What's Happening?
Researchers from the Institute for Basic Science in Korea have developed a bat organoid platform to study zoonotic viruses, including COVID-19 and influenza. This platform uses engineered mini organs from common bat species to understand how viruses behave across multiple organ systems. The study reveals how bats, natural reservoirs of these viruses, avoid sickness themselves, providing insights into virus-host interactions and potential antiviral strategies.
Why It's Important?
Understanding how zoonotic viruses operate within bat hosts is crucial for predicting and preventing future pandemics. The bat organoid platform offers a unique tool for studying virus behavior and testing antiviral drugs, potentially leading to more effective treatments and preventive measures. As zoonotic viruses account for over 75% of new infectious diseases, this research is vital for global health security and the development of strategies to mitigate the impact of emerging pathogens.
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What's Next?
The platform could be used to identify new viruses and test the effectiveness of antiviral drugs, supporting efforts to prevent future pandemics. Researchers may expand the use of organoids to study other important viruses and explore their interactions with different host species. The insights gained from this research could inform public health policies and contribute to the development of vaccines and treatments for zoonotic diseases.
