What Did the Research Discover?
Scientists investigated how the 2019-nCoV coronavirus (now known as SARS-CoV-2) spread to humans and whether previous claims about its origins were accurate. Earlier studies suggested that snakes were an intermediate host and that the virus had genetic sequences similar to HIV-1, raising concerns about its origin.
To test these claims, researchers used larger genetic datasets and advanced bioinformatics tools. They found that the genetic evidence did not support snakes as an intermediate host. Additionally, the supposed HIV-1-like sequences in the virus were actually found in other coronaviruses, including those in bats, meaning there was no unique connection to HIV-1.
To further study how the virus spread to humans, the researchers analyzed genetic material from Malayan pangolins (Manis javanica). They assembled a draft genome of a coronavirus found in pangolins, which was 91% similar to 2019-nCoV. The spike protein of the pangolin coronavirus was much closer to 2019-nCoV than that of bat coronaviruses, suggesting that pangolins may have played a role in transmitting the virus from bats to humans.
How Can I Apply This Information?
This study shows the importance of carefully reviewing scientific claims, especially when dealing with a global health crisis. Early reports suggesting that snakes were an intermediate host and that the virus contained HIV-1-like sequences were incorrect, leading to confusion and unnecessary alarm. This highlights why scientific findings must be thoroughly tested and confirmed before they are widely accepted.
The research also suggests that pangolins may have played a key role in the spread of the virus. However, more studies are needed to fully understand how the virus moved from animals to humans. This reinforces the importance of regulating wildlife trade and protecting animal habitats to prevent future outbreaks.
For the public, this study serves as a reminder to rely on well-reviewed scientific research rather than rumors or unverified claims, especially during a pandemic.
Source:
Zhang C, Zheng W, Huang X, Bell EW, Zhou X, Zhang Y. Protein structure and sequence reanalysis of 2019-nCoV genome refutes snakes as its intermediate host and the unique similarity between its spike protein insertions and HIV-1. Journal of proteome research. 2020 Mar 22;19(4):1351-60. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7099673/
