This research paper investigates the structure and dynamics of full-length coronavirus spikes, focusing on their correlation with virus infectivity. Using cryo-electron tomography (cryoET) and mass spectrometry, the study reveals the conformational landscape of human coronavirus NL63 (HCoV-NL63) spikes on intact virions. The findings highlight the role of hinge glycans in modulating spike bending, specifically identifying N1242 glycosylation as crucial for spike crown orientational freedom and virus entry. These results suggest a potential therapeutic target for HCoV-NL63.
Publisher
Nature Communications
Published On
Nov 07, 2023
Authors
David Chmielewski, Eric A. Wilson, Grigore Pintilie, Peng Zhao, Muyuan Chen, Michael F. Schmid, Graham Simmons, Lance Wells, Jing Jin, Abhishek Singharoy, Wah Chiu
Tags
coronavirus
spikes
HCoV-NL63
glycosylation
cry-electron tomography
virus entry
therapeutic targets
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