Viral Entry
Articles tagged with Viral Entry
University of Minnesota scientists reveal how deadly Marburg virus enters human cells, identify therapeutic vulnerability
Researchers discovered Marburg virus enters human cells up to 300 times more efficiently than Ebola, thanks to its unique entry protein. A nanobody has been identified to block its attachment to the receptor, providing a potential therapeutic strategy.
Researchers pinpoint target for treating virus that causes the stomach bug
Researchers have discovered that human astroviruses bind to a protein in human cells called the neonatal Fc receptor. The study provides a key target for vaccine development and repurposing of existing treatments.
Headspace invaders: How mosquito-borne viruses breach the brain’s defenses
Researchers have uncovered how mosquito-borne viruses invade the brain by exploiting specific proteins on blood-brain barrier cells. The study highlights promising molecular targets for future vaccines and antiviral drugs to prevent severe neurological complications.
A stunning first look at the viruses inside us
Researchers mapped the surface envelope glycoprotein of human endogenous retroviruses, opening doors to new diagnostic and therapeutic opportunities. The study revealed specific antibodies that target the viral proteins, potentially leading to new cancer immunotherapies and treatments for autoimmune diseases.
Structure of tick-borne virus revealed at atomic resolution for the first time
The team built a high-resolution 3D structure of the Powassan virus, shedding light on its transmission and potential therapeutics. The findings could inform future treatments and preventions for this emerging tick-borne disease.
Critical step in COVID viral infection identified
Researchers have identified a critical step in SARS-CoV-2 viral infection: the protective role of ORF3a, which forms dense bodies surrounding the spike protein to prevent it from being cut into smaller components. This finding could lead to new therapeutic targets and vaccine development strategies.
HIV discovery could open door to long-sought cure
Researchers have uncovered a key reason why HIV remains difficult to cure, revealing that subtle variations in the Rev-RRE axis influence viral replication and latency reactivation. Understanding this regulatory system could help develop strategies to flush out the dormant virus and eliminate it for good.
Zika virus uses cells’ ‘self-care’ system to turn against host
The Zika virus employs its host cells' autophagy mechanism to suppress proteins that would trigger an antiviral response, allowing for sustained infection. This unique strategy involves the manipulation of three proteins on the viral membrane, which are also involved in viral entry and replication.
Viruses under the super microscope: How influenza viruses communicate with cells
Scientists have developed a universal protocol to investigate how viruses interact with host cells, revealing a cascade of cellular reactions triggered by contact between the virus and cell surface. This breakthrough provides insights into the biology of influenza viruses and identifies potential targets for antiviral therapies.
Route of entry for Semliki Forest virus into the brain revealed
Researchers at Uppsala University found that Semliki Forest virus penetrates the central nervous system by entering the cerebrospinal fluid and binding to VLDLR before penetrating deeper into the brain. This finding could be used to develop the virus as an agent for treating brain cancer.
New findings on animal viruses with potential to infect humans
Researchers identified a protein in mammals that welcomes arteriviruses into host cells to start an infection. The team also found that an existing monoclonal antibody protects cells from viral infection, providing potential therapeutic strategy.
Coinfecting viruses impede each other’s ability to enter cells
Researchers used advanced techniques to study phage infection at the level of individual bacterial cells. They found that coinfecting phages impede each other's entry, perturbing the cell's electrophysiology and affecting the outcome of infection. This discovery opens a new avenue for research in bacterial electrophysiology.
Autoantibodies behind lifelong risk of viral infections
A new study reveals that about two percent of the population develop autoantibodies against type 1 interferons, making them more susceptible to severe viral infections. The autoantibodies remain detectable in the blood for life and are associated with a compromised type 1 interferon system.
HKUST identifies novel host factors that facilitates SARS-CoV-2 entry
A research team at HKUST has identified new host factors that facilitate SARS-CoV-2 entry into host cells. The study reveals that these factors, including SH3BP4 and ADAM9, promote viral internalization via the endocytic pathway and may enhance the entry of the SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant.
The route into the cell influences the outcome of SARS-CoV-2 infection
Research finds that viral genome replication increases with efficient TMPRSS2-mediated entry, leading to stronger immune response and faster death. The presence of TMPRSS2 also enhances virus production and drives convergent evolution in SARS-CoV-2 variants.
Mechanism of action of the hepatitis B and D virus cell entry inhibitor bulevirtide deciphered
Researchers deciphered the molecular structure of bulevirtide in complex with HBV/HDV receptor NTCP, revealing a unique 'plug' that inhibits virus entry. The study also sheds light on evolutionary adaptation of HBVs to host species and provides insights for developing smaller, more effective active agents.
New study shows how the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus enters our cells
A new study by Karolinska Institutet researchers has identified the protein on cell surfaces that the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus uses to enter human cells. This discovery is crucial in developing effective treatments and vaccines for the deadly disease, which can cause up to 40% mortality rate.
A unique pathogenic mechanism of SARS-CoV-2 omicron variant: Selective induction of cellular senescence
The study found that solely the omicron variant influences cell cycle genes, leading to increased p21 expression and a senescence-associated secretory phenotype. This results in premature cellular senescence, potentially contributing to the reported cytokine storm and development of long-COVID.
Findings challenge standard understanding of COVID-19 infection
Researchers at UC Riverside found that SARS-CoV-2 entry varies among different species and tissue types, highlighting the need for thorough investigations into viral entry mechanisms. The study's findings suggest that targeting TMPRSS2 may not be effective in preventing COVID-19 infection in mink.
New discovery concerning receptors used by coronaviruses to enter human cells
Researchers at Institut Pasteur have identified the TMPRSS2 enzyme as the receptor that allows HKU1 virus to enter human cells. This discovery may help explain why SARS-CoV-2 causes more severe disease than other coronaviruses, and could lead to targeted therapies.
Bat influenza A viruses use MHC-II for cell entry; this study shows that highly conserved amino acids within MHC-II are key for infection and provide an explanation for the ability of these viruses to target MHC-II from a broad range of vertebrates, inclu
Researchers found that highly conserved amino acids within MHC-II are crucial for bat influenza A virus infection. The study reveals a broad range of vertebrates, including humans, can be targeted by these viruses due to their ability to bind to MHC-II.
Cholesterol lures in coronavirus
A recent study unveiled the doorway that SARS-CoV2 uses to slip inside cells undetected. Cholesterol clusters make up this door, allowing the virus to infect human cells. Regular exercise and mechanical force can disrupt these cholesterol aggregates, reducing the risk of infection.
Key regulator of COVID viral receptor may be new drug target
Researchers have identified DYRK1A as a key regulator of the SARS-CoV-2 viral receptor, which is critical for entry into human tissues. Reducing DYRK1A activity decreases infection, providing new insights into COVID-19 causation and potential antiviral treatments.
Port of entry for coronaviruses
Researchers found that coronaviruses, like SARS-CoV-2, bind to individual monomeric ACE2 receptors on host cells, rather than forming dimers or oligomers. This interaction is sufficient for infection and contributes to the virus's high infectiousness.
We've learned a lot from lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus—now the time has come to fight it
Researchers at La Jolla Institute for Immunology have developed a high-resolution view of the LCMV glycoprotein, revealing its structure and potential vulnerabilities. The breakthrough enables the development of an engineered antibody that can prevent LCMV disease, offering a new route to treatment.
Human norovirus GII.4 exploits unexpected entry mechanism to cause gastroenteritis
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine discovered that human norovirus GII.4 invades gastrointestinal cells via an unexpected mechanism involving interactions between viral and human cell surface proteins. The findings provide insight into the viral infection process and highlight unique pathways for developing effective therapeutics.
New treatment for COVID-19 is made from plants
Researchers at Arizona State University describe an innovative therapy using transient expression in tobacco plants to produce a monoclonal antibody against SARS-CoV-2. This class 4 mAb provides key advantages over existing treatments, including mutation resistance and universal protection against emerging variants.
Could a naturally occurring amino acid lead us to a cure for COVID-19?
Researchers have found that the naturally occurring amino acid ALA can reduce the expression of ACE2 on cell membranes, potentially lowering SARS-CoV-2's infectious capabilities. The study also reveals an underlying mechanism involving the production of heme, which is boosted by co-administering ALA with an iron source.
How hepatitis E viruses enter cells
A study published in Hepatology reveals that the EGFR protein plays a crucial role in the entry mechanism of hepatitis E virus into human hepatocytes. The researchers found that suppressing the activity of the EGFR protein significantly reduced cell infections, suggesting potential therapeutic applications for approved cancer drugs.
Oncotarget | Intraventricular immunovirotherapy; a translational step forward
Researchers developed a translational step forward in treating brain tumors using intraventricular immunovirotherapy, which has shown safety and efficacy in recent clinical trials. This approach uses oncolytic herpes simplex virus type-1 to target high-grade glioma with promising results.
How the body's B cell academy ensures a diverse immune response
A new study reveals that high-affinity B cells trigger a change in the criteria for admission to germinal centers, allowing low-affinity B cells to join, increasing the diversity of the immune response. This process is crucial for fighting off viruses like SARS-CoV-2 but may hinder efforts against HIV.
Bat virus receptor studies vital to predict spillover risk
New research reveals that bat virus relatives of MERS-CoV efficiently bind to bat ACE2 receptors as an entry point into cells. However, these viruses only weakly bind to human ACE2 cell receptors and are not known to cause disease outbreaks in people.
Researchers identify a new entryway into cells for virus causing COVID-19
A University of Ottawa-led team identified a new entry route for SARS-CoV-2 using metalloproteinases, which may lead to more widespread cell infection and severe illness. The study suggests that variants like the Delta strain may prefer this entry method, while others like Omicron do not.
New data suggests COVID vaccine design ideas with better variant resilience
Researchers found that antibodies against one of the two main domains of the SARS-CoV-2 viral entry machinery elicit a broad antibody response against many variants. This suggests strategies for clinical development of variant-resistant vaccines.
Mouthwashes may suppress SARS-CoV-2
A study by Hokkaido University researchers found that low concentrations of cetylpyridinium chloride in mouthwash can inhibit SARS-CoV-2 infectivity and viral load, regardless of variant. This antiviral effect is thought to be due to disruption of the lipid membrane surrounding the virus.
Study: Often overlooked, molecules called glycans regulate COVID-19 spike protein function
A study found that specific N-glycans on the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein regulate its development and functional maturation. This is crucial for viral entry into host cells. Researchers highlight N-linked glycans as potential drug targets for COVID-19.
To keep them out, we must learn how they got in
Researchers at ITQB NOVA and iMM discovered that the parainfluenza fusion peptide promotes membrane fusion by destabilizing the host's membrane and forming clusters of oligomeric structures. This breakthrough can contribute to developing antiviral therapies to prevent infection.
TBE: Activation mechanism of flaviviruses identified
Researchers discovered a molecular switch in flavivirus that controls virus assembly, maturation, and entry into new cells. This switch is triggered by pH-dependent conformational changes in viral envelope proteins.
New nasal spray treats Delta variant infection in mice, indicating broad spectrum results
Researchers have developed a new compound that prevents and treats COVID-19 caused by the Delta variant in mice. The compound, N-0385, blocks entry at the cell surface without causing detectable cell damage.
Discovered a new molecular interaction mechanism for SARS-Cov2
The study reveals the Spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 directly binds exogeneous sialic acids, providing a new understanding of the virus's infection mechanism. This discovery opens up new therapeutic opportunities by targeting this interaction.
A possible therapeutic approach to COVID-19
The article suggests a potential treatment option for COVID-19 by targeting SARS-CoV-2's interaction with ACE2 receptors. Combining DPP4 inhibitors and spironolactone may mitigate COVID-19 complications and infections without adverse side effects.
Researchers identify a set of cellular receptors in humans and other species for the eastern equine encephalitis virus, other members of the alphavirus family
A new study identifies a set of cellular receptors for eastern equine encephalitis virus and other alphaviruses shared across mosquitoes, humans, and animals. The researchers tested a decoy molecule that successfully prevented infection and slowed disease progression in cell and animal models.
SARS-CoV-2 goes ‘underground’ to spread from cell to cell
A new study reveals that SARS-CoV-2 limits viral particle release and instead spreads through cell-to-cell transmission, enabling efficient infection without the need for antibodies. This stealthy transmission method makes it challenging for the host immune system to target and neutralize the virus.
A medication against SARS-CoV-2 - new strategy promises protection also against future SARS-CoV-2 variants
Scientists have developed a fusion protein that successfully blocks replication of SARS-CoV-2 and related viruses in cell culture tests. The protein combines ACE2 with human antibody fragments, providing reliable protection against future mutations.
Rodents could be asymptomatic carriers of SARS-like coronaviruses, study suggests
A study published in PLOS Computational Biology found that rodents have a greater diversity and accelerated rate of evolution in the ACE2 receptors used by SARS viruses. This suggests that some rodent species may be asymptomatic carriers of SARS-like coronaviruses, potentially leading to new pathogen transmission to humans.
Nervous system manifestations of COVID-19
Research reveals SARS-CoV-2 can enter the brain and affect neural function, leading to symptoms like headache, depression, and fatigue. Many people experience lingering cognitive or neurological problems months after initial recovery.
NIAID scientists find a key to hepatitis C entry into cells
Researchers identify structure and interaction between HCV E2 protein and CD81 receptor, revealing acidic conditions enhance binding and facilitate cell entry. This discovery provides new leads for developing an HCV vaccine by targeting specific antibodies against the virus.
Researchers discover hidden SARS-CoV-2 ‘gate’ that opens to allow COVID infection
Scientists have discovered a hidden 'gate' in the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein that allows the virus to infect cells. The discovery reveals a glycan mechanism that opens the gate, enabling the virus to enter host cells. This breakthrough could lead to new therapeutics to counter COVID infection.
Neutralizing the SARS-CoV-2 sugar coat
Researchers identified two lectins, Clec4g and CD209c, that strongly bind to the SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein, blocking viral entry into cells. These findings hold promise for developing robust therapeutic interventions against circulating variants.
SARS-CoV-2 infects cells via specific viral entry factors
A new study reveals that SARS-CoV-2 infects cells with high expression of ACE2 receptor and protease, found in lung epithelium and other organs. The study suggests that elderly people, men, and smokers are more severely affected due to increased viral entry factor expression.
Melatonin produced in the lungs prevents infection by novel coronavirus
Researchers found that melatonin synthesized in the lungs acts as a barrier against SARS-CoV-2, preventing expression of genes that encode proteins in cells serving as viral entry points. The hormone also inhibits immune response to allow virus to remain in respiratory tract for a few days.
A sulfur molecule to block the coronavirus
Researchers at UNIGE have identified sulfur molecules that can effectively block the uptake of SARS-CoV-2 viruses by cells. The team found inhibitors up to 5,000 times more effective than existing treatments, providing a promising lead for developing new antivirals.
A new strategy of cell entry for some types of parvoviruses
INRS researchers have discovered a new parvovirus strategy for reaching the cell nucleus, using a mechanical response involving an inner pentamer helix bundle. This method is distinct from previously identified enzymatic reactions and has implications for understanding how viruses enter cells.
Scientists produce first open source all-atom models of full-length COVID-19 'S' protein
Researchers developed the first fully-glycosylated full-length SARS-CoV-2 spike protein models available to other scientists. The models can be used for innovative simulation research to prevent and treat COVID-19.
Fujita Health University releases a preliminary report of Favipiravir Observational Study
The study analyzed data from 2,158 patients who received favipiravir for COVID-19 and found correlations between treatment and improved clinical outcomes. The observational study aims to provide insights into the effectiveness of favipiravir in treating hospitalized COVID-19 patients.
How the coronavirus could be prevented from invading a host cell
A team of scientists has identified two host cell proteases, TMPRSS2 and furin, responsible for processing the S-glycoprotein of SARS-CoV2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Inhibiting these proteases could prevent viral entry into host cells, making them potential targets for COVID-19 therapeutics.
Researchers discover key player in hepatitis A virus infection
Gangliosides, sugary fatty acid molecules, are essential receptors for hepatitis A virus (HAV) infection, allowing the virus to enter liver cells. The discovery provides new insights into HAV's unique mode of transmission and opens avenues for antiviral research.
Key nose cells identified as likely COVID-19 virus entry points
Researchers have identified goblet and ciliated cells in the nose as likely initial infection points for COVID-19 coronavirus. The study found that these cells express key entry proteins used by the virus to infect cells, making them highly accessible to the virus.
Decoy molecule neutralizes a range of viruses
Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science have developed a decoy molecule called Arenacept that can neutralize a range of viruses, including arenaviruses. The molecule is based on a rodent receptor and has been shown to be highly effective in binding strongly to viruses and recruiting the immune system to mount an attack.