[Cell entry mechanism of coronaviruses: implication in their pathogenesis]

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Infectious Diseases
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Coronaviruses infect diverse hosts, with mouse hepatitis virus (MHV) serving as a model for human diseases like hepatitis and demyelination.
• Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) is a significant emergent virus, extensively studied due to its impact.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and compare the cell entry mechanisms of mouse hepatitis virus (MHV) and SARS-CoV.
• To highlight the differences and similarities in how these two coronaviruses enter host cells.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of existing literature on MHV and SARS-CoV cell entry.
• Review of identified viral receptors and cellular mechanisms involved in viral entry.

Main Results:

• Both MHV and SARS-CoV are enveloped viruses that infect host cells.
• Recent findings indicate that the SARS-CoV cell entry mechanism differs from that of MHV and other enveloped viruses.
• Specific receptors and pathways for each virus have been identified and are under active investigation.

Conclusions:

• Understanding the distinct cell entry mechanisms of MHV and SARS-CoV is crucial for developing targeted antiviral strategies.
• Comparative studies of viral entry pathways provide insights into coronavirus evolution and host-pathogen interactions.