Synopsis
A new bat coronavirus, HKU5-CoV-2, has been discovered by Chinese virologists, led by Shi Zhengli. This virus demonstrates the potential to infect humans, raising concerns about zoonotic spillover and the need for further research and surveillance.Key Takeaways
- New bat coronavirus HKU5-CoV-2 identified.
- Potential to infect humans by binding to ACE2 receptors.
- Greater adaptation ability compared to other HKU5-CoVs.
- Requires further research to assess transmission risks.
- Importance of monitoring bat coronaviruses emphasized.
Beijing, Feb 22 (NationPress) A group of Chinese virologists has unearthed a novel bat coronavirus, HKU5-CoV-2, which may have the ability to infect humans. The research is spearheaded by Shi Zhengli, a prominent scientist affectionately dubbed "Batwoman" due to her in-depth studies on coronaviruses. This finding raises alarm about the risk of yet another zoonotic spillover.
As reported by the South China Morning Post, the team discovered that HKU5-CoV-2 has the capability to attach to human ACE2 receptors, the same entry point utilized by SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic.
This resemblance indicates a potential threat of human transmission, although additional studies are required to assess its actual impact.
HKU5-CoV-2 is classified within the merbecovirus subgenus, which encompasses the MERS-CoV virus linked to the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome outbreak.
The research, featured by Newsweek, indicates that this novel strain exhibits a superior ability to adapt to human ACE2 receptors compared to other lineage 1 HKU5-CoVs. Laboratory experiments verified that HKU5-CoV-2 effectively infected human cell cultures and mini-human organ models, amplifying worries about its zoonotic potential.
The findings underscore the significant hazard posed by bat merbecoviruses, which may transfer to humans either directly or through intermediary hosts. Nevertheless, scientists urge that further research is essential to ascertain the actual risk of transmission and disease manifestation in humans.
While China has consistently rejected theories connecting COVID-19 to a laboratory leak, the Wuhan Institute of Virology continues to be under intense global examination. The identification of HKU5-CoV-2 further emphasizes the necessity of monitoring bat coronaviruses and their possible threats to human health.
Currently, it remains uncertain whether HKU5-CoV-2 poses an immediate health danger, but researchers highlight the importance of ongoing surveillance and readiness to avert future pandemics.
