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Convergent Evolution and Host-Limiting Impacts of SARS-CoV-2 Revealed by Cellular Experiments
Ting Zhang1, Ren-Rong Tian1, Fengyi Li2,3
1State Key Laboratory of Genetic Evolution & Animal Models, Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650201, China.
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) evolves rapidly. This study shows host factors like Type I interferons (IFN-I) influence viral Spike protein mutations, impacting SARS-CoV-2 evolution.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Evolutionary Biology
Background:
- Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) exhibits significant viral evolution and host adaptation.
- Mechanisms driving SARS-CoV-2 evolution across diverse hosts are not fully understood, especially with limited genomic surveillance.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the mechanisms of SARS-CoV-2 evolution in vitro.
- Identify host-specific selective pressures shaping viral adaptation.
- Understand the role of host factors in viral mutation accumulation.
Main Methods:
- Controlled in vitro cellular system in a Biosafety Level 3 Laboratory.
- Passaging SARS-CoV-2 in seven cell lines from five mammalian species.
- High-throughput sequencing to analyze viral genome and identify mutations.
Main Results:
- Consistent positive selection observed on the Spike (S) protein, indicating adaptability.
- Type I interferons (IFN-I) and APOBEC editing identified as potential modulators of viral evolution.
- Inverse correlation between IFN-I activation and accumulation of specific S protein mutations (E484D, P812R/L, L1186R).
Conclusions:
- Host-specific selective forces significantly shape SARS-CoV-2 evolution.
- IFN-I signaling plays a crucial role in modulating viral mutation rates.
- Findings underscore the need for systematic approaches to mitigate viral transmission and the emergence of new variants.
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