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Updated: Aug 22, 2025
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Monitoring Influenza Virus Survival Outside the Host Using Real-Time Cell Analysis
Published on: February 20, 2021
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When viruses do not go gentle into that good night
1Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA.
Cell Host & Microbe
|November 10, 2022
Summary
Researchers identified a receptor for simian hemorrhagic fever virus, raising concerns about its potential to infect humans. This discovery underscores the need to study lesser-known animal viruses for potential human health risks.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Simian hemorrhagic fever virus (SHFV) is an emerging viral pathogen with significant epizootic potential.
- Understanding viral entry mechanisms is crucial for predicting and preventing zoonotic spillover events.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the cellular receptor used by SHFV for host cell entry.
- To assess the potential of SHFV to cross the species barrier and infect humans.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a combination of genetic screening and cell-based assays to identify the SHFV receptor.
- Performed in vitro and in vivo experiments to evaluate viral tropism and cross-species transmission potential.
Main Results:
- Identified a specific cellular receptor essential for SHFV entry into primate cells.
- Demonstrated that the identified receptor is present and functional in human cells, suggesting SHFV could potentially infect humans.
Conclusions:
- The discovery of the SHFV receptor provides a critical target for antiviral interventions.
- This finding emphasizes the importance of One Health approaches to monitor and mitigate risks associated with animal viruses with zoonotic potential.
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