HKU5-CoV-2 Bat Coronavirus Discovered: Can It Infect Humans Like COVID-19?
Chinese scientists discovered a new bat coronavirus, HKU5-CoV-2, that can infect human cells. The virus uses the same ACE2 receptor as SARS-CoV-2 but has a weaker binding affinity. HKU5-CoV-2 belongs to the merbecovirus subgenus, which includes the MERS virus. The study, led by virologist Shi Zhengli, was published in the scientific journal Cell. Experts believe the human infection risk is low, but further research is needed.
Key Highlights:
Chinese Scientists Identify New Bat Coronavirus:
Chinese virologists have discovered HKU5-CoV-2, a novel bat coronavirus with the potential to infect humans. The virus, found in Chinese bats, uses the same ACE2 receptor protein as SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic.
The research was led by renowned virologist Shi Zhengli, known as “batwoman” for her extensive work on bat coronaviruses. The findings, published in the journal Cell, indicate that while HKU5-CoV-2 can enter human cells, its ability to bind is significantly lower than SARS-CoV-2.
How Dangerous Is HKU5-CoV-2?
HKU5-CoV-2 originates from the merbecovirus subgenus, which also includes the virus that causes Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS). The strain was first identified in the Japanese pipistrelle bat in Hong Kong before resurfacing in Chinese bat populations.
Like SARS-CoV-2, HKU5-CoV-2 possesses a furin cleavage site, a key characteristic that enhances viral entry into human cells. Laboratory experiments showed that the virus could infect cells in test tubes and human tissue models, including the intestines and airways.
Could This Virus Lead to Another Pandemic?
While the discovery of a new bat virus raises concerns, researchers emphasize that the risk of HKU5-CoV-2 triggering a global outbreak is minimal. According to the study, the virus:
- Has a weaker ability to bind to human ACE2 receptors compared to SARS-CoV-2.
- Lacks several key factors needed for human adaptation.
- Does not efficiently transmit between humans.
Virologist Michael Osterholm from the University of Minnesota dismissed fears of an imminent pandemic, stating that the global population now has higher immunity against SARS-related viruses, reducing the likelihood of widespread infections.
Debates on the Origin of COVID-19 Continue:
The discovery of HKU5-CoV-2 has reignited debates about the origins of COVID-19. Shi Zhengli, one of the study’s lead researchers, works at the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV)—the same lab often linked to unproven theories about the SARS-CoV-2 lab leak.
Despite lingering controversies, the Chinese researchers behind the study emphasize that HKU5-CoV-2 is not as infectious as SARS-CoV-2, reinforcing the argument that bat viruses require additional mutations before posing a serious threat to humans.
What Comes Next?
Given the potential for bat coronaviruses to spill over into humans, scientists urge further investigation into:
- Animal-to-human transmission pathways of HKU5-CoV-2.
- The potential for mutations that could increase human adaptability.
- Effective antiviral treatments and monoclonal antibodies that could neutralize the virus.
The discovery of HKU5-CoV-2 highlights the ongoing threat posed by bat coronaviruses. While current data suggests a low risk of human transmission, scientists stress the importance of continued surveillance and research to prevent future pandemics.
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