An unconventional HxD motif orchestrates coatomer-dependent coronavirus morphogenesis

Abstract

Assembly of infectious coronaviruses requires spike (S) protein trafficking by host coatomer, typically via a dibasic signal in the S cytoplasmic tail. However, the human embecoviruses HKU1 and OC43, as well as the model virus MHV, lack this motif. Here we identify a conserved His-x-Asp (HxD) sequence that functions as an unconventional coatomer-binding signal. Structural and biochemical analyses show that the MHV HxD motif engages coatomer subunits through distinct conformations, while cellular imaging demonstrates its role in directing S to assembly sites with the viral M-protein. Disruption of HxD-coatomer interactions impairs S incorporation and provokes compensatory viral adaptations, including emergence of a canonical dibasic motif or mutations in M-protein. Electron microscopy further reveals profound alterations in virion surface architecture. These findings uncover HxD as a previously unrecognized coatomer-targeting motif, highlighting an unexpected flexibility in coronavirus assembly pathways and broadening understanding of the cellular machinery that shapes coronavirus morphogenesis.