Lin_2026_PLoS.Pathog_22_e1013792

Since its emergence in 2012, Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) has posed a significant threat to human health. Recently, novel MERS-like coronaviruses with the potential for cross-species transmission have been identified. In this study, we focused on two newly isolated bat strains with putative health concern: BatCoV/Ii/GD/2014-422 (2014-422) and BtTp-BetaCoV/GX2012 (GX2012). We determined the cryo-EM structures of the spike glycoprotein trimer in the closed state for these two viruses. These structures display a more compact conformation compared to MERS-CoV spike. Biochemical characterization demonstrates that the spike receptor-binding domains (RBDs) of 2014-422 and GX2012 can bind to human dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (hDPP4). To investigate the structural determinants of pseudovirus infection, we solved the cryo-EM structures of 2014-422 RBD-hDPP4 and GX2012 RBD-hDPP4 complexes. The binding mode of the complex is conserved, but the angle of the RBD binding undergoes significant tilting. Detailed structural analysis reveals that an additional residue at position 514 interacts with the N321 glycan in hDPP4, altering the binding angle and thus influencing receptor recognition. These findings offer valuable insights into the receptor utilization of Merbecovirus and provide a structural basis for future surveillance efforts.