Please join us for this exciting QUBIC Seminar Series event.

Advanced Upconversion Nanoparticle Imaging of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Endocytosis in Live Cells

Speaker: Dr Martin Sadraeian, University of Technology Sydney (UTS)
Date: Wednesday 19 June, 1pm – 2pm
Venue: UTS, Bld 7, Level 5, 009A, Large Meeting Room, University of Technology Sydney
Zoom: Click here to join the seminar

Abstract
Single-bioparticle tracking is crucial for real-time monitoring of viral particles and their interactions with host cells. Traditional fluorescence techniques face limitations due to the low brightness and poor photostability of conventional markers such as organic dyes and fluorescent proteins. Our study utilizes an upconversion nanoparticle (UCNP) imaging system to track SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins in live cells, enhancing long-term monitoring capabilities. This approach offers high photostability and brightness, enabling detailed tracking of spike interactions with ACE2 receptors from endocytosis to endosomal trafficking and lysosomal degradation or receptor recycling. By spatiotemporal mapping both the spike and the receptor for milliseconds to hours, our findings elucidate mechanisms of viral spike entry and host interaction, providing valuable insights for antiviral drug development.

Bio
Dr. Martin Sadraeian completed his Ph.D. in Biomolecular Physics, focusing on Anti-HIV immunoconjugates. He has postdoctoral experience in anti-viral photoimmunotherapy and photodiagnostics, including a 4-year fellowship at Sao Paulo Research Foundation and Montana State University. Currently, Dr. Sadraeian is a Research Fellow at IBMD, UTS, and is a member of the ARC Centre of Excellence in Quantum Biotechnology (QUBIC). He is particularly interested in the structural-functional analysis of modified biomolecules and nanoparticles, aiming to develop single-cell and single-molecule technologies for complex biological systems.