`"We visualized the entire process through cryo-electron tomography," said a senior author of the study. "The viral components are recruited to these Hepatocyte growth factor-regulated tyrosine kinase substrate (HGS)-built vesicles, which then serve as the central hub for constructing new virions."`

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.scib.2026.02.011

#COVID #SARS #virus #coronavirus

`Previously, it was known that coronaviruses use the cell's internal transport system (the ERGIC and Golgi) for assembly early in infection.. The researchers found that several coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2 and common cold coronaviruses, trigger the formation of enlarged, vesicle-like structures inside the cell. These compartments are defined by the presence of a host protein called HGS (Hepatocyte growth factor-regulated tyrosine kinase substrate).`
https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1120017
Scientists discover "virus assembly factories" inside cells hijacked by coronaviruses

A groundbreaking study unveils how coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV-2, hijack a host protein called HGS to create large, specialized "vesicles" that act as efficient virus assembly factories during late infection. Using advanced imaging, the team visually confirmed viruses being built inside these structures. Disabling HGS drastically reduced virus production, identifying it as a promising new target for broad-spectrum antiviral drugs.

EurekAlert!