Lab Leak 2.0? China’s ‘Bat Woman’ Discovers New Coronavirus With ‘High Spillover Risk’

Shi Zhengli, the Chinese virologist widely known for her research on bat coronaviruses, has led a study identifying a new virus that could pose a risk to humans. The research, conducted at the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) along with Guangzhou Laboratory and Guangzhou Academy of Sciences, highlights the discovery of HKU5-CoV-2, a coronavirus that infects human cells in a manner similar to SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the Covid-19 pandemic.

Virus Uses Same Infection Pathway as Covid-19

According to the study published in the journal Cell, the newly identified virus utilizes the ACE2 receptor to enter and infect cells, the same mechanism used by SARS-CoV-2. Researchers warn that HKU5-CoV-2 carries a “high risk of spillover to humans,” either through direct contact or via an intermediate host, increasing concerns about its potential to trigger a future outbreak.

Potential Zoonotic Threat Identified

The study indicates that HKU5-CoV-2 has a better adaptation to human ACE2 receptors than its predecessor, HKU5-CoV, making it more efficient in infecting human cells. Researchers conducted structural and functional analyses, finding that the virus successfully infected human respiratory and enteric organoids, emphasising its potential risk to human health.

Wuhan Lab’s Controversial History Resurfaces

The Wuhan Institute of Virology, which has been at the center of global scrutiny over the origins of Covid-19, has previously conducted research on coronaviruses, including ‘gain of function’ (GoF) studies. Some experts suspect that an accident at the WIV may have contributed to the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite ongoing debates over whether SARS-CoV-2 originated naturally or from a laboratory, no conclusive evidence has emerged to support the natural origin theory.

Shi Zhengli’s Reputation and Ongoing Research

Dubbed the ‘Bat Woman’ for her extensive work on bat-borne coronaviruses, Shi Zhengli continues to explore the potential risks of zoonotic transmission. Her latest findings reinforce the argument that novel coronaviruses remain a significant public health concern, warranting further research and preventive measures to mitigate future pandemics.

Global Implications and Future Monitoring

With this new discovery, health experts emphasise the importance of ongoing surveillance of coronaviruses in wildlife to prevent future outbreaks. The study underscores the need for stricter biosecurity measures and enhanced global cooperation in monitoring potential pandemic threats.