Broad host range of SARS-CoV-2 predicted by comparative and structural analysis of ACE2 in vertebrates

TLDR

The novel SARS‑CoV‑2 causes COVID‑19, a pandemic threatening millions of lives and the global economy. The study aims to identify intermediate hosts for SARS‑CoV‑2 to reduce future outbreak risks. We predict that many mammals, especially wildlife and endangered species, can be infected via ACE2, posing spillover risks, but limited data warrant cautious interpretation.

Abstract

Significance The novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the cause of COVID-19, a major pandemic that threatens millions of human lives and the global economy. We identified a large number of mammals that can potentially be infected by SARS-CoV-2 via their ACE2 proteins. This can assist the identification of intermediate hosts for SARS-CoV-2 and hence reduce the opportunity for a future outbreak of COVID-19. Among the species we found with the highest risk for SARS-CoV-2 infection are wildlife and endangered species. These species represent an opportunity for spillover of SARS-CoV-2 from humans to other susceptible animals. Given the limited infectivity data for the species studied, we urge caution not to overinterpret the predictions of the present study.