Exploring the Expression and Function of cTyro3, a Candidate Zika Virus Receptor, in the Embryonic Chicken Brain and Inner Ear.

The transmembrane protein Axl was proposed as an entry receptor for Zika virus (ZIKV) infection in vitro, but conflicting results from in vivo studies have made it difficult to establish Axl as a physiologically relevant ZIKV receptor. Both the functional redundancy of receptors and the experimental model used can lead to variable results. Therefore, it can be informative to explore alternative animal models to analyze ZIKV receptor candidates as an aid in discovering antivirals.

Requirement of a functional ion channel for Sindbis virus glycoprotein transport, CPV-II formation, and efficient virus budding.

Many viruses encode ion channel proteins that oligomerize to form hydrophilic pores in membranes of virus-infected cells and the viral membrane in some enveloped viruses. Alphavirus 6K, human immunodeficiency virus type 1 Vpu (HIV-Vpu), influenza A virus M2 (IAV-M2), and hepatitis C virus P7 (HCV-P7) are transmembrane ion channel proteins that play essential roles in virus assembly, budding, and entry. While the oligomeric structures and mechanisms of ion channel activity are well-established for M2 and P7, these remain unknown for 6K.