DC-SIGN and L-SIGN are C-type lectins that recognize carbohydrate structures present on viral glycoproteins and function as
attachment factors for several enveloped viruses. DC-SIGN and L-SIGN enhance viral entry and facilitate infection of cells
that express the cognate entry receptor (cis-infection). They are also able to capture viruses and transfer viral infections to other target cells (trans-infection). In this chapter, we will give an overview of protocols used to produce soluble viral glycoproteins at high levels
and to study the molecular basis of viruses/DC-SIGN and L-SIGN binding and internalization. We will also describe techniques
to investigate the molecular mechanisms by which DC-SIGN or L-SIGN spread viral infections.
Key Words DC-SIGN – L-SIGN – dendritic cells – endothelial cells – viruses – envelope glycoproteins – endocytosis – viral entry – infection – viral transmission