Human Basigin (CD147) Does Not Directly Interact with SARS-CoV-2 Spike Glycoprotein

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Immunology
• Parasitology

Background:

• Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) utilizes host cell receptors for entry.
• Basigin (CD147) was proposed as a SARS-CoV-2 coreceptor, binding the spike protein's receptor binding domain (RBD).
• Basigin is also implicated in Plasmodium falciparum malaria invasion.

Purpose of the Study:

• To validate the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein (RBD) and basigin.
• To assess basigin's potential as a therapeutic target for COVID-19.

Main Methods:

• Recombinant protein expression (E. coli and mammalian cells).
• Size exclusion chromatography and surface plasmon resonance assays.
• Inhibition assays using anti-basigin IgG in Vero E6 cells.

Main Results:

• No binding was detected between SARS-CoV-2 RBD or full-length spike glycoprotein and recombinant human basigin.
• Polyclonal anti-basigin IgG did not inhibit SARS-CoV-2 infection of host cells.
• The positive control (RH5-basigin interaction) was confirmed.

Conclusions:

• The direct interaction between SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and basigin is not supported by this study.
• Basigin's role as a SARS-CoV-2 coreceptor is questionable.
• Caution is advised regarding basigin as a direct therapeutic target for COVID-19.