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How tetraspanin-mediated cell entry of SARS-CoV-2 can dysregulate the shedding of the ACE2 receptor by ADAM17
1Department of Chemistry, St. Edward's University, Austin, TX, 78704, USA.
Abstract:
COVID-19, the respiratory infection caused by the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, presents a clinical picture consistent with the dysregulation of many of the pathways mediated by the metalloprotease ADAM17. ADAM17 is a sheddase that plays a key role in the modulation of ACE2, the receptor which also functions as the point of attachment leading to cell entry by the virus. This work investigates the possibility that ADAM17 dysregulation and attachment of the SARS-CoV-2 virion to the ACE2 receptor are linked events, with the latter causing the former. Tetraspanins, the transmembrane proteins that function as scaffolds for the construction of viral entry platforms, are mooted as key components in this connection.
Insights
The novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 causes COVID-19, potentially by disrupting the metalloprotease ADAM17. This study explores if virus attachment to the ACE2 receptor triggers ADAM17 dysregulation, involving tetraspanins in viral entry.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by SARS-CoV-2.
- The metalloprotease ADAM17 is implicated in COVID-19 pathogenesis.
- ADAM17 modulates ACE2, the SARS-CoV-2 cell entry receptor.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the link between SARS-CoV-2 attachment to ACE2 and ADAM17 dysregulation.
- To explore the role of tetraspanins in forming viral entry platforms.
Main Methods:
- This study proposes a hypothesis based on existing literature.
- Further experimental validation is required.
Main Results:
- The attachment of SARS-CoV-2 to ACE2 may cause ADAM17 dysregulation.
- Tetraspanins are hypothesized to be crucial for viral entry platform assembly.
Conclusions:
- ADAM17 dysregulation is a potential consequence of SARS-CoV-2 binding to ACE2.
- Tetraspanins may facilitate SARS-CoV-2 cell entry by scaffolding viral entry platforms.
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