Newly Discovered Bat Virus Uses Same Entry Path as COVID-19
- Fahad Bin Khalid
- February 24, 2025
- 2:14 pm
- 28
- Current Affairs
Scientists have identified bat coronavirus HKU5-CoV-2, a virus that enters human cells using the same ACE2 receptor as SARS-CoV-2. This discovery has raised questions about its potential risk to humans and possible treatment options.
How HKU5-CoV-2 Infects Human Cells
Researchers found that HKU5-CoV-2 contains a furin cleavage site, which helps viruses infect cells more easily. Lab experiments showed that this virus could infect human intestinal and airway cells with high ACE2 levels. However, it does not infect cells as efficiently as SARS-CoV-2.
Potential Treatment Options
Scientists tested monoclonal antibodies and antiviral drugs against HKU5-CoV-2. Some treatments showed promise, suggesting that existing drugs could help fight this virus if needed.
Impact on Vaccine Stocks
News of bat coronavirus HKU5-CoV-2 affected stock markets. Pfizer shares rose 1.5%, Moderna climbed 5.3%, and Novavax increased by 1% despite a broader market decline. Investors responded quickly to the possibility of new vaccine developments.
Experts Say Risk Is Low
Dr. Michael Osterholm from the University of Minnesota said concerns about a new pandemic are overblown. He noted that global immunity to SARS-like viruses has improved since 2019, reducing the threat.
What Researchers Conclude
The study confirmed that HKU5-CoV-2 binds to ACE2 less effectively than SARS-CoV-2. It also lacks key factors needed for human-to-human transmission. Scientists believe the risk of this virus causing a pandemic is very low.
Final Thoughts
While the bat coronavirus HKU5-CoV-2 can infect human cells, it is not as dangerous as COVID-19. Scientists continue to monitor new viruses, but for now, this one poses no serious threat to humans.
