Molecular insights into the effects of SARS-Cov2 infection on the blood system

National Heart, Lung, And Blood Institute

Investigators

Linked publications, trials & patents

Abstract

Using live imaging and cellular cryo-electron tomography (cryo-ET) techniques, we obtained results showing that platelets are directly activated in the presence of purified SARS-Cov2 spike protein. We have optimized conditions to embed platelets onto EM grids and we are currently observing activated platelets by cryo-ET to investigate their ultrastructural changes induced by the SARS-Cov2 spike protein. Our next goal is to analyze the molecular mechanism of the platelet response. Complementary functional assays are undergoing to screen for factors that compete with the spike protein and inhibit infection.