By Chinese researchers have recently identified a novel bat coronavirus, designated HKU5-CoV-2, which exhibits the potential to infect humans. This discovery has heightened concerns regarding possible future zoonotic transmission events. The virus was found to utilize the human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor, the same entry point employed by SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19.
Discovery and Research Team
The identification of HKU5-CoV-2 was spearheaded by Dr. Shi Zhengli, a prominent virologist often referred to as “batwoman” due to her extensive research on bat coronaviruses. The collaborative study involved scientists from the Guangzhou Laboratory, Guangzhou Academy of Sciences, Wuhan University, and the Wuhan Institute of Virology. Their findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal Cell on February 21, 2025.
Characteristics of HKU5-CoV-2
HKU5-CoV-2 belongs to the merbecovirus subgenus, which also includes the Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) virus. This new lineage of the HKU5 coronavirus was initially identified in Japanese pipistrelle bats in Hong Kong. Laboratory experiments demonstrated that HKU5-CoV-2 can bind to the human ACE2 receptor, facilitating its entry into human cells. The virus was also capable of infecting artificially grown human lung and intestinal tissues, indicating a broader host range and potential for interspecies transmission.
Potential for Human Transmission
While HKU5-CoV-2 can bind to human ACE2 receptors, its efficiency in doing so is significantly lower than that of SARS-CoV-2. This reduced binding affinity suggests a lower likelihood of widespread human transmission. Dr. Michael Osterholm, an infectious disease expert, emphasized that existing population immunity to similar SARS viruses and the virus’s lower binding affinity to human ACE2 reduce the probability of significant human adaptation and transmission.
Implications for Public Health
The discovery of HKU5-CoV-2 underscores the importance of vigilant monitoring of coronaviruses in animal populations, particularly bats, which are known reservoirs for various coronaviruses. The ability of HKU5-CoV-2 to infect human cells highlights the potential risk of zoonotic spillover events. Researchers have identified antiviral drugs and monoclonal antibodies that target the bat virus, providing a foundation for potential therapeutic interventions should the virus pose a threat to human health.
Context of the Discovery
The Wuhan Institute of Virology, one of the institutions involved in this research, has previously been at the center of debates regarding the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic. The institute has consistently denied allegations that SARS-CoV-2 originated from a laboratory leak. The identification of HKU5-CoV-2 brings renewed attention to the necessity of stringent biosafety measures and transparent research practices in virology labs.
Global Response and Future Directions
The World Health Organization (WHO) has included merbecoviruses on its list of emerging pathogens requiring urgent research and development attention. The discovery of HKU5-CoV-2 reinforces the need for global surveillance systems to detect and respond to novel viruses with zoonotic potential. Proactive measures, including the closure of high-risk wildlife markets and regulation of activities that increase human-wildlife interactions, are essential to mitigate the risk of future pandemics.
In conclusion, while HKU5-CoV-2 currently exhibits limited capability for human transmission, its identification serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing need for comprehensive surveillance and research on animal coronaviruses. Understanding the mechanisms of cross-species transmission and developing effective countermeasures are paramount to preventing future global health crises.
