The discovery of Bombali virus adds further support for bats as hosts of ebolaviruses

Nat Microbiol. 2018 Oct;3(10):1084-1089. doi: 10.1038/s41564-018-0227-2. Epub 2018 Aug 27.

Abstract

Here we describe the complete genome of a new ebolavirus, Bombali virus (BOMV) detected in free-tailed bats in Sierra Leone (little free-tailed (Chaerephon pumilus) and Angolan free-tailed (Mops condylurus)). The bats were found roosting inside houses, indicating the potential for human transmission. We show that the viral glycoprotein can mediate entry into human cells. However, further studies are required to investigate whether exposure has actually occurred or if BOMV is pathogenic in humans.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Chiroptera / classification
  • Chiroptera / genetics
  • Chiroptera / virology*
  • Ebolavirus / classification
  • Ebolavirus / genetics*
  • Genome, Viral / genetics
  • Humans
  • Phylogeny
  • Viral Envelope Proteins / genetics
  • Viral Envelope Proteins / metabolism
  • Viral Load
  • Virus Internalization

Substances

  • Viral Envelope Proteins