Anti-SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) ORF9b antibody [HL1917]

Supplementary info

Activity summary

The SARS-CoV-2 ORF9b protein sometimes referred to as ORF9b protein is a small accessory protein with a mass of approximately 9 kDa. This protein is encoded by the open reading frame 9b (ORF9b) of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It is expressed within the infected host cells where the virus replicates. ORF9b protein localizes to the mitochondria and plays a structural role in modulating host cellular processes during infection.

Biological function summary

The ORF9b protein interacts with the host immune system by inhibiting the type I interferon signaling pathway. This protein acts as a part of the viral evasion mechanisms allowing SARS-CoV-2 to escape host immune detection. ORF9b does not form part of a larger protein complex by itself but operates through interactions with host proteins affecting the host's antiviral responses.

Pathways

ORF9b disrupts the type I interferon immune signaling pathway one of the host's key antiviral defenses. It interacts with proteins such as Tom70 a mitochondrial import receptor. This interaction hampers the signaling cascade leading to reduced production of interferon which normally activates immune responses against viral infections. ORF9b's role in these pathways directly counteracts the host's ability to mount a timely defense against SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Associated diseases and disorders

ORF9b is associated with the pathogenesis of COVID-19 the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2. Its ability to suppress immune signaling can contribute to the severity of COVID-19 by enabling viral persistence and exacerbating inflammatory responses. Additionally ORF9b interaction with ubiquitin system proteins such as MAVS facilitates immune evasion highlighting its role in the disease progression and severity.