Overview
- The Nature paper published Wednesday, Aug. 26, 2026, presents near-complete genomes and cultured cell lines from eight closely related Myotis bat species collected with a non‑lethal wing biopsy.
- Genome analyses found repeated signals of virus-driven adaptation across Myotis and unusual copy‑number variation of the antiviral gene EIF2AK2/PKR, with individuals carrying one, two, or three copies of the gene.
- Laboratory experiments on the bat-derived cell lines showed that long‑lived little brown bats often eliminate severely damaged cells instead of attempting repair, a response that could reduce cancer risk.
- The team reports distinct modes of viral adaptation in Myotis, including stronger positive selection on DNA‑virus interacting proteins and higher copy‑number variation for RNA‑virus interacting proteins compared with other mammals.
- Authors emphasize the findings offer new avenues for studying aging and disease but caution that translating bat adaptations into human therapies is preliminary and will require extensive follow-up work and validation.