[Advances in the Animal Models of MERS-CoV]

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Infectious Diseases
• Comparative Medicine

Background:

• Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) emerged in 2012, causing severe pneumonia in humans.
• MERS-CoV is a significant public health concern, necessitating research into its pathogenesis and control.
• Identifying suitable animal models is critical for advancing MERS-CoV research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review and analyze the advantages and disadvantages of various animal models used in MERS-CoV research.
• To provide a foundational understanding of MERS-CoV pathogenesis and intervention strategies through animal model evaluation.
• To guide the selection of appropriate animal models for future MERS-CoV studies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies utilizing animal models for MERS-CoV infection.
• Analysis of data from experiments involving small animals (mice, hamsters, ferrets).
• Evaluation of studies using non-human primates (rhesus macaques, marmosets) and dromedary camels.

Main Results:

• Various small animal models exhibit susceptibility to MERS-CoV, with differing pathological outcomes.
• Non-human primates and dromedary camels offer distinct advantages for studying MERS-CoV transmission and immune responses.
• Each model presents unique limitations regarding disease manifestation, transmissibility, and human relevance.

Conclusions:

• No single animal model perfectly recapitulates human MERS-CoV infection.
• The choice of animal model depends on the specific research question, such as pathogenesis, transmission, or therapeutic evaluation.
• Continued refinement and validation of animal models are essential for effective MERS-CoV countermeasures.