The structure of the fusion protein of the Langya virus, an infection transmitted from animals to humans, has been unveiled by researchers utilizing sophisticated microscopy methodologies. This data underscores the similarities this virus shares with other fatal viruses, underscoring the need for a rapid response in crafting broad-spectrum vaccines and therapies for such virus types. Credit: Catalin
A process by which a highly infectious virus recently transmitted from animals to humans penetrates human cells has been laid bare by scientists.
Researchers from The University of Queensland, Dr. Ariel Isaacs and Dr. Yu Shang Low, have successfully demystified the structure of the Langya virus fusion protein. This virus first emerged in humans in Eastern China in August 2022.
Dr. Isaacs confirmed the virus caused fever and severe respiratory symptoms and belonged to the same virus family as the lethal Nipah and Hendra viruses.
“We are at a critical juncture concerning the Henipavirus genus as we can anticipate further spillover incidents from animals to humans,” stated Dr. Isaacs.
“Comprehending the mechanisms of these emergent viruses is crucial, which is where our research is key.”
The research group stood before UQ’s cryogenic electron microscope included Dr. Ariel Isaacs, Associate Professor Daniel Watterson, Dr. Naphak Modhiran, and Dr. Yu Shang Low. Credit: The University of Queensland
The molecular clamp technology from UQ was employed by the team to steady the fusion protein of the Langya virus, permitting the revelation of the atomic structure through cryogenic electron microscopy at UQ’s Centre for Microscopy & Microanalysis.
“Comprehending the structure and its method of cell entry is a vital step towards devising vaccines and therapies to counter Henipavirus infections,” added Dr. Isaacs.
“Currently, there are no vaccines or therapies available for these viruses, and they bear the potential for causing extensive outbreaks.”
The project’s senior researcher, Associate Professor Daniel Watterson, remarked on the similarity between the fusion protein structure of the Langya virus and the fatal Hendra virus, first identified in southeast Queensland in 1994.
“These viruses can lead to severe diseases and may spiral out of control if not aptly managed,” expressed Dr Watterson.
“We experienced firsthand with COVID-19 how the world was ill-equipped for a widespread viral pandemic. We aim to be better prepared for the next one.”
The researchers are now embarking on the development of broad-spectrum human vaccines and treatments for Henipaviruses such as Langya, Nipah, and Hendra.
Reference: “Structure and antigenicity of divergent Henipavirus fusion glycoproteins” by Ariel Isaacs, Yu Shang Low, Kyle L. Macauslane, Joy Seitanidou, Cassandra L. Pegg, Stacey T. M. Cheung, Benjamin Liang, Connor A. P. Scott, Michael J. Landsberg, Benjamin L. Schulz, Keith J. Chappell, Naphak Modhiran and Daniel Watterson, 16 June 2023, Nature Communications.
DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39278-8
Support from the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations, as well as the Queensland and Australian governments and philanthropic partners, is acknowledged by UQ.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Langya virus
What virus did the researchers study?
The researchers studied the Langya virus, a disease that was recently transmitted from animals to humans.
Where was the Langya virus first identified?
The Langya virus was first identified in humans in Eastern China in August 2022.
What symptoms does the Langya virus cause?
The Langya virus causes fever and severe respiratory symptoms.
What advanced technique did the researchers use to study the virus?
The researchers used cryogenic electron microscopy, a sophisticated microscopy technique, to reveal the structure of the virus’s fusion protein.
What is the goal of this research?
The goal of this research is to understand the structure and functioning of the Langya virus to aid in the development of vaccines and treatments. The research could also help in preparing for future pandemics.
What class of viruses does the Langya virus belong to?
The Langya virus belongs to the same class of viruses as the deadly Nipah and Hendra viruses, known as the Henipavirus genus.
Are there currently any treatments or vaccines for the Langya virus?
As of the time of the study, there were no treatments or vaccines available for the Langya virus.
What similarities were found between the Langya virus and other viruses?
The fusion protein structure of the Langya virus was found to be similar to the deadly Hendra virus. This similarity underscores the potential severity of the Langya virus.
Who supported the research on the Langya virus?
The research was supported by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations, as well as the Queensland and Australian governments and philanthropic partners.
More about Langya virus
- Structure and antigenicity of divergent Henipavirus fusion glycoproteins
- The University of Queensland Research
- Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations
- Information about Nipah Virus
- Information about Hendra Virus
6 comments
Truly commendable work by the team at The University of Queensland! Their findings could well be key in preventing future health crises. kudos!
The use of cryogenic electron microscopy for virus study is fascinating. Woud love to see more on this research. big breakthrough!
viruses from animals to humans, sounds familiar? COVID-19 anyone? we haven’t learned our lesson, have we?
Not a fun read but really important. Hope we can get ahead of this one and not repeat the mistakes of the past… good luck to these researchers.
Well, that’s scary stuff right there. seems like we’re always on the brink of the next pandemic. How ’bout we stop messing with nature, huh?
another virus, another fear campaign. Does anyone else feel like this is just fear mongering?