Mechanism and evolution of human ACE2 binding by SARS-CoV-2 spike

Curr Opin Struct Biol. 2023 Aug:81:102619. doi: 10.1016/j.sbi.2023.102619. Epub 2023 May 15.

Abstract

Spike glycoprotein of SARS-CoV-2 mediates viral entry into host cells by facilitating virus attachment and membrane fusion. ACE2 is the main receptor of SARS-CoV-2 and its interaction with spike has shaped the virus' emergence from an animal reservoir and subsequent evolution in the human host. Many structural studies on the spike:ACE2 interaction have provided insights into mechanisms driving viral evolution during the on-going pandemic. This review describes the molecular basis of spike binding to ACE2, outlines mechanisms that have optimised this interaction during viral evolution, and suggests directions for future research.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 / chemistry
  • Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 / metabolism
  • Animals
  • COVID-19*
  • Carrier Proteins / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Protein Binding
  • SARS-CoV-2* / metabolism
  • Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus / chemistry
  • Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus / metabolism

Substances

  • Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2
  • Carrier Proteins
  • Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus
  • spike protein, SARS-CoV-2
  • ACE2 protein, human