Virome diversity in small mammals from south China: Insights into virus evolution, transmission, and ecology.

ABSTRACT: Mammals are critical reservoirs of human infectious diseases and the spillover of viruses is related to climate conditions. We conducted meta-transcriptomic sequencing of 226 mammals (bats, rodents, hedgehogs, and shrews) representing 20 species collected across eight cities in south China between 2018 and 2024. Samples included internal organs, oropharyngeal and anal swabs, and feces. We identified 63 vertebrate-associated viruses, including 34 novel viruses. Phylogenetic analysis revealed six viruses with potential infection risks to humans or domestic animals due to their close phylogenetic relationships with known pathogens. Cross-species transmission was observed in 14.3% (9/63) of viruses, shared by at least two host species, with bats, particularly Rhinolophus and Hipposideros, serv

SUBMITTER: Shi Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12414398 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature