Bat genomes reveal adaptations to viral tolerance and disease resistance

Bats are known to harbor more zoonotic viruses than any other mammalian order, yet they rarely suffer from severe disease symptoms. This paradox has intrigued scientists for years, particularly given bats’ role as natural reservoirs for deadly viruses such as coronaviruses (SARS-CoV, SARS-CoV-2, MERS-CoV), filoviruses (Ebola, Marburg), and paramyxoviruses (Hendra, Nipah). A recent study, published in Nature as part of the Bat1K project, provides new insights into the genetic adaptations that enable bats to tolerate viral infections while remaining largely asymptomatic. By sequencing ten new high-quality bat genomes and analyzing a total of 115 mammalian genomes, researchers have uncovered key evolutionary modifications in bat immune systems that contribute to their remarkable viral tolerance. A unique immune response to viral infections Unlike humans and many other mammals, bats exhibit a highly regulated immune system that limits excessive inflammation while maintaining strong antiviral defenses. Infections that would cause severe immune reactions in humans, leading...