Detection of Coronaviruses in Bats from Trinidad
Author Information
Author(s): Carrington Christine V.F., Foster Jerome E., Zhu Hua Chen, Zhang Jin Xia, Smith Gavin J.D., Thompson Nadin, Auguste Albert J., Ramkissoon Vernie, Adesiyun Abiodun A., Guan Yi
Primary Institution: University of the West Indies, St. Augustine, Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
Hypothesis
Are group 1 coronaviruses present in South American bats?
Conclusion
The study found that group 1 coronaviruses are present in Trinidadian bats, indicating a wider distribution than previously known.
Supporting Evidence
- Two bat species tested positive for coronaviruses.
- Phylogenetic analysis confirmed the presence of group 1 coronaviruses.
- Trinidadian bat coronaviruses clustered with other known group 1 coronaviruses.
Takeaway
Scientists found viruses in bats in Trinidad, showing that these bats can carry coronaviruses.
Methodology
Bats were collected, euthanized, and tested for coronaviruses using RT-PCR and sequencing.
Limitations
The study's findings are based on a limited geographic area and sample size.
Participant Demographics
Bats from 8 species collected from 10 locations in Trinidad.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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