Newly Discovered Bat Coronavirus Raises Concerns for Potential Human Spread
Scientists in China have discovered a novel bat coronavirus that shares a crucial cell-surface protein with SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. This discovery raises concerns about the potential for this virus to spread to humans in the future.
Entry into Human Cells
Like SARS-CoV-2, the newly discovered virus, named HKU5-CoV-2, possesses a furin cleavage site that allows it to gain entry into human cells via the ACE2 receptor protein. However, the researchers reported that HKU5-CoV-2 does not enter human cells as efficiently as SARS-CoV-2.
Laboratory Experiments
In laboratory experiments, HKU5-CoV-2 successfully infected human cells with high ACE2 levels in test tubes, as well as in models of human intestines and airways.
Mitigating Measures
Encouragingly, the researchers identified monoclonal antibodies and antiviral drugs that could potentially target HKU5-CoV-2.
Market Impact
Bloomberg reported that the publication of the study caused a rise in share prices for COVID vaccine manufacturers. Pfizer (PFE.N), Moderna (MRNA.O), and Novavax (NVAX.O) all experienced gains, despite an overall decline in the broader market.
Perspectives on the Risk
Infectious disease expert Dr. Michael Osterholm believes that the concerns raised by this study are somewhat exaggerated. He suggests that there is now a significant level of immunity in the population to SARS-like viruses compared to 2019, which could help reduce the potential risk of a pandemic.
The study itself acknowledges that HKU5-CoV-2 has a lower binding affinity to human ACE2 than SARS-CoV-2 and highlights other factors that suggest the "risk of emergence in human populations should not be exaggerated."