Get the latest Science News and Discoveries

One tiny mutation may explain how bat viruses become human threats


Scientists found that one tiny genetic change can completely alter how a coronavirus behaves in different species. Comparing SARS-CoV-2 with a closely related bat-only virus, they showed that a single amino-acid difference affects whether the immune system fights back or gets suppressed. This may help explain how some animal viruses make the leap to humans and become far more dangerous.

None

Get the Android app

Or read this on ScienceDaily

Read more on:

Photo of tiny mutation

tiny mutation

Photo of bat viruses

bat viruses

Photo of human threats

human threats

Related news:

News photo

This Tiny Mutation Makes Aussie Skinks Immune to Snake Bites

News photo

How a tiny mutation turns red tomatoes yellow - EurekAlert!