Aminopeptidase N is a receptor for hedgehog merbecoviruses.

Aminopeptidase N acts as a receptor for hedgehog merbecoviruses, with species-specific use and a unique glycoprotein-receptor interface revealed by cryo-EM.

• Why it matters: Understanding how merbecoviruses enter host cells is crucial for assessing zoonotic transmission risks and species barriers, especially given their circulation in hedgehogs across Europe and Asia.
• What they did: Researchers tested three coronavirus receptors from European hedgehogs in cell-based assays, verified APN as a receptor through pseudotype and binding experiments, and analyzed spike protein infectivity at different temperatures, along with cross-species receptor screening and cryo-EM structural studies.
• The result: Findings show hedgehog merbecoviruses use APN as a receptor with restricted cross-species use, including inability to bind human APN, and reveal a distinct glycoprotein-receptor interface, informing viral emergence risk assessments.