A 667-nucleotide sequence in the SARS-CoV-2 nsp15 coding region promotes genome encapsidation

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ABSTRACT Coronavirus genome encapsidation depends on cis-acting RNA elements that interact with viral structural proteins. While such packaging signals have been characterized in several coronaviruses, their definition in SARS-CoV-2 remains incomplete. Using synthetic defective SARS-CoV-2 genomes, we identify a 667-nucleotide region within the nsp15 coding sequence that preferentially binds SARS-CoV-2 nucleoprotein and enhances the accumulation of defective viral genomes both in vitro and in vivo. Sequential and targeted deletion analyses further delineate candidate RNA secondary structures within this region that contribute to this enrichment. These structures show similarity to elements within the putative packaging signal of SARS-CoV but are not conserved across other coronaviruses. Together, these findings support the presence of a structured RNA element within nsp15 that contributes to SARS-CoV-2 genome encapsidation and provide a framework for further structural and functional dissection of coronavirus packaging signals. IMPORTANCE This study identifies a 667-nt region within the SARS-CoV-2 nsp15 coding sequence that binds nucleoprotein and promotes accumulation of defective viral genomes, revealing a previously unrecognized contributor to genome encapsidation. Mapping of candidate RNA structures within this region links SARS-CoV-2 packaging activity to conserved structural features observed in SARS-CoV, while highlighting key differences from other coronaviruses. These findings refine understanding of cis-acting packaging signals in SARS-CoV-2 and provide a foundation for further structural and functional analysis of coronavirus genome encapsidation. Abstract Figure GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT A part of the nsp15 coding sequence of SARS-CoV-2 promotes efficient transmission of defective viral genomes in vitro and in vivo. Using a sequential deletion library and targeted deletions within this region we identify RNA structures that may function as packaging signals.

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