Chinese Scientists Create Mutant Ebola Virus In Lab That Causes Horrific Symptoms
Scientists in China have recently made headlines with their groundbreaking experiment involving the creation of a mutant Ebola virus in a lab setting. The study, conducted at Hebei Medical University and published in Science Direct, aimed to better understand the deadly Ebola virus and its associated symptoms.
During the experiment, a group of hamsters was injected with the lab-synthesized virus, resulting in their death within three days. The hamsters exhibited severe systemic diseases similar to those seen in human Ebola patients, including multi-organ failure. This development sheds light on the potential effects of the virus on different organs within the body.
The researchers utilized a contagious livestock disease and incorporated a protein from Ebola that facilitates cell infection and spread in humans. Following the injection, some hamsters displayed eye secretions that impaired their vision, indicating a possible link to optic nerve disorders associated with Ebola Virus Disease (EVD).
Given the stringent safety requirements for handling viruses like Ebola, which typically necessitate Biosafety Level 4 (BSL-4) facilities, the Chinese scientists employed a strategic approach. They utilized a modified vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) carrying a component of the Ebola virus, known as glycoprotein (GP), crucial for host cell invasion.
The study involved a group of ten hamsters, with post-mortem analysis revealing viral accumulation in various organs, including the heart, liver, spleen, lung, kidney, stomach, intestines, and brain tissues. This comprehensive examination provided valuable insights into the virus’s impact on different bodily systems.
By successfully replicating Ebola symptoms in a controlled laboratory environment under BSL-2 conditions, the researchers demonstrated the feasibility of rapid preclinical assessments for potential Ebola treatments. This milestone marks a significant step towards enhancing our understanding of the virus and developing effective countermeasures.
As global concerns persist regarding the origins and containment of infectious diseases, such studies play a crucial role in advancing scientific knowledge and preparedness for future health crises. The meticulous approach taken by the Chinese scientists underscores the importance of responsible research practices in studying highly virulent pathogens.
