Role of shed GP during EBOV infection.

<p>In our model, EBOV-infected cells release both virions and soluble shed GP. Shed GP binds DCs and macrophages using TLR4 and activates these cells for release of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines. The soluble nature of shed GP enables triggering of additional and remote targets such as non-infected APCs. Release of cytokines from these cells will further amplify inflammation by recruiting and activating other APCs, lymphocytes, endothelial cells, and other cell types including hepatocytes. Overall the release of shed GP is likely to contribute to increased vascular permeability, disseminated intravascular coagulation, disregulated inflammation and impairment of cell function and organ failure.