Date of Award

Fall 8-22-2025

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Microbiology and Immunology

First Advisor

Thomas Gallagher

Abstract

Coronaviruses infect a wide range of hosts and have caused recent human pandemics. While much has been learned, gaps remain in understanding viral assembly and egress, particularly the role of the envelope (E) protein in specific infectivity. To study this, recombinant MHV viruses were created with E gene deletions and HiBiT-tagged spike (S) proteins to monitor virion release. In mouse cells, MHV∆E S-HiBiT secreted less spike and fewer infectious particles, indicating reduced specific infectivity. Comparisons between human HeLa-CEACAM and mouse DBT cells showed species-specific support for virus production. TMED10, a host membrane protein, was tested as a potential E-interacting partner via CRISPR knockout, but results showed it was not required for E-mediated assembly. Additionally, E proteins increased IL-1β secretion, with variability among coronavirus strains. Overall, the study enhances understanding of E protein roles in coronavirus egress, infectivity, and host interactions.

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