The effect of cysteine oxidation on conformational changes of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein using atomistic simulations

The SARS-CoV-2 Spike (S) protein plays a central role in viral entry into host cells, making it a key target for therapeutic interventions. Oxidative stress, often triggered during viral infections, can cause oxidation of cysteine in this protein. Here we investigate the impact of cysteine oxidation, specifically the formation of cysteic acid, on the conformational dynamics of the SARS-CoV-2 S protein using atomistic simulations. In particular, we examine how cysteine oxidation influences the transitions of the S protein’s receptor-binding domain (RBD) between “down” (inaccessible) and “up” (accessible) states, which are critical for host cell receptor engagement. Using solvent-accessible surface area (SASA) analysis, we identify key cysteine residues susceptible to oxidation. The results of targeted molecular dynamics (TMD) and umbrella sampling (US) simulations reveal that oxidation reduces the energy barrier for RBD transitions by approximately 30 kJ mol⁻¹, facilitating conformational changes and potentially enhancing viral infectivity. Furthermore, we analyze the interactions between oxidized cysteine residues and glycans, as well as alterations in hydrogen bonds and salt bridges. Our results show that oxidation disrupts normal RBD dynamics, influencing the energy landscape of conformational transitions. Our work provides novel insights into the role of cysteine oxidation in modulating the structural dynamics of the SARS-CoV-2 S protein, highlighting potential targets for antiviral strategies aimed at reducing oxidative stress or modifying post-translational changes. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of viral infectivity and pathogenesis under oxidative conditions.