Night Creatures
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NewsCo-infections in young bats could underpin coronavirus emergence
A new study finds that young bats are infected more frequently by coronaviruses and could be a key source of viral spillover into other species. It also reveals the dynamics of coronaviruses circulating in Australian bats, which pose no known risk to humans.
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NewsNew study reveals bats are key players in cross-species spread of morbilliviruses
Researchers studying the spread of morbilliviruses in bats and monkeys in Brazil and Costa Rica have discovered new virus species and host switches from bats to other mammalian species.
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NewsFirst coronavirus similar to MERS is found in bats in South America
A novel coronavirus, which shares high genetic similarities with MERS-CoV, was identified in bats in the state of Ceará, Brazil. Experiments to find out whether it can infect humans are set to take place in collaboration with Hong Kong University.
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NewsGenomic tools provide clearer view of health for endangered bats
Researchers have used advanced molecular tools to survey the health status of endangered Indiana bats, identifying microbiome changes resulting from parasitic infections.
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NewsFruit-only diet improves bats’ immune response to viruses
Fruit bats generate more diverse antibodies than mice, but overall have a weaker antibody response, according to a new study.
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NewsHibernation status matters when white-nose syndrome pathogen infects bats
The fungal pathogen that causes white-nose syndrome (WNS) in bats uses different cell entry strategies depending on the host’s hibernation status – cold and inactive, or warm and active.
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NewsRabies virus variants from marmosets are found in bats
Rabies virus variants closely related to variants present in White-tufted marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) have been detected in bats in Ceará state, Northeast Brazil.
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NewsMonitoring bats can help ID coronaviruses with pathogen potential
Researchers who found novel coronaviruses in UK bats say genetic surveys of the viruses should be regularly conducted, even if none of those viruses can infect humans yet.
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NewsBats disturbed by humans are more frequently infected with coronaviruses
Bats in human-dominated ecosystems have a higher prevalence of coronaviruses, increasing the possibility that these could be transmitted to humans.
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NewsBat mating swarms may be the key to solving the next pandemic
The evolution of viral tolerance in Myotis bats may help scientists prevent future pandemics, say researchers.