For decades, scientists have been intrigued by how bats can carry lethal viruses, such as Ebola and coronaviruses, without suffering from the diseases themselves.

The evolution of bats' powerful immune systems is thought to be connected to their ability to fly, suggesting a fascinating relationship between flight and immune function.

Unlike humans, bat infections are mostly asymptomatic, with unique immune responses that help limit inflammation and tissue damage during viral infections.

Understanding these immune adaptations in bats could provide valuable insights for developing medicines to protect against future viral pandemics.

This research offers insights that could inform future studies on viral tolerance and disease resistance in other species, including humans.

Bats are unique mammals known for their powered flight, which may be linked to their remarkable immune resilience.

These mammals are particularly notable for harboring coronaviruses, which can lead to zoonotic diseases in humans.

Coronaviruses are especially prevalent in bats, identified in 15 of the 21 bat families, with significant concentrations in the Rhinolophidae and Hipposideridae families.

Recent genomic analyses have revealed that bats possess adaptations in their immune systems that enhance their resistance to viral diseases.

Bats serve as natural reservoirs for various deadly viruses, yet they remain largely unaffected by these pathogens.

Dr. Sonja C. Vernes from the University of St. Andrews notes that bats' immune systems effectively hinder viral replication and reduce harmful inflammation.

The findings from bat studies may lead to advancements in human medicine and antiviral treatments.