An amyloidogenic fragment of the SARS CoV-2 envelope protein promotes serum amyloid A misfolding and fibrillization

By Asal Nady et al.

Source biorxiv

ABSTRACT

SARS CoV-2 infection can affect a surprising number of organs in the body and cause symptoms such as abnormal blood coagulation, fibrinolytic disturbances, and neurodegeneration. Our study delves into the intricate pathogenic potential of a SARS-CoV-2 envelope protein peptide, shedding light on its implications for multi-organ effects and amyloid formation. Specifically, we focus on the peptide SK9 or ⁵⁴SFYVYSRVK⁶² derived from the C-terminus of human SARS coronavirus 2 envelope protein. We demonstrate that SK9 containing peptides readily form classic amyloid structures consistent with predictions of amyloid aggregation algorithms. In vivo, overexpression of proteases such as neutrophil elastase during inflammation can potentially lead to C-terminal peptides containing SK9.

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