Authors: Brendan B. Larsen, Teagan McMahon, Jack T. Brown, Zhaoqian Wang, Caelan E. Radford, James E. Crowe, Jr., David Veesler, Jesse D. Bloom
Year: 2025
Journal: Cell
DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2025.02.030
Summary#
The paper provides insights into the functional and antigenic properties of the Nipah virus receptor-binding protein (RBP) through deep mutational scanning, which helps understand viral evolution and design therapeutics.
Key Findings#
- Deep mutational scanning of the Nipah virus RBP was performed
- A pseudovirus platform was used to measure mutation effects safely
- All mutations were measured for their impact on cell entry, receptor binding, and antibody escape
- Functionally constrained regions of the RBP were identified, including oligomerization sites
- Mutations affecting RBP binding to its two ephrin receptors were validated
Methodology#
- Study Type: Deep mutational scanning
Topics#
Virology, Epidemiology, Clinical
Relevance#
The findings offer insights into the potential for functional and antigenic evolution of the RBP that can inform the development of antibody therapies and vaccines.