Unraveling COVID-19: Exploring the Significance of SARS-CoV-2 Fusion Peptide
The fusion peptide on the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein plays a crucial role in COVID-19 infection, according to a study by researchers at the University of Missouri. The fusion peptide facilitates the bond between the virus and human host cells, leading to infection transmission. The study aimed to understand the insertion mechanisms of the fusion peptide and its impact on the host cell membrane. Researchers found that the fusion peptide is highly conserved across different viral strains and can effectively enter human cells via the endocytic pathway. The findings could aid in the development of COVID-19 vaccines by identifying targets for vaccine development and potential strategies for delivering therapeutics through cell membranes.