Researchers identify 40,000 new RNA virus species in global urban environments

A study published in Nature Communications has identified more than 40,000 previously undescribed RNA virus species across 102 cities in 31 countries. By utilizing massive sequencing techniques to analyze microorganisms without prior knowledge of specific pathogens, researchers created the UPVAtlas, a catalog containing 54,945 viral species. Approximately 77% of these viruses had never been described before.

The research, which included samples from locations such as subways, hospitals, banks, soil, and sewers, was supported by the MetaSUB consortium. Antônio Pedro Camargo, a professor at the University of São Paulo, noted that previous virological research was limited by a bias toward seeking viruses known to cause disease, thereby ignoring asymptomatic viruses.

In a separate virological development, researchers from Washington University School of Medicine have clarified the nature of picobirnaviruses. Previously believed to infect human tissue and contribute to gastrointestinal diseases, a study in Nature Microbiology demonstrates that these RNA viruses actually infect intestinal bacteria rather than human cells. Lead author David Wang stated that this finding redefines the understanding of the intestinal ecosystem.