India, July 14 -- Bats' immune systems have mechanisms to control inflammation, a mainstay of disease and ageing

Bats can live long and tolerate several viruses and pathogens because they have mechanisms in their immune systems to reign in inflammation, a mainstay of disease and ageing, according to a recent study.

The flying mammals have been linked to the emergence of the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) that causes the COVID-19. The creatures are also known to be hosts for several other viruses - including rabies and the Ebola virus - that effect humans.

The study - published in journal Cell Metabolism July 7, 2020 by researchers of the University of Rochester - shows how the mechanisms in bats can hold clues in developing new treatme...