Detecting SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro expression and activity using a polyclonal antiserum and a luciferase-based biosensor. Journal Article

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Authors: O'Brien, A; Chen, DY; Hackbart, M; Close, BJ; O'Brien, TE; Saeed, M; Baker, SC
Article Title: Detecting SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro expression and activity using a polyclonal antiserum and a luciferase-based biosensor.
Abstract: The need to stem the current outbreak of SARS-CoV-2 responsible for COVID-19 is driving the search for inhibitors that will block coronavirus replication and pathogenesis. The coronavirus 3C-like protease (3CLpro) encoded in the replicase polyprotein is an attractive target for antiviral drug development because protease activity is required for generating a functional replication complex. Reagents that can be used to screen for protease inhibitors and for identifying the replicase products of SARS-CoV-2 are urgently needed. Here we describe a luminescence-based biosensor assay for evaluating small molecule inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 3CLpro/main protease. We also document that a polyclonal rabbit antiserum developed against SARS-CoV 3CLpro cross reacts with the highly conserved 3CLpro of SARS-CoV-2. These reagents will facilitate the pre-clinical evaluation of SARS-CoV-2 protease inhibitors.
Journal Title: Virology
ISSN: 1096-0341; 0042-6822
Publisher: Elsevier Inc  
Date Published: 2021