The article provides a comprehensive overview of the molecular and cellular mechanisms of coronavirus infections, focusing on SARS-CoV-2. It highlights the importance of understanding virus-host interactions at the molecular level to identify targets for antiviral intervention and to elucidate critical viral and host determinants that contribute to severe disease. The review covers the initial steps of coronavirus infection, including the binding of the spike protein to cellular entry receptors, and the subsequent intracellular life cycle. It discusses the expression and replication of the viral genome, the role of non-structural proteins in viral replication and transcription, and the formation of viral replication compartments. The article also explores the diversity of severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronaviruses, the importance of recombination in their evolution, and the potential of specific host factors and antiviral compounds in combating coronavirus infections. Additionally, it examines the expression of structural and accessory proteins, the biogenesis of replication organelles, and the virus-host interactions that support viral replication and evasion of the host immune response. The review emphasizes the need for continued research to improve our understanding of coronavirus biology and to develop effective intervention strategies.The article provides a comprehensive overview of the molecular and cellular mechanisms of coronavirus infections, focusing on SARS-CoV-2. It highlights the importance of understanding virus-host interactions at the molecular level to identify targets for antiviral intervention and to elucidate critical viral and host determinants that contribute to severe disease. The review covers the initial steps of coronavirus infection, including the binding of the spike protein to cellular entry receptors, and the subsequent intracellular life cycle. It discusses the expression and replication of the viral genome, the role of non-structural proteins in viral replication and transcription, and the formation of viral replication compartments. The article also explores the diversity of severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronaviruses, the importance of recombination in their evolution, and the potential of specific host factors and antiviral compounds in combating coronavirus infections. Additionally, it examines the expression of structural and accessory proteins, the biogenesis of replication organelles, and the virus-host interactions that support viral replication and evasion of the host immune response. The review emphasizes the need for continued research to improve our understanding of coronavirus biology and to develop effective intervention strategies.