Scientists have identified a new bat virus that has the potential to infect humans, according to research published in Cell. The virus, designated HKU5-CoV-2, was found in Pipistrellus bats collected in Guangdong Province, China. Research led by the Wuhan Institute of Virology suggests that the virus uses the ACE2 receptor, which is typically used by SARS-CoV and other coronaviruses.
The discovery of HKU5-CoV-2 raises concerns about potential animal and human transmission due to its ability to use human ACE2 as a cell entry receptor. However, further studies suggest that the virus’s lower binding affinity and suboptimal spike protein cleavage may reduce the immediate risk of human spillover.
Researchers used various methods to study HKU5-CoV-2, including lab testing and structural analysis. They found that the virus can infect human cells using the ACE2 receptor and that mutations in its receptor-binding domain have minimal effects on binding. Functional assays also confirmed the virus’s ability to infect human ACE2-expressing cells.
Researchers tested potential therapeutic interventions, such as monoclonal antibodies and small molecules, which showed promise in inhibiting viral entry. However, more research is needed to determine the full implications of this new virus discovery.
While HKU5-CoV-2 may not pose an immediate threat to humans, its mutational potential for cross-species transmission and adaptation ability warrant continued surveillance.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-02-virus-potential-infect-humans-hku5.html