Mutations of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Glycoprotein Detected in Cats and Their Effect on Its Structure and Function.

ABSTRACT: The high frequency of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) mutations and homology of the Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme-2 (ACE2) cell receptors in various hosts help the virus transcend species barriers. In this study, we investigated the mutations of the SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein detected in cats and their effect on its structure and function. Interestingly, some of these mutations are reported here in cats for the first time. Structural analysis showed seven residue substitutions in the spike glycoprotein. Four of the detected mutations are located on the spike surface, which are critical interaction points for neutralizing antibodies. Furthermore, three of the reported mutations could facilitate viral binding to the ACE2 host receptor, influence S1/S2 cleavage

SUBMITTER: Hamdy ME 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9198574 | biostudies-literature | 2022

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature