SARS-CoV-2 Uses a Second Receptor, Neuropilin-1, to Infect Human Cells

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SARS-CoV-2 Uses a Second Receptor, Neuropilin-1, to Infect Human Cells

 

Researchers discovered that SARS-CoV-2 uses a receptor, in addition to ACE2, to enter into human cells. The second receptor, neuropilin-1, is very abundant in many human tissues including the respiratory tract, blood vessels, and neurons. By specifically blocking neuropilin-1, the researchers were able to significantly reduce infection in laboratory cell cultures, opening the door to novel antiviral strategies. 

 

The work is published in Science, in two papers published back to back.

 

“Neuropilin-1 facilitates SARS-CoV-2 cell entry and infectivity” (DOI:10.1126/science.abd2985)

“Neuropilin-1 is a host factor for SARS-CoV-2 infection” (DOI: 10.1126/science.abd3072).

Source: Genetic Engineering & Biotechnology News update@genmail.co

 

 

Publication Date: 
10/21/2020