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Qiao W, Lau HE, Xie H, Poon VKM, Chan CCS, Chu H, Yuan S, Yuen TTT, Chik KKH, Tsang JOL, Chan CCY, Cai JP, Luo C, Yuen KY, Cheung KMC, Chan JFW, Yeung KWK. Author Correction: SARS-CoV-2 infection induces inflammatory bone loss in golden Syrian hamsters. Nat Commun 2022; 13:3139. [PMID: 35641502 PMCID: PMC9153867 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-30952-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
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Lu L, Chen LL, Zhang RRQ, Tsang OTY, Chan JMC, Tam AR, Leung WS, Chik TSH, Lau DPL, Choi CYC, Fong CHY, Cai JP, Tsoi HW, Choi CYK, Zhang X, Abdullah SMU, Chan BPC, Chan KH, Yuen KY, Hung IFN, To KKW. Boosting of serum neutralizing activity against the Omicron variant among recovered COVID-19 patients by BNT162b2 and CoronaVac vaccines. EBioMedicine 2022; 79:103986. [PMID: 35398786 PMCID: PMC8989491 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2022.103986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant evades immunity from past infection or vaccination and is associated with a greater risk of reinfection among recovered COVID-19 patients. We assessed the serum neutralizing antibody (NAb) activity against Omicron variant (Omicron NAb) among recovered COVID-19 patients with or without vaccination. Methods In this prospective cohort study with 135 recovered COVID-19 patients, we determined the serum NAb titers against ancestral virus or variants using a live virus NAb assay. We used the receiver operating characteristic analysis to determine the optimal cutoff for a commercially-available surrogate NAb assay. Findings Among recovered COVID-19 patients, the serum live virus geometric mean Omicron NAb titer was statistically significantly higher among BNT162b2 recipients compared to non-vaccinated individuals (85.4 vs 5.6,P < 0.0001). The Omicron seropositive rates in live virus NAb test (NAb titer ≥10) were statistically significantly higher among BNT162b2 (90.6% [29/32];P < 0.0001) or CoronaVac (36.7% [11/30]; P = 0.0115) recipients when compared with non-vaccinated individuals (12.3% [9/73]). Subgroup analysis of CoronaVac recipients showed that the Omicron seropositive rates were higher among individuals with two doses than those with one dose (85.7% vs 21.7%; P = 0.0045). For the surrogate NAb assay, a cutoff of 109.1 AU/ml, which is 7.3-fold higher than the manufacturer's recommended cutoff, could achieve a sensitivity and specificity of 89.5% and 89.8%, respectively, in detecting Omicron NAb. Interpretation Among individuals with prior COVID-19, one dose of BNT162b2 or two doses of CoronaVac could induce detectable serum Omicron NAb. Our result would be particularly important for guiding vaccine policies in countries with COVID-19 vaccine shortage. Funding Health and Medical Research Fund, Richard and Carol Yu, Michael Tong (see acknowledgments for full list).
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Zhang BZ, Shuai H, Gong HR, Hu JC, Yan B, Yuen TTT, Hu YF, Yoon C, Wang XL, Hou Y, Lin X, Huang X, Li R, Au-Yeung YM, Li W, Hu B, Chai Y, Yue M, Cai JP, Ling GS, Hung IFN, Yuen KY, Chan JFW, Huang JD, Chu H. Bacillus Calmette-Guérin-induced trained immunity protects against SARS-CoV-2 challenge in K18-hACE2 mice. JCI Insight 2022; 7:157393. [PMID: 35446790 PMCID: PMC9220951 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.157393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 has been confirmed in over 450 million confirmed cases since 2019. Although several vaccines have been certified by the WHO and people are being vaccinated on a global scale, it has been reported that multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants can escape neutralization by antibodies, resulting in vaccine breakthrough infections. Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) is known to induce heterologous protection based on trained immune responses. Here, we investigated whether BCG-induced trained immunity protected against SARS-CoV-2 in the K18-hACE2 mouse model. Our data demonstrate that i.v. BCG (BCG-i.v.) vaccination induces robust trained innate immune responses and provides protection against WT SARS-CoV-2, as well as the B.1.617.1 and B.1.617.2 variants. Further studies suggest that myeloid cell differentiation and activation of the glycolysis pathway are associated with BCG-induced training immunity in K18-hACE2 mice. Overall, our study provides the experimental evidence that establishes a causal relationship between BCG-i.v. vaccination and protection against SARS-CoV-2 challenge.
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Zhou Y, Yuan S, To KKW, Xu X, Li H, Cai JP, Luo C, Hung IFN, Chan KH, Yuen KY, Li YF, Chan JFW, Sun H. Multiplex metal-detection based assay (MMDA) for COVID-19 diagnosis and identification of disease severity biomarkers. Chem Sci 2022; 13:3216-3226. [PMID: 35414865 PMCID: PMC8926254 DOI: 10.1039/d1sc05852e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 highlights the urgent need to develop sensitive methods for diagnosis and prognosis. To achieve this, multidimensional detection of SARS-CoV-2 related parameters including virus loads, immune response, and inflammation factors is crucial. Herein, by using metal-tagged antibodies as reporting probes, we developed a multiplex metal-detection based assay (MMDA) method as a general multiplex assay strategy for biofluids. This strategy provides extremely high multiplexing capability (theoretically over 100) compared with other reported biofluid assay methods. As a proof-of-concept, MMDA was used for serologic profiling of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. The MMDA exhibits significantly higher sensitivity and specificity than ELISA for the detection of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. By integrating the high dimensional data exploration/visualization tool (tSNE) and machine learning algorithms with in-depth analysis of multiplex data, we classified COVID-19 patients into different subgroups based on their distinct antibody landscape. We unbiasedly identified anti-SARS-CoV-2-nucleocapsid IgG and IgA as the most potently induced types of antibodies for COVID-19 diagnosis, and anti-SARS-CoV-2-spike IgA as a biomarker for disease severity stratification. MMDA represents a more accurate method for the diagnosis and disease severity stratification of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, as well as for biomarker discovery of other diseases. A MMDA platform is developed by using metal-tagged antibodies as reporting probes combined with machine learning algorithms, as a general strategy for highly multiplexed biofluid assay.![]()
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Chan JFW, Siu GKH, Yuan S, Ip JD, Cai JP, Chu AWH, Chan WM, Abdullah SMU, Luo C, Chan BPC, Yuen TTT, Chen LL, Chik KKH, Liang R, Cao H, Man Poon VK, Chan CCS, Leung KH, Tam AR, Tsang OTY, Chan JMC, To WK, Lam BHS, Lee LK, Lo HWH, Wong ITF, Leung JSL, Wong EYK, Chu H, Yip CCY, Cheng VCC, Chan KH, Tse H, Lung DC, Ng KHL, Au AKW, Hung IFN, Yuen KY, To KKW. Probable Animal-to-Human Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 Delta Variant AY.127 Causing a Pet Shop-Related COVID-19 Outbreak in Hong Kong. Clin Infect Dis 2022; 75:e76-e81. [PMID: 35234870 PMCID: PMC8903450 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciac171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background SARS-CoV-2 can infect human and other mammals, including hamsters. Syrian (Mesocricetus auratus) and dwarf (Phodopus sp.) hamsters are susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection in the laboratory setting. However, pet shop-related COVID-19 outbreaks have not been reported. Methods We conducted an investigation of a pet shop-related COVID-19 outbreak due to Delta variant AY.127 involving at least three patients in Hong Kong. We tested samples collected from the patients, environment, and hamsters linked to this outbreak and performed whole genome sequencing analysis of the RT-PCR-positive samples. Results The patients included a pet shop keeper (Patient 1), a female customer of the pet shop (Patient 2), and the husband of Patient 2 (Patient 3). Investigation showed that 17.2% (5/29) and 25.5% (13/51) environmental specimens collected from the pet shop and its related warehouse, respectively, tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA by RT-PCR. Among euthanized hamsters randomly collected from the storehouse, 3% (3/100) tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA by RT-PCR and seropositive for anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody by ELISA. Whole genome analysis showed that although all genomes from the outbreak belonged to the Delta variant AY.127, there were at least 3 nucleotide differences among the genomes from different patients and the hamster cages. Genomic analysis suggests that multiple strains have emerged within the hamster population, and these different strains have likely transmitted to human either via direct contact or via the environment. Conclusions Our study demonstrated probable hamster-to-human transmission of SARS-CoV-2. As pet trading is common around the world, this can represent a route of international spread of this pandemic virus.
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Li C, Ye Z, Zhang AJX, Chan JFW, Song W, Liu F, Chen Y, Kwan MYW, Lee ACY, Zhao Y, Wong BHY, Yip CCY, Cai JP, Lung DC, Sridhar S, Jin D, Chu H, To KKW, Yuen KY. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Infection by Intranasal or Intratesticular Route Induces Testicular Damage. Clin Infect Dis 2022; 75:e974-e990. [PMID: 35178548 PMCID: PMC8903466 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciac142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The role of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in the pathogenesis of testicular damage is uncertain. METHODS We investigated the virological, pathological, and immunological changes in testes of hamsters challenged by wild-type SARS-CoV-2 and its variants with intranasal or direct testicular inoculation using influenza virus A(H1N1)pdm09 as control. RESULTS Besides self-limiting respiratory tract infection, intranasal SARS-CoV-2 challenge caused acute decrease in sperm count, serum testosterone and inhibin B at 4-7 days after infection; and chronic reduction in testicular size and weight, and serum sex hormone at 42-120 days after infection. Acute histopathological damage with worsening degree of testicular inflammation, hemorrhage, necrosis, degeneration of seminiferous tubules, and disruption of orderly spermatogenesis were seen with increasing virus inoculum. Degeneration and death of Sertoli and Leydig cells were found. Although viral loads and SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein expression were markedly lower in testicular than in lung tissues, direct intratesticular injection of SARS-CoV-2 demonstrated nucleocapsid expressing interstitial cells and epididymal epithelial cells, While intranasal or intratesticular challenge by A(H1N1)pdm09 control showed no testicular infection or damage. From 7 to 120 days after infection, degeneration and apoptosis of seminiferous tubules, immune complex deposition, and depletion of spermatogenic cell and spermatozoa persisted. Intranasal challenge with Omicron and Delta variants could also induce similar testicular changes. This testicular damage can be prevented by vaccination. CONCLUSIONS SARS-CoV-2 can cause acute testicular damage with subsequent chronic asymmetric testicular atrophy and associated hormonal changes despite a self-limiting pneumonia in hamsters. Awareness of possible hypogonadism and subfertility is important in managing convalescent coronavirus disease 2019 in men.
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Zhang X, Chu H, Chik KKH, Wen L, Shuai H, Yang D, Wang Y, Hou Y, Yuen TTT, Cai JP, Yuan S, Yin F, Yuen KY, Chan JFW. hnRNP C modulates MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 replication by governing the expression of a subset of circRNAs and cognitive mRNAs. Emerg Microbes Infect 2022; 11:519-531. [PMID: 35060842 PMCID: PMC8843244 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2022.2032372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACTHost circular RNAs (circRNAs) play critical roles in the pathogenesis of viral infections. However, how viruses modulate the biogenesis of host proviral circRNAs to facilitate their replication remains unclear. We have recently shown that Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) infection increases co-expression of circRNAs and their cognate messenger RNAs (mRNAs), possibly by hijacking specific host RNA binding proteins (RBPs). In this study, we systemically analysed the interactions between the representative circRNA-mRNA pairs upregulated upon MERS-CoV infection and host RBPs. Our analysis identified heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein C (hnRNP C) as a key host factor that governed the expression of numerous MERS-CoV-perturbed circRNAs, including hsa_circ_0002846, hsa_circ_0002061, and hsa_circ_0004445. RNA immunoprecipitation assay showed that hnRNP C could bind physically to these circRNAs. Specific knockdown of hnRNP C by small interfering RNA significantly (P < 0.05 to P < 0.0001) suppressed MERS-CoV replication in human lung adenocarcinoma (Calu-3) and human small airway epithelial (HSAEC) cells. Both MERS-CoV and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection increased the total and phosphorylated forms of hnRNP C to activate the downstream CRK-mTOR pathway. Treatment of MERS-CoV- (IC50: 0.618 µM) or SARS-CoV-2-infected (IC50: 1.233 µM) Calu-3 cells with the mTOR inhibitor OSI-027 resulted in significantly reduced viral loads. Collectively, our study identified hnRNP C as a key regulator of MERS-CoV-perturbed circRNAs and their cognate mRNAs, and the potential of targeting hnRNP C-related signalling pathways as an anticoronaviral strategy.
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Shuai H, Chan JFW, Hu B, Chai Y, Yuen TTT, Yin F, Huang X, Yoon C, Hu JC, Liu H, Shi J, Liu Y, Zhu T, Zhang J, Hou Y, Wang Y, Lu L, Cai JP, Zhang AJ, Zhou J, Yuan S, Brindley MA, Zhang BZ, Huang JD, To KKW, Yuen KY, Chu H. Attenuated replication and pathogenicity of SARS-CoV-2 B.1.1.529 Omicron. Nature 2022; 603:693-699. [PMID: 35062016 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-022-04442-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 373] [Impact Index Per Article: 186.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 Omicron emerged in November 2021 and is rapidly spreading among the human population1. While recent reports reveal that the Omicron variant robustly escapes from vaccine and therapeutic neutralization antibodies2-10, the pathogenicity of the virus remains unknown. Here we show that the replication of the Omicron variant is dramatically attenuated in Calu3 and Caco2 cells. Further mechanistic investigations reveal that the Omicron variant is inefficient in transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) usage in comparison to that of WT and previous variants, which may explain its reduced replication in Calu3 and Caco2 cells. Omicron replication is markedly attenuated in both the upper and lower respiratory tract of infected K18-hACE2 mice in comparison to that of WT and Delta variant, which results in its dramatically ameliorated lung pathology. When compared with SARS-CoV-2 WT, Alpha, Beta, and Delta variant, infection by the Omicron variant causes the least body weight loss and mortality rate. Overall, our study demonstrates that the Omicron variant is attenuated in virus replication and pathogenicity in mice in comparison with WT and previous variants.
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Wernery U, Chan E, Raghavan R, Teng JLL, Syriac G, Siu SY, Joseph M, Yeung ML, Jia L, Cai JP, Chiu TH, Lau SKP, Woo PCY. Development of a sensitive competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for serodiagnosis of Burkholderia mallei, a Tier 1 select agent. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0010007. [PMID: 34932554 PMCID: PMC8691619 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Glanders is a highly contagious and potentially serious disease caused by Burkholderia mallei, a Tier 1 select agent. In this study, we raised a monoclonal antibody (mAb) against the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) of B. mallei and developed a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA) for B. mallei infection. Using the titrated optimal conditions of B. mallei-LPS (2 ng) for microtiter plate coating, sample serum dilution at 1:20 and 3.5 ng/μL anti-LPS mAb B5, the cutoff value of the cELISA was determined using serum samples from 136 glanders-free seronegative horses in Hong Kong. All calculated percentage inhibition (PI) values from these seronegative samples were below 39.6% inhibition (1.5 standard deviations above mean PI) and was used as the cutoff value. The diagnostic sensitivity of the developed LPS-based cELISA was first evaluated using sera from donkeys and mice inoculated with B. mallei. An increasing trend of PI values above the defined cELISA cutoff observed in the donkey and mouse sera suggested positive detection of anti-LPS antibodies. The sensitivity and specificity of the LPS-based cELISA was further evaluated using 31 serologically positive horse sera from glanders outbreaks in Bahrain and Kuwait, of which 30 were tested positive by the cELISA; and 21 seronegative horse sera and 20 seronegative donkey sera from Dubai, of which all were tested negative by the cELISA. A cELISA with high sensitivity (97.2%) and specificity (100%) for the detection of B. mallei antibodies in different animals was developed. Glanders is a highly contagious and life-threatening disease caused by Burkholderia mallei, a Tier 1 select agent, with no available vaccine. The disease is endemic in the Middle East, Asia, Africa and South America with sporadic outbreaks and mainly occurs in horses, donkeys and mules, although it has also been reported in camels, tigers, lions, and even humans. As the bacterium is not easily isolated from clinical specimens and correct identification based on clinical signs is difficult, it is thus important to develop serological tests which can quickly diagnose B. mallei infection. In this study, we generated a monoclonal antibody against B. mallei lipopolysaccharide and used it to develop a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA) for the serodiagnosis of B. mallei infection. The developed cELISA was optimized and evaluated using glanders-free and glanders-positive horses, donkeys and mice from Hong Kong and the Middle East, and was shown to be highly sensitive and specific for the detection of glanders in different animals. A simple and inexpensive test to allow for the early detection and diagnosis of suspected clinical cases as well as the screening of apparently asymptomatic animals will be helpful in controlling the spread and elimination of the disease.
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Li C, Chen Y, Zhao Y, Christopher Lung D, Ye Z, Song W, Liu FF, Cai JP, Wong WM, Chik-YanYip C, Fuk-Woo Chan J, Kai-Wang To K, Sridhar S, Fan-Ngai Hung I, Chu H, Kok KH, Jin DY, JinxiaZhang A, Yuen KY. Corrigendum to: Intravenous Injection of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) mRNA Vaccine Can Induce Acute Myopericarditis in Mouse Model. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 73:2372-2373. [PMID: 34849654 PMCID: PMC8690168 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciab941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Lam AHY, Cai JP, Leung KY, Zhang RR, Liu D, Fan Y, Tam AR, Cheng VCC, To KKW, Yuen KY, Hung IFN, Chan KH. In-House Immunofluorescence Assay for Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Antigens in Cells from Nasopharyngeal Swabs as a Diagnostic Method for COVID-19. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11122346. [PMID: 34943583 PMCID: PMC8700487 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11122346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunofluorescence is a traditional diagnostic method for respiratory viruses, allowing rapid, simple and accurate diagnosis, with specific benefits of direct visualization of antigens-of-interest and quality assessment. This study aims to evaluate the potential of indirect immunofluorescence as an in-house diagnostic method for SARS-CoV-2 antigens from nasopharyngeal swabs (NPS). Three primary antibodies raised from mice were used for immunofluorescence staining, including monoclonal antibody against SARS-CoV nucleocapsid protein, and polyclonal antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein and receptor-binding domain of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. Smears of cells from NPS of 29 COVID-19 patients and 20 non-infected individuals, and cells from viral culture were stained by the three antibodies. Immunofluorescence microscopy was used to identify respiratory epithelial cells with positive signals. Polyclonal antibody against SARS-CoV-2 N protein had the highest sensitivity and specificity among the three antibodies tested, detecting 17 out of 29 RT-PCR-confirmed COVID-19 cases and demonstrating no cross-reactivity with other tested viruses except SARS-CoV. Detection of virus-infected cells targeting SARS-CoV-2 N protein allow identification of infected individuals, although accuracy is limited by sample quality and number of respiratory epithelial cells. The potential of immunofluorescence as a simple diagnostic method was demonstrated, which could be applied by incorporating antibodies targeting SARS-CoV-2 into multiplex immunofluorescence panels used clinically, such as for respiratory viruses, thus allowing additional routine testing for diagnosis and surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 even after the epidemic has ended with low prevalence of COVID-19.
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Shuai H, Chan JFW, Yuen TTT, Yoon C, Hu JC, Wen L, Hu B, Yang D, Wang Y, Hou Y, Huang X, Chai Y, Chan CCS, Poon VKM, Lu L, Zhang RQ, Chan WM, Ip JD, Chu AWH, Hu YF, Cai JP, Chan KH, Zhou J, Sridhar S, Zhang BZ, Yuan S, Zhang AJ, Huang JD, To KKW, Yuen KY, Chu H. Emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants expand species tropism to murines. EBioMedicine 2021; 73:103643. [PMID: 34689086 PMCID: PMC8530107 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2021.103643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Wildtype mice are not susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants, including B.1.1.7, B.1.351, P.1, and P.3, contain mutations in spike that has been suggested to associate with an increased recognition of mouse ACE2, raising the postulation that these SARS-CoV-2 variants may have evolved to expand species tropism to wildtype mouse and potentially other murines. Our study evaluated this possibility with substantial public health importance. METHODS We investigated the capacity of wildtype (WT) SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV-2 variants in infecting mice (Mus musculus) and rats (Rattus norvegicus) under in vitro and in vivo settings. Susceptibility to infection was evaluated with RT-qPCR, plaque assays, immunohistological stainings, and neutralization assays. FINDINGS Our results reveal that B.1.1.7 and other N501Y-carrying variants but not WT SARS-CoV-2 can infect wildtype mice. High viral genome copies and high infectious virus particle titres are recovered from the nasal turbinate and lung of B.1.1.7-inocluated mice for 4-to-7 days post infection. In agreement with these observations, robust expression of viral nucleocapsid protein and histopathological changes are detected from the nasal turbinate and lung of B.1.1.7-inocluated mice but not that of the WT SARS-CoV-2-inoculated mice. Similarly, B.1.1.7 readily infects wildtype rats with production of infectious virus particles. INTERPRETATION Our study provides direct evidence that the SARS-CoV-2 variant, B.1.1.7, as well as other N501Y-carrying variants including B.1.351 and P.3, has gained the capability to expand species tropism to murines and public health measures including stringent murine control should be implemented to facilitate the control of the ongoing pandemic. FUNDING A full list of funding bodies that contributed to this study can be found in the Acknowledgements section.
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Zhang BZ, Hu D, Dou Y, Xiong L, Wang X, Hu J, Xing SZ, Li W, Cai JP, Jin M, Zhang M, Lin Q, Li M, Yuen KY, Huang JD. Identification and Evaluation of Recombinant Outer Membrane Proteins as Vaccine Candidates Against Klebsiella pneumoniae. Front Immunol 2021; 12:730116. [PMID: 34745099 PMCID: PMC8564470 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.730116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Klebsiella pneumoniae found in the normal flora of the human oral and intestinal tract mainly causes hospital-acquired infections but can also cause community-acquired infections. To date, most clinical trials of vaccines against K. pneumoniae have ended in failure. Furthermore, no single conserved protein has been identified as an antigen candidate to accelerate vaccine development. In this study, we identified five outer membrane proteins of K. pneumoniae, namely, Kpn_Omp001, Kpn_Omp002, Kpn_Omp003, Kpn_Omp004, and Kpn_Omp005, by using reliable second-generation proteomics and bioinformatics. Mice vaccinated with these five KOMPs elicited significantly higher antigen-specific IgG, IgG1, and IgG2a. However, only Kpn_Omp001, Kpn_Omp002, and Kpn_Omp005 were able to induce a protective immune response with two K. pneumoniae infection models. These protective effects were accompanied by the involvement of different immune responses induced by KOMPs, which included KOMPs-specific IFN-γ-, IL4-, and IL17A-mediated immune responses. These findings indicate that Kpn_Omp001, Kpn_Omp002, and Kpn_Omp005 are three potential Th1, Th2, and Th17 candidate antigens, which could be developed into multivalent and serotype-independent vaccines against K. pneumoniae infection.
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Li C, Chen YX, Liu FF, Lee ACY, Zhao Y, Ye ZH, Cai JP, Chu H, Zhang RQ, Chan KH, Chiu KHY, Lung DC, Sridhar S, Hung IFN, To KKW, Zhang AJX, Chan JFW, Yuen KY. Absence of Vaccine-enhanced Disease With Unexpected Positive Protection Against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) by Inactivated Vaccine Given Within 3 Days of Virus Challenge in Syrian Hamster Model. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 73:e719-e734. [PMID: 33515458 PMCID: PMC7929057 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciab083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mass vaccination against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is ongoing amidst widespread transmission during the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Disease phenotypes of SARS-CoV-2 exposure occurring around the time of vaccine administration have not been described. METHODS Two-dose (14 days apart) vaccination regimen with formalin-inactivated whole virion SARS-CoV-2 in golden Syrian hamster model was established. To investigate the disease phenotypes of a 1-dose regimen given 3 days prior (D-3), 1 (D1) or 2 (D2) days after, or on the day (D0) of virus challenge, we monitored the serial clinical severity, tissue histopathology, virus burden, and antibody response of the vaccinated hamsters. RESULTS The 1-dose vaccinated hamsters had significantly lower clinical disease severity score, body weight loss, lung histology score, nucleocapsid protein expression in lung, infectious virus titers in the lung and nasal turbinate, inflammatory changes in intestines, and a higher serum neutralizing antibody or IgG titer against the spike receptor-binding domain or nucleocapsid protein when compared to unvaccinated controls. These improvements were particularly noticeable in D-3, but also in D0, D1, and even D2 vaccinated hamsters to varying degrees. No increased eosinophilic infiltration was found in the nasal turbinate, lung, and intestine after virus challenge. Significantly higher serum titer of fluorescent foci microneutralization inhibition antibody was detected in D1 and D2 vaccinated hamsters at day 4 post-challenge compared to controls despite undetectable neutralizing antibody titer. CONCLUSIONS Vaccination just before or soon after exposure to SARS-CoV-2 does not worsen disease phenotypes and may even ameliorate infection.
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Deng J, Zhang BZ, Chu H, Wang XL, Wang Y, Gong HR, Li R, Yang D, Li C, Dou Y, Gao P, Cai JP, Jin M, Du Q, Chan JFW, Kao RYT, Yuen KY, Huang JD. Adenosine synthase A contributes to recurrent Staphylococcus aureus infection by dampening protective immunity. EBioMedicine 2021; 70:103505. [PMID: 34332295 PMCID: PMC8340124 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2021.103505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Revised: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Staphylococcus aureus is a common human pathogen capable of causing diverse illnesses with possible recurrent infections. Although recent studies have highlighted the role of cellular immunity in recurrent infections, the mechanism by which S. aureus evades host responses remains largely unexplored. Methods: This study utilizes in vitro and in vivo infection experiments to investigate difference of pro-inflammatory responses and subsequent adaptive immune responses between adsA mutant and WT S. aureus strain infection. Findings: We demonstrated that adenosine synthase A (AdsA), a potent S. aureus virulence factor, can alter Th17 responses by interfering with NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated IL-1β production. Specifically, S. aureus virulence factor AdsA dampens Th1/Th17 immunity by limiting the release of IL-1β and other Th polarizing cytokines. In particular, AdsA obstructs the release of IL-1β via the adenosine/A2aR/NLRP3 axis. Using a murine infection model, pharmacological inhibition of A2a receptor enhanced S. aureus-specific Th17 responses, whereas inhibition of NLRP3 and caspase-1 downregulated these responses. Our results showed that AdsA contributes to recurrent S. aureus infection by restraining protective Th1/Th17 responses. Interpretation: Our study provides important mechanistic insights for therapeutic and vaccination strategies against S. aureus infections.
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Chen LL, Lu L, Choi CYK, Cai JP, Tsoi HW, Chu AWH, Ip JD, Chan WM, Zhang RR, Zhang X, Tam AR, Lau DPL, To WK, Que TL, Yip CCY, Chan KH, Cheng VCC, Yuen KY, Hung IFN, To KKW. Impact of SARS-CoV-2 variant-associated RBD mutations on the susceptibility to serum antibodies elicited by COVID-19 infection or vaccination. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 74:1623-1630. [PMID: 34309648 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciab656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several SARS-CoV-2 lineages with mutations at the spike protein receptor binding domain (RBD) have reduced susceptibility to antibody neutralization, and have been classified as Variants of Concern (VOCs) or Variants of Interest (VOIs). Here, we systematically compared the neutralization susceptibility and RBD binding of different VOCs/VOIs, including B.1.617.1 (kappa variant) and P.3 (theta variant) which were first detected in India and the Philippines, respectively. METHODS The neutralization susceptibility of the VOCs/VOIs (B.1.351, B.1.617.1 and P.3) and a non-VOC/VOI without RBD mutations (B.1.36.27) to convalescent sera from COVID-19 patients or BNT162b2 vaccinees was determined using a live virus microneutralization (MN) assay. Serum IgG binding to wild type and mutant RBDs were determined using an enzyme immunoassay. RESULTS The geometric mean neutralization titers (GMT) of B.1.351, P.3, and B.1.617.1 were significantly lower than that of B.1.36.27 for COVID-19 patients infected with non-VOCs/VOIs (3.4-5.7-fold lower) or individuals who have received 2 doses of BNT162b2 vaccine (4.4-7.3-fold lower). The GMT of B.1.351 or P.3 were lower than that of B.1.671.1. For the 4 patients infected with B.1.351 or B.1.617.1, the MN titer was highest for their respective lineage. RBD with E484K or E484Q mutation, either alone or in combination with other mutations, showed greatest reduction in serum IgG binding. CONCLUSION P.3 and B.1.617.1 escape serum neutralization induced by natural infection or vaccine. Infection with one variant do not confer cross protection for heterologous lineages. Immunogenicity testing for second generation COVID-19 vaccines should include multiple variant and "non-variant" strains.
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Zhang AJ, Lee ACY, Chu H, Chan JFW, Fan Z, Li C, Liu F, Chen Y, Yuan S, Poon VKM, Chan CCS, Cai JP, Wu KLK, Sridhar S, Chan YS, Yuen KY. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Infects and Damages the Mature and Immature Olfactory Sensory Neurons of Hamsters. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 73:e503-e512. [PMID: 32667973 PMCID: PMC7454453 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaa995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) is primarily an acute respiratory tract infection. Distinctively, a substantial proportion of COVID-19 patients develop olfactory dysfunction of uncertain underlying mechanism which can be severe and prolonged. The roles of inflammatory obstruction of the olfactory clefts leading to conductive impairment, inflammatory cytokines affecting olfactory neuronal function, destruction of olfactory neurons or their supporting cells, and direct invasion of olfactory bulbs, in causing olfactory dysfunction are uncertain. Methods In this study, we investigated the location for the pathogenesis of SARS-CoV-2 from the olfactory epithelium (OE) of the nasopharynx to the olfactory bulb of golden Syrian hamsters. Results After intranasal inoculation with SARS-CoV-2, inflammatory cell infiltration and proinflammatory cytokine/chemokine responses were detected in the nasal turbinate tissues which peaked between 2 to 4 days post-infection with the highest viral load detected at day 2 post-infection. Besides the nasopharyngeal pseudo-columnar ciliated respiratory epithelial cells, SARS-CoV-2 viral antigens were also detected in the more superficial mature olfactory sensory neurons labeled by olfactory marker protein (OMP), the less mature olfactory neurons labelled by Tuj1 at more basal position, and the sustentacular cells which provide metabolic and physical support for the olfactory neurons, resulting in apoptosis and severe destruction of the OE. During the whole course of infection, SARS-CoV-2 viral antigens were not detected in the olfactory bulb. Conclusions Besides acute inflammation at OE, infection of mature and immature olfactory neurons, and the supporting sustentacular cells by SARS-CoV-2 may contribute to the unique olfactory dysfunction of COVID-19 which is not reported with SARS-CoV.
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Thu NTM, Chan JFW, Ly VT, Ngo HT, Hien HTA, Lan NPH, Chau NVV, Cai JP, Woo PCY, Day JN, van Doorn R, Thwaites G, Perfect J, Yuen K, Le T. Superiority of a Novel Mp1p Antigen Detection Enzyme Immunoassay Compared to Standard BACTEC Blood Culture in the Diagnosis of Talaromycosis. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 73:e330-e336. [PMID: 32564074 PMCID: PMC8282318 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaa826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Talaromycosis is an invasive mycosis endemic in Southeast Asia and causes substantial morbidity and mortality in individuals with advanced human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disease. Current diagnosis relies on isolating Talaromyces marneffei in cultures, which takes up to 14 days and is detectable only during late-stage infection, leading to high mortality. METHODS In this retrospective case-control study, we assessed the accuracy of a novel Mp1p antigen-detecting enzyme immunoassay (EIA) in stored plasma samples of 372 patients who had culture-proven talaromycosis from blood or sterile body fluids (reference standard) and 517 individuals without talaromycosis (338 healthy volunteers; 179 with other infections). All participants were recruited between 2011 and 2017 in Vietnam. RESULTS Of cases and controls, 66.1% and 75.4%, respectively, were male; the median age was 33 and 37, respectively. All cases were HIV infected; median CD4 count was 10 cells/μL. At an optical density cutoff of 0.5, the specificity was 98.1% (95% CI, 96.3%-99.0%); the sensitivity was superior to blood culture (86.3% [95% CI, 82.3%-89.5%] vs 72.8% [95% CI, 68.0%-77.2%]) (P < .001, McNemar test). The time to diagnosis was 6 hours vs 6.6 ± 3.0 days for blood culture. Paired plasma and urine testing in the same patients (n = 269) significantly increased sensitivity compared to testing plasma alone or testing urine alone (P < .001 and P = .02, respectively, McNemar test). CONCLUSIONS The Mp1p EIA is highly specific and is superior in sensitivity and time to diagnosis compared to blood culture for the diagnosis of talaromycosis. Paired plasma and urine testing further increases sensitivity, introducing a new tool for rapid diagnosis, enabling early treatment and potentially reducing mortality.
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Chu H, Shuai H, Hou Y, Zhang X, Wen L, Huang X, Hu B, Yang D, Wang Y, Yoon C, Wong BHY, Li C, Zhao X, Poon VKM, Cai JP, Wong KKY, Yeung ML, Zhou J, Au-Yeung RKH, Yuan S, Jin DY, Kok KH, Perlman S, Chan JFW, Yuen KY. Targeting highly pathogenic coronavirus-induced apoptosis reduces viral pathogenesis and disease severity. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:7/25/eabf8577. [PMID: 34134991 PMCID: PMC8208716 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abf8577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Infection by highly pathogenic coronaviruses results in substantial apoptosis. However, the physiological relevance of apoptosis in the pathogenesis of coronavirus infections is unknown. Here, with a combination of in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models, we demonstrated that protein kinase R-like endoplasmic reticulum kinase (PERK) signaling mediated the proapoptotic signals in Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) infection, which converged in the intrinsic apoptosis pathway. Inhibiting PERK signaling or intrinsic apoptosis both alleviated MERS pathogenesis in vivo. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and SARS-CoV induced apoptosis through distinct mechanisms but inhibition of intrinsic apoptosis similarly limited SARS-CoV-2- and SARS-CoV-induced apoptosis in vitro and markedly ameliorated the lung damage of SARS-CoV-2-inoculated human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) mice. Collectively, our study provides the first evidence that virus-induced apoptosis is an important disease determinant of highly pathogenic coronaviruses and demonstrates that this process can be targeted to attenuate disease severity.
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Zhang BZ, Wang X, Yuan S, Li W, Dou Y, Poon VKM, Chan CCS, Cai JP, Chik KK, Tang K, Chan CCY, Hu YF, Hu JC, Badea SR, Gong HR, Lin X, Chu H, Li X, To KKW, Liu L, Chen Z, Hung IFN, Yuen KY, Chan JFW, Huang JD. A novel linker-immunodominant site (LIS) vaccine targeting the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein protects against severe COVID-19 in Syrian hamsters. Emerg Microbes Infect 2021; 10:874-884. [PMID: 33890550 PMCID: PMC8118541 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2021.1921621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is unlikely to abate until sufficient herd immunity is built up by either natural infection or vaccination. We previously identified ten linear immunodominant sites on the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein of which four are located within the RBD. Therefore, we designed two linkerimmunodominant site (LIS) vaccine candidates which are composed of four immunodominant sites within the RBD (RBD-ID) or all the 10 immunodominant sites within the whole spike (S-ID). They were administered by subcutaneous injection and were tested for immunogenicity and in vivo protective efficacy in a hamster model for COVID-19. We showed that the S-ID vaccine induced significantly better neutralizing antibody response than RBD-ID and alum control. As expected, hamsters vaccinated by S-ID had significantly less body weight loss, lung viral load, and histopathological changes of pneumonia. The S-ID has the potential to be an effective vaccine for protection against COVID-19.
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Yeung ML, Teng JLL, Jia L, Zhang C, Huang C, Cai JP, Zhou R, Chan KH, Zhao H, Zhu L, Siu KL, Fung SY, Yung S, Chan TM, To KKW, Chan JFW, Cai Z, Lau SKP, Chen Z, Jin DY, Woo PCY, Yuen KY. Soluble ACE2-mediated cell entry of SARS-CoV-2 via interaction with proteins related to the renin-angiotensin system. Cell 2021; 184:2212-2228.e12. [PMID: 33713620 PMCID: PMC7923941 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2021.02.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 182] [Impact Index Per Article: 60.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can cause acute respiratory disease and multiorgan failure. Finding human host factors that are essential for SARS-CoV-2 infection could facilitate the formulation of treatment strategies. Using a human kidney cell line-HK-2-that is highly susceptible to SARS-CoV-2, we performed a genome-wide RNAi screen and identified virus dependency factors (VDFs), which play regulatory roles in biological pathways linked to clinical manifestations of SARS-CoV-2 infection. We found a role for a secretory form of SARS-CoV-2 receptor, soluble angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (sACE2), in SARS-CoV-2 infection. Further investigation revealed that SARS-CoV-2 exploits receptor-mediated endocytosis through interaction between its spike with sACE2 or sACE2-vasopressin via AT1 or AVPR1B, respectively. Our identification of VDFs and the regulatory effect of sACE2 on SARS-CoV-2 infection shed insight into pathogenesis and cell entry mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 as well as potential treatment strategies for COVID-19.
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Wen L, Tang K, Chik KKH, Chan CCY, Tsang JOL, Liang R, Cao J, Huang Y, Luo C, Cai JP, Ye ZW, Yin F, Chu H, Jin DY, Yuen KY, Yuan S, Chan JFW. In silico structure-based discovery of a SARS-CoV-2 main protease inhibitor. Int J Biol Sci 2021; 17:1555-1564. [PMID: 33907519 PMCID: PMC8071767 DOI: 10.7150/ijbs.59191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by the novel lineage B betacoroanvirus severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has resulted in significant mortality, morbidity, and socioeconomic disruptions worldwide. Effective antivirals are urgently needed for COVID-19. The main protease (Mpro) of SARS-CoV-2 is an attractive antiviral target because of its essential role in the cleavage of the viral polypeptide. In this study, we performed an in silico structure-based screening of a large chemical library to identify potential SARS-CoV-2 Mpro inhibitors. Among 8,820 compounds in the library, our screening identified trichostatin A, a histone deacetylase inhibitor and an antifungal compound, as an inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro activity and replication. The half maximal effective concentration of trichostatin A against SARS-CoV-2 replication was 1.5 to 2.7µM, which was markedly below its 50% effective cytotoxic concentration (75.7µM) and peak serum concentration (132µM). Further drug compound optimization to develop more stable analogues with longer half-lives should be performed. This structure-based drug discovery platform should facilitate the identification of additional enzyme inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2.
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Ye ZW, Yuan S, Chan JFW, Zhang AJ, Yu CY, Ong CP, Yang D, Chan CCY, Tang K, Cao J, Poon VKM, Chan CCS, Cai JP, Chu H, Yuen KY, Jin DY. Beneficial effect of combinational methylprednisolone and remdesivir in hamster model of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Emerg Microbes Infect 2021; 10:291-304. [PMID: 33538646 PMCID: PMC7919885 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2021.1885998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Effective treatments for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) are urgently needed. Dexamethasone has been shown to confer survival benefits to certain groups of hospitalized patients, but whether glucocorticoids such as dexamethasone and methylprednisolone should be used together with antivirals to prevent a boost of SARS-CoV-2 replication remains to be determined. Here, we show the beneficial effect of methylprednisolone alone and in combination with remdesivir in the hamster model of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Treatment with methylprednisolone boosted RNA replication of SARS-CoV-2 but suppressed viral induction of proinflammatory cytokines in human monocyte-derived macrophages. Although methylprednisolone monotherapy alleviated body weight loss as well as nasal and pulmonary inflammation, viral loads increased and antibody response against the receptor-binding domain of spike protein attenuated. In contrast, a combination of methylprednisolone with remdesivir not only prevented body weight loss and inflammation, but also dampened viral protein expression and viral loads. In addition, the suppressive effect of methylprednisolone on antibody response was alleviated in the presence of remdesivir. Thus, combinational anti-inflammatory and antiviral therapy might be an effective, safer and more versatile treatment option for COVID-19. These data support testing of the efficacy of a combination of methylprednisolone and remdesivir for the treatment of COVID-19 in randomized controlled clinical trials.
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Zhao X, Li C, Liu X, Chiu MC, Wang D, Wei Y, Chu H, Cai JP, Hau-Yee Chan I, Kak-Yuen Wong K, Fuk-Woo Chan J, Kai-Wang To K, Yuen KY, Zhou J. Human Intestinal Organoids Recapitulate Enteric Infections of Enterovirus and Coronavirus. Stem Cell Reports 2021; 16:493-504. [PMID: 33626333 PMCID: PMC7940440 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2021.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Enteroviruses, such as EV-A71 and CVA16, mainly infect the human gastrointestinal tract. Human coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2, have been variably associated with gastrointestinal symptoms. We aimed to optimize the human intestinal organoids and hypothesize that these optimized intestinal organoids can recapitulate enteric infections of enterovirus and coronavirus. We demonstrate that the optimized human intestinal organoids enable better simulation of the native human intestinal epithelium, and that they are significantly more susceptible to EV-A71 than CVA16. Higher replication of EV-A71 than CVA16 in the intestinal organoids triggers a more vigorous cellular response. However, SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2 exhibit distinct dynamics of virus-host interaction; more robust propagation of SARS-CoV triggers minimal cellular response, whereas, SARS-CoV-2 exhibits lower replication capacity but elicits a moderate cellular response. Taken together, the disparate profile of the virus-host interaction of enteroviruses and coronaviruses in human intestinal organoids may unravel the cellular basis of the distinct pathogenicity of these viral pathogens. An optimized differentiation protocol improves maturation of intestinal organoids SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV infection triggers less robust response than enteroviruses Coronaviruses show lower sensitivity to type III IFNs than enteroviruses Intestinal organoids recapitulate disparate pathogenicity of CoVs and enteroviruses
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Chu H, Hu B, Huang X, Chai Y, Zhou D, Wang Y, Shuai H, Yang D, Hou Y, Zhang X, Yuen TTT, Cai JP, Zhang AJ, Zhou J, Yuan S, To KKW, Chan IHY, Sit KY, Foo DCC, Wong IYH, Ng ATL, Cheung TT, Law SYK, Au WK, Brindley MA, Chen Z, Kok KH, Chan JFW, Yuen KY. Host and viral determinants for efficient SARS-CoV-2 infection of the human lung. Nat Commun 2021; 12:134. [PMID: 33420022 PMCID: PMC7794309 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-20457-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Understanding the factors that contribute to efficient SARS-CoV-2 infection of human cells may provide insights on SARS-CoV-2 transmissibility and pathogenesis, and reveal targets of intervention. Here, we analyze host and viral determinants essential for efficient SARS-CoV-2 infection in both human lung epithelial cells and ex vivo human lung tissues. We identify heparan sulfate as an important attachment factor for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Next, we show that sialic acids present on ACE2 prevent efficient spike/ACE2-interaction. While SARS-CoV infection is substantially limited by the sialic acid-mediated restriction in both human lung epithelial cells and ex vivo human lung tissues, infection by SARS-CoV-2 is limited to a lesser extent. We further demonstrate that the furin-like cleavage site in SARS-CoV-2 spike is required for efficient virus replication in human lung but not intestinal tissues. These findings provide insights on the efficient SARS-CoV-2 infection of human lungs.
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Grants
- R01 AI139238 NIAID NIH HHS
- This study was partly supported by the donations of May Tam Mak Mei Yin, the Shaw Foundation of Hong Kong, Richard Yu and Carol Yu, Michael Seak-Kan Tong, Respiratory Viral Research Foundation Limited, Hui Ming, Hui Hoy and Chow Sin Lan Charity Fund Limited, Chan Yin Chuen Memorial Charitable Foundation, Marina Man-Wai Lee, the Hong Kong Hainan Commercial Association South China Microbiology Research Fund, the Jessie & George Ho Charitable Foundation, Perfect Shape Medical Limited, Kai Chong Tong, and Lo Ying Shek Chi Wai Foundation; and funding from the Consultancy Service for Enhancing Laboratory Surveillance of Emerging Infectious Diseases and Research Capability on Antimicrobial Resistance for Department of Health of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government; Health and Medical Research Fund (16150572); the Theme-Based Research Scheme (T11/707/15) of the Research Grants Council; Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Sanming Project of Medicine in Shenzhen, China (No. SZSM201911014); NIH R01AI139238, and the High Level-Hospital Program, Health Commission of Guangdong Province, China.
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