A group of scientists have discovered a new family of zombie viruses in the permafrost of Siberia, Russia. These are in addition to others previously found in the same location, inactive for thousands of years, and are now “alive” again due to the effects of climate change. No danger.
A team of scientists has discovered the existence of a new family Siberian permafrost zombie virus It is one of the largest carbon reserves on Earth and has been able to revive after being dormant for thousands of years.
Experts say the find, which could be up to 48,000 years old, represents an important advance in investigating the evolution of viruses and their potential impact on human health.
this is worth noting zombie virus This is in addition to what was previously found in the same region of northern Russia, apparently due to climate change.
New zombie virus discovered in Siberia
The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences’ scientific journal published a study last February entitled “.Update on Eukaryotic Viruses Revived from Ancient Permafrost” has attracted a great deal of attention among the scientific community and public opinion.
Specifically, the investigation uncovered five family members new zombie virus It is named for its ability to revive after being dormant for millions of years.one of which he belongs to his Pithovirus family, the other Giant virus found in Siberian permafrost .
These viruses are characterized by being much larger than typical viruses, which makes them potentially more complex and more dangerous, the study says, and can also infect amoebas and other single-celled organisms. I am adding that it is possible.
Climate change and new frozen pathogens
The research found zombie virus also revealed information on their ability to survive in extreme environments such as Siberian permafrost.
Thus, scientific reports have reinforced the idea that viruses can remain inactive for thousands of years and then revive under the right conditions.
This is especially important given the climate change happening around the world. Climate change could thaw large areas and release ancient pathogens.
Are zombie viruses dangerous to humanity?
Despite the concerns raised by the discovery of zombie virus , experts say there is no reason to panic. Jean-Michel Claverie said the chances of infecting humans or animals are very low and there are means to control its spread and study its behavior.
Emeritus Professor of Medicine and Genomics, Aix-Marseille University Medical School, Marseille, France, told CNN The community agrees that further investigation and research is needed to better understand the evolution of ancient viruses and their potential impact on human health.
Likewise, their research can contribute to their potential use in the development of new drugs and treatments.
Source: Biobiochile
