Host range projection of SARS-CoV-2: South Asia perspective

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causing agent of Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19), is likely to be originated from bat and transmitted through intermediate hosts. However, the immediate source species of SARS-CoV-2 have not yet been confirmed. Here, we used diversity analysis of the angiotensin I converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) that serves as cellular receptor for SARS-CoV-2 and transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2), which has been proved to be utilized by SARS-CoV-2 for spike protein priming. We also simulated the structure of receptor-binding domain of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (SARS-CoV-2S RBD) with the ACE2s to investigate their binding affinity to determine the potential intermediate animal hosts that could spread the SARS-CoV-2 to humans in South Asia. We identified cow, buffalo, goat and sheep, which are predominant species in the household farming system in South Asia that can potentially be infected by SARS-CoV-2. All the bird species studied along with rat and mouse were considered less potential to interact with SARS-CoV-2. The interaction interfaces of SARS-CoV-2S RBD and ACE2 protein complex suggests pangolin as a potential intermediate host in SARS-CoV-2. Our results provide a valuable resource for the identification of potential hosts for SARS-CoV-2 in South Asia and henceforth reduce the opportunity for a future outbreak of COVID-19.

Automated summary

The study conducted diversity analysis of ACE2 and TMPRSS2, and simulated the structure of SARS-CoV-2S RBD with ACE2 to determine potential intermediate animal hosts for transmitting SARS-CoV-2 to humans in South Asia. The results suggest that cows, buffaloes, goats, and sheep could potentially be infected by SARS-CoV-2, while bird species and rodents have lower potential for interaction with the virus. The findings indicate that pangolins may serve as a potential intermediate host for SARS-CoV-2 in South Asia, providing valuable insight for reducing the risk of future COVID-19 outbreaks.