A new coronavirus found in Brazilian bats

Scientists have discovered a new coronavirus in bats in Brazil, which has genetic features similar to viruses that cause COVID-19 and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS).

As reported by BAKU.WS, according to Bloomberg agency.

The new virus, named BRZ batCoV, was found in a small species of insectivorous bats living in Latin America. For the study, samples were taken from the Brazilian states of Maranhão and São Paulo.

Genetic analysis showed that BRZ batCoV belongs to the beta-coronavirus family, which includes the pathogens of COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2), MERS (MERS-CoV), and SARS (SARS-CoV).

According to researchers, there is currently no evidence that the new virus poses a danger to humans. However, scientists noted that BRZ batCoV has a short section of spike protein that can be cleaved by enzymes in animal and human cells. This feature facilitates the virus's penetration into host cells. Previously, such a property had not been observed in bat coronaviruses living in America, indicating the possible independent formation of this feature in South American populations.