Understanding bat immune system may help identify Covid-19 drug: Scientists

Unlike humans, the scientists said bats have specific mechanisms which reduce the replication of viruses in their bodies, and also dampen their immune response to a virus

The capacity of bats to tolerate viruses, such as the novel coronavirus, may stem from their ability to control inflammation, according to a review of studies.

Researchers, including those from the University of Rochester in the US, said while bats are the ancestral hosts to many deadly viruses affecting humans such as Ebola, rabies, and the novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, the flying mammals themselves tolerate these pathogens without ill effects.

"Although humans experience adverse symptoms when afflicted with these pathogens, bats are remarkably able to tolerate viruses, and, additionally, live much longer than similar-sized land mammals," they noted in a statement.

In the review