Unveiling TMEM106B: SARS-CoV-2’s secret entrance to the cell

The lysosomal membrane protein TMEM106B functions as a proviral factor in SARS-CoV-2 infection, though it was not known how. In this issue of Cell, Baggen et al. demonstrate that TMEM106B serves as an ACE2-independent receptor for SARS-CoV-2 entry by promoting the fusion of the viral membrane with the lysosomal membrane. The lysosomal membrane protein TMEM106B functions as a proviral factor in SARS-CoV-2 infection, though it was not known how. In this issue of Cell, Baggen et al. demonstrate that TMEM106B serves as an ACE2-independent receptor for SARS-CoV-2 entry by promoting the fusion of the viral membrane with the lysosomal membrane. TMEM106B is a receptor mediating ACE2-independent SARS-CoV-2 cell entryBaggen et al.CellJuly 7, 2023In BriefThe lysosomal transmembrane protein TMEM106B can serve as an alternative receptor for SARS-CoV-2 entry into ACE2-negative cells. Spike substitution E484D improves spike binding to TMEM106B, enhancing TMEM106B-mediated SARS-CoV-2 infection. Full-Text PDF Open Access