Distribution of Coronavirus Receptors in the Swine Respiratory and Intestinal Tract

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Overall, viral receptors are cell surface molecules that allow for virus binding and cell entry leading to productive infection. The presence and distribution of these receptors across tissues can determine susceptibility and the outcome of the infection. This study demonstrates the presence of the main protein receptors used by different coronaviruses in the respiratory and intestinal tract of pigs. The present study has important implications for the development of research models and for the assessment of the potential risk and introduction of coronaviruses into the swine population. ABSTRACT: Coronaviruses use a broad range of host receptors for binding and cell entry, essential steps in establishing viral infections. This pilot study evaluated the overall distribution of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), aminopeptidase N (APN), carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecule 1 (CEACAM1), and dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) receptors in the pig respiratory and intestinal tract. All the receptors evaluated in this study were expressed and differentially distributed through the respiratory and intestinal tract. The presence and expression levels of these receptors could determine susceptibility to coronavirus infections. This study may have important implications for the development of research models and the assessment of the potential risk and introduction of novel coronaviruses into the swine population.