Biology – Quantitative Biology – Subcellular Processes
Scientific paper
2007-03-02
Biophys. J., 93, 1116-1123, (2007)
Biology
Quantitative Biology
Subcellular Processes
7 pages, 6 figures
Scientific paper
Viral infection requires the binding of receptors on the target cell membrane to glycoproteins, or ``spikes,'' on the viral membrane. The initial entry is usually classified as fusogenic or endocytotic. However, binding of viral spikes to cell surface receptors not only initiates the viral adhesion and the wrapping process necessary for internalization, but can simultaneously initiate direct fusion with the cell membrane. Both fusion and internalization have been observed to be viable pathways for many viruses. We develop a stochastic model for viral entry that incorporates a competition between receptor mediated fusion and endocytosis. The relative probabilities of fusion and endocytosis of a virus particle initially nonspecifically adsorbed on the host cell membrane are computed as functions of receptor concentration, binding strength, and number of spikes. We find different parameter regimes where the entry pathway probabilities can be analytically expressed. Experimental tests of our mechanistic hypotheses are proposed and discussed.
No associations
LandOfFree
The stochastic entry of enveloped viruses: Fusion vs. endocytosis does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with The stochastic entry of enveloped viruses: Fusion vs. endocytosis, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and The stochastic entry of enveloped viruses: Fusion vs. endocytosis will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-285020