The roles of glycans in the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein
2020
University of California San Diego, San Diego, USA
The study provides new insights into the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and its glycan envelope. By means of molecular dynamics simulations, an important structural role of the N-glycans at specific positions (N165 and N234) could be revealed. Biolayer interferometry experiments showed that the binding of the spike protein to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is reduced when glycans are no longer present at these positions. On this basis, new strategies to combat COVID-19 could be developed. In addition, computer programs can identify regions of the SARS-CoV-2 membrane spike proteins that are ensheathed by glycans to a lesser extent and are therefore suitable as potential targets.
Beyond shielding: The roles of glycans in the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein
Rommie E. Amaro
Added on: 10-01-2020
[1] https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acscentsci.0c01056[2] https://www.bionity.com/en/news/1168076/glycans-in-the-sars-cov-2-spike-protein-play-active-role-in-infection.html
