Whole genome characteristics of hedgehog coronaviruses from Poland and analysis of the evolution of the Spike protein for its interspecies transmission potential.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The hedgehogs have been recently identified as possible reservoir of Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus like (MERS-CoV-like). These viruses were classified as a distinct Betacoronavirus erinacei (BCoV-Eri) species within the MerBCoV-Eriirus subgenus. As coronaviruses are known for their ability to jump between different hosts, including humans, this can pose a particular threat to people in direct contact with hedgehogs, such as those working at animal asylums. Our previous studies have shown the presence of BCoV-Eri strains in animals collected in the wildlife rehabilitation centre. This study aimed to investigate the presence of CoV in subsequent hedgehogs collected from the urban area of Poland and their molecular characteristics.

Results

Monitoring f

SUBMITTER: Domanska-Blicharz K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11415979 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature