North American deer species show varied SARS-CoV-2 susceptibility based on ACE2 receptors and viral variants

SARS-CoV-2 susceptibility varies among North American deer species due to differences in their ACE2 receptors and viral variants. Elk ACE2 shows weak binding to older SARS-CoV-2 strains but stronger binding to newer variants like Alpha and Omicron, though it still supports viral entry. Despite this, elk infections are rare, unlike widespread transmission in white-tailed deer, indicating ACE2 compatibility alone doesn't predict reservoir potential.