Broad host range of SARS-CoV-2 predicted by comparative and structural analysis of ACE2 in vertebrates

• DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2010146117
• Publication Date: 2020-08-21T23:40:15Z
• Authors: Joana Damas; Graham M. Hughes; Kathleen C. Keough; Corrie A. Painter; Nicole S. Persky; Marco Corbo; Michael Hiller; Klaus-Peter Koepfli; Andreas R. Pfenning; Huabin Zhao; Diane P. Genereux; Ross Swofford; Katherine S. Pollard; Oliver A. Ryder; Martin T. Nweeia; Kerstin Lindblad-Toh; Emma C. Teeling; Elinor K. Karlsson; Harris A. Lewin
• Keywords: Pandemic; Infectivity; Coronavirus; Identification; 2019-20 coronavirus outbreak

Significance The novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the cause of COVID-19, a major pandemic that threatens millions human lives and global economy. We identified large number mammals can potentially be infected by SARS-CoV-2 via their ACE2 proteins. This assist identification intermediate hosts for hence reduce opportunity future outbreak COVID-19. Among species we found with highest risk infection are wildlife endangered species. These represent an spillover from humans to other susceptible animals. Given limited infectivity data studied, urge caution not overinterpret predictions present study.