The Pathogenicity of MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2: A Comparative Overview

The ongoing detrimental consequences of SARS-CoV-2 or COVID-19 are attributable to its remarkable pathogenesis and modes of transmission. Originating from a common ancestor of the previous coronavirus outbreaks, MERS-CoV and SARS-CoV-1, the former has been evolved in terms of its pathogenic mechanisms, routes of transmission and the extent of infection. The comprehensive evaluation of these modifications at the molecular level would reveal astonishing details about the extensive lethality of the current SARS-CoV-2 outbreak. Further, these details can be utilized for the development of effective and specific treatment methods. This review elaborates the comparative assessment of the viral characteristics of coronaviruses: MERS-CoV, SARS-CoV-1 and SARSCoV-2. With the comparative account, the study endeavours to leave a clear picture explaining the reason behind the extensive lethality of the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.