A structural view of coronavirus-receptor interactions

In the coronavirus (Coy), the envelope spike (S) glycoprotein is responsible for Coy cell entry and host-to-host transmission. The S is a multifunctional glycoprotein that mediates both attachment of Coy particles to cell surface receptor molecules as well as membrane penetration by fusion. Receptor-binding domains (RBD) have been identified in the S of diverse Coy; they usually contain antigenic determinants targeted by antibodies that neutralize CoV infections. To penetrate host cells, the Coy can use various cell surface molecules, although they preferentially bind to ectoenzymes. Several crystal structures have determined the folding of Coy RBD and the mode by which they recognize cell entry receptors. Here we review the Coy-receptor complex structures reported to date, and highlight the distinct receptor recognition modes, common features, and key determinants of the binding specificity. Structural studies have established the basis for understanding receptor recognition diversity in Coy, its evolution and the adaptation of this virus family to different hosts. CoV responsible for recent outbreaks have extraordinary potential for cross-species transmission; their RBD bear large platforms specialized in recognition of receptors from different species, which facilitates host-to-host circulation and adaptation to man. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.