Cord blood natural killer cell-derived extracellular vesicles inhibit Zika virus infectivity through ITGB2/perforin-mediated envelope disruption in vitro and in vivo
Quick Facts
- Publication title: Cord blood natural killer cell-derived extracellular vesicles inhibit Zika virus infectivity through ITGB2/perforin-mediated envelope disruption in vitro and in vivo
- Journal: Bioact Mater
- Year: 2026
- DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2026.01.030
- PMID/PMCID: 41674556; PMC12887259
Research overview
Zika virus (ZIKV) can traverse the placental barrier, leading to fetal microcephaly and congenital zika syndrome (CZS). The viral E protein mediates host-cell interactions and infection.
Key findings
Zika virus (ZIKV) can traverse the placental barrier, leading to fetal microcephaly and congenital zika syndrome (CZS).
The viral E protein mediates host-cell interactions and infection.
Here, we demonstrated that cord blood natural killer cell-derived extracellular vesicles (CBNK-EVs) potently inhibit ZIKV infection in vitro without compromising cellular viability.
Mechanistically, CBNK-EVs engage ZIKV through ITGB2, a surface-enriched integrin that interacts with the viral E protein, facilitating nanoparticle-virion contact or membrane fusion.
Echo Biotech Role
Echo Biotech contributed EV isolation and purification; the study also used or cited Exosupur®.
Related platforms: Exoomics®, Research Reagents & Tools
Related services and capabilities: EV Re-purification / Free-Dye Removal, Research Reagent / Product Supply
Related products or reagents: Exosupur® EV Isolation/Purification Kit
References
Original publication: Cord blood natural killer cell-derived extracellular vesicles inhibit Zika virus infectivity through ITGB2/perforin-mediated envelope disruption in vitro and in vivo Bioactive materials. 2026. DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2026.01.030. PMID/PMCID: 41674556; PMC12887259.