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Virus-ligand interactions of OC43 coronavirus with cell membranes
1Department of Microbiology, State Univ. of NY at Buffalo 14214.
Abstract:
The binding of human coronavirus OC43 to human rhabdomyosarcoma cells which are highly susceptible to infection was studied by a solid phase virus binding assay and a receptor blockade assay. It was observed that whole virions and S(spike) bound to a 90 kD glycoprotein of RD cells even after treatment of the substrate with neuraminidase or 0.1 M NaOH. A second receptor of 45 kD also bound virus and was identified as HLA class I antigen. Antibody to both receptors reduced the virus yield in a receptor blockade assay. Sera from four patients with multiple sclerosis contained receptor blocking activity which correlated with antibodies to HLA. No receptor blocking antibodies to the 90 kD RD cell protein were found in human sera.
Insights
Human coronavirus OC43 binds to two receptors on susceptible cells: a 90 kD glycoprotein and HLA class I antigen. Antibodies targeting these receptors reduce virus yield, suggesting potential therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Human coronavirus OC43 (HCoV-OC43) is a significant respiratory pathogen.
- Understanding virus-receptor interactions is crucial for developing antiviral strategies.
- Rhabdomyosarcoma (RD) cells are highly susceptible to HCoV-OC43 infection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize the cellular receptors for HCoV-OC43 on RD cells.
- To investigate the role of these receptors in viral entry and infection.
- To explore the potential of receptor blockade as an antiviral approach.
Main Methods:
- Solid phase virus binding assays were employed to detect virus-receptor interactions.
- Receptor blockade assays were used to assess the functional role of identified receptors.
- Neuraminidase and NaOH treatments were utilized to confirm receptor specificity.
Main Results:
- HCoV-OC43 virions and spike proteins bound to a 90 kD glycoprotein on RD cells, resistant to enzymatic and chemical treatments.
- A 45 kD receptor, identified as HLA class I antigen, also mediated virus binding.
- Antibodies against both the 90 kD glycoprotein and HLA class I antigen reduced virus yield.
- Serum from multiple sclerosis patients showed blocking activity correlated with anti-HLA antibodies, but not anti-90 kD glycoprotein antibodies.
Conclusions:
- HCoV-OC43 utilizes a 90 kD glycoprotein and HLA class I antigen as cellular receptors on RD cells.
- Both receptors play a role in viral infection, as evidenced by antibody-mediated reduction in virus yield.
- The presence of anti-HLA antibodies in multiple sclerosis patients suggests a potential link between HLA and coronavirus infection, warranting further investigation.