Project description:The human coronavirus OC43 is responsible for 15-30% of seasonal “common cold” infections with typically mild respiratory symptoms. We demonstrated that the coronavirus OC43 derived small peptide encoded by the viral p65 proteins may exhibit molecular mimicry with the pro-algesic fragment of Myelin Basic Protein (MBP). After intrasciatic injection, the p65-derived peptide induced robust pain hypersensitivity in rats lasting for up to 21 days. Transcriptomic analysis at day 21 revealed extensive spinal up-regulation of pro-nociceptive genes. Strikingly, genome-wide isoform switching due to activation of transcriptional start sites and alternative splicing events has occurred. We hypothesized that the coronavirus-derived peptides can dysregulate MBP function in the PNS/CNS and promote neuropathic chronic pain. Our findings offer paradigm-shifting mechanistic understanding of the viral origin of idiopathic neurological effects including chronic neuropathic pain, a condition currently refractory to therapeutic treatment. This new knowledge will lead to new diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic approaches to benefit patients with chronic pain.
Project description:This study reports a screen to identify putative inhibitors of the eIF4F complex for potential effects on blocking coronavirus replication, using HCoV-OC43 (OC43) infection of Vero E6 cells and the lung epithelial cancer line A549 as models.
Project description:This study reports a screen to identify putative inhibitors of the eIF4F complex for potential effects on blocking coronavirus replication, using HCoV-OC43 (OC43) infection of Vero E6 cells and the lung epithelial cancer line A549 as models.
