Identification of cell surface molecules involved in dystroglycan-independent Lassa virus cell entry

Although O-mannosylated dystroglycan is a receptor for Lassa virus, a causative agent of Lassa fever, recent findings suggest the existence of an alternative receptor(s). Here we identified four molecules as receptors for Lassa virus: Axl and TYRO3, from the TAM family, and dendritic cell-specific intercellular adhesion molecule 3-grabbing nonintegrin (DC-SIGN) and liver and lymph node sinusoidal endothelial calcium-dependent lectin (LSECtin), from the C-type lectin family. These molecules enhanced the binding of Lassa virus to cells and mediated Infection independently of dystroglycan. Axl- or Tyro3-mediated Infection required intracellular signaling via the tyrosine kinase activity of Axl or TYRO3, whereas DC-SIGN- or LSECtin-mediated Infection and binding were dependent on a specific carbohydrate and on ions. The identification of these four molecules as Lassa virus receptors advances our understanding of Lassa virus cell entry.