María Montoya

A single Omicron mutation reshapes ORF3a-driven host-cell remodelling

This study identifies how a single mutation in the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2's ORF3a protein alters its host-cell remodelling effects, shifting from lipid accumulation to preserving Golgi structure.

SARS-CoV-2 ORF7a Drives Mitochondrial Dysfunction via PDK4 Activation and Complex I Inhibition

This study shows that SARS-CoV-2 ORF7a causes mitochondrial dysfunction by activating PDK4 and inhibiting complex I, altering host metabolism.

Omicron-Enhanced Immunosuppressive Effects of SARS-CoV-2 ORF3a and ORF9b Accessory Proteins on Monocytic Inflammatory Response

This study shows that SARS-CoV-2 accessory proteins ORF3a and ORF9b suppress monocytic inflammatory responses, with Omicron variants enhancing this effect.

Induction of the inflammasome by the SARS-CoV-2 accessory protein ORF9b, abrogated by small-molecule ORF9b homodimerization inhibitors

This study shows that SARS-CoV-2's ORF9b protein activates inflammasomes and caspase-1, and small molecules inhibiting its homodimerization reduce inflammation and restore interferon signaling.

Inflammation cellular platform (INCEPLAT) for testing anti-inflammatory compounds for SARS-CoV-2

The paper develops a cellular platform using SARS-CoV-2 ORF-expressing A549 cells to screen anti-inflammatory compounds from Fasciola hepatica, showing FhNEJ extract reduces IL11 levels.

Wax worm saliva and the enzymes therein are the key to polyethylene degradation by Galleria mellonella

The paper identifies two enzymes in wax worm saliva that oxidize and depolymerize polyethylene, overcoming a key bottleneck in plastic biodegradation.