Host cell reorganization by SARS-CoV-2

Each cell in the human body is organized into distinct subcompartments called organelles. Organelles compartmentalize and organize specific groups of proteins to perform unique biological functions (e.g. protein synthesis, protein folding, or the synthesis, storage or breakdown of fatty acids). When a virus infects a cell, it can "reprogram" the host cell organelle machinery - essentially remodelling the host cell to create a highly efficient "virus factory". Our project aims to shed light on how human organelles are reprogrammed and remodeled in response to infection by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. We have developed highly specialized methods to track protein localization in living human cells (BioID Cell Mapping), and will use this technology to monitor a number of human organellar proteins in SARS-CoV-2 infected and uninfected cells. This work will provide much needed knowledge on how cellular organelles are remodeled in response to coronavirus infection, and identify new therapeutic targets for the treatment of viral infections.