Wild animals such as bats are the natural hosts of numerous coronaviruses, which include SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV, and MERS-CoV. At least since the onset of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic (COVID-19), we have known that these viruses are relatively easily transmissible to other animals and also to humans and can adapt very quickly to their new host. To better protect against this recurring threat in the future, it is important to conduct even more research on coronaviruses.

The scientists of the LOEWE Cluster CoroPan - Human and zoonotic coronaviruses: conserved targets for new therapeutic options in future pandemics are investigating potential vulnerabilities in the already known representatives of the coronaviruses. These could serve as starting points for the development of new therapies. To this end, comparative studies on the molecular basis of the replication and pathogenesis of the viruses are planned.