various mechanisms, including the binding of multiple receptors involved in the virus's internalization, such as ACE2, integrins and NRP1. HE25 not only acts as a vehicle to deliver the SARS-CoV-2 RNA-dependent RNA polymerase siRNA into cells but also facilitates their internalization through endocytosis. Once inside endosomes, the siRNA is released into the cytoplasm through the Histidine-proton sponge effect and the selective cleavage of HE25 by cathepsin B. These mechanisms effectively inhibited the replication of the ancestral SARS-CoV-2 and the Omicron variant BA.5 in vitro. When HE25 was administered in vivo, either by intravenous injection or inhalation, it accumulated in lungs, veins and arteries, endothelium, or bronchial structure depending on the route. Furthermore, the siRNA/HE25 complex caused gene silencing in lung cells in vitro. The SARS-CoV-2 siRNA/HE25 complex is a promising therapeutic for COVID-19, and a similar strategy can be employed to combat future emerging viral diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martina Tuttolomondo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Cancer and Inflammation Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Stephanie Thuy Duong Pham
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Cancer and Inflammation Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Mikkel Green Terp
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Cancer and Inflammation Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Virginia Cendán Castillo
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Cancer and Inflammation Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Nazmie Kalisi
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Stefan Vogel
- Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Niels Langkjær
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Odense University Hospital, 5000 Odense, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Ulla Melchior Hansen
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Imaging Core Facility, DaMBIC, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Helge Thisgaard
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Odense University Hospital, 5000 Odense, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Henrik Daa Schrøder
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
- Department of Pathology, Odense University Hospital, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Yaseelan Palarasah
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Cancer and Inflammation Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Henrik Jørn Ditzel
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Unit of Cancer and Inflammation Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense, Denmark
- Department of Oncology, Odense University Hospital, 5000 Odense, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Aghajani Mir M. Illuminating the pathogenic role of SARS-CoV-2: Insights into competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) regulatory networks. INFECTION, GENETICS AND EVOLUTION : JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR EPIDEMIOLOGY AND EVOLUTIONARY GENETICS IN INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2024; 122:105613. [PMID: 38844190 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2024.105613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
The appearance of SARS-CoV-2 in 2019 triggered a significant economic and health crisis worldwide, with heterogeneous molecular mechanisms that contribute to its development are not yet fully understood. Although substantial progress has been made in elucidating the mechanisms behind SARS-CoV-2 infection and therapy, it continues to rank among the top three global causes of mortality due to infectious illnesses. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), being integral components across nearly all biological processes, demonstrate effective importance in viral pathogenesis. Regarding viral infections, ncRNAs have demonstrated their ability to modulate host reactions, viral replication, and host-pathogen interactions. However, the complex interactions of different types of ncRNAs in the progression of COVID-19 remains understudied. In recent years, a novel mechanism of post-transcriptional gene regulation known as "competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA)" has been proposed. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), circular RNAs (circRNAs), and viral ncRNAs function as ceRNAs, influencing the expression of associated genes by sequestering shared microRNAs. Recent research on SARS-CoV-2 has revealed that disruptions in specific ceRNA regulatory networks (ceRNETs) contribute to the abnormal expression of key infection-related genes and the establishment of distinctive infection characteristics. These findings present new opportunities to delve deeper into the underlying mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis, offering potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets. This progress paves the way for a more comprehensive understanding of ceRNETs, shedding light on the intricate mechanisms involved. Further exploration of these mechanisms holds promise for enhancing our ability to prevent viral infections and develop effective antiviral treatments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Aghajani Mir
- Deputy of Research and Technology, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Qiu S, Wu S, Yin R, Wang B, Wu H. Correlation between COVID-19 infection and fetal situs inversus. Birth Defects Res 2024; 116:e2324. [PMID: 38441284 DOI: 10.1002/bdr2.2324] [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: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Situs inversus is a rare congenital condition, defined by the mirror-image transposition of the abdominothoracic organs. It is linked to an increased risk of different disorders, for example, congenital heart defects and primary ciliary dyskinesia. Recently, some reports have been on the increased incidence of situs inversus after the COVID-19 pandemic. OBJECTIVES To investigate the association between maternal COVID-19 infection and fetal situs inversus occurrence risk. METHODS All pregnant women who underwent fetal ultrasound examinations at Jinan Maternal and Child Health Hospital from January to May of 2022 and 2023 were recruited. A chi-square test was conducted to assess the association of maternal COVID-19 infection with the incidence rate of fetal situs inversus. RESULTS A total of 8381 patients, including 25 with situs inversus fetuses were recruited. A total of 3956 patients had COVID-19, while 4400 did not. Among 25 mothers with situs inversus fetuses, 22 had COVID-19 and 3 without recent infection. Our analysis showed a strong link between COVID-19 and a higher risk of fetus situs inversus (P < .001, odds ratio 8.196). CONCLUSION Maternal COVID-19 infection in the early stages of the pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of fetal situs inversion occurrence. Therefore, further research in this field seems necessary.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Qiu
- Department of Ultrasound, Jinan Maternity and Child Care Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Shuang Wu
- Department of Ultrasound, Jinan Maternity and Child Care Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Ranran Yin
- Department of Outpatient, Jinan Youfu Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Bo Wang
- Department of Ultrasound, Jinan Maternity and Child Care Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| | - Hongying Wu
- Department of Ultrasound, Jinan Maternity and Child Care Hospital, Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Cai Z, Bai H, Ren D, Xue B, Liu Y, Gong T, Zhang X, Zhang P, Zhu J, Shi B, Zhang C. Integrin αvβ1 facilitates ACE2-mediated entry of SARS-CoV-2. Virus Res 2024; 339:199251. [PMID: 37884208 PMCID: PMC10651773 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2023.199251] [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: 03/30/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Integrins have been suggested to be involved in SARS-CoV-2 infection, but the underlying mechanisms remain largely unclear. This study aimed to investigate how integrins facilitate the ACE2-mediated cellular entry of SARS-CoV-2. We first tested the susceptibility of a panel of human cell lines to SARS-CoV-2 infection using the spike protein pseudotyped virus assay and examined the expression levels of integrins in these cell lines by qPCR, western blot and flow cytometry. We found that integrin αvβ1 was highly enriched in the SARS-CoV-2 susceptible cell lines. Additional studies demonstrated that RGD (403-405)→AAA mutant was defective in binding to integrin αvβ1 compared to its wild type counterpart, and anti-αvβ1 integrin antibodies significantly inhibited the entry of SARS-CoV-2 into the cells. Further studies using mouse NIH3T3 cells expressing human ACE2, integrin αv, integrin β1, and/or integrin αvβ1 suggest that integrin αvβ1 was unable to function as an independent receptor but could significantly facilitate the cellular entry of SASR-CoV-2. Finally, we observed that the Omicron exhibited a significant increase in the ACE2-mediated viral entry. Our findings may enhance our understanding of the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 infection and offer potential therapeutic target for COVID-19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zeqiong Cai
- The MED-X Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Building 21, Western China Science and Technology Innovation Harbor, Xi'an 710000, China
| | - Han Bai
- The MED-X Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Building 21, Western China Science and Technology Innovation Harbor, Xi'an 710000, China
| | - Doudou Ren
- The MED-X Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Building 21, Western China Science and Technology Innovation Harbor, Xi'an 710000, China
| | - Biyun Xue
- The MED-X Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Building 21, Western China Science and Technology Innovation Harbor, Xi'an 710000, China
| | - Yijia Liu
- Precision Medicine Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Yanta West Road, Xi'an 710061, China
| | - Tian Gong
- Center for Molecular Diagnosis and Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 17 Yongwai Zhengjie, Nanchang 330006, China; Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 17 Yongwai Zhengjie, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Xuan Zhang
- Center for Molecular Diagnosis and Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 17 Yongwai Zhengjie, Nanchang 330006, China; Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 17 Yongwai Zhengjie, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Peng Zhang
- Center for Molecular Diagnosis and Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 17 Yongwai Zhengjie, Nanchang 330006, China; Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 17 Yongwai Zhengjie, Nanchang 330006, China
| | - Junsheng Zhu
- The MED-X Institute, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Building 21, Western China Science and Technology Innovation Harbor, Xi'an 710000, China
| | - Binyin Shi
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, 277 Yanta West Road, Xi'an 710061, China.
| | - Chengsheng Zhang
- Center for Molecular Diagnosis and Precision Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 17 Yongwai Zhengjie, Nanchang 330006, China; Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 17 Yongwai Zhengjie, Nanchang 330006, China; Department of Medical Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, 17 Yongwai Zhengjie, Nanchang 330006, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Zhang H, Wang Z, Nguyen HTT, Watson AJ, Lao Q, Li A, Zhu J. Integrin α 5β 1 contributes to cell fusion and inflammation mediated by SARS-CoV-2 spike via RGD-independent interaction. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2311913120. [PMID: 38060559 PMCID: PMC10723138 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2311913120] [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: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) virus infects host cells by engaging its spike (S) protein with human ACE2 receptor. Recent studies suggest the involvement of integrins in SARS-CoV-2 infection through interaction with the S protein, but the underlying mechanism is not well understood. This study investigated the role of integrin α5β1, which recognizes the Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) motif in its physiological ligands, in S-mediated virus entry and cell-cell fusion. Our results showed that α5β1 does not directly contribute to S-mediated cell entry, but it enhances S-mediated cell-cell fusion in collaboration with ACE2. This effect cannot be inhibited by the putative α5β1 inhibitor ATN-161 or the high-affinity RGD-mimetic inhibitor MK-0429 but requires the participation of α5 cytoplasmic tail (CT). We detected a direct interaction between α5β1 and the S protein, but this interaction does not rely on the RGD-containing receptor binding domain of the S1 subunit of the S protein. Instead, it involves the S2 subunit of the S protein and α5β1 homo-oligomerization. Furthermore, we found that the S protein induces inflammatory responses in human endothelial cells, characterized by NF-κB activation, gasdermin D cleavage, and increased secretion of proinflammatory cytokines IL-6 and IL-1β. These effects can be attenuated by the loss of α5 expression or inhibition of the α5 CT binding protein phosphodiesterase-4D (PDE4D), suggesting the involvement of α5 CT and PDE4D pathway. These findings provide molecular insights into the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 mediated by a nonclassical RGD-independent ligand-binding and signaling function of integrin α5β1 and suggest potential targets for antiviral treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Heng Zhang
- Thrombosis and Hemostasis Program, Versiti Blood Research Institute, Milwaukee, WI53226
| | - Zhengli Wang
- Thrombosis and Hemostasis Program, Versiti Blood Research Institute, Milwaukee, WI53226
| | - Huong T. T. Nguyen
- Thrombosis and Hemostasis Program, Versiti Blood Research Institute, Milwaukee, WI53226
| | - Abigail J. Watson
- Thrombosis and Hemostasis Program, Versiti Blood Research Institute, Milwaukee, WI53226
| | - Qifang Lao
- Thrombosis and Hemostasis Program, Versiti Blood Research Institute, Milwaukee, WI53226
| | - An Li
- Thrombosis and Hemostasis Program, Versiti Blood Research Institute, Milwaukee, WI53226
| | - Jieqing Zhu
- Thrombosis and Hemostasis Program, Versiti Blood Research Institute, Milwaukee, WI53226
- Department of Biochemistry, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI53226
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Bodakuntla S, Kuhn CC, Biertümpfel C, Mizuno N. Cryo-electron microscopy in the fight against COVID-19-mechanism of virus entry. Front Mol Biosci 2023; 10:1252529. [PMID: 37867557 PMCID: PMC10587472 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2023.1252529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and electron tomography (cryo-ET) have become a critical tool for studying viral particles. Cryo-EM has enhanced our understanding of viral assembly and replication processes at a molecular resolution. Meanwhile, in situ cryo-ET has been used to investigate how viruses attach to and invade host cells. These advances have significantly contributed to our knowledge of viral biology. Particularly, prompt elucidations of structures of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and its variants have directly impacted the development of vaccines and therapeutic measures. This review discusses the progress made by cryo-EM based technologies in comprehending the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-Cov-2), the virus responsible for the devastating global COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 with focus on the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and the mechanisms of the virus entry and replication.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Satish Bodakuntla
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Christopher Cyrus Kuhn
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Christian Biertümpfel
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Naoko Mizuno
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Xia X. Identification of host receptors for viral entry and beyond: a perspective from the spike of SARS-CoV-2. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1188249. [PMID: 37560522 PMCID: PMC10407229 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1188249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Identification of the interaction between the host membrane receptor and viral receptor-binding domain (RBD) represents a crucial step for understanding viral pathophysiology and for developing drugs against pathogenic viruses. While all membrane receptors and carbohydrate chains could potentially be used as receptors for viruses, prioritized searches focus typically on membrane receptors that are known to have been used by the relatives of the pathogenic virus, e.g., ACE2 used as a receptor for SARS-CoV is a prioritized candidate receptor for SARS-CoV-2. An ideal receptor protein from a viral perspective is one that is highly expressed in epithelial cell surface of mammalian respiratory or digestive tracts, strongly conserved in evolution so many mammalian species can serve as potential hosts, and functionally important so that its expression cannot be readily downregulated by the host in response to the infection. Experimental confirmation of host receptors includes (1) infection studies with cell cultures/tissues/organs with or without candidate receptor expression, (2) experimental determination of protein structure of the complex between the putative viral RDB and the candidate host receptor, and (3) experiments with mutant candidate receptor or homologues of the candidate receptor in other species. Successful identification of the host receptor opens the door for mechanism-based development of candidate drugs and vaccines and facilitates the inference of what other animal species are vulnerable to the viral pathogen. I illustrate these approaches with research on identification of the receptor and co-factors for SARS-CoV-2.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuhua Xia
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Ottawa Institute of Systems Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Wei C, Datta PK, Siegerist F, Li J, Yashwanth S, Koh KH, Kriho NW, Ismail A, Luo S, Fischer T, Amber KT, Cimbaluk D, Landay A, Endlich N, Rappaport J, Hayek SS, Reiser J. SuPAR mediates viral response proteinuria by rapidly changing podocyte function. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4414. [PMID: 37479685 PMCID: PMC10362037 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40165-5] [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: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Elevation in soluble urokinase receptor (suPAR) and proteinuria are common signs in patients with moderate to severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Here we characterize a new type of proteinuria originating as part of a viral response. Inoculation of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) causes increased suPAR levels and glomerulopathy in African green monkeys. Using an engineered mouse model with high suPAR expression, inhaled variants of SARS-CoV-2 spike S1 protein elicite proteinuria that could be blocked by either suPAR antibody or SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. In a cohort of 1991 COVID-19 patients, suPAR levels exhibit a stepwise association with proteinuria in non-Omicron, but not in Omicron infections, supporting our findings of biophysical and functional differences between variants of SARS-CoV-2 spike S1 protein and their binding to podocyte integrins. These insights are not limited to SARS-CoV-2 and define viral response proteinuria (VRP) as an innate immune mechanism and co-activation of podocyte integrins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Changli Wei
- Department of Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Prasun K Datta
- Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA, 70433, USA
| | - Florian Siegerist
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University Medicine Greifswald, 17487, Greifswald, Germany
- NIPOKA GmbH, 17489, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Jing Li
- Department of Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Sudhini Yashwanth
- Department of Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Kwi Hye Koh
- Morphic Therapeutic, Waltham, MA, 02451, USA
| | - Nicholas W Kriho
- Department of Pathology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Anis Ismail
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Shengyuan Luo
- Department of Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Tracy Fischer
- Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA, 70433, USA
| | - Kyle T Amber
- Department of Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Dermatology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - David Cimbaluk
- Department of Pathology, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Alan Landay
- Department of Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Nicole Endlich
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University Medicine Greifswald, 17487, Greifswald, Germany
- NIPOKA GmbH, 17489, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Jay Rappaport
- Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA, 70433, USA
| | - Salim S Hayek
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
| | - Jochen Reiser
- Department of Medicine, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Gerencer M, McGuffin LJ. Are the integrin binding motifs within SARS CoV-2 spike protein and MHC class II alleles playing the key role in COVID-19? Front Immunol 2023; 14:1177691. [PMID: 37492575 PMCID: PMC10364474 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1177691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The previous studies on the RGD motif (aa403-405) within the SARS CoV-2 spike (S) protein receptor binding domain (RBD) suggest that the RGD motif binding integrin(s) may play an important role in infection of the host cells. We also discussed the possible role of two other integrin binding motifs that are present in S protein: LDI (aa585-587) and ECD (661-663), the motifs used by some other viruses in the course of infection. The MultiFOLD models for protein structure analysis have shown that the ECD motif is clearly accessible in the S protein, whereas the RGD and LDI motifs are partially accessible. Furthermore, the amino acids that are present in Epstein-Barr virus protein (EBV) gp42 playing very important role in binding to the HLA-DRB1 molecule and in the subsequent immune response evasion, are also present in the S protein heptad repeat-2. Our MultiFOLD model analyses have shown that these amino acids are clearly accessible on the surface in each S protein chain as monomers and in the homotrimer complex and bind to HLA-DRB1 β chain. Therefore, they may have the identical role in SARS CoV-2 immune evasion as in EBV infection. The prediction analyses of the MHC class II binding peptides within the S protein have shown that the RGD motif is present in the core 9-mer peptide IRGDEVRQI within the two HLA-DRB1*03:01 and HLA-DRB3*01.01 strong binding 15-mer peptides suggesting that RGD motif may be the potential immune epitope. Accordingly, infected HLA-DRB1*03:01 or HLA-DRB3*01.01 positive individuals may develop high affinity anti-RGD motif antibodies that react with the RGD motif in the host proteins, like fibrinogen, thrombin or von Willebrand factor, affecting haemostasis or participating in autoimmune disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Liam J. McGuffin
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Zheng Z, Peng F, Zhou Y. Pulmonary fibrosis: A short- or long-term sequelae of severe COVID-19? CHINESE MEDICAL JOURNAL PULMONARY AND CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE 2023; 1:77-83. [PMID: 37388822 PMCID: PMC9988550 DOI: 10.1016/j.pccm.2022.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
The pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‑19), caused by a novel severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), has caused an enormous impact on the global healthcare. SARS-CoV-2 infection primarily targets the respiratory system. Although most individuals testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 present mild or no upper respiratory tract symptoms, patients with severe COVID-19 can rapidly progress to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). ARDS-related pulmonary fibrosis is a recognized sequelae of COVID-19. Whether post-COVID-19 lung fibrosis is resolvable, persistent, or even becomes progressive as seen in human idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is currently not known and remains a matter of debate. With the emergence of effective vaccines and treatments against COVID-19, it is now important to build our understanding of the long-term sequela of SARS-CoV-2 infection, to identify COVID-19 survivors who are at risk of developing chronic pulmonary fibrosis, and to develop effective anti-fibrotic therapies. The current review aims to summarize the pathogenesis of COVID-19 in the respiratory system and highlights ARDS-related lung fibrosis in severe COVID-19 and the potential mechanisms. It envisions the long-term fibrotic lung complication in COVID-19 survivors, in particular in the aged population. The early identification of patients at risk of developing chronic lung fibrosis and the development of anti-fibrotic therapies are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhen Zheng
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| | - Fei Peng
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central-South University, Changsha, Hunan 410011, China
| | - Yong Zhou
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35294, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Gonzalez-Garcia P, Fiorillo Moreno O, Zarate Peñata E, Calderon-Villalba A, Pacheco Lugo L, Acosta Hoyos A, Villarreal Camacho JL, Navarro Quiroz R, Pacheco Londoño L, Aroca Martinez G, Moares N, Gabucio A, Fernandez-Ponce C, Garcia-Cozar F, Navarro Quiroz E. From Cell to Symptoms: The Role of SARS-CoV-2 Cytopathic Effects in the Pathogenesis of COVID-19 and Long COVID. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24098290. [PMID: 37175995 PMCID: PMC10179575 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24098290] [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: 03/28/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome CoronaVirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection triggers various events from molecular to tissue level, which in turn is given by the intrinsic characteristics of each patient. Given the molecular diversity characteristic of each cellular phenotype, the possible cytopathic, tissue and clinical effects are difficult to predict, which determines the heterogeneity of COVID-19 symptoms. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive review of the cytopathic effects of SARS-CoV-2 on various cell types, focusing on the development of COVID-19, which in turn may lead, in some patients, to a persistence of symptoms after recovery from the disease, a condition known as long COVID. We describe the molecular mechanisms underlying virus-host interactions, including alterations in protein expression, intracellular signaling pathways, and immune responses. In particular, the article highlights the potential impact of these cytopathies on cellular function and clinical outcomes, such as immune dysregulation, neuropsychiatric disorders, and organ damage. The article concludes by discussing future directions for research and implications for the management and treatment of COVID-19 and long COVID.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ornella Fiorillo Moreno
- Clínica Iberoamerica, Barranquilla 080001, Colombia
- Life Science Research Center, Universidad Simon Bolívar, Barranquilla 080001, Colombia
| | - Eloina Zarate Peñata
- Life Science Research Center, Universidad Simon Bolívar, Barranquilla 080001, Colombia
| | | | - Lisandro Pacheco Lugo
- Life Science Research Center, Universidad Simon Bolívar, Barranquilla 080001, Colombia
| | - Antonio Acosta Hoyos
- Life Science Research Center, Universidad Simon Bolívar, Barranquilla 080001, Colombia
| | | | - Roberto Navarro Quiroz
- Department of Structural and Molecular Biology, Molecular Biology Institute of Barcelona, Spanish National Research Council, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Gustavo Aroca Martinez
- Life Science Research Center, Universidad Simon Bolívar, Barranquilla 080001, Colombia
- School of Medicine, Universidad del Norte, Barranquilla 080001, Colombia
| | - Noelia Moares
- Department of Biomedicine, Biotechnology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cadiz, 11003 Cádiz, Spain
| | - Antonio Gabucio
- Department of Biomedicine, Biotechnology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cadiz, 11003 Cádiz, Spain
| | - Cecilia Fernandez-Ponce
- Institute of Biomedical Research Cadiz (INIBICA), 11009 Cádiz, Spain
- Department of Biomedicine, Biotechnology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cadiz, 11003 Cádiz, Spain
| | - Francisco Garcia-Cozar
- Institute of Biomedical Research Cadiz (INIBICA), 11009 Cádiz, Spain
- Department of Biomedicine, Biotechnology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Cadiz, 11003 Cádiz, Spain
| | - Elkin Navarro Quiroz
- Life Science Research Center, Universidad Simon Bolívar, Barranquilla 080001, Colombia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Beaudoin CA, Petsolari E, Hamaia SW, Hala S, Alofi FS, Pandurangan AP, Blundell TL, Chaitanya Vedithi S, Huang CLH, Jackson AP. SARS-CoV-2 Omicron subvariant spike N405 unlikely to rapidly deamidate. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2023; 666:61-67. [PMID: 37178506 PMCID: PMC10152834 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2023.04.088] [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: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
The RGD motif on the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein has been suggested to interact with RGD-binding integrins αVβ3 and α5β1 to enhance viral cell entry and alter downstream signaling cascades. The D405N mutation on the Omicron subvariant spike proteins, resulting in an RGN motif, has recently been shown to inhibit binding to integrin αVβ3. Deamidation of asparagines in protein ligand RGN motifs has been demonstrated to generate RGD and RGisoD motifs that permit binding to RGD-binding integrins. Two asparagines, N481 and N501, on the Wild-type spike receptor-binding domain have been previously shown to have deamidation half-lives of 16.5 and 123 days, respectively, which may occur during the viral life cycle. Deamidation of Omicron subvariant N405 may recover the ability to interact with RGD-binding integrins. Thus, herein, all-atom molecular dynamics simulations of the Wild-type and Omicron subvariant spike protein receptor-binding domains were conducted to investigate the potential for asparagines, the Omicron subvariant N405 in particular, to assume the optimized geometry for deamidation to occur. In summary, the Omicron subvariant N405 was primarily found to be stabilized in a state unfavourable for deamidation after hydrogen bonding with downstream E406. Nevertheless, a small number of RGD or RGisoD motifs on the Omicron subvariant spike proteins may restore the ability to interact with RGD-binding integrins. The simulations also provided structural clarification regarding the deamidation rates of Wild-type N481 and N501 and highlighted the utility of tertiary structure dynamics information in predicting asparagine deamidation. Further work is needed to characterize the effects of deamidation on spike-integrin interactions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher A Beaudoin
- Department of Biochemistry, Hopkins Building, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QW, United Kingdom.
| | - Emmanouela Petsolari
- Department of Biochemistry, Sanger Building, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1GA, United Kingdom
| | - Samir W Hamaia
- Department of Biochemistry, Hopkins Building, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QW, United Kingdom
| | - Sharif Hala
- Infectious Disease Research Department, King Abdullah International Medical Research Centre, Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fadwa S Alofi
- Infectious Disease Research Department, King Abdullah International Medical Research Centre, Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Arun P Pandurangan
- Heart and Lung Research Institute, University of Cambridge, Papworth Road, Cambridge, CB2 0BB, United Kingdom
| | - Tom L Blundell
- Heart and Lung Research Institute, University of Cambridge, Papworth Road, Cambridge, CB2 0BB, United Kingdom
| | - Sundeep Chaitanya Vedithi
- Heart and Lung Research Institute, University of Cambridge, Papworth Road, Cambridge, CB2 0BB, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher L-H Huang
- Department of Biochemistry, Hopkins Building, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QW, United Kingdom; Physiological Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, United Kingdom
| | - Antony P Jackson
- Department of Biochemistry, Hopkins Building, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QW, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Norris EG, Pan XS, Hocking DC. Receptor-binding domain of SARS-CoV-2 is a functional αv-integrin agonist. J Biol Chem 2023; 299:102922. [PMID: 36669646 PMCID: PMC9846890 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2023.102922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Among the novel mutations distinguishing SARS-CoV-2 from similar coronaviruses is a K403R substitution in the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the viral spike (S) protein within its S1 region. This amino acid substitution occurs near the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2-binding interface and gives rise to a canonical RGD adhesion motif that is often found in native extracellular matrix proteins, including fibronectin. Here, the ability of recombinant S1-RBD to bind to cell surface integrins and trigger downstream signaling pathways was assessed and compared with RGD-containing, integrin-binding fragments of fibronectin. We determined that S1-RBD supported adhesion of fibronectin-null mouse embryonic fibroblasts as well as primary human small airway epithelial cells, while RBD-coated microparticles attached to epithelial monolayers in a cation-dependent manner. Cell adhesion to S1-RBD was RGD dependent and inhibited by blocking antibodies against αv and β3 but not α5 or β1 integrins. Similarly, we observed direct binding of S1-RBD to recombinant human αvβ3 and αvβ6 integrins, but not α5β1 integrins, using surface plasmon resonance. S1-RBD adhesion initiated cell spreading, focal adhesion formation, and actin stress fiber organization to a similar extent as fibronectin. Moreover, S1-RBD stimulated tyrosine phosphorylation of the adhesion mediators FAK, Src, and paxillin; triggered Akt activation; and supported cell proliferation. Thus, the RGD sequence of S1-RBD can function as an αv-selective integrin agonist. This study provides evidence that cell surface αv-containing integrins can respond functionally to spike protein and raises the possibility that S1-mediated dysregulation of extracellular matrix dynamics may contribute to the pathogenesis and/or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emma G Norris
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Xuan Sabrina Pan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Denise C Hocking
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, New York, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Kuhn CC, Basnet N, Bodakuntla S, Alvarez-Brecht P, Nichols S, Martinez-Sanchez A, Agostini L, Soh YM, Takagi J, Biertümpfel C, Mizuno N. Direct Cryo-ET observation of platelet deformation induced by SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. Nat Commun 2023; 14:620. [PMID: 36739444 PMCID: PMC9898865 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-36279-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is a novel coronavirus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. Its high pathogenicity is due to SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (S protein) contacting host-cell receptors. A critical hallmark of COVID-19 is the occurrence of coagulopathies. Here, we report the direct observation of the interactions between S protein and platelets. Live imaging shows that the S protein triggers platelets to deform dynamically, in some cases, leading to their irreversible activation. Cellular cryo-electron tomography reveals dense decorations of S protein on the platelet surface, inducing filopodia formation. Hypothesizing that S protein binds to filopodia-inducing integrin receptors, we tested the binding to RGD motif-recognizing platelet integrins and find that S protein recognizes integrin αvβ3. Our results infer that the stochastic activation of platelets is due to weak interactions of S protein with integrin, which can attribute to the pathogenesis of COVID-19 and the occurrence of rare but severe coagulopathies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Cyrus Kuhn
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, 50 South Dr., Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Nirakar Basnet
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, 50 South Dr., Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Satish Bodakuntla
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, 50 South Dr., Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Pelayo Alvarez-Brecht
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, 50 South Dr., Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.,Department of Computer Sciences, Faculty of Sciences - Campus Llamaquique, University of Oviedo, Oviedo, 33007, Spain
| | - Scott Nichols
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, 50 South Dr., Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Antonio Martinez-Sanchez
- Department of Computer Sciences, Faculty of Sciences - Campus Llamaquique, University of Oviedo, Oviedo, 33007, Spain.,Health Research Institute of Asturias (ISPA), Avenida Hospital Universitario s/n, 33011, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Lorenzo Agostini
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, 50 South Dr., Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Young-Min Soh
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, 50 South Dr., Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Junichi Takagi
- Osaka University Institute for Protein Research, Osaka University, 3-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Christian Biertümpfel
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, 50 South Dr., Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Naoko Mizuno
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, 50 South Dr., Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA. .,National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, 50 South Dr., Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Bugatti A, Filippini F, Messali S, Giovanetti M, Ravelli C, Zani A, Ciccozzi M, Caruso A, Caccuri F. The D405N Mutation in the Spike Protein of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.5 Inhibits Spike/Integrins Interaction and Viral Infection of Human Lung Microvascular Endothelial Cells. Viruses 2023; 15:v15020332. [PMID: 36851546 PMCID: PMC9962894 DOI: 10.3390/v15020332] [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: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe COVID-19 is characterized by angiogenic features, such as intussusceptive angiogenesis, endothelialitis, and activation of procoagulant pathways. This pathological state can be ascribed to a direct SARS-CoV-2 infection of human lung ECs. Recently, we showed the capability of SARS-CoV-2 to infect ACE2-negative primary human lung microvascular endothelial cells (HL-mECs). This occurred through the interaction of an Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) motif, endowed on the Spike protein at position 403-405, with αvβ3 integrin expressed on HL-mECs. HL-mEC infection promoted the remodeling of cells toward a pro-inflammatory and pro-angiogenic phenotype. The RGD motif is distinctive of SARS-CoV-2 Spike proteins up to the Omicron BA.1 subvariant. Suddenly, a dominant D405N mutation was expressed on the Spike of the most recently emerged Omicron BA.2, BA.4, and BA.5 subvariants. Here we demonstrate that the D405N mutation inhibits Omicron BA.5 infection of HL-mECs and their dysfunction because of the lack of Spike/integrins interaction. The key role of ECs in SARS-CoV-2 pathogenesis has been definitively proven. Evidence of mutations retrieving the capability of SARS-CoV-2 to infect HL-mECs highlights a new scenario for patients infected with the newly emerged SARS-CoV-2 Omicron subvariants, suggesting that they may display less severe disease manifestations than those observed with previous variants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Bugatti
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Federica Filippini
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Serena Messali
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Marta Giovanetti
- Laboratório de Flavivirus, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-900, Brazil
- Department of Science and Technology for Humans and the Environment, University Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, 00128 Rome, Italy
| | - Cosetta Ravelli
- Section of General Pathology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Alberto Zani
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
| | - Massimo Ciccozzi
- Unit of Medical Statistics and Molecular Epidemiology, University Campus Bio-Medico of Rome, 00128 Rome, Italy
| | - Arnaldo Caruso
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
- Institute of Human Virology, Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| | - Francesca Caccuri
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-030-3995650
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Pang X, He X, Qiu Z, Zhang H, Xie R, Liu Z, Gu Y, Zhao N, Xiang Q, Cui Y. Targeting integrin pathways: mechanisms and advances in therapy. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2023; 8:1. [PMID: 36588107 PMCID: PMC9805914 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01259-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 146.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Integrins are considered the main cell-adhesion transmembrane receptors that play multifaceted roles as extracellular matrix (ECM)-cytoskeletal linkers and transducers in biochemical and mechanical signals between cells and their environment in a wide range of states in health and diseases. Integrin functions are dependable on a delicate balance between active and inactive status via multiple mechanisms, including protein-protein interactions, conformational changes, and trafficking. Due to their exposure on the cell surface and sensitivity to the molecular blockade, integrins have been investigated as pharmacological targets for nearly 40 years, but given the complexity of integrins and sometimes opposite characteristics, targeting integrin therapeutics has been a challenge. To date, only seven drugs targeting integrins have been successfully marketed, including abciximab, eptifibatide, tirofiban, natalizumab, vedolizumab, lifitegrast, and carotegrast. Currently, there are approximately 90 kinds of integrin-based therapeutic drugs or imaging agents in clinical studies, including small molecules, antibodies, synthetic mimic peptides, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T-cell therapy, imaging agents, etc. A serious lesson from past integrin drug discovery and research efforts is that successes rely on both a deep understanding of integrin-regulatory mechanisms and unmet clinical needs. Herein, we provide a systematic and complete review of all integrin family members and integrin-mediated downstream signal transduction to highlight ongoing efforts to develop new therapies/diagnoses from bench to clinic. In addition, we further discuss the trend of drug development, how to improve the success rate of clinical trials targeting integrin therapies, and the key points for clinical research, basic research, and translational research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaocong Pang
- grid.411472.50000 0004 1764 1621Department of Pharmacy, Peking University First Hospital, Xishiku Street, Xicheng District, 100034 Beijing, China ,grid.411472.50000 0004 1764 1621Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Peking University First Hospital, Xueyuan Road 38, Haidian District, 100191 Beijing, China
| | - Xu He
- grid.411472.50000 0004 1764 1621Department of Pharmacy, Peking University First Hospital, Xishiku Street, Xicheng District, 100034 Beijing, China ,grid.411472.50000 0004 1764 1621Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Peking University First Hospital, Xueyuan Road 38, Haidian District, 100191 Beijing, China
| | - Zhiwei Qiu
- grid.411472.50000 0004 1764 1621Department of Pharmacy, Peking University First Hospital, Xishiku Street, Xicheng District, 100034 Beijing, China ,grid.411472.50000 0004 1764 1621Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Peking University First Hospital, Xueyuan Road 38, Haidian District, 100191 Beijing, China
| | - Hanxu Zhang
- grid.411472.50000 0004 1764 1621Department of Pharmacy, Peking University First Hospital, Xishiku Street, Xicheng District, 100034 Beijing, China ,grid.411472.50000 0004 1764 1621Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Peking University First Hospital, Xueyuan Road 38, Haidian District, 100191 Beijing, China
| | - Ran Xie
- grid.411472.50000 0004 1764 1621Department of Pharmacy, Peking University First Hospital, Xishiku Street, Xicheng District, 100034 Beijing, China ,grid.411472.50000 0004 1764 1621Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Peking University First Hospital, Xueyuan Road 38, Haidian District, 100191 Beijing, China
| | - Zhiyan Liu
- grid.411472.50000 0004 1764 1621Department of Pharmacy, Peking University First Hospital, Xishiku Street, Xicheng District, 100034 Beijing, China ,grid.411472.50000 0004 1764 1621Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Peking University First Hospital, Xueyuan Road 38, Haidian District, 100191 Beijing, China
| | - Yanlun Gu
- grid.411472.50000 0004 1764 1621Department of Pharmacy, Peking University First Hospital, Xishiku Street, Xicheng District, 100034 Beijing, China ,grid.411472.50000 0004 1764 1621Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Peking University First Hospital, Xueyuan Road 38, Haidian District, 100191 Beijing, China
| | - Nan Zhao
- grid.411472.50000 0004 1764 1621Department of Pharmacy, Peking University First Hospital, Xishiku Street, Xicheng District, 100034 Beijing, China ,grid.411472.50000 0004 1764 1621Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Peking University First Hospital, Xueyuan Road 38, Haidian District, 100191 Beijing, China
| | - Qian Xiang
- Department of Pharmacy, Peking University First Hospital, Xishiku Street, Xicheng District, 100034, Beijing, China. .,Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Peking University First Hospital, Xueyuan Road 38, Haidian District, 100191, Beijing, China.
| | - Yimin Cui
- Department of Pharmacy, Peking University First Hospital, Xishiku Street, Xicheng District, 100034, Beijing, China. .,Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Peking University First Hospital, Xueyuan Road 38, Haidian District, 100191, Beijing, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Moran TE, Hammers DE, Lee SW. The Role of Host-Cellular Responses in COVID-19 Endothelial Dysfunction. Curr Drug Targets 2022; 23:1555-1566. [PMID: 35748550 DOI: 10.2174/1389450123666220624094940] [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: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
SARS-CoV2, Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, is a novel member of the human coronavirus family that has recently emerged worldwide to cause COVID-19 disease. COVID-19 disease has been declared a worldwide pandemic with over 270 million total cases, and >5 million deaths as of this writing. Although co-morbidities and preexisting conditions have played a significant role in the severity of COVID-19, the hallmark feature of severe disease associated with SARS-CoV2 is respiratory failure. Recent findings have demonstrated a key role for endothelial dysfunction caused by SARS-CoV2 in these clinical outcomes, characterized by endothelial inflammation, the persistence of a pro-coagulative state, and major recruitment of leukocytes and other immune cells to localized areas of endothelial dysfunction. Though it is generally recognized that endothelial impairment is a major contributor to COVID-19 disease, studies to examine the initial cellular events involved in triggering endothelial dysfunction are needed. In this article, we review the general strategy of pathogens to exploit endothelial cells and the endothelium to cause disease. We discuss the role of the endothelium in COVID-19 disease and highlight very recent findings that identify key signaling and cellular events that are associated with the initiation of SARS-CoV2 infection. These studies may reveal specific molecular pathways that can serve as potential means of therapeutic development against COVID-19 disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas E Moran
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA
| | - Daniel E Hammers
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA.,Eck Institute for Global Health, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA
| | - Shaun W Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA.,Eck Institute for Global Health, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA.,W.M. Keck Center for Transgene Research, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA.,Boler-Parseghian Center for Rare and Neglected Diseases, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Allas GDO, Arizala JDR, Manalo RVM. COVID-19 Adenoviral Vaccine-Induced Immune Thrombotic Thrombocytopenia (VITT), COVID-19-Related Thrombosis, and the Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Syndromes. Hematol Rep 2022; 14:358-372. [PMID: 36547234 PMCID: PMC9778187 DOI: 10.3390/hematolrep14040050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Revised: 10/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Adenoviral-based vaccines such as ChadoX1 CoV-19 (AstraZeneca) and Ad26.COV2.S (J&J) were developed to prevent infection and reduce hospitalization or death in Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients. Although these vaccines passed safety and efficacy trials with excellent neutralizing capabilities against SARS-CoV-2, very rare reports of acute thrombotic thrombocytopenic events following administration emerged in certain populations, which triggered a series of clinical investigations that gave rise to a novel phenomenon called vaccine-induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT). Several converging pathways exist between VITT and other forms of thrombotic thrombocytopenic syndromes, specifically that of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, which involves the formation of anti-PF4 antibodies and the activation of platelets leading to thrombocytopenia and thrombin-mediated clotting. Interestingly, certain differences in the presentation also exist in VITT, and guidelines have been published in recent months to assist clinicians in recognizing VITT to achieve desired outcomes. In this paper, we first discuss the clotting phenomenon in COVID-19 and delineate it from VITT, followed by a review of current knowledge on the clinical manifestations of VITT in lieu of other thrombotic thrombocytopenic syndromes. Likewise, emerging evidence on the role of adenoviral vectors and vaccine constituents is also discussed briefly.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gewil Daniella Olipas Allas
- Department of Biochemistry, The Graduate Center, The City University of New York (CUNY), New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Joekeem Del Rosario Arizala
- Department of Biochemistry, The Graduate Center, The City University of New York (CUNY), New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - Rafael Vincent Mercado Manalo
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines Manila, Ermita, Manila 1000, Philippines
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-240-945-0597
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Kuhn CC, Basnet N, Bodakuntla S, Alvarez-Brecht P, Nichols S, Martinez-Sanchez A, Agostini L, Soh YM, Takagi J, Biertümpfel C, Mizuno N. Direct Cryo-ET observation of platelet deformation induced by SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2022:2022.11.22.517574. [PMID: 36451880 PMCID: PMC9709796 DOI: 10.1101/2022.11.22.517574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 is a novel coronavirus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. Its high pathogenicity is due to SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (S protein) contacting host-cell receptors. A critical hallmark of COVID-19 is the occurrence of coagulopathies. Here, we report the direct observation of the interactions between S protein and platelets. Live imaging showed that the S protein triggers platelets to deform dynamically, in some cases, leading to their irreversible activation. Strikingly, cellular cryo-electron tomography revealed dense decorations of S protein on the platelet surface, inducing filopodia formation. Hypothesizing that S protein binds to filopodia-inducing integrin receptors, we tested the binding to RGD motif-recognizing platelet integrins and found that S protein recognizes integrin α v β 3 . Our results infer that the stochastic activation of platelets is due to weak interactions of S protein with integrin, which can attribute to the pathogenesis of COVID-19 and the occurrence of rare but severe coagulopathies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Cyrus Kuhn
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, 50 South Dr., Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Nirakar Basnet
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, 50 South Dr., Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Satish Bodakuntla
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, 50 South Dr., Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Pelayo Alvarez-Brecht
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, 50 South Dr., Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.,Department of Computer Sciences, Faculty of Sciences - Campus Llamaquique, University of Oviedo, Oviedo 33007, Spain
| | - Scott Nichols
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, 50 South Dr., Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Antonio Martinez-Sanchez
- Department of Computer Sciences, Faculty of Sciences - Campus Llamaquique, University of Oviedo, Oviedo 33007, Spain.,Health Research Institute of Asturias (ISPA), Avenida Hospital Universitario s/n, 33011, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Lorenzo Agostini
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, 50 South Dr., Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Young-Min Soh
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, 50 South Dr., Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Junichi Takagi
- Osaka University Institute for Protein Research, Osaka University, 3-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Christian Biertümpfel
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, 50 South Dr., Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Naoko Mizuno
- Laboratory of Structural Cell Biology, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, 50 South Dr., Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA.,National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, National Institutes of Health, 50 South Dr., Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Pelisek J, Reutersberg B, Greber UF, Zimmermann A. Vascular dysfunction in COVID-19 patients: update on SARS-CoV-2 infection of endothelial cells and the role of long non-coding RNAs. Clin Sci (Lond) 2022; 136:1571-1590. [PMID: 36367091 PMCID: PMC9652506 DOI: 10.1042/cs20220235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
Although COVID-19 is primarily a respiratory disease, it may affect also the cardiovascular system. COVID-19 patients with cardiovascular disorder (CVD) develop a more severe disease course with a significantly higher mortality rate than non-CVD patients. A common denominator of CVD is the dysfunction of endothelial cells (ECs), increased vascular permeability, endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition, coagulation, and inflammation. It has been assumed that clinical complications in COVID-19 patients suffering from CVD are caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection of ECs through the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor and the cellular transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2) and the consequent dysfunction of the infected vascular cells. Meanwhile, other factors associated with SARS-CoV-2 entry into the host cells have been described, including disintegrin and metalloproteinase domain-containing protein 17 (ADAM17), the C-type lectin CD209L or heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPG). Here, we discuss the current data about the putative entry of SARS-CoV-2 into endothelial and smooth muscle cells. Furthermore, we highlight the potential role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) affecting vascular permeability in CVD, a process that might exacerbate disease in COVID-19 patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jaroslav Pelisek
- Department of Vascular Surgery, University Hospital Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | | | - Urs F Greber
- Department of Molecular Life Sciences, University of Zürich, Switzerland
| | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Long COVID and the Neuroendocrinology of Microbial Translocation Outside the GI Tract: Some Treatment Strategies. ENDOCRINES 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/endocrines3040058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Similar to previous pandemics, COVID-19 has been succeeded by well-documented post-infectious sequelae, including chronic fatigue, cough, shortness of breath, myalgia, and concentration difficulties, which may last 5 to 12 weeks or longer after the acute phase of illness. Both the psychological stress of SARS-CoV-2 infection and being diagnosed with COVID-19 can upregulate cortisol, a stress hormone that disrupts the efferocytosis effectors, macrophages, and natural killer cells, leading to the excessive accumulation of senescent cells and disruption of biological barriers. This has been well-established in cancer patients who often experience unrelenting fatigue as well as gut and blood–brain barrier dysfunction upon treatment with senescence-inducing radiation or chemotherapy. In our previous research from 2020 and 2021, we linked COVID-19 to myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) via angiotensin II upregulation, premature endothelial senescence, intestinal barrier dysfunction, and microbial translocation from the gastrointestinal tract into the systemic circulation. In 2021 and 2022, these hypotheses were validated and SARS-CoV-2-induced cellular senescence as well as microbial translocation were documented in both acute SARS-CoV-2 infection, long COVID, and ME/CFS, connecting intestinal barrier dysfunction to disabling fatigue and specific infectious events. The purpose of this narrative review is to summarize what is currently known about host immune responses to translocated gut microbes and how these responses relate to fatiguing illnesses, including long COVID. To accomplish this goal, we examine the role of intestinal and blood–brain barriers in long COVID and other illnesses typified by chronic fatigue, with a special emphasis on commensal microbes functioning as viral reservoirs. Furthermore, we discuss the role of SARS-CoV-2/Mycoplasma coinfection in dysfunctional efferocytosis, emphasizing some potential novel treatment strategies, including the use of senotherapeutic drugs, HMGB1 inhibitors, Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) blockers, and membrane lipid replacement.
Collapse
|
22
|
Shakil F, Snijder J, Salvatore MM. Why is UIP peripheral? Expert Rev Respir Med 2022; 16:907-915. [PMID: 36066423 DOI: 10.1080/17476348.2022.2119131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The radiology pattern associated with IPF is called UIP. It is unique because unlike any other form of fibrosis it is peripheral in its distribution. We investigated the peripheral nature of UIP and why it was a key feature of IPF the deadliest of the ILDS. AREAS COVERED It is not enough to say that UIP is peripheral but instead as scientists we must ask ourselves why it is peripheral. This review dives into the published hypothesis that includes vascular insult, tensile forces, microaspiration, and inflammation and looks at the pros and cons for each argument, and ultimately comes to its own conclusion. PubMed searches using the below keywords were used to identify papers that described pathogenesis of IPF with regard to a particular theory. EXPERT OPINION In this paper, we will review four ideas that support why UIP is peripheral and propose the most likely explanation given what is currently known about the pathophysiology of IPF.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Faariah Shakil
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, USA
| | - Juan Snijder
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, USA
| | - Mary M Salvatore
- Department of Radiology, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Mitra J, Kodavati M, Provasek VE, Rao KS, Mitra S, Hamilton DJ, Horner PJ, Vahidy FS, Britz GW, Kent TA, Hegde ML. SARS-CoV-2 and the central nervous system: Emerging insights into hemorrhage-associated neurological consequences and therapeutic considerations. Ageing Res Rev 2022; 80:101687. [PMID: 35843590 PMCID: PMC9288264 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2022.101687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) continues to impact our lives by causing widespread illness and death and poses a threat due to the possibility of emerging strains. SARS-CoV-2 targets angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) before entering vital organs of the body, including the brain. Studies have shown systemic inflammation, cellular senescence, and viral toxicity-mediated multi-organ failure occur during infectious periods. However, prognostic investigations suggest that both acute and long-term neurological complications, including predisposition to irreversible neurodegenerative diseases, can be a serious concern for COVID-19 survivors, especially the elderly population. As emerging studies reveal sites of SARS-CoV-2 infection in different parts of the brain, potential causes of chronic lesions including cerebral and deep-brain microbleeds and the likelihood of developing stroke-like pathologies increases, with critical long-term consequences, particularly for individuals with neuropathological and/or age-associated comorbid conditions. Our recent studies linking the blood degradation products to genome instability, leading to cellular senescence and ferroptosis, raise the possibility of similar neurovascular events as a result of SARS-CoV-2 infection. In this review, we discuss the neuropathological consequences of SARS-CoV-2 infection in COVID survivors, focusing on possible hemorrhagic damage in brain cells, its association to aging, and the future directions in developing mechanism-guided therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joy Mitra
- Division of DNA Repair Research, Center for Neuroregeneration, Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
| | - Manohar Kodavati
- Division of DNA Repair Research, Center for Neuroregeneration, Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Vincent E Provasek
- Division of DNA Repair Research, Center for Neuroregeneration, Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA; College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - K S Rao
- Department of Biotechnology, Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation Deemed to be University, Green Fields, Vaddeswaram, Andhra Pradesh 522502, India
| | - Sankar Mitra
- Division of DNA Repair Research, Center for Neuroregeneration, Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Dale J Hamilton
- Center for Bioenergetics, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, USA
| | - Philip J Horner
- Division of DNA Repair Research, Center for Neuroregeneration, Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, USA
| | - Farhaan S Vahidy
- Center for Outcomes Research, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Gavin W Britz
- Division of DNA Repair Research, Center for Neuroregeneration, Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, USA
| | - Thomas A Kent
- Center for Genomics and Precision Medicine, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Institute of Biosciences and Technology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Muralidhar L Hegde
- Division of DNA Repair Research, Center for Neuroregeneration, Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX 77030, USA; Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Omidian N, Mohammadi P, Sadeghalvad M, Mohammadi-Motlagh HR. Cerebral microvascular complications associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection: How did it occur and how should it be treated? Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 154:113534. [PMID: 35994816 PMCID: PMC9381434 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cerebral microvascular disease has been reported as a central feature of the neurological disorders in patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection that may be associated with an increased risk of ischemic stroke. The main pathomechanism in the development of cerebrovascular injury due to SARS-CoV-2 infection can be a consequence of endothelial cell dysfunction as a structural part of the blood-brain barrier (BBB), which may be accompanied by increased inflammatory response and thrombocytopenia along with blood coagulation disorders. In this review, we described the properties of the BBB, the neurotropism behavior of SARS-CoV-2, and the possible mechanisms of damage to the CNS microvascular upon SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Neda Omidian
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Pantea Mohammadi
- Medical Biology Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Mona Sadeghalvad
- Medical Biology Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Hamid-Reza Mohammadi-Motlagh
- Medical Biology Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Yan K, Dumenil T, Tang B, Le TT, Bishop CR, Suhrbier A, Rawle DJ. Evolution of ACE2-independent SARS-CoV-2 infection and mouse adaption after passage in cells expressing human and mouse ACE2. Virus Evol 2022; 8:veac063. [PMID: 35919871 PMCID: PMC9338707 DOI: 10.1093/ve/veac063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Human ACE2 Human angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) is the key cell attachment and entry receptor for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), with the original SARS-CoV-2 isolates unable to use mouse ACE2 (mACE2). Herein we describe the emergence of a SARS-CoV-2 strain capable of ACE2-independent infection and the evolution of mouse-adapted (MA) SARS-CoV-2 by in vitro serial passaging of virus in co-cultures of cell lines expressing hACE2 and mACE2. MA viruses evolved with up to five amino acid changes in the spike protein, all of which have been seen in human isolates. MA viruses replicated to high titers in C57BL/6J mouse lungs and nasal turbinates and caused characteristic lung histopathology. One MA virus also evolved to replicate efficiently in several ACE2-negative cell lines across several species, including clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/CRISPR-associated protein 9 (CRISPR/Cas9) ACE2 knockout cells. An E484D substitution is likely involved in ACE2-independent entry and has appeared in only ≈0.003 per cent of human isolates globally, suggesting that it provided no significant selection advantage in humans. ACE2-independent entry reveals a SARS-CoV-2 infection mechanism that has potential implications for disease pathogenesis, evolution, tropism, and perhaps also intervention development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kexin Yan
- Infection and Inflammation Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, 300 Herston Road, Herston, 4029, Queensland, Australia
| | - Troy Dumenil
- Infection and Inflammation Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, 300 Herston Road, Herston, 4029, Queensland, Australia
| | - Bing Tang
- Infection and Inflammation Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, 300 Herston Road, Herston, 4029, Queensland, Australia
| | - Thuy T Le
- Infection and Inflammation Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, 300 Herston Road, Herston, 4029, Queensland, Australia
| | - Cameron R Bishop
- Infection and Inflammation Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, 300 Herston Road, Herston, 4029, Queensland, Australia
| | - Andreas Suhrbier
- Infection and Inflammation Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, 300 Herston Road, Herston, 4029, Queensland, Australia
- Australian Infectious Disease Research Centre, GVN Center of Excellence, Brisbane, 300 Herston Road, Herston, 4029 and The University of Queensland, St Lucia, 4072, Australia
| | - Daniel J Rawle
- Infection and Inflammation Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, 300 Herston Road, Herston, 4029, Queensland, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Chen M, Ma Y, Chang W. SARS-CoV-2 and the Nucleus. Int J Biol Sci 2022; 18:4731-4743. [PMID: 35874947 PMCID: PMC9305274 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.72482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is caused by an RNA virus, SARS-CoV-2. The genome of SARS-CoV-2 lacks a nuclear phase in its life cycle and is replicated in the cytoplasm. However, interfering with nuclear trafficking using pharmacological inhibitors greatly reduces virus infection and virus replication of other coronaviruses is blocked in enucleated cells, suggesting a critical role of the nucleus in virus infection. Here, we summarize the alternations of nuclear pathways caused by SARS-CoV-2, including nuclear translocation pathways, innate immune responses, mRNA metabolism, epigenetic mechanisms, DNA damage response, cytoskeleton regulation, and nuclear rupture. We consider how these alternations contribute to virus replication and discuss therapeutic treatments that target these pathways, focusing on small molecule drugs that are being used in clinical studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mengqi Chen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Yue Ma
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| | - Wakam Chang
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Abstract
The term "molecular ZIP (or area) codes" refers to an originally hypothetical system of cell adhesion molecules that would control cell trafficking in the body. Subsequent discovery of the integrins, cadherins, and other cell adhesion molecules confirmed this hypothesis. The recognition system encompassing integrins and their ligands came particularly close to fulfilling the original ZIP code hypothesis, as multiple integrins with closely related specificities mediate cell adhesion by binding to an RGD or related sequence in various extracellular matrix proteins. Diseased tissues have their own molecular addresses that, although not necessarily involved in cell trafficking, can be made use of in targeted drug delivery. This article discusses the molecular basis of ZIP codes and the extensive effort under way to harness them for drug delivery purposes.
Collapse
|
28
|
Yao Y, Liu H, Yuan L, Du X, Yang Y, Zhou K, Wu X, Qin L, Yang M, Xiang Y, Qu X, Qin X, Liu C. Integrins are double-edged swords in pulmonary infectious diseases. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 153:113300. [PMID: 35728353 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113300] [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: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Integrins are an important family of adhesion molecules that are widely distributed on immune cells in the lungs. Of note, accumulating evidences have shown that integrins are double-edged swords in pulmonary infectious diseases. On one hand, integrins promote the migration of immune cells to remove the invaded pathogens in the infected lungs. However, on the other hand, integrins also act as the targets for pathogens to escape from host immune system, which is a potential factor leading to further tissue damage. Thus, the innovative therapeutic strategies based on integrins has inspired well-founded hopes to treat pulmonary infectious diseases. In this review, we illustrate the involvement of integrins in pulmonary infectious diseases, and further discuss the innovative therapeutic targets based on integrins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ye Yao
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Huijun Liu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Lin Yuan
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xizi Du
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Yu Yang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Kai Zhou
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xinyu Wu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ling Qin
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Ming Yang
- Centre for Asthma and Respiratory Disease, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle and Hunter Medical Research Institute, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
| | - Yang Xiang
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xiangping Qu
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Xiaoqun Qin
- Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Chi Liu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Department of Physiology, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Research Center of China-Africa Infectious Diseases, Xiangya School of Medicine Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Huntington KE, Carlsen L, So EY, Piesche M, Liang O, El-Deiry WS. Integrin/TGF-β1 Inhibitor GLPG-0187 Blocks SARS-CoV-2 Delta and Omicron Pseudovirus Infection of Airway Epithelial Cells In Vitro, Which Could Attenuate Disease Severity. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:618. [PMID: 35631444 PMCID: PMC9143518 DOI: 10.3390/ph15050618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
As COVID-19 continues to pose major risk for vulnerable populations, including the elderly, immunocompromised, patients with cancer, and those with contraindications to vaccination, novel treatment strategies are urgently needed. SARS-CoV-2 infects target cells via RGD-binding integrins, either independently or as a co-receptor with surface receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). We used pan-integrin inhibitor GLPG-0187 to demonstrate the blockade of SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus infection of target cells. Omicron pseudovirus infected normal human small airway epithelial (HSAE) cells significantly less than D614G or Delta variant pseudovirus, and GLPG-0187 effectively blocked SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus infection in a dose-dependent manner across multiple viral variants. GLPG-0187 inhibited Omicron and Delta pseudovirus infection of HSAE cells more significantly than other variants. Pre-treatment of HSAE cells with MEK inhibitor (MEKi) VS-6766 enhanced the inhibition of pseudovirus infection by GLPG-0187. Because integrins activate transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) signaling, we compared the plasma levels of active and total TGF-β in COVID-19+ patients. The plasma TGF-β1 levels correlated with age, race, and number of medications upon presentation with COVID-19, but not with sex. Total plasma TGF-β1 levels correlated with activated TGF-β1 levels. Moreover, the inhibition of integrin signaling prevents SARS-CoV-2 Delta and Omicron pseudovirus infectivity, and it may mitigate COVID-19 severity through decreased TGF-β1 activation. This therapeutic strategy may be further explored through clinical testing in vulnerable and unvaccinated populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey E. Huntington
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA; (K.E.H.); (L.C.)
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
- Joint Program in Cancer Biology, Lifespan Health System and Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA; (E.-Y.S.); (O.L.)
- Legorreta Cancer Center, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
- Pathobiology Graduate Program, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Lindsey Carlsen
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA; (K.E.H.); (L.C.)
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
- Joint Program in Cancer Biology, Lifespan Health System and Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA; (E.-Y.S.); (O.L.)
- Legorreta Cancer Center, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
- Pathobiology Graduate Program, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
| | - Eui-Young So
- Joint Program in Cancer Biology, Lifespan Health System and Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA; (E.-Y.S.); (O.L.)
- Legorreta Cancer Center, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
- Hematology-Oncology Division, Department of Medicine, Lifespan Health System and Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Matthias Piesche
- Biomedical Research Laboratories, Medicine Faculty, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca 3466706, Chile
- Oncology Center, Medicine Faculty, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca 3466706, Chile
| | - Olin Liang
- Joint Program in Cancer Biology, Lifespan Health System and Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA; (E.-Y.S.); (O.L.)
- Legorreta Cancer Center, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
- Hematology-Oncology Division, Department of Medicine, Lifespan Health System and Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| | - Wafik S. El-Deiry
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA; (K.E.H.); (L.C.)
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
- Joint Program in Cancer Biology, Lifespan Health System and Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA; (E.-Y.S.); (O.L.)
- Legorreta Cancer Center, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
- Pathobiology Graduate Program, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02903, USA
- Hematology-Oncology Division, Department of Medicine, Lifespan Health System and Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI 02912, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Gressett TE, Nader D, Robles JP, Buranda T, Kerrigan SW, Bix G. Integrins as Therapeutic Targets for SARS-CoV-2. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:892323. [PMID: 35619646 PMCID: PMC9128570 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.892323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy E. Gressett
- Tulane University School of Medicine, Clinical Neuroscience Research Center (CNRC), New Orleans, LA, United States
- Department of Neurology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States
- Tulane Brain Institute, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Danielle Nader
- RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences (PBS), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Juan Pablo Robles
- Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Juriquilla, Mexico
| | - Tione Buranda
- University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center (HSC), Department of Pathology, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - Steven W. Kerrigan
- RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences (PBS), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Gregory Bix
- Tulane University School of Medicine, Clinical Neuroscience Research Center (CNRC), New Orleans, LA, United States
- Department of Neurology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States
- Tulane Brain Institute, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Nader D, Kerrigan SW. Molecular Cross-Talk between Integrins and Cadherins Leads to a Loss of Vascular Barrier Integrity during SARS-CoV-2 Infection. Viruses 2022; 14:891. [PMID: 35632633 PMCID: PMC9143673 DOI: 10.3390/v14050891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The vascular barrier is heavily injured following SARS-CoV-2 infection and contributes enormously to life-threatening complications in COVID-19. This endothelial dysfunction is associated with the phlogistic phenomenon of cytokine storms, thrombotic complications, abnormal coagulation, hypoxemia, and multiple organ failure. The mechanisms surrounding COVID-19 associated endotheliitis have been widely attributed to ACE2-mediated pathways. However, integrins are emerging as possible receptor candidates for SARS-CoV-2, and their complex intracellular signaling events are essential for maintaining endothelial homeostasis. Here, we showed that the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 depends on its RGD motif to drive barrier dysregulation by hijacking integrin αVβ3, expressed on human endothelial cells. This triggers the redistribution and internalization of major junction protein VE-Cadherin which leads to the barrier disruption phenotype. Both extracellular and intracellular inhibitors of integrin αVβ3 prevented these effects, similarly to the RGD-cyclic peptide compound Cilengitide, which suggests that the spike protein-through its RGD motif-binds to αVβ3 and elicits vascular leakage events. These findings support integrins as an additional receptor for SARS-CoV-2, particularly as integrin engagement can elucidate many of the adverse endothelial dysfunction events that stem from COVID-19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Steve W. Kerrigan
- Cardiovascular Infection Research Group, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences (PBS), RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, 123 St. Stephen’s Green, D02 YN77 Dublin, Ireland;
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Norris EG, Pan XS, Hocking DC. Receptor binding domain of SARS-CoV-2 is a functional αv-integrin agonist. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2022:2022.04.11.487882. [PMID: 35441172 PMCID: PMC9016641 DOI: 10.1101/2022.04.11.487882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Among the novel mutations distinguishing SARS-CoV-2 from similar respiratory coronaviruses is a K403R substitution in the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the viral spike (S) protein within its S1 region. This amino acid substitution occurs near the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2)-binding interface and gives rise to a canonical RGD adhesion motif that is often found in native extracellular matrix proteins, including fibronectin. In the present study, the ability of recombinant S1-RBD to bind to cell surface integrins and trigger downstream signaling pathways was assessed and compared to RGD-containing, integrin-binding fragments of fibronectin. S1-RBD supported adhesion of both fibronectin-null mouse embryonic fibroblasts as well as primary human small airway epithelial cells. Cell adhesion to S1-RBD was cation- and RGD-dependent, and was inhibited by blocking antibodies against α v and β 3 , but not α 5 or β 1 , integrins. Similarly, direct binding of S1-RBD to recombinant human α v β 3 and α v β 6 integrins, but not α 5 β 1 integrins, was observed by surface plasmon resonance. Adhesion to S1-RBD initiated cell spreading, focal adhesion formation, and actin stress fiber organization to a similar extent as fibronectin. Moreover, S1-RBD stimulated tyrosine phosphorylation of the adhesion mediators FAK, Src, and paxillin, Akt activation, and supported cell proliferation. Together, these data demonstrate that the RGD sequence within S1-RBD can function as an α v -selective integrin agonist. This study provides evidence that cell surface α v -containing integrins can respond functionally to spike protein and raise the possibility that S1-mediated dysregulation of ECM dynamics may contribute to the pathogenesis and/or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emma G. Norris
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642
| | - Xuan Sabrina Pan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642
| | - Denise C. Hocking
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642
- Department of Biomedical Engineering University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY 14642
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Bugatti A, Filippini F, Bardelli M, Zani A, Chiodelli P, Messali S, Caruso A, Caccuri F. SARS-CoV-2 Infects Human ACE2-Negative Endothelial Cells through an αvβ3 Integrin-Mediated Endocytosis Even in the Presence of Vaccine-Elicited Neutralizing Antibodies. Viruses 2022; 14:v14040705. [PMID: 35458435 PMCID: PMC9032829 DOI: 10.3390/v14040705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Integrins represent a gateway of entry for many viruses and the Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) motif is the smallest sequence necessary for proteins to bind integrins. All Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Virus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2) lineages own an RGD motif (aa 403–405) in their receptor binding domain (RBD). We recently showed that SARS-CoV-2 gains access into primary human lung microvascular endothelial cells (HL-mECs) lacking Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) expression through this conserved RGD motif. Following its entry, SARS-CoV-2 remodels cell phenotype and promotes angiogenesis in the absence of productive viral replication. Here, we highlight the αvβ3 integrin as the main molecule responsible for SARS-CoV-2 infection of HL-mECs via a clathrin-dependent endocytosis. Indeed, pretreatment of virus with αvβ3 integrin or pretreatment of cells with a monoclonal antibody against αvβ3 integrin was found to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 entry into HL-mECs. Surprisingly, the anti-Spike antibodies evoked by vaccination were neither able to impair Spike/integrin interaction nor to prevent SARS-CoV-2 entry into HL-mECs. Our data highlight the RGD motif in the Spike protein as a functional constraint aimed to maintain the interaction of the viral envelope with integrins. At the same time, our evidences call for the need of intervention strategies aimed to neutralize the SARS-CoV-2 integrin-mediated infection of ACE2-negative cells in the vaccine era.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Bugatti
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (A.B.); (F.F.); (M.B.); (A.Z.); (S.M.); (A.C.)
| | - Federica Filippini
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (A.B.); (F.F.); (M.B.); (A.Z.); (S.M.); (A.C.)
| | - Marta Bardelli
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (A.B.); (F.F.); (M.B.); (A.Z.); (S.M.); (A.C.)
| | - Alberto Zani
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (A.B.); (F.F.); (M.B.); (A.Z.); (S.M.); (A.C.)
| | - Paola Chiodelli
- Section of General Pathology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy;
| | - Serena Messali
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (A.B.); (F.F.); (M.B.); (A.Z.); (S.M.); (A.C.)
| | - Arnaldo Caruso
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (A.B.); (F.F.); (M.B.); (A.Z.); (S.M.); (A.C.)
| | - Francesca Caccuri
- Section of Microbiology, Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, University of Brescia, 25123 Brescia, Italy; (A.B.); (F.F.); (M.B.); (A.Z.); (S.M.); (A.C.)
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Yang K, Holt M, Fan M, Lam V, Yang Y, Ha T, Williams DL, Li C, Wang X. Cardiovascular Dysfunction in COVID-19: Association Between Endothelial Cell Injury and Lactate. Front Immunol 2022; 13:868679. [PMID: 35401579 PMCID: PMC8984030 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.868679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), an infectious respiratory disease propagated by a new virus known as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), has resulted in global healthcare crises. Emerging evidence from patients with COVID-19 suggests that endothelial cell damage plays a central role in COVID-19 pathogenesis and could be a major contributor to the severity and mortality of COVID-19. Like other infectious diseases, the pathogenesis of COVID-19 is closely associated with metabolic processes. Lactate, a potential biomarker in COVID-19, has recently been shown to mediate endothelial barrier dysfunction. In this review, we provide an overview of cardiovascular injuries and metabolic alterations caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection. We also propose that lactate plays a potential role in COVID-19-driven endothelial cell injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kun Yang
- Department of Surgery, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
- Center of Excellence in Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Matthew Holt
- James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Min Fan
- Department of Surgery, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
- Center of Excellence in Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Victor Lam
- College of Arts and Science, New York University, New York City, NY, United States
| | - Yong Yang
- James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Tuanzhu Ha
- Department of Surgery, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
- Center of Excellence in Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - David L. Williams
- Department of Surgery, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
- Center of Excellence in Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Chuanfu Li
- Department of Surgery, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
- Center of Excellence in Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| | - Xiaohui Wang
- Department of Surgery, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
- Center of Excellence in Inflammation, Infectious Disease and Immunity, James H. Quillen College of Medicine, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, United States
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Liu J, Lu F, Chen Y, Plow E, Qin J. Integrin mediates cell entry of the SARS-CoV-2 virus independent of cellular receptor ACE2. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:101710. [PMID: 35150743 PMCID: PMC8828381 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.101710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a highly contagious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). It is broadly accepted that SARS-CoV-2 utilizes its spike protein to recognize the extracellular domain of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) to enter cells for viral infection. However, other mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 cell entry may occur. We show quantitatively that the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein also binds to the extracellular domain of broadly expressed integrin α5β1 with an affinity comparable to that of SARS-CoV-2 binding to ACE2. More importantly, we provide direct evidence that such binding promotes the internalization of SARS-CoV-2 into non-ACE2 cells in a manner critically dependent upon the activation of the integrin. Our data demonstrate an alternative pathway for the cell entry of SARS-CoV-2, suggesting that upon initial ACE2-mediated invasion of the virus in the respiratory system, which is known to trigger an immune response and secretion of cytokines to activate integrin, the integrin-mediated cell invasion of SARS-CoV-2 into the respiratory system and other organs becomes effective, thereby promoting further infection and progression of COVID-19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiamnin Liu
- Department of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Fan Lu
- Department of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Department of Biochemistry, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Yinghua Chen
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Edward Plow
- Department of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Jun Qin
- Department of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Sciences, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Department of Biochemistry, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Othman H, Messaoud HB, Khamessi O, Ben-Mabrouk H, Ghedira K, Bharuthram A, Treurnicht F, Achilonu I, Sayed Y, Srairi-Abid N. SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Unlikely to Bind to Integrins via the Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) Motif of the Receptor Binding Domain: Evidence From Structural Analysis and Microscale Accelerated Molecular Dynamics. Front Mol Biosci 2022; 9:834857. [PMID: 35237662 PMCID: PMC8883519 DOI: 10.3389/fmolb.2022.834857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The Receptor Binding Domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 virus harbors a sequence of Arg-Gly-Asp tripeptide named RGD motif, which has also been identified in extracellular matrix proteins that bind integrins as well as other disintegrins and viruses. Accordingly, integrins have been proposed as host receptors for SARS-CoV-2. However, given that the microenvironment of the RGD motif imposes a structural hindrance to the protein-protein association, the validity of this hypothesis is still uncertain. Here, we used normal mode analysis, accelerated molecular dynamics microscale simulation, and protein-protein docking to investigate the putative role of RGD motif of SARS-CoV-2 RBD for interacting with integrins. We found, that neither RGD motif nor its microenvironment showed any significant conformational shift in the RBD structure. Highly populated clusters of RBD showed no capability to interact with the RGD binding site in integrins. The free energy landscape revealed that the RGD conformation within RBD could not acquire an optimal geometry to allow the interaction with integrins. In light of these results, and in the event where integrins are confirmed to be host receptors for SARS-CoV-2, we suggest a possible involvement of other residues to stabilize the interaction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Houcemeddine Othman
- Sydney Brenner Institute for Molecular Bioscience, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
- Laboratory of Biomolecules, Venoms and Theranostic Applications, LR20IPT01, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Haifa Ben Messaoud
- National Gene Bank of Tunisia, Boulevard du Leader Yesser Arafet, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Oussema Khamessi
- Université de Tunis El Manar, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, LR11IPT08 Venins et Biomolecules Therapeutiques, Tunis, Tunisie
| | - Hazem Ben-Mabrouk
- Laboratory of Biomolecules, Venoms and Theranostic Applications, LR20IPT01, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Kais Ghedira
- Laboratory of Bioinformatics, Biomathematics and Biostatistics (BIMS), Institut Pasteur de Tunis (IPT), University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Avani Bharuthram
- Department of Virology, National Health Laboratory Services and the School of Pathology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Florette Treurnicht
- Department of Virology, National Health Laboratory Services and the School of Pathology, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Ikechukwu Achilonu
- Protein Structure-Function Research Unit, School of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Yasien Sayed
- Protein Structure-Function Research Unit, School of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Najet Srairi-Abid
- Laboratory of Biomolecules, Venoms and Theranostic Applications, LR20IPT01, Institut Pasteur de Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Caldera-Crespo LA, Paidas MJ, Roy S, Schulman CI, Kenyon NS, Daunert S, Jayakumar AR. Experimental Models of COVID-19. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 11:792584. [PMID: 35096645 PMCID: PMC8791197 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.792584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 is the most consequential pandemic of the 21st century. Since the earliest stage of the 2019-2020 epidemic, animal models have been useful in understanding the etiopathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 infection and rapid development of vaccines/drugs to prevent, treat or eradicate SARS-CoV-2 infection. Early SARS-CoV-1 research using immortalized in-vitro cell lines have aided in understanding different cells and receptors needed for SARS-CoV-2 infection and, due to their ability to be easily manipulated, continue to broaden our understanding of COVID-19 disease in in-vivo models. The scientific community determined animal models as the most useful models which could demonstrate viral infection, replication, transmission, and spectrum of illness as seen in human populations. Until now, there have not been well-described animal models of SARS-CoV-2 infection although transgenic mouse models (i.e. mice with humanized ACE2 receptors with humanized receptors) have been proposed. Additionally, there are only limited facilities (Biosafety level 3 laboratories) available to contribute research to aid in eventually exterminating SARS-CoV-2 infection around the world. This review summarizes the most successful animal models of SARS-CoV-2 infection including studies in Non-Human Primates (NHPs) which were found to be susceptible to infection and transmitted the virus similarly to humans (e.g., Rhesus macaques, Cynomolgus, and African Green Monkeys), and animal models that do not require Biosafety level 3 laboratories (e.g., Mouse Hepatitis Virus models of COVID-19, Ferret model, Syrian Hamster model). Balancing safety, mimicking human COVID-19 and robustness of the animal model, the Murine Hepatitis Virus-1 Murine model currently represents the most optimal model for SARS-CoV-2/COVID19 research. Exploring future animal models will aid researchers/scientists in discovering the mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 infection and in identifying therapies to prevent or treat COVID-19.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luis A Caldera-Crespo
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
- St. George's University Graduate Medical Education Program, University Centre Grenada, West Indies, Grenada
| | - Michael J Paidas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Sabita Roy
- Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Carl I Schulman
- Department of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Norma Sue Kenyon
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
- Diabetes Research Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Sylvia Daunert
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
- Dr. JT Macdonald Foundation Biomedical Nanotechnology Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
- University of Miami Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| | - Arumugam R Jayakumar
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, United States
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Huntington KE, Carlsen L, So EY, Piesche M, Liang O, El-Deiry WS. Integrin/TGF-β1 inhibitor GLPG-0187 blocks SARS-CoV-2 Delta and Omicron pseudovirus infection of airway epithelial cells which could attenuate disease severity. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2022:2022.01.02.22268641. [PMID: 35018385 PMCID: PMC8750711 DOI: 10.1101/2022.01.02.22268641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
As COVID-19 continues to pose major risk for vulnerable populations including the elderly, immunocompromised, patients with cancer, and those with contraindications to vaccination, novel treatment strategies are urgently needed. SARS-CoV-2 infects target cells via RGD-binding integrins either independently or as a co-receptor with surface receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). We used pan-integrin inhibitor GLPG-0187 to demonstrate blockade of SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus infection of target cells. Omicron pseudovirus infected normal human small airway epithelial (HSAE) cells significantly less than D614G or Delta variant pseudovirus, and GLPG-0187 effectively blocked SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus infection in a dose-dependent manner across multiple viral variants. GLPG-0187 inhibited Omicron and Delta pseudovirus infection of HSAE cells more significantly than other variants. Pre-treatment of HSAE cells with MEK inhibitor (MEKi) VS-6766 enhanced inhibition of pseudovirus infection by GLPG-0187. Because integrins activate TGF-β signaling, we compared plasma levels of active and total TGF-β in COVID-19+ patients. Plasma TGF-β1 levels correlated with age, race, and number of medications upon presentation with COVID-19, but not with sex. Total plasma TGF-β1 levels correlated with activated TGF-β1 levels. In our preclinical studies, Omicron infects lower airway lung cells less efficiently than other COVID-19 variants. Moreover, inhibition of integrin signaling prevents SARS-CoV-2 Delta and Omicron pseudovirus infectivity, and may mitigate COVID-19 severity through decreased TGF-β1 activation. This therapeutic strategy may be further explored through clinical testing in vulnerable and unvaccinated populations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey E. Huntington
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Joint Program in Cancer Biology, Lifespan Health System and Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Legorreta Cancer Center at Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Pathobiology Graduate Program, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Lindsey Carlsen
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Joint Program in Cancer Biology, Lifespan Health System and Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Legorreta Cancer Center at Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Pathobiology Graduate Program, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
| | - Eui-Young So
- Joint Program in Cancer Biology, Lifespan Health System and Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Legorreta Cancer Center at Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Hematology-Oncology Division, Department of Medicine, Lifespan Health System and Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, 02912
| | - Matthias Piesche
- Biomedical Research Laboratories, Medicine Faculty, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca, Chile
- Oncology Center, Medicine Faculty, Universidad Católica del Maule, Talca, Chile
| | - Olin Liang
- Joint Program in Cancer Biology, Lifespan Health System and Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Legorreta Cancer Center at Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Hematology-Oncology Division, Department of Medicine, Lifespan Health System and Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, 02912
| | - Wafik S. El-Deiry
- Laboratory of Translational Oncology and Experimental Cancer Therapeutics, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Joint Program in Cancer Biology, Lifespan Health System and Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Legorreta Cancer Center at Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Pathobiology Graduate Program, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
- Hematology-Oncology Division, Department of Medicine, Lifespan Health System and Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, Providence, RI, 02912
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Beaudoin CA, Hamaia SW, Huang CLH, Blundell TL, Jackson AP. Can the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Bind Integrins Independent of the RGD Sequence? Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2021; 11:765300. [PMID: 34869067 PMCID: PMC8637727 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.765300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The RGD motif in the Severe Acute Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spike protein has been predicted to bind RGD-recognizing integrins. Recent studies have shown that the spike protein does, indeed, interact with αVβ3 and α5β1 integrins, both of which bind to RGD-containing ligands. However, computational studies have suggested that binding between the spike RGD motif and integrins is not favourable, even when unfolding occurs after conformational changes induced by binding to the canonical host entry receptor, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). Furthermore, non-RGD-binding integrins, such as αx, have been suggested to interact with the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. Other viral pathogens, such as rotaviruses, have been recorded to bind integrins in an RGD-independent manner to initiate host cell entry. Thus, in order to consider the potential for the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein to bind integrins independent of the RGD sequence, we investigate several factors related to the involvement of integrins in SARS-CoV-2 infection. First, we review changes in integrin expression during SARS-CoV-2 infection to identify which integrins might be of interest. Then, all known non-RGD integrin-binding motifs are collected and mapped to the spike protein receptor-binding domain and analyzed for their 3D availability. Several integrin-binding motifs are shown to exhibit high sequence similarity with solvent accessible regions of the spike receptor-binding domain. Comparisons of these motifs with other betacoronavirus spike proteins, such as SARS-CoV and RaTG13, reveal that some have recently evolved while others are more conserved throughout phylogenetically similar betacoronaviruses. Interestingly, all of the potential integrin-binding motifs, including the RGD sequence, are conserved in one of the known pangolin coronavirus strains. Of note, the most recently recorded mutations in the spike protein receptor-binding domain were found outside of the putative integrin-binding sequences, although several mutations formed inside and close to one motif, in particular, may potentially enhance binding. These data suggest that the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein may interact with integrins independent of the RGD sequence and may help further explain how SARS-CoV-2 and other viruses can evolve to bind to integrins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher A Beaudoin
- Department of Biochemistry, Sanger Building, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Samir W Hamaia
- Department of Biochemistry, Hopkins Building, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher L-H Huang
- Department of Biochemistry, Hopkins Building, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Physiological Laboratory, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Tom L Blundell
- Department of Biochemistry, Sanger Building, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Antony P Jackson
- Department of Biochemistry, Hopkins Building, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Karrow NA, Shandilya UK, Pelech S, Wagter-Lesperance L, McLeod D, Bridle B, Mallard BA. Maternal COVID-19 Vaccination and Its Potential Impact on Fetal and Neonatal Development. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:1351. [PMID: 34835282 PMCID: PMC8617890 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9111351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Vaccines have been developed at "warp speed" to combat the COVID-19 pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. Although they are considered the best approach for preventing mortality, when assessing the safety of these vaccines, pregnant women have not been included in clinical trials. Thus, vaccine safety for this demographic, as well as for the developing fetus and neonate, remains to be determined. A global effort has been underway to encourage pregnant women to get vaccinated despite the uncertain risk posed to them and their offspring. Given this, post-hoc data collection, potentially for years, will be required to determine the outcomes of COVID-19 and vaccination on the next generation. Most COVID-19 vaccine reactions include injection site erythema, pain, swelling, fatigue, headache, fever and lymphadenopathy, which may be sufficient to affect fetal/neonatal development. In this review, we have explored components of the first-generation viral vector and mRNA COVID-19 vaccines that are believed to contribute to adverse reactions and which may negatively impact fetal and neonatal development. We have followed this with a discussion of the potential for using an ovine model to explore the long-term outcomes of COVID-19 vaccination during the prenatal and neonatal periods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Niel A. Karrow
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada;
| | - Umesh K. Shandilya
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada;
| | - Steven Pelech
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V5Z 1M9, Canada;
| | - Lauraine Wagter-Lesperance
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (L.W.-L.); (B.B.); (B.A.M.)
| | - Deanna McLeod
- Kaleidoscope Strategic Inc., Toronto, ON M6R 1E7, Canada;
| | - Byram Bridle
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (L.W.-L.); (B.B.); (B.A.M.)
| | - Bonnie A. Mallard
- Department of Pathobiology, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada; (L.W.-L.); (B.B.); (B.A.M.)
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Simons P, Rinaldi DA, Bondu V, Kell AM, Bradfute S, Lidke DS, Buranda T. Integrin activation is an essential component of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Sci Rep 2021; 11:20398. [PMID: 34650161 PMCID: PMC8516859 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-99893-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 infection depends on binding its spike (S) protein to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). The S protein expresses an RGD motif, suggesting that integrins may be co-receptors. Here, we UV-inactivated SARS-CoV-2 and fluorescently labeled the envelope membrane with octadecyl rhodamine B (R18) to explore the role of integrin activation in mediating cell entry and productive infection. We used flow cytometry and confocal microscopy to show that SARS-CoV-2R18 particles engage basal-state integrins. Furthermore, we demonstrate that Mn2+, which induces integrin extension, enhances cell entry of SARS-CoV-2R18. We also show that one class of integrin antagonist, which binds to the αI MIDAS site and stabilizes the inactive, closed conformation, selectively inhibits the engagement of SARS-CoV-2R18 with basal state integrins, but is ineffective against Mn2+-activated integrins. RGD-integrin antagonists inhibited SARS-CoV-2R18 binding regardless of integrin activation status. Integrins transmit signals bidirectionally: 'inside-out' signaling primes the ligand-binding function of integrins via a talin-dependent mechanism, and 'outside-in' signaling occurs downstream of integrin binding to macromolecular ligands. Outside-in signaling is mediated by Gα13. Using cell-permeable peptide inhibitors of talin and Gα13 binding to the cytoplasmic tail of an integrin's β subunit, we demonstrate that talin-mediated signaling is essential for productive infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Simons
- Department of Pathology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Derek A Rinaldi
- Department of Pathology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Virginie Bondu
- Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Alison M Kell
- Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
- Center for Infectious Diseases and Immunity, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Steven Bradfute
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
- Center for Infectious Diseases and Immunity, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Diane S Lidke
- Department of Pathology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA
| | - Tione Buranda
- Department of Pathology, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA.
- Center for Infectious Diseases and Immunity, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM, 87131, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Simons P, Rinaldi DA, Bondu V, Kell AM, Bradfute S, Lidke D, Buranda T. Integrin activation is an essential component of SARS-CoV-2 infection. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2021. [PMID: 34312625 DOI: 10.1101/2021.07.20.453118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Cellular entry of coronaviruses depends on binding of the viral spike (S) protein to a specific cellular receptor, the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). Furthermore, the viral spike protein expresses an RGD motif, suggesting that cell surface integrins may be attachment co-receptors. However, using infectious SARS-CoV-2 requires a biosafety level 3 laboratory (BSL-3), which limits the techniques that can be used to study the mechanism of cell entry. Here, we UV-inactivated SARS-CoV-2 and fluorescently labeled the envelope membrane with octadecyl rhodamine B (R18) to explore the role of integrin activation in mediating both cell entry and productive infection. We used flow cytometry and confocal fluorescence microscopy to show that fluorescently labeled SARS-CoV-2 R18 particles engage basal-state integrins. Furthermore, we demonstrate that Mn 2+ , which activates integrins and induces integrin extension, enhances cell binding and entry of SARS-CoV-2 R18 in proportion to the fraction of integrins activated. We also show that one class of integrin antagonist, which binds to the αI MIDAS site and stabilizes the inactive, closed conformation, selectively inhibits the engagement of SARS-CoV-2 R18 with basal state integrins, but is ineffective against Mn 2+ -activated integrins. At the same time, RGD-integrin antagonists inhibited SARS-CoV-2 R18 binding regardless of integrin activity state. Integrins transmit signals bidirectionally: 'inside-out' signaling primes the ligand binding function of integrins via a talin dependent mechanism and 'outside-in' signaling occurs downstream of integrin binding to macromolecular ligands. Outside-in signaling is mediated by Gα 13 and induces cell spreading, retraction, migration, and proliferation. Using cell-permeable peptide inhibitors of talin, and Gα 13 binding to the cytoplasmic tail of an integrin's β subunit, we further demonstrate that talin-mediated signaling is essential for productive infection by SARS-CoV-2.
Collapse
|