The Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV), previously scrutinized for its potential role in the COVID-19 pandemic, has announced plans to conduct new experiments on bat coronaviruses.
These proposed studies have raised concerns among experts due to their similarities to research that may have precipitated the initial outbreak.
In a recent publication in the journal Cell, researchers from the WIV, including virologist Dr. Shi Zhengli, detailed the discovery of a novel bat coronavirus named HKU5-CoV-2.
This virus has been shown to utilize the human ACE2 receptor for cell entry, akin to the mechanism employed by SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19.
While HKU5-CoV-2 has not been observed to infect humans, its ability to bind to human receptors suggests a potential risk for cross-species transmission.
The WIV’s proposed experiments involve further investigation into HKU5-CoV-2 and other related viruses to assess their potential threat to human health.
However, experts have expressed apprehension, noting that such research bears a resemblance to gain-of-function studies, which involve manipulating viruses to enhance their transmissibility or virulence.
These types of experiments have been controversial due to the inherent risks of accidental release.
In response to these concerns, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall introduced the “Dangerous Viral Gain-of-Function Research Moratorium Act,” aiming to prohibit federal funding for research that could increase the transmissibility or pathogenicity of viruses.
This legislative move underscores the heightened sensitivity and debate surrounding such studies in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
While the scientific community acknowledges the importance of understanding emerging pathogens to prevent future pandemics, the WIV’s planned experiments have ignited a debate over the balance between advancing knowledge and ensuring biosafety.
As these discussions continue, the global community remains vigilant about the potential implications of such research.
