China has conducted experiments involving a newly discovered coronavirus-like virus with a reported "100% fatality rate in mice," according to recent revelations. A paper published on bioRxiv disclosed that medical professionals trained by the Chinese military developed their own variant of the "pangolin coronavirus" and administered it to a group of mice for observation.
The experiment utilized the pangolin animal version of the virus, named GX_P2V, as pangolins are known to contract coronaviruses. The study revealed that the four mice exposed to the virus exhibited significant weight loss within five days of infection, became "sluggish," and developed white eyes. Tragically, all four mice succumbed to the virus just eight days after exposure.
Upon examination, it was discovered that the virus had spread to the brain, eyes, and lungs, with an increase observed in the brain during the final two days of the mice's lives. Scientists expressed surprise at these findings and issued a warning about the potential for the virus to "spill over into humans."
The researchers stated, "This finding suggested that severe brain infection during the later stages of infection may be the key cause of death in these mice. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report showing that a SARS-CoV-2-related pangolin coronavirus can cause 100% mortality in hACE2 mice, suggesting a risk for GX_P2V to spill over into humans."
They emphasized the need for further investigation into the high pathogenicity mechanism of GX_P2V C7 in hACE2 mice. The researchers also mentioned the importance of exploring mutations in the virus, particularly those related to pathogenicity.
Additional tests are planned using a live version of the virus from the natural environment rather than relying on a laboratory-created strain.
No comments:
Post a Comment