PIP4K2C inhibition reverses autophagic flux impairment induced by SARS-CoV-2

Abstract

In search for broad-spectrum antivirals, we discover a small molecule inhibitor, RMC-113, that potently suppresses the replication of multiple RNA viruses including SARS-CoV-2 in human lung organoids. We demonstrate selective inhibition of the lipid kinases PIP4K2C and PIKfyve by RMC-113 and target engagement by its clickable analog. Lipidomics analysis reveals alteration of SARS-CoV-2-induced phosphoinositide signature by RMC-113 and links its antiviral effect with functional PIP4K2C and PIKfyve inhibition. We identify PIP4K2C’s roles in SARS-CoV-2 entry, RNA replication, and assembly/egress, validating it as a druggable antiviral target. Integrating proteomics, single-cell transcriptomics, and functional assays, reveals that PIP4K2C binds SARS-CoV-2 nonstructural protein 6 and regulates virus-induced autophagic flux impairment. Promoting viral protein degradation by reversing autophagic flux impairment is a mechanism of antiviral action of RMC-113. These findings reveal virus-induced autophagy regulation via PIP4K2C, an understudied kinase, and propose dual PIP4K2C and PIKfyve inhibition as a candidate strategy to combat emerging viruses. The understudied lipid kinase PIP4K2C binds SARS-CoV-2 nonstructural protein 6 and regulates virus-induced autophagic flux impairment, suppressing viral protein degradation. PIP4K2C inhibition is a candidate strategy to combat emerging viruses.