Bat genome study reveals clues for human health improvements

UPDATE - follow-up to Bats first originated in Europe 65 million years ago, scientists say: Researchers suggest that the long lifespans and disease resistance of bats could help shape new ways to boost human health. Co-author Sonja Vernes from the University of St. Andrews stated that the team can now search for the genetic traits that allow bats to live for a long time while fighting off illness. Vernes added that the long-term goal is to use these insights to design bat-inspired treatments for people. The findings come after a major international study of bat DNA and fossils involving 137 scientists from 64 countries in the Bat1K consortium. Today, roughly 1,500 bat species exist around the world, showing unique immune adaptations and the ability to host various viruses without falling sick.