General

Further Evidence for Bats as the Evolutionary Source of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus

Published

9 years ago

April 18, 2017

Mark Wamai

Map showing the distribution of Pipistrellus hesperidus (based on International Union for Conservation of Nature [IUCN] data) and the location of the bat sampled for the study. Source: Anthony et al 2017 MERSCoV mBIO

The evolutionary origins of Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) coronavirus (MERS-CoV) are unknown. Current evidence suggests that insectivorous bats are likely to be the original source, as several 2c CoVs have been described from various species in the family Vespertilionidae. Here, we describe a MERS-like CoV identified from a Pipistrellus cf. hesperidus bat sampled in Uganda (strain PREDICT/PDF-2180), further supporting the hypothesis that bats are the evolutionary source of MERS-CoV. Phylogenetic analysis showed that PREDICT/PDF-2180 is closely related to MERS-CoV across much of its genome, consistent with a common ancestry; however, the spike protein was highly divergent (46% amino acid identity), suggesting that the two viruses may have different receptor binding properties. Indeed, several amino acid substitutions were identified in key binding residues that were predicted to block PREDICT/PDF-2180 from attaching to the MERS-CoV DPP4 receptor. To experimentally test this hypothesis, an infectious MERS-CoV clone expressing the PREDICT/PDF-2180 spike protein was generated. Recombinant viruses derived from the clone were replication competent but unable to spread and establish new infections in Vero cells or primary human airway epithelial cells. Our findings suggest that PREDICT/PDF-2180 is unlikely to pose a zoonotic threat. Recombination in the S1 subunit of the spike gene was identified as the primary mechanism driving variation in the spike phenotype and was likely one of the critical steps in the evolution and emergence of MERS-CoV in humans.

Please see Downloads for full publication

Source: Prof. Denis K. Byarugaba, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Makerere University

General

For Youth by Youth – Call for Second Cohort Applications

Published

3 days ago

February 10, 2026

Mak Editor

For Youth by Youth - Call for Second Cohort Applications. Application Deadline: 20 Feb, 2026.

For Youth, By Youth is a global, youth-led movement committed to fostering conscious leadership and global solidarity as pathways to meaningful and lasting impact. Developed by 36 university students across 18 countries, this movement builds a network of engaged young leaders shaping a more just and equitable world.

BENEFITS

What You’ll Receive:

$2,500 scholarship for community action research
Mentorship & wellness coaching
Training in Storytelling, Responsible AI & Youth-led Participatory Action Research
International conferences & global network
3-Year Journey: Individual → Community → Institutional Transformation

Application Deadline: 20 Feb, 2026

Apply now

See downloads for details

2026 For Youth, By Youth Application Flyer_Part1 Download

2026 For Youth, By Youth Application Flyer_Part2 Download

General

Aptitude Exam (Paper 1) Results for the Mature Age Entry Scheme 2026/2027

Published

3 days ago

February 10, 2026

Mak Editor

The Office of Academic Registrar, Makerere University has released Aptitude Test Examination results for the Mature Age Entry Scheme Examinations held on Saturday 13^thDecember 2025.

The Candidates who scored 50% and above in the aptitude test passed the aptitude examination and will have their programme -specific examination paper marked. Those who scored less than 50% failed.

Access the links below for the lists categorised under Science-based and Humanities based programmes respectively:

Please Note:

Candidates who are not satisfied with the results may appeal within two weeks from the release of these results through the application system: https://see.mak.ac.ug

General

Call for Applications: Admission to Postgraduate Programmes 2026/2027

Published

1 week ago

February 4, 2026

Mak Editor

SoL Graduands celebrate after being conferred upon their awards. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Academic Registrar, Makerere University invites applications for admission to Graduate Programmes (Postgraduate Diplomas, Masters and Doctoral Degree Programmes) for the 2026/2027 Academic Year. Applicants should have obtained at least a first or second class degree (or its equivalent) from a Chartered University at the time of completion. Applicants should also possess a Uganda Certificate of Education (or its equivalent) and a Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (or its equivalent).

Sponsorship:

All Graduate Programmes are PRIVATELY-SPONSORED. Therefore, applicants seeking sponsorship should have their applications endorsed by their respective sponsors where applicable. Applicants should note that the various fees payable to the University indicated for the various programmes EXCLUDE functional fees, accommodation, books, research and other expenses.

Makerere-Advert-for-Graduate-Programmes-2026-2027 Download

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