Identifying SARS-CoV-2-related coronaviruses in Malayan pangolins

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Zoonotic Diseases
• Wildlife Conservation

Background:

• The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2) has led to a global viral pneumonia outbreak.
• The initial outbreak was linked to a market in Wuhan, China, with wild animals suspected as the source of zoonotic infection.
• While bats are considered probable reservoir hosts, the intermediate host for SARS-CoV-2 remains unidentified.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify potential intermediate hosts for SARS-CoV-2.
• To investigate the role of Malayan pangolins in the transmission of novel coronaviruses.

Main Methods:

• Metagenomic sequencing of coronaviruses found in Malayan pangolins (Manis javanica).
• Analysis of pangolin-associated coronaviruses for genetic similarity to SARS-CoV-2, particularly in the receptor-binding domain.

Main Results:

• SARS-CoV-2-related coronaviruses were identified in Malayan pangolins seized in southern China.
• These pangolin coronaviruses represent two distinct sub-lineages.
• One lineage showed significant similarity to SARS-CoV-2 in its receptor-binding domain.

Conclusions:

• Malayan pangolins harbor multiple lineages of coronaviruses closely related to SARS-CoV-2.
• Pangolins are identified as potential intermediate hosts for the emergence of novel coronaviruses.
• Removing pangolins from wet markets is recommended to mitigate zoonotic transmission risks.