A derivative of platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha binds to the trimer of human cytomegalovirus and inhibits entry into fibroblasts and endothelial cells.

ABSTRACT: Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is a widely distributed herpesvirus that causes significant morbidity in immunocompromised hosts. Inhibitors of viral DNA replication are available, but adverse effects limit their use. Alternative antiviral strategies may include inhibition of entry. We show that soluble derivatives of the platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFR-alpha), a putative receptor of HCMV, can inhibit HCMV infection of various cell types. A PDGFR-alpha-Fc fusion protein binds to and neutralizes cell-free virus particles at an EC50 of 10-30 ng/ml. Treatment of particles reduced both attachment to and fusion with cells. In line with the latter, PDGFR-alpha-Fc was also effective when applied postattachment. A peptide scan of the extracellular domain of PDGFR-alpha identified

SUBMITTER: Stegmann C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5389858 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature