SERCA is a host target of the SARS-CoV-2 envelope protein linking calcium homeostasis to autophagy
Blanka Berta, Sarolta Tóth, Péter Lőrincz, Zurab Darjania, Nicolas Alexander Toranosuke Kato, Alaa Benachour, Nour Benachour, Tamás Hegedűs, Rita Padányi
This study shows the SARS-CoV-2 E protein disrupts ER calcium homeostasis via SERCA inhibition, leading to autophagy-related membrane remodeling.
bioRxiv · Aug 19, 2026 · PreprintCell Biology