Expression of a constitutively active nitrate reductase increases SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein production in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves that otherwise show traits of senescence.

ABSTRACT: The production of coronavirus disease 2019 vaccines can be achieved by transient expression of the Spike (S) protein of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 in agroinfiltrated leaves of Nicotiana benthamiana, a process promoted by the co-expression of viral silencing suppressor P19. Upon expression, the S protein enters the cell secretory pathway, before being trafficked to the plasma membrane where formation of coronavirus-like particles (CoVLPs) occurs. We recently used RNAseq and time course sampling to characterize molecular responses of N. benthamiana leaf cells expressing P19 only or P19 in combination with recombinant S protein. This revealed expression of the viral proteins to deeply affect the physiological status of plant cells, including through the activation of immu

SUBMITTER: Hamel LP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12854905 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature