Scientists studying bat genomes have discovered a gene that can reduce the production of the SARS-CoV-2 virus by up to 90%. This finding, made possible by a collaboration between researchers at Texas Tech University and the Senckenberg Research Institute, could lead to new medical approaches for fighting viral diseases.
Five years removed from the COVID-19 outbreak, scientists around the world are still studying its effects and, more importantly, ways those effects can be mitigated in the future. An international team of researchers may have just found a critical clue in the quest, and a laboratory at Texas Tech University played a key role.
"Bats have an amazing ability to resist some of the worst effects of viral infection that make us so vulnerable to certain diseases," Ray said."While we get very sick, the bats barely blink an eye when exposed to the same pathogens." "If every individual of a species was genetically identical, they would all have the same risk associated with infection -- if one dies, they all die," Ray said."TEs are a great way for organisms to generate genetic diversity in the species, allowing some individuals to survive better in the face of environmental pressures like viral diseases."
The lab studies genomes and genome evolution with an emphasis on TEs. Their past studies have included genome research on bats and other mammals, crocodiles and various insects. The lab has worked with entities in the past such as the National Science Foundation, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the state of Texas and the Texas Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.
"Thus, the ISG15 gene is likely one of several factors that contribute to viral disease resistance in bats," Hiller said."These promising results can be used as a basis for further experimental studies, which are necessary to decipher the unique adaptations of the bats' immune system."Ariadna E.
GENETICS VIRUS IMMUNE SYSTEM BATS COVID-19
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