Pathology and pathogenicity of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a beta coronavirus that causes infectious respiratory disease, named as coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19). While extensive studies have provided basic information on clinical characteristics of COVID-19, the disease pathology is not fully known. The SARS-CoV-2 virus structural studies and biochemical experiments have also indicated that the virus receptor-binding domain (RBD) binds with a high affinity to angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE-2) receptor from humans; however, the mechanism remains unclear. Hereunder, a summary of relevant findings in the SARS-CoV-2 virus pathology and major pathogenicity mechanisms are discussed. This review of studies provides additional enlightenments on the way forward to prevent further spread or even cure for the SARS-CoV-2 virus-caused COVID-19 disease, either-or should a similar viral plague occur in the future. Impact statement The current survey of studies outlines the direct and indirect effects of SARS-CoV-2 on the specific body systems and summarizes the SARS-CoV-2 main pathogenicity mechanisms that require attention during patient hospitalization and for further research.