3 research outputs found
The prM-independent packaging of pseudotyped Japanese encephalitis virus
As noted in other flaviviruses, the envelope (E) protein of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) interacts with a cellular receptor and mediates membrane fusion to allow viral entry into target cells, thus eliciting neutralizing antibody response. The formation of the flavivirus prM/E complex is followed by the cleavage of precursor membrane (prM) and membrane (M) protein by a cellular signalase. To test the effect of prM in JEV biology, we constucted JEV-MuLV pseudotyped viruses that express the prM/E protein or E only. The infectivity and titers of JEV pseudotyped viruses were examined in several cell lines. We also analyzed the neutralizing capacities with anti-JEV sera from JEV-immunized mice. Even though prM is crucial for multiple stages of JEV biology, the JEV-pseudotyped viruses produced with prM/E or with E only showed similar infectivity and titers in several cell lines and similar neutralizing sensitivity. These results showed that JEV-MuLV pseudotyped viruses did not require prM for production of infectious pseudotyped viruses
On-Site Formation of Functional Dopaminergic Presynaptic Terminals on Neuroligin-2-Modified Gold-Coated Microspheres
Advancements in neural interface
technologies have enabled the
direct connection of neurons and electronics, facilitating chemical
communication between neural systems and external devices. One promising
approach is a synaptogenesis-involving method, which offers an opportunity
for synaptic signaling between these systems. Janus synapses, one
type of synaptic interface utilizing synaptic cell adhesion molecules
for interface construction, possess unique features that enable the
determination of location, direction of signal flow, and types of
neurotransmitters involved, promoting directional and multifaceted
communication. This study presents the first successful establishment
of a Janus synapse between dopaminergic (DA) neurons and abiotic substrates
by using a neuroligin-2 (NLG2)-mediated synapse-inducing method. NLG2
immobilized on gold-coated microspheres can induce synaptogenesis
upon contact with spatially isolated DA axons. The induced DA Janus
synapses exhibit stable synaptic activities comparable to that of
native synapses over time, suggesting their suitability for application
in neural interfaces. By calling for DA presynaptic organizations,
the NLG2-immobilized abiotic substrate is a promising tool for the
on-site detection of synaptic dopamine release