Skip to main content

Research Resources for SARS-CoV-2 Non-Structural and Accessory Proteins

SARS-CoV-2 Research Resources

 After SARS-CoV-2 enters the host cell the viral genomic RNA is translated from two open reading frames (ORFs), ORF1a and ORF1b. The encoded polypeptides, pp1a and pp1ab, are further processed to produce 11 and 16 non-structural proteins (nsps), respectively. These nsps are required for viral replication and pathogenesis. In addition to primary translation, subgenomic RNAs (sgRNAs) are generated by discontinuous transcription and deletions, allowing for translation of both the structural and ORF accessory proteins. The 9 ORF accessory proteins appear to have diverse roles involving host-virus interactions and viral pathogenesis. While the main structural proteins (SpikeNucleocapsidEnvelope and Membrane) have been well characterized, the ORF accessory proteins and nsps are in general less understood.

 

Sars CoV-2 genome

What are SARS-CoV-2 Non-structural Proteins?

Non-structural proteins (nsps) serve different functions in the viral replication cycle. Together the encoded nsps (1-16) form a replicase-transcriptase complex.

Non-structural Proteins (nsps) % Identity SARS-CoV vs SARS-CoV-2 Properties and Functions
nsp1 84% Suppression of host gene expression
nsp2 100% Suppression of host gene expression
nsp3 76% Multi-spanning transmembrane protein; papain-like protease domain; mediates cleavage of ORF encoded polypeptides
nsp4 80% Multi-spanning transmembrane protein; important for membrane rearrangement
nsp5 96% Papain-like protease domain; mediates cleavage of ORF encoded polypeptides
nsp6 88% Multi-spanning transmembrane protein; associates with nsp3 and nsp4 to form organelle-like structure (double membrane vesicle) for viral replication; induces autophagy and formation of Atg5 and LC3 containing vesicles
nsp7-nsp8 96% Primase complex
nsp9 99% / 97% RNA binding protein; forms dimer important in viral infection
nsp10 97% Contains two zinc finger domains; cofactor for the activation of the replicative enzyme
nsp11 96% RNA-dependent RNA polymerase activity (RdRP); mediates genome replication
nsp12 96% Helicase activity/triphosphatase; RNA and DNA unwinding activity; involved in viral replication
nsp13 99% Exoribonuclease activity
nsp14 95% Papain-like protease domain; mediates cleavage of ORF encoded polypeptides
nsp15 89% Endoribonuclease activity
nsp15 93% Methyltransferase activity

 

SARS-CoV-2 Recombinant Proteins

Recombinant Proteases Region of Full-Length Protein
Papain-like Protease [E-611-050] 746-1060 aa
SARS-CoV-2 3CL Protease 1-306 aa

 

Antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 Open Reading Frames (ORF) Accessory Proteins

We offer antibodies to the Open Reading Frame (ORF) Accessory Proteins of SARS-CoV-2 including ORF3a, ORF6, OFR7a, ORF8, and ORF10. Although the sequence identity for most accessory protein ORFs is greater than 85% between SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV, ORF3, ORF8, and ORF10 show less similarity. The functionality of the SARS-CoV-2 ORF accessory proteins varies widely, though they all contribute to viral pathogenesis. These antibodies have been validated for use in ELISA and WB

Open Reading Frame (ORF) Properties and Functions
ORF1a Encodes for polyprotein 1a which is processed to nsp1 – nsp11
ORF3a

Interacts with cellular vesicle trafficking and may modify endomembrane compartments to promote viral replication

Binds TRIM59, role in innate immunity signaling

ORF3a of SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV has pro-apoptotic activity

ORF6 A role in viral pathogenesis; has been shown to interact with nsp8, the non-structural protein that functions in promoting RNA polymerase activity
ORF7a Type I transmembrane protein
ORF8 Role in MHC I downregulation and inhibition of interferon signaling that may point to SARS-CoV-2 functioning in virus-host processes through macromolecule interactions
ORF10 Reported to interact with members of Cullin 2 RING E3 ligase complex and therefore may play a role in ubiquitination and degradation of restriction factors