Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has a broad host range with multiple spillover events of human-to-animal transmission documented. These observations suggest a relatively low species barrier between humans and animals. However, the mechanisms underlying species specificity and susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 remain poorly understood.

The overall goals of the present study are to determine the mechanisms underlying host susceptibility or restriction to SARS-CoV-2 infection and to improve our understanding of the animal species at risk of natural infection with SARS-CoV-2. The specific objectives of the proposed study are: (1) To identify the mechanisms underlying SARS-CoV-2 host range and animal species specificity at the cellular level; (2) To characterize the factors affecting SARS-COV-2 susceptibility at the organism level; and (3) To investigate natural exposure of animals to variant SARS-CoV-2 strains through surveillance.

The proposed study directly aligns with APHIS’ American Rescue Plan strategic framework and addresses several important research priority areas identified in the APHIS-AFRI NIFA Collaboration on SARS-CoV-2 announcement: i. “expand knowledge of susceptibility of animal species to SARS-COV-2”; ii. “address gaps in surveillance and investigation activities for SARSCoV-2 in animals”; and iii. “identify risks at the human-animal interface” that may allow implementation of measures to “prevent transmission or SARS-CoV-2 to animals and reduce potential impacts to the food supply”. The knowledge gained with these studies will allow the design of strategies for effective prevention and control of SARS-CoV-2 at the human-animal interface.