Live imaging of airway epithelium reveals that mucociliary clearance modulates SARS-CoV-2 spread.

ABSTRACT: SARS-CoV-2 initiates infection in the conducting airways, where mucociliary clearance inhibits pathogen penetration. However, it is unclear how mucociliary clearance impacts SARS-CoV-2 spread after infection is established. To investigate viral spread at this site, we perform live imaging of SARS-CoV-2 infected differentiated primary human bronchial epithelium cultures for up to 12 days. Using a fluorescent reporter virus and markers for cilia and mucus, we longitudinally monitor mucus motion, ciliary motion, and infection. Infected cell numbers peak at 4 days post infection, forming characteristic foci that tracked mucus movement. Inhibition of MCC using physical and genetic perturbations limits foci. Later in infection, mucociliary clearance deteriorates. Increased mucus secretion accomp

SUBMITTER: Becker ME 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11531594 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature