SARS-CoV-2 ORF7a activates the endothelium to release von Willebrand factor that promotes thrombosis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Patients with severe and critical COVID-19 frequently exhibit thromboembolic complications, a significant cause of mortality and morbidity. Increased plasma levels of von Willebrand factor (VWF) following SARS-CoV-2 infection have been extensively reported, which links to thrombosis and increased mortality. However, the mechanism underlying SARS-CoV-2-associated thrombotic complications is not fully understood.

Objectives

To determine the mechanism of SARS-CoV-2-associated thrombosis.

Methods

Drosophila genetic screening and molecular, cellular, and biochemical approaches were used.

Results

Genetic screening identified a SARS-CoV-2 accessory protein, Orf7a, as a crucial factor promoting agglutination of hemolymph, the circulatory fluid of flie

SUBMITTER: Zhang Q 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12281223 | biostudies-literature | 2025 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature