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Published on: May 29, 2012
ELISA-Based Assay for Studying Major and Minor Group Rhinovirus-Receptor Interactions
Petra Pazderova1, Eva E Waltl2, Verena Niederberger-Leppin2
1Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria.
Abstract:
Rhinovirus (RV) infections are a major cause of recurrent common colds and trigger severe exacerbations of chronic respiratory diseases. Major challenges for the development of vaccines for RV include the virus occurring in the form of approximately 160 different serotypes, using different receptors, and the need for preclinical models for the screening of vaccine candidates and antiviral compounds. We report the establishment and characterization of an ELISA-based assay for studying major and minor group RV-receptor interactions. This assay is based on the interaction of purified virus with plate-bound human receptor proteins, intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1), and low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR). Using RV strain-specific antibodies, we demonstrate the specific binding of a panel of major and minor RV group types including RV-A and RV-B strains to ICAM-1 and LDLR, respectively. We show that the RV-receptor interaction can be blocked with receptor-specific antibodies as well as with soluble receptors and neutralizing RV-specific antibodies. The assay is more sensitive than a cell culture-based virus neutralization test. The ELISA assay will therefore be useful for the preclinical evaluation for preventive and therapeutic strategies targeting the RV-receptor interaction, such as vaccines, antibodies, and anti-viral compounds.
Insights
A new ELISA assay effectively measures rhinovirus (RV) interactions with its receptors, ICAM-1 and LDLR. This sensitive method aids in developing vaccines and antivirals against common colds and respiratory diseases.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- Rhinovirus (RV) causes common colds and exacerbates chronic respiratory conditions.
- Developing RV vaccines is challenging due to numerous serotypes and receptor variations.
- Preclinical models are crucial for evaluating RV interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish and characterize an ELISA-based assay for studying RV-receptor interactions.
- To enable screening of vaccine candidates and antiviral compounds targeting RV entry.
Main Methods:
- Developed an ELISA assay using purified RV and plate-bound human ICAM-1 and LDLR.
- Utilized RV strain-specific antibodies to confirm binding.
- Tested blocking agents including receptor-specific antibodies, soluble receptors, and neutralizing RV antibodies.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated specific binding of major and minor RV groups (RV-A, RV-B) to ICAM-1 and LDLR.
- Showed that RV-receptor interactions can be blocked by antibodies and soluble receptors.
- The ELISA assay exhibited higher sensitivity than cell culture-based neutralization tests.
Conclusions:
- The developed ELISA assay is a sensitive tool for studying RV-receptor interactions.
- This assay will facilitate preclinical evaluation of preventive and therapeutic strategies against RV infections.
- It supports the development of vaccines, antibodies, and antiviral compounds targeting RV entry.

