Latest Research on COVID-19(SARS-CoV-2)

As the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 spreads globally, we keep tracking the latest scientific findings and knowledge on the coronavirus and disease (COVID-19). We update this article regularly by searching contents of relevant journals and websites.

Research advance| March 30

Structural basis of receptor recognition by SARS-CoV-2

Nature published the latest research on the crystal structure of the SARS-CoV-2 receptor-binding domain (RBD) (engineered to facilitate crystallization) in complex with hACE2. This study provides guidance for intervention strategies targeting receptor recognition by SARS-CoV-2. The proteins SARS-CoV-2 spike, SARSCoV Spike, RaTG13 Spike and human ACE2 of this article were all synthesized in GenScript Biotech. Learn more

Research advance| March 30

Structure of the SARS-CoV-2 spike receptor-binding domain bound to the ACE2 receptor

Researchers determined the crystal structure of the SARS-CoV-2 spike receptor-binding domain (RBD) bound to the cell receptor ACE2 at 2.45 Å resolution. The study has been published inNature. The epitopes of two SARS-CoV antibodies targeting the RBD are also analyzed with the SARS-CoV-2 RBD, providing insights into the future identification of cross-reactiveantibodies. Learn more

Research advance| March 26

Identifying SARS-CoV-2 related coronaviruses in Malayan pangolins

Researchers reported the identification of SARS-CoV-2-related coronaviruses in Malayan pangolins (Manis javanica) seized in anti-smuggling operations in southern China. The discovery of multiple lineages of pangolin coronavirus and their similarity to SARS-CoV-2 suggests that pangolins should be considered as possible hosts in the emergence of novel coronaviruses and should be removed from wet markets to prevent zoonotic transmission. Learn more 

Research advance| March 25

The effect of human mobility and control measures on the COVID-19 epidemic in China

 A new study published at in  Science showed that the drastic control measures implemented in China substantially mitigated the spread of COVID-19. Learn more 

Research advance| March 21

COVID-19: Epidemiology, Evolution, and Cross-Disciplinary Perspectives

Cell published the research of the epidemiological and virological characteristics of the COVID-19 outbreak. They propose, based on the One Health model, that veterinarians and animal specialists should be involved in a cross-disciplinary collaboration in the fight against this epidemic. Learn more

Research advance| March 21

Crystal structure of SARS-CoV-2 main protease provides a basis for design of improved α-ketoamide inhibitors

Science reported the X-ray structures of the unliganded SARS-CoV-2 Mpro and its complex with an α-ketoamide inhibitor. Based on the structure, the researchers they developed the lead compound into a potent inhibitor of the SARS-CoV-2 Mpro. The pharmacokinetic characterization of the optimized inhibitor reveals a pronounced lung tropism and suitability for administration by the inhalative  route. Learn more

Research advance| March 16

Substantial undocumented infection facilitates the rapid dissemination of novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV2)

A new study published at in Science, these findings explain the rapid geographic spread of SARS-CoV2 and indicate containment of this virus will be particularly challenging. Learn more