Swedish Bats as Viral Reservoirs: Unveiling the Viral Diversity and Host-Range
Knowledge about the viruses found in Swedish bats and their potential to infect other animal species, including humans, is extremely limited. Therefore, the aim of this project is to identify and genetically characterize viruses circulating in various bat species in Sweden
Background
Emerging infectious diseases originating from viruses in wild animals are of great significance due to their impact on animal and human health, as well as their potential societal impact. Bats have been shown to carry a large number of viruses, and although the majority do not infect or cause disease in humans or other animal species, some have been shown to be capable of spreading to animals (e.g., livestock and pets) and/or humans, sometimes with devastating consequences. However, knowledge about the viruses present in Swedish bats and their potential to infect other animal species and/or humans is extremely limited.
Aim
In this project, we plan to identify and genetically characterize viruses circulating in various bat species in Sweden using viral metagenomics and targeted quantitative PCR (qPCR) analyses. In addition, we will study the host specificity—that is, the ability to infect other animals—of these identified viruses through data analysis and in vitro experiments, thereby assessing their potential to infect other animal species and humans.
Goals
Overall, the knowledge generated in this project may help develop strategies to reduce the risk of new disease outbreaks and improve preparedness and surveillance for specific viruses in relevant areas and animal populations.