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Adding toOur Knowledge of theVirus The animal origins of SARS-CoV-2 and its manifestation in humans is still not wholly understood. Our researchers have been tackling this angle, too. » The origins of the virus have been the subject of several HKUMed studies. One discovered SARS-CoV-2-related coronaviruses in Malayan pangolins seized in anti-smuggling operations in southern China, while another showed that the SARS- CoV-2-related coronavirus has likely been circulating unnoticed in bats for decades. Yet another study found bat-like SARS- CoV-2PRRA in human COVID-19 patients, shedding light on the animal origins and natural evolution of the virus. And the first organoid culture of bat intestinal epithelium was established, which supports robust replication of SARS-CoV-2. This supports the hypothesis of a bat origin for SARS-CoV-2. » The infection of pet dogs with SARS- CoV-2 was demonstrated for the first time indicating that the virus may potentially infect peri-domestic animals. Cats were 01 Pangolins were identified as carriers of a coronavirus that is highly related to the human SARS-CoV-2 virus, bringing us closer towards identifying the virus’s source. 02 SARS-CoV-2 was shown to multiply rapidly in bat intestinal cells grown in a laboratory. These bat cells are useful to study the trans-species jumping potential of bat viruses. 02 01 subsequently also found to have been infected by humans. » HKUMed scholars also addressed the political and economic dimensions of the public health challenges posed by COVID-19 through analyses of the international governance structures needed to address the threat. » An HKUMed scholar was also part of an international group that classified and named SARS-CoV-2. photo courtesy of Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, HKSAR Government 21