A new bat coronavirus, HKU5-CoV-2, has been discovered in China, prompting concerns about animal-to-human transmission similar to COVID-19. Virologist Shi Zhengli and her team found the virus could infect human cells. However, experts, including Dr. Michael Osterholm, suggest the pandemic risk may be overblown due to existing immunity in the population.
A recently discovered bat coronavirus, known as HKU5-CoV-2, has been identified in China, raising concerns about its potential for transmission to humans. Led by virologist Shi Zhengli, renowned for her extensive research on coronaviruses, the study found that HKU5-CoV-2 shares similarities with SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic. Both viruses can invade human cells through ACE2 receptors, which poses a risk of zoonotic spillover.
HKU5-CoV-2 is categorized under the merbecovirus subgenus, which includes the virus that causes Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS). Laboratory tests demonstrated that this new virus can effectively bind to human ACE2, facilitating infection in human cell cultures from miniature organ models. The study highlights the urgent need to investigate the spillover potential of this virus more thoroughly.
The authors of the study caution that while HKU5-CoV-2 poses a significant risk due to its ability to utilize human ACE2 receptors, further research is necessary to determine whether it could cause disease in humans. They noted that HKU5-CoV-2 exhibits better adaptation to human ACE2 than some related viruses, emphasizing the need for vigilance regarding associated zoonotic risks.
In response to potential concerns about another pandemic, Dr. Michael Osterholm, an infectious disease expert, suggested that reactions to the study may be exaggerated. He pointed out that the current population possesses a considerable level of immunity to SARS viruses compared to 2019, which may diminish the risk of a pandemic.
It is essential to acknowledge that the study indicated HKU5-CoV-2 has a lower binding affinity to human ACE2 than SARS-CoV-2, along with other factors that impede its human adaptability. Accordingly, the potential for emergence in human populations should be treated with cautious optimism rather than alarm.
In conclusion, the discovery of HKU5-CoV-2, a new bat coronavirus with similar characteristics to SARS-CoV-2, highlights the ongoing risks associated with zoonotic viruses. While the potential for human transmission exists, experts suggest that the current level of immunity in the population may mitigate this risk. Continued research is necessary to fully understand the implications of this virus, particularly concerning its potential impact on human health.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
