CD36 is a receptor for human sapovirus

Human sapovirus (HuSaV) is a major cause of gastroenteritis but has long lacked a defined receptor. Here, we identify the scavenger receptor CD36 as essential for infection. Comparative transcriptomics identified CD36 as the key susceptibility factor. CRISPR knockout abolished replication, while ectopic expression restored permissiveness across diverse cells. Binding assays showed nanomolar affinity between CD36 and HuSaV particles. Infection also required the bile acid glycocholic acid, which promoted CD36 internalization and viral entry. In human intestinal organoids, CD36 knockout abrogated infection, confirming physiological relevance. Our findings establish CD36 as the long-sought HuSaV receptor, uncover a bile acid-assisted entry mechanism that confines infection to the intestine and point to opportunities for antiviral and vaccine development.