A new bat coronavirus named HKU5-CoV-2 has been discovered by Chinese researchers, raising important questions about potential risks of animal-to-human transmission due to its similarities with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This research, led by well-known virologist Shi Zhengli and published on February 22, 2025, draws significant attention as it indicates the virus can use the same human receptor to infiltrate cells as the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic.
The study, conducted by the Wuhan Institute of Virology along with Guangzhou Laboratory and Wuhan University, reveals alarming capabilities of HKU5-CoV-2. It utilizes ACE2 receptors—similar to SARS-CoV-2—enabling it to bind to human, bat, and various animal cells. This mechanism heightens concerns of possible interspecies transmission, which could see the virus infect humans as it did with COVID-19.
According to the South China Morning Post, Shi Zhengli, nicknamed "Batwoman" due to her extensive research on coronaviruses, states, "This virus presents a potential zoonotic risk." The discovery occurs amid enduring suspicions around the origins of SARS-CoV-2, particularly the allegations of its connection to the Wuhan Institute of Virology, claims which the Chinese government has firmly denied.
Laboratory tests conducted during the study confirmed HKU5-CoV-2's ability to infect human cells, raising alarms for health authorities globally. Although it binds to ACE2 receptors much like the virus responsible for COVID-19, the dissociation between HKU5-CoV-2 and the medium of human infection appears to differ. Experts have noted it shows significantly less binding affinity to human ACE2 than SARS-CoV-2, which indicates limitations on its potential to adapt for human infection.
Considering this, Dr. Michael Osterholm, an infectious disease expert at the University of Minnesota, expressed caution against public panic. He stated to Reuters, "The public's reaction is overblown," emphasising the enduring immunity against similar viruses within the population since the onset of COVID-19.
Additional insights highlight the virus's genetic links to the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS), which is known to result in severe respiratory infections. The study researchers point out the HKU5-CoV-2 virus shares structural similarities with MERS coronaviruses, implying potential risks if it were to cross species lines.
Researchers underline the necessity of continued study, as the potential for spillover infection from bats—often seen as reservoirs for many coronaviruses—remains relevant. The current observations reveal no recorded human infections linked to HKU5-CoV-2; yet the capabilities demonstrated under laboratory conditions warrant prudence. Further exploration is required to ascertain the actual risk this coronavirus presents.
Dr. Osterholm and other experts share the view there exists low potential for HKU5-CoV-2 to catalyze another pandemic. They suggest the existing interactions of humans with wildlife and the potential mutations of viruses could deliver surprises; yet the immediate threat should not incite undue alarm. Notably, findings reveal gradual declines of transmission abilities, reinforcing the message of not overstressing concerns around this virus.
Nonetheless, experts agree on investing more resources toward zoonotic research to prepare against the inevitable emergence of future pandemics. The continuity of studying viruses such as HKU5-CoV-2 is integral to establishing safeguards for public health.
While caution is warranted based on prior experiences, there is equally the necessity to nurture rational perspectives, avoiding panic-driven reactions to scientific findings. Consequently, the medical community advocates for knowledge expansion and proactive measures to mitigate risks from zoonotic viruses.
Experts advise against frequent human contact with wildlife and advocating for conservation efforts to protect habitats; these steps could considerably limit future cross-species virus transmissions.