Mechanism of Receptor Recognition in Coronavirus, 2nd Edition
A special issue of Viruses (ISSN 1999-4915). This special issue belongs to the section "Animal Viruses".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 September 2025 | Viewed by 23
Special Issue Editor
Interests: virus; host; structure; biology; cells; biochemistry; protein; gene; vaccines; immunology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Coronaviruses have continually demonstrated their remarkable adaptability and pathogenic potential, drawing intense global interest and underscoring the need for ongoing, in-depth research into the mechanisms of receptor recognition. Since the publication of the first volume of Mechanism of Receptor Recognition in Coronavirus, rapid developments have reshaped our understanding of coronavirus biology. Novel variants—most notably, the Omicron lineage and its subvariants—have emerged with significant mutations in the spike (S) protein, leading to altered virus–host interactions. These shifts present both immediate challenges and exciting research prospects in virology, immunology, therapeutic discovery, and vaccine development.
Building on the foundational insights gained from the first edition, this second volume expands the discussion around how coronaviruses exploit various receptors and co-receptors, and how spike protein mutations affect viral infectivity, host range, virulence, and immune evasion. Gaps in our knowledge remain, especially concerning the molecular signatures that drive tropism shifts and cross-species transmission—topics of pressing relevance given the expanding host range of coronaviruses. Equally pivotal are the continuing efforts to track and understand mutation-driven viral evolution. The accelerated appearance of mutations in the receptor-binding domain (RBD) has heightened concerns about potential immune escape, particularly in the face of widespread vaccination campaigns and the deployment of therapeutic antibodies. Addressing these concerns requires concerted efforts—from structural biologists employing high-resolution techniques to map virus–receptor interfaces, to clinical researchers monitoring vaccine efficacy and disease outcomes in real-time.
With this new volume, we aim to provide the scientific community with a comprehensive platform for sharing cutting-edge research and for fostering collaboration across disciplines. We invite contributions that not only dissect the molecular underpinnings of receptor recognition but also address the broader epidemiological and clinical ramifications of coronavirus evolution. By integrating multiple viewpoints—from structural biology and immunology to computational modeling and clinical research—this second edition aspires to drive ongoing progress in preventing, diagnosing, and treating coronavirus infections worldwide.
We look forward to your valuable submissions and to continuing the important dialogue initiated in the first volume.
Dr. Qibin Geng
Guest Editor
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Keywords
- receptor recognition
- spike protein adaptations
- receptor-binding domain (RBD)
- host range and zoonotic transmission
- viral evolution and immune evasion
- glycosylation and co-receptors
- proteolytic activation
- therapeutic and vaccine strategies
- cross-species viral transmission
- pandemic preparedness and surveillance
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Related Special Issue
- Mechanism of Receptor Recognition in Coronavirus in Viruses (6 articles)
