Coronavirus entry: how we arrived at SARS-CoV-2

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 has risen to shape scientific research during 2020, with its spike (S) protein being a predominant focus. The S protein is likely the most complicated of all viral glycoproteins and is a key factor in immunological responses and virus pathogenesis. It is also the driving force dictating virus entry mechanisms, which are highly `plastic' for coronaviruses, allowing a plethora of options for different virus variants and strains in different cell types. Here we review coronavirus entry as a foundation for current work on SARS-CoV-2. We focus on the post-receptor binding events and cellular pathways that direct the membrane fusion events necessary for genome delivery, including S proteolytic priming and activation. We also address aspects of the entry process important for virus evolution and therapeutic development.

Automated summary

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the significance of the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 in shaping scientific research in 2020, with a specific focus on its spike (S) protein. This complex glycoprotein plays a crucial role in immunological responses, virus pathogenesis, and virus entry mechanisms. Understanding these processes is essential for current work on SARS-CoV-2 and for developing potential therapies.