A comprehensive library of fluorescent constructs of SARS-CoV-2 proteins and their initial characterisation in different cell types

Background Information: Comprehensive libraries of plasmids for SARS-CoV-2 proteins with various tags (e.g., Strep, HA, Turbo) are now available. They enable the identification of numerous potential protein–protein interactions between the SARS-CoV-2 virus and host proteins. Results: We present here a large library of SARS CoV-2 protein constructs fused with green and red fluorescent proteins and their initial characterisation in various human cell lines including lung epithelial cell models (A549, BEAS-2B), as well as in budding yeast. The localisation of a few SARS-CoV-2 proteins matches their proposed interactions with host proteins. These include the localisation of Nsp13 to the centrosome, Orf3a to late endosomes and Orf9b to mitochondria. Conclusions and Significance: This library should facilitate further cellular investigations, notably by imaging techniques.