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Singano N, Kainga H, Chatanga E, Nkhoma J, Njunga G, Chulu J, Tembo R, Sawa H, Muleya W. One Health Lens on Rabies: Human-Bat Interactions and Genomic Insights of Rabies Virus in Rural Lilongwe, Malawi. Trop Med Infect Dis 2025; 10:95. [PMID: 40278768 PMCID: PMC12031134 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed10040095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2025] [Revised: 03/21/2025] [Accepted: 03/25/2025] [Indexed: 04/26/2025] Open
Abstract
Rabies, a fatal zoonotic disease, affects humans, domestic animals, and wildlife predominantly in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. In Malawi, rabies virus (RABV) is primarily transmitted by infected dogs, impacting humans and cattle. Lyssavirus has also been documented in insectivorous bats. A community survey near bat roosts assessed knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding bat-borne zoonoses. Bat samples were tested for lyssavirus using RT-PCR, and RABV genomes from humans and domestic animals were sequenced and analysed phylogenetically. The survey revealed that 50% of participants consumed bat meat, and 47% reported bats entering their homes. Reduced bat presence indoors significantly lowered contact risk (aOR: 0.075, p = 0.021). All 23 bat samples tested negative for lyssavirus. Malawian RABV genomes, 11,801 nucleotides long, belonged to the Africa 1b lineage, showing >95% similarity with GenBank sequences. Phylogenetic analysis indicated close clustering with strains from Tanzania, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. Human and cattle strains shared 99% and 92% amino acid similarity with dog strains, respectively, with conserved critical sites and unique substitutions across all five RABV genes. Frequent human-bat interactions pose zoonotic risks. While no lyssavirus was detected in bats, ongoing surveillance is crucial. This first comprehensive genome analysis of Malawian RABVs highlights their regional transmission and signifies the need for regional collaboration in rabies control, community education, and further study of genetic adaptations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Singano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, The University of Zambia, Lusaka P.O. Box 32379, Zambia;
| | - Henson Kainga
- Department of Veterinary Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Lilongwe P.O. Box 219, Malawi;
| | - Elisha Chatanga
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Lilongwe P.O. Box 219, Malawi;
| | - Joseph Nkhoma
- Central Veterinary Laboratory (CVL), Lilongwe P.O. Box 527, Malawi;
| | - Gilson Njunga
- Department of Animal Health and Livestock Development, Lilongwe P.O. Box 2096, Malawi; (G.N.); (J.C.)
- Trustees of Agricultural Promotion Programme, P/Bag A21, Lilongwe P.O. Box 2096, Malawi
| | - Julius Chulu
- Department of Animal Health and Livestock Development, Lilongwe P.O. Box 2096, Malawi; (G.N.); (J.C.)
| | - Rabecca Tembo
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, The University of Zambia, Lusaka P.O. Box 50110, Zambia;
| | - Hirofumi Sawa
- International Institute for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 001-0020, Japan;
- Institute for Vaccine Research and Development, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 001-0021, Japan
| | - Walter Muleya
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, The University of Zambia, Lusaka P.O. Box 32379, Zambia;
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Kanda K, Jayasinghe A, Jayasinghe C, Yoshida T. Public health implication towards rabies elimination in Sri Lanka: A systematic review. Acta Trop 2021; 223:106080. [PMID: 34364895 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2021.106080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES Sri Lanka has been targeted zero rabies by the end of 2025. Towards the elimination, the country needs more effective, evidence-based strategies and efforts to achieve its ultimate goal. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review of scientific literatures and data to assess current human and animal rabies control and prevention strategies in Sri Lanka. METHODS We compiled documents regarding current and previous rabies control and prevention activities implemented in the entire country of Sri Lanka. The documents included published literatures issued between 1946 and 2020 from both online databases and university library in Sri Lanka. All the collected documents were screened based on the PRISMA statement and categorized into several types of rabies control and prevention strategies. Official reports including epidemiological data in Sri Lanka were also filed in order to analyze the current trend of rabies control and prevention in the nation. RESULTS As of end December 2020, we found 119 scientific literatures regarding rabies control and prevention in Sri Lanka. Human rabies deaths in Sri Lanka have been reduced for the last half century by successful implementation of mass dog vaccination, animal birth control and awareness raising activities. However, the country is still facing on sporadic rabies cases, limited dog vaccination coverage and insufficient dog population management in the district level. Despite the nationwide standard of dog to human ratio of 1:8, there are huge disparities or unknown of dog ecology in regions. Awareness raising including has been enhancing for both general public and school children. Surveillance system is poorly operated so that simultaneous data analysis for decision-making is impractical. CONCLUSIONS In order to achieve nationwide rabies elimination, it is highly recommended to implement more effective rabies control and prevention activities and build adequate scientific evidences.
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AL-Eitan LN, Wu G, Golding M, Tang Y, Goharriz H, Marston DA, Fooks AR, McElhinney LM. Whole-genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of rabies viruses from Jordan. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009431. [PMID: 34014930 PMCID: PMC8171950 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Human fatalities caused by rabies are rarely reported in Jordan; however, domestic animals are more likely to fall victim to rabies compared to wild animals, at least this is the case in Jordan due to the presence of canine rabies. In this study, twelve brain samples from domestic and wild animals suspected of being infected with rabies virus from different regions of Jordan were collected during 2019. Seven of them tested positive using the fluorescent antibody test and real-time SYBR RT-PCR assay. Five specimens were from stray dogs and two from foxes. The whole genome sequences were obtained from the positive samples. Sequence analysis showed that one dog virus from Al Quwaysimah city located in Amman governorate, was closely related to an Israeli strain belonging to a Cosmopolitan ME1a clade. The genomes of the remaining six viruses (four from dogs and two from foxes) collected from different areas of Jordan were genetically-related to each other and clustered together with sequences from Iran and Turkey; all belong to Cosmopolitan ME2 clade. These sequences were analyzed with six other Jordanian rabies virus nucleoprotein (N) gene sequences available in the public database, five of them belong to ME1a clade and one belongs to ME1b clade. Rabies virus whole genome data is scarce across the Middle East. This study provides a better understanding of the molecular epidemiology of rabies virus in the region. In this study, we performed whole genome sequencing (WGS) for rabies virus (RABV) isolates from seven samples, five of which were of stray dogs, and the other two were from foxes. Specimens were collected from animals across Jordan, including Balqa, Amman, Irbid, Tafilah, and Madaba governorates. Six out of the seven isolates were belonging to the Cosmopolitan ME2 clade, which related to the Iranian and Turkish sequences. This is not the case previously, where the majority of the Jordanian isolates belong to Cosmopolitan ME1a clade and closely related to the sequences from Israel. This shift might be due to the applied regulations across borders between Jordan and Israel. Besides the growth in travel and trade movement between Jordan and Turkey, where the latter is a border country with Iran. These collected data, where such studies are not common in the Middle East countries, will enhance our understanding of the RABV evolution and epidemiology in the region for rapid and effective response for rabies virus outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laith N. AL-Eitan
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
- * E-mail:
| | - Guanghui Wu
- Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA, Weybridge), Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Megan Golding
- Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA, Weybridge), Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Yue Tang
- Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA, Weybridge), Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Hooman Goharriz
- Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA, Weybridge), Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Denise A. Marston
- Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA, Weybridge), Surrey, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony R. Fooks
- Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA, Weybridge), Surrey, United Kingdom
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Surveillance Opportunities and the Need for Intersectoral Collaboration on Rabies in Sri Lanka. J Vet Med 2019; 2019:7808517. [PMID: 31380448 PMCID: PMC6657605 DOI: 10.1155/2019/7808517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2019] [Revised: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Sri Lanka is progressing towards its goal of eliminating human rabies. This goal rests on programs designed to limit canine rabies, which in turn requires a combination of targeted dog rabies control and a better understanding of the movement of the virus between domestic animals, people, and wildlife. Coordinated and integrated surveillance of the disease between human and animal health sectors underpins successful rabies elimination. Our objective was to review surveillance data from 2005 to 2014 to assemble the first multispecies synthesis of rabies information in Sri Lanka and, in doing so, assess needs and opportunities for a One Health approach to rabies surveillance in the country. Our descriptive epidemiological findings were consistent with other studies showing a decline in human cases, endemic and unchanging numbers of dog cases, a relationship between human density and the occurrence of human and animal cases, and significant gaps in understanding trends in rabies incidences in livestock and wildlife. Assessing the trends in the data from the three government organizations responsible for rabies surveillance was difficult due to lack of information on animal population sizes, unquantified sampling biases due to inequities in access to diagnostic capacities, regulatory and administrative barriers, and a continued reliance on clinical means to establish a diagnosis. The information required for a comprehensive rabies control programme was not standardized or consistent, was not in one place, showed significant gaps in completeness, and was not amenable to routine and rapid analysis. Achieving rabies elimination in Sri Lanka would benefit from harmonization of diagnostic and information management standards across animal and human health sectors as well as equitable access to diagnostic capacity for all regions and species.
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Fischer S, Freuling CM, Müller T, Pfaff F, Bodenhofer U, Höper D, Fischer M, Marston DA, Fooks AR, Mettenleiter TC, Conraths FJ, Homeier-Bachmann T. Defining objective clusters for rabies virus sequences using affinity propagation clustering. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2018; 12:e0006182. [PMID: 29357361 PMCID: PMC5794188 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2017] [Revised: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 12/19/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Rabies is caused by lyssaviruses, and is one of the oldest known zoonoses. In recent years, more than 21,000 nucleotide sequences of rabies viruses (RABV), from the prototype species rabies lyssavirus, have been deposited in public databases. Subsequent phylogenetic analyses in combination with metadata suggest geographic distributions of RABV. However, these analyses somewhat experience technical difficulties in defining verifiable criteria for cluster allocations in phylogenetic trees inviting for a more rational approach. Therefore, we applied a relatively new mathematical clustering algorythm named ‘affinity propagation clustering’ (AP) to propose a standardized sub-species classification utilizing full-genome RABV sequences. Because AP has the advantage that it is computationally fast and works for any meaningful measure of similarity between data samples, it has previously been applied successfully in bioinformatics, for analysis of microarray and gene expression data, however, cluster analysis of sequences is still in its infancy. Existing (516) and original (46) full genome RABV sequences were used to demonstrate the application of AP for RABV clustering. On a global scale, AP proposed four clusters, i.e. New World cluster, Arctic/Arctic-like, Cosmopolitan, and Asian as previously assigned by phylogenetic studies. By combining AP with established phylogenetic analyses, it is possible to resolve phylogenetic relationships between verifiably determined clusters and sequences. This workflow will be useful in confirming cluster distributions in a uniform transparent manner, not only for RABV, but also for other comparative sequence analyses. Rabies is one of the oldest known zoonoses, caused by lyssaviruses. In recent years, more than 21,000 nucleotide sequences for rabies viruses (RABV) have been deposited in public databases. In this study, a novel mathematical approach called affinity propagation (AP) clustering, a highly powerful tool, to verifiably divide full genome RABV sequences into genetic clusters, was used. A panel of existing and novel RABV full genome sequences was used to demonstrate the application of AP for RABV clustering. Using a combination of AP with established phylogenetic analyses is useful in resolving phylogenetic relationships between more objectively determined clusters and sequences. This workflow will help to substantiate a transparent cluster distribution, not only for RABV, but also for other comparative sequence analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Fischer
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Epidemiology, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Conrad M. Freuling
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Molecular Virology and Cell Biology, OIE Reference Laboratory for Rabies, WHO Collaborating Centre for Rabies Surveillance and Research, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Thomas Müller
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Molecular Virology and Cell Biology, OIE Reference Laboratory for Rabies, WHO Collaborating Centre for Rabies Surveillance and Research, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Florian Pfaff
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Diagnostic Virology, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Ulrich Bodenhofer
- Institute of Bioinformatics, Johannes Kepler University Linz, Linz, Austria
| | - Dirk Höper
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Molecular Virology and Cell Biology, OIE Reference Laboratory for Rabies, WHO Collaborating Centre for Rabies Surveillance and Research, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Mareike Fischer
- Institute of Mathematics and Computer Science, University Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Denise A. Marston
- Wildlife Zoonoses and Vector-Borne Diseases Research Group, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), OIE Reference Laboratory for Rabies, WHO Collaborating Centre for Characterization of Lyssaviruses, Weybridge, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony R. Fooks
- Wildlife Zoonoses and Vector-Borne Diseases Research Group, Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), OIE Reference Laboratory for Rabies, WHO Collaborating Centre for Characterization of Lyssaviruses, Weybridge, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas C. Mettenleiter
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Molecular Virology and Cell Biology, OIE Reference Laboratory for Rabies, WHO Collaborating Centre for Rabies Surveillance and Research, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Franz J. Conraths
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Epidemiology, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Timo Homeier-Bachmann
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Epidemiology, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
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Matsumoto T, Nanayakkara S, Perera D, Ushijima S, Wimalaratne O, Nishizono A, Ahmed K. Terrestrial Animal-Derived Rabies Virus in a Juvenile Indian Flying Fox in Sri Lanka. Jpn J Infect Dis 2017; 70:693-695. [PMID: 29093322 DOI: 10.7883/yoken.jjid.2017.249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Devika Perera
- Department of Rabies Diagnosis and Research, Medical Research Institute
| | - Shinya Ushijima
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University
| | - Omala Wimalaratne
- Department of Rabies Diagnosis and Research, Medical Research Institute
| | - Akira Nishizono
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University
| | - Kamruddin Ahmed
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University.,Department of Pathobiology and Medical Diagnostics, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Malaysia Sabah
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Bárcenas-Reyes I, Loza-Rubio E, Cantó-Alarcón GJ, Luna-Cozar J, Enríquez-Vázquez A, Barrón-Rodríguez RJ, Milián-Suazo F. Whole genome sequence phylogenetic analysis of four Mexican rabies viruses isolated from cattle. Res Vet Sci 2017; 113:21-24. [PMID: 28818750 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2017.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2016] [Revised: 05/25/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Phylogenetic analysis of the rabies virus in molecular epidemiology has been traditionally performed on partial sequences of the genome, such as the N, G, and P genes; however, that approach raises concerns about the discriminatory power compared to whole genome sequencing. In this study we characterized four strains of the rabies virus isolated from cattle in Querétaro, Mexico by comparing the whole genome sequence to that of strains from the American, European and Asian continents. Four cattle brain samples positive to rabies and characterized as AgV11, genotype 1, were used in the study. A cDNA sequence was generated by reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR) using oligo dT. cDNA samples were sequenced in an Illumina NextSeq 500 platform. The phylogenetic analysis was performed with MEGA 6.0. Minimum evolution phylogenetic trees were constructed with the Neighbor-Joining method and bootstrapped with 1000 replicates. Three large and seven small clusters were formed with the 26 sequences used. The largest cluster grouped strains from different species in South America: Brazil, and the French Guyana. The second cluster grouped five strains from Mexico. A Mexican strain reported in a different study was highly related to our four strains, suggesting common source of infection. The phylogenetic analysis shows that the type of host is different for the different regions in the American Continent; rabies is more related to bats. It was concluded that the rabies virus in central Mexico is genetically stable and that it is transmitted by the vampire bat Desmodus rotundus.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Bárcenas-Reyes
- Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Av. de las Ciencias S/N Juriquilla, Delegación Santa Rosa Jáuregui, C. P. 76230 Querétaro, Mexico
| | - E Loza-Rubio
- CENID-M-INIFAP, Centro Nacional de Investigación Disciplinaria en Microbiología, Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Forestales, Agrícolas y Pecuarias, Carretera México-Toluca, km 15.5, C.P. 05110 Mexico D.F., Mexico
| | - G J Cantó-Alarcón
- Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Av. de las Ciencias S/N Juriquilla, Delegación Santa Rosa Jáuregui, C. P. 76230 Querétaro, Mexico.
| | - J Luna-Cozar
- Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Av. de las Ciencias S/N Juriquilla, Delegación Santa Rosa Jáuregui, C. P. 76230 Querétaro, Mexico
| | - A Enríquez-Vázquez
- LPAC - Laboratorio de Patología Animal Calamanda, el Marques, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - R J Barrón-Rodríguez
- CENID-M-INIFAP, Centro Nacional de Investigación Disciplinaria en Microbiología, Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Forestales, Agrícolas y Pecuarias, Carretera México-Toluca, km 15.5, C.P. 05110 Mexico D.F., Mexico
| | - F Milián-Suazo
- Facultad de Ciencias Naturales, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, Av. de las Ciencias S/N Juriquilla, Delegación Santa Rosa Jáuregui, C. P. 76230 Querétaro, Mexico
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Ahmed K, Phommachanh P, Vorachith P, Matsumoto T, Lamaningao P, Mori D, Takaki M, Douangngeun B, Khambounheuang B, Nishizono A. Molecular epidemiology of rabies viruses circulating in two rabies endemic provinces of Laos, 2011-2012: regional diversity in Southeast Asia. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2015; 9:e0003645. [PMID: 25825907 PMCID: PMC4380407 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0003645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2014] [Accepted: 02/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although rabies is endemic in Laos, genetic characterization of the viruses in this country is limited. There are growing concerns that development in the region may have increased transport of dog through Laos for regional dog meat consumption, and that this may cause spillover of the viruses from dogs brought here from other countries. This study was therefore undertaken to evaluate the current rabies situation and the genetic characteristics of rabies viruses currently circulating in Laos. METHODS We determined the rate of rabies-positive samples by analyzing data from animal samples submitted to the Lao Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry's National Animal Health Centre rabies laboratory from 2004 through 2011. Twenty-three rabies-positive samples were used for viral genetic characterization. Full genome sequencing was performed on two rabies viruses. RESULTS Rabies-positive samples increased substantially from 40.5% in 2004 to 60.2% in 2009 and continued at this level during the study period. More than 99% of the samples were from dogs, followed by cats and monkeys. Phylogenetic analyses showed that three rabies virus lineages belonging to the Southeast Asian cluster are currently circulating in Laos; these are closely related to viruses from Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam. Lineages of the circulating Laos rabies viruses diverged from common ancestors as recently as 44.2 years and as much as 55.3 years ago, indicating periodic virus invasions. CONCLUSION There is an increasing trend of rabies in Laotian animals. Similar to other rabies-endemic countries, dogs are the main viral reservoir. Three viral lineages closely related to viruses from neighboring countries are currently circulating in Laos. Data provide evidence of periodic historic exchanges of the viruses with neighboring countries, but no recent invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamruddin Ahmed
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, Yufu, Japan
- Research Promotion Institute, Oita University, Yufu, Japan
| | | | | | - Takashi Matsumoto
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, Yufu, Japan
| | | | - Daisuke Mori
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, Yufu, Japan
| | - Minako Takaki
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, Yufu, Japan
| | | | | | - Akira Nishizono
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, Yufu, Japan
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Twelve years of rabies surveillance in Sri Lanka, 1999-2010. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2014; 8:e3205. [PMID: 25299511 PMCID: PMC4191952 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0003205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2014] [Accepted: 08/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rabies is endemic in Sri Lanka, but little is known about the temporal and spatial trends of rabies in this country. Knowing these trends may provide insight into past control efforts and serve as the basis for future control measures. In this study, we analyzed distribution of rabies in humans and animals over a period of 12 years in Sri Lanka. METHODS Accumulated data from 1999 through 2010 compiled by the Department of Rabies Diagnosis and Research, Medical Research Institute (MRI), Colombo, were used in this study. RESULTS The yearly mean percentage of rabies-positive sample was 62.4% (47.6-75.9%). Three-fourths of the rabies-positive samples were from the Colombo, Gampaha, and Kalutara districts in Western province, followed by Galle in Southern province. A high percentage of the rabies samples were from dogs (85.2%), followed by cats (7.9%), humans (3.8%), wild animals (2.0%), and livestock (1.1%). Among wild animals, mongooses were the main victims followed by civets. The number of suspect human rabies cases decreased gradually in Sri Lanka, although the number of human samples submitted for laboratory confirmation increased. CONCLUSIONS The number of rabid dogs has remained relatively unchanged, but the number of suspect human rabies is decreasing gradually in Sri Lanka. These findings indicate successful use of postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) by animal bite victims and increased rabies awareness. PEP is free of charge and is supplied through government hospitals by the Ministry of Health, Sri Lanka. Our survey shows that most positive samples were received from Western and Southern provinces, possibly because of the ease of transporting samples to the laboratory. Submissions of wild animal and livestock samples should be increased by creating more awareness among the public. Better rabies surveillance will require introduction of molecular methods for detection and the establishment of more regional rabies diagnostic laboratories.
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Zhao J, Liu Y, Zhang S, Zhang F, Wang Y, Mi L, Wang S, Hu R. Molecular characterization of three ferret badger (Melogale moschata) rabies virus isolates from Jiangxi province, China. Arch Virol 2014; 159:2059-67. [PMID: 24643334 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-014-2044-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2013] [Accepted: 02/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Ferret badger (FB) rabies viruses JX09-17(fb), JX09-18 and JX10-37 were isolated from three different regions in Jiangxi province, China, in 2009 and 2010. The complete nucleotide sequence identity between these three isolates was 87-93 %. Compared with the other Chinese rabies virus isolates and vaccine strains, 101 substitutions (53 in JX10-37, 23 in JX09-17(fb) and 25 in JX09-18) in the five structural proteins were observed, and 47 of these substitutions (27 in JX10-37, 14 in JX09-17(fb) and 6 in JX09-18) were unique among lyssaviruses. Amino acid substitutions of S231 and Q333 were noted respectively in the G protein antigenic site I of JX10-37 and site III in JX09-17(fb). Phylogenetic analysis showed that JX09-17(fb) is rooted within the China I lineage, JX09-18 is in China II, and JX10-37 is independent. Evolutionary analysis and comparative sequence data indicate that isolate JX10-37 is a variant virus that diverged from canine rabies viruses around 1933 (range 1886-1963).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinghui Zhao
- Laboratory of Epidemiology and Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, Military Veterinary Research Institute, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, 666 Liuying West Road, Changchun, 130122, People's Republic of China
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Pant GR, Lavenir R, Wong FYK, Certoma A, Larrous F, Bhatta DR, Bourhy H, Stevens V, Dacheux L. Recent emergence and spread of an Arctic-related phylogenetic lineage of rabies virus in Nepal. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2013; 7:e2560. [PMID: 24278494 PMCID: PMC3836727 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0002560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2012] [Accepted: 10/14/2013] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Rabies is a zoonotic disease that is endemic in many parts of the developing world, especially in Africa and Asia. However its epidemiology remains largely unappreciated in much of these regions, such as in Nepal, where limited information is available about the spatiotemporal dynamics of the main etiological agent, the rabies virus (RABV). In this study, we describe for the first time the phylogenetic diversity and evolution of RABV circulating in Nepal, as well as their geographical relationships within the broader region. A total of 24 new isolates obtained from Nepal and collected from 2003 to 2011 were full-length sequenced for both the nucleoprotein and the glycoprotein genes, and analysed using neighbour-joining and maximum-likelihood phylogenetic methods with representative viruses from all over the world, including new related RABV strains from neighbouring or more distant countries (Afghanistan, Greenland, Iran, Russia and USA). Despite Nepal's limited land surface and its particular geographical position within the Indian subcontinent, our study revealed the presence of a surprising wide genetic diversity of RABV, with the co-existence of three different phylogenetic groups: an Indian subcontinent clade and two different Arctic-like sub-clades within the Arctic-related clade. This observation suggests at least two independent episodes of rabies introduction from neighbouring countries. In addition, specific phylogenetic and temporal evolution analysis of viruses within the Arctic-related clade has identified a new recently emerged RABV lineage we named as the Arctic-like 3 (AL-3) sub-clade that is already widely spread in Nepal. Rabies is endemic in most Asian countries and represents a serious public health issue, with an estimated 31,000 people dying each year of this disease. The majority of human cases are transmitted by domestic dogs, which act as the principal reservoir host and vector. However, molecular epidemiology and evolutionary dynamics of the main etiological agent, the rabies virus (RABV), remains largely unappreciated in some regions such as in Nepal. Based on a subset of 24 new Nepalese isolates collected from 2003 to 2011 and representative RABV strains at a global scale, phylogenetic analysis based on the complete nucleoprotein and glycoprotein genes sequences revealed the presence of a surprising wide genetic diversity of RABV circulating in this country. The presence of three different co-existing phylogenetic groups was identified: an Indian subcontinent clade and two different Arctic-like sub-clades within the Arctic-related clade, namely Arctic-like (AL)-1, lineage a (AL-1a), and AL-3. Among these clusters, the AL-3 sub-clade appears as the major Nepalese phylogroup which emerged relatively recently in this country, within the last 30 years. These data has raised some concerns about the exchange of RABV between different countries, and provided key elements for implementation of effective control measures of rabies in Nepal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ganesh R. Pant
- Rabies Vaccine Production Laboratory, Tripureshwor, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Rachel Lavenir
- Institut Pasteur, Unit Lyssavirus Dynamics and Host Adaptation, National Reference Centre for Rabies, WHO Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Rabies, Paris, France
| | - Frank Y. K. Wong
- Australian Animal Health Laboratory, CSIRO Animal Food and Health Sciences, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Andrea Certoma
- Australian Animal Health Laboratory, CSIRO Animal Food and Health Sciences, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Florence Larrous
- Institut Pasteur, Unit Lyssavirus Dynamics and Host Adaptation, National Reference Centre for Rabies, WHO Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Rabies, Paris, France
| | - Dwij R. Bhatta
- Central Department of Microbiology, Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Hervé Bourhy
- Institut Pasteur, Unit Lyssavirus Dynamics and Host Adaptation, National Reference Centre for Rabies, WHO Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Rabies, Paris, France
| | - Vittoria Stevens
- Australian Animal Health Laboratory, CSIRO Animal Food and Health Sciences, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
- * E-mail: (VS); (LD)
| | - Laurent Dacheux
- Institut Pasteur, Unit Lyssavirus Dynamics and Host Adaptation, National Reference Centre for Rabies, WHO Collaborating Centre for Reference and Research on Rabies, Paris, France
- * E-mail: (VS); (LD)
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12
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Complete Genome Sequence of an MLB2 Astrovirus from a Turkish Child with Diarrhea. GENOME ANNOUNCEMENTS 2013; 1:1/4/e00619-13. [PMID: 23950127 PMCID: PMC3744683 DOI: 10.1128/genomea.00619-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Only two complete genome sequences of MLB2 astroviruses are available, one from an Indian child with diarrhea and another from plasma of an American child. Here we report the complete MLB2 genome sequence from a Turkish child with diarrhea. This MLB2 astrovirus genome sequence shows high nucleotide identity with the American MLB2.
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13
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Complete Genome Sequences of Two Astrovirus MLB1 Strains from Bhutanese Children with Diarrhea. GENOME ANNOUNCEMENTS 2013; 1:1/4/e00485-13. [PMID: 23887913 PMCID: PMC3735058 DOI: 10.1128/genomea.00485-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In addition to the eight genotypes of classic human astroviruses, seven new genotypes have been reported from two novel clades, MLB and VA. However, the epidemiology of these highly diverse astroviruses remains largely unknown. We report here the complete genome sequences of two MLB1 strains from Bhutanese children with diarrhea.
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14
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Matsumoto T, Ahmed K, Karunanayake D, Wimalaratne O, Nanayakkara S, Perera D, Kobayashi Y, Nishizono A. Molecular epidemiology of human rabies viruses in Sri Lanka. INFECTION GENETICS AND EVOLUTION 2013; 18:160-7. [PMID: 23722023 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2013.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2013] [Revised: 05/17/2013] [Accepted: 05/19/2013] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Rabies is a lethal zoonotic disease caused by the rabies virus, which is transmitted by rabid animals to humans. Rabies is prevalent in all continents, with over 60% of human deaths occurring in Asia. Sri Lanka is a rabies-endemic country. This study shows that rabies afflicted more older individuals than children in Sri Lanka between 2008 and 2010. This novel finding indicates that older people in Sri Lanka should be more aware of the risk of rabies. Phylogenetic analyses of the rabies N and G genes showed that the Sri Lankan rabies viruses are distinct and probably originated from a single clone. The G-L noncoding region is highly diverse, and is suitable for the analysis of virus evolution within a country. A phylogenetic analysis of this region showed high diversity in the currently circulating Sri Lankan rabies viruses, which can be divided into seven clades. Some clades are unique to a specific geographic region, whereas others occur at multiple locations. This indicates that the movement of dogs, the main rabies-transmitting animal in Sri Lanka, is restricted in some areas but less limited in others. These data may help to formulate a more efficient rabies control program in Sri Lanka.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Matsumoto
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, Yufu, Japan
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15
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Jamil KM, Ahmed K, Hossain M, Matsumoto T, Ali MA, Hossain S, Hossain S, Islam A, Nasiruddin M, Nishizono A. Arctic-like rabies virus, Bangladesh. Emerg Infect Dis 2013; 18:2021-4. [PMID: 23171512 PMCID: PMC3557895 DOI: 10.3201/eid1812.120061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Arctic/Arctic-like rabies virus group 2 spread into Bangladesh ≈32 years ago. Because rabies is endemic to and a major public health problem in this country, we characterized this virus group. Its glycoprotein has 3 potential N-glycosylation sites that affect viral pathogenesis. Diversity of rabies virus might have public health implications in Bangladesh.
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Ward MP. Review of rabies epidemiology and control in South, South East and East Asia: past, present and prospects for elimination. Zoonoses Public Health 2013. [PMID: 23180493 DOI: 10.1111/j.1863-2378.2012.01489.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Rabies is a serious public health problem in Asia. It causes substantial animal welfare, economic and human health impacts, with approximately 39,000 human deaths each year. Domestic dogs are the main reservoir and source of rabies in Asia. Common constraints for the control of rabies in the countries of Asia include inadequate resources; lack of political commitment to control programs; lack of consensus on strategy; weak intersectoral coordination and inadequate management structure; insensitive surveillance systems; limited accessibility to modern rabies vaccine and supply problems; lack of public awareness and public cooperation; and the existence of myths and religious issues. In this review, we summarize the epidemiology of rabies in both human and animals in each South and South East Asian country, the past and current approaches to control and the prospect for rabies elimination. We conclude that defining the cost of rabies to society and communicating this to decisionmakers might be the key to achieving such an advance.
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17
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Park JS, Kim CK, Kim SY, Ju YR. Molecular characterization of KGH, the first human isolate of rabies virus in Korea. Virus Genes 2013; 46:231-41. [PMID: 23242520 DOI: 10.1007/s11262-012-0850-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2012] [Accepted: 11/12/2012] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The complete genome sequence of the KGH strain of the first human rabies virus, which was isolated from a skin biopsy of a patient with rabies, whose symptoms developed due to bites from a raccoon dog in 2001. The size of the KGH strain genome was determined to be 11,928 nucleotides (nt) with a leader sequence of 58 nt, nucleoprotein gene of 1,353 nt, phosphoprotein gene of 894 nt, matrix protein gene of 609 nt, glycoprotein gene of 1,575 nt, RNA-dependent RNA polymerase gene of 6,384 nt, and trailer region of 69 nt. Sequence similarity was compared with 39 fully sequenced rabies virus genomes currently available, and the result showed 70.6-91.6 % at the nucleotide level, and 82.8-97.9 % at the amino acid level. The deduced amino acids in the viral protein were compared with those of other rabies viruses, and various functional regions were investigated. As a result, we found that the KGH strain only had a unique amino acid substitution that was identified to be associated either with host immune response and pathogenicity in the N protein, or with a related region regulating STAT1 in the P protein, and related to pathogenicity in G protein. Based on phylogenetic analyses using the complete genome of 39 rabies viruses, the KGH strain was determined to be closely related with the NNV-RAB-H strain and transplant rabies virus serotype 1, which are Indian isolates, and was confirmed to belong to the Arctic-like 2 clade. The KGH strain was most closely related to the SKRRD0204HC and SKRRD0205HC strain when compared with Korean animal isolates, which was separated around the same time and place, and belonged to the Gangwon III subgroup.
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18
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Xie T, Yu H, Wu J, Ming P, Huang S, Shen Z, Xu G, Yan J, Yu B, Zhou D. Molecular characterization of the complete genome of a street rabies virus WH11 isolated from donkey in China. Virus Genes 2012; 45:452-62. [PMID: 22836559 DOI: 10.1007/s11262-012-0786-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2012] [Accepted: 07/09/2012] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The complete genomic sequence of a rabies virus isolate WH11, isolated from brain tissue of a rabid donkey in China, was determined and compared with other rabies viruses. This is the first Chinese street strain which was isolated from donkey and the entire length and organization of the virus was similar to that of other rabies viruses. Multiple alignments of amino acid sequences of the nucleoprotein, phosphoprotein, matrix protein, glycoprotein, and large protein of WH11 with those of other rabies viruses were undertaken to examine the conservative degree of functional regions. Phylogenetic analysis using the complete genomic sequence of WH11 determined that this isolate is most closely related with rabies viruses previously isolated in China and the attenuated Chinese vaccine strain CTN181.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingbo Xie
- Center for Rabies Diagnosis, Wuhan Institute of Biological Products, Wuhan, China.
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19
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The full-length genome analysis of a street rabies virus strain isolated in Yunnan province of China. Virol Sin 2012; 27:204-13. [PMID: 22684475 DOI: 10.1007/s12250-012-3251-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2012] [Accepted: 05/03/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The epidemic of rabies has rapidly increased and expanded in Yunnan province in recent years. In order to further analyze and understand the etiological reasons for the rapid expansion of rabies in Yunnan, a strain of rabies virus CYN1009D in Yunnan was isolated, and the complete genomic sequencing was carried out, and the bioimfomative analysis on genes/encoded proteins and phylogeny with reference to sequences in GenBank was performed. The complete genome of CYN1009D was 11923 nt in length and belonged to genotype I. The genes encoding different structural proteins were all conserved in their lengths, in comparison to other strains in China. The amino acid sequence was conserved at different antigen sites of NP, but the variation was detected at the secondary phosphorylation site of position 375; variations were also detected in the phosphorylation sites at positions 63-63 and 162 of PP; the sites playing important roles in virus synthesis, budding and viral morphology in MP were conserved; two glycosylation sites were detected at Asn37 and Asn319 in GP, the neutralizing antigen sites in GP were conserved; the initial amino acid of LP (ML) was different from that of most of the strains in China (MM); the variations in G-L region in the intergenic region were significant. The phylogenic tree showed that CYN1009D has a closer genetic relationship to the strains in Southeast Asia, indicating that prevention and control on rabies in borderland areas should be reinforced meanwhile efforts are made to control rabies in China.
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20
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Matsumoto T, Ahmed K, Wimalaratne O, Nanayakkara S, Perera D, Karunanayake D, Nishizono A. Novel sylvatic rabies virus variant in endangered golden palm civet, Sri Lanka. Emerg Infect Dis 2012; 17:2346-9. [PMID: 22172202 PMCID: PMC3311185 DOI: 10.3201/eid1712.110811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Information is scarce about sylvatic rabies virus in Asia and about rabies in palm civets. We report a novel sylvatic rabies virus variant detected in a golden palm civet in Sri Lanka. Evolutionary analysis suggests the virus diverged from canine rabies viruses in Sri Lanka in ≈1933 (range 1886–1963).
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21
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Ahmed K, Wimalaratne O, Dahal N, Khawplod P, Nanayakkara S, Rinzin K, Perera D, Karunanayake D, Matsumoto T, Nishizono A. Evaluation of a monoclonal antibody-based rapid immunochromatographic test for direct detection of rabies virus in the brain of humans and animals. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2012; 86:736-40. [PMID: 22492163 PMCID: PMC3403755 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.2012.11-0332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2011] [Accepted: 11/26/2011] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Rabies diagnosis uses a direct fluorescent antibody test (FAT) that is difficult, costly, and time-consuming, and requires trained personnel. We developed a rapid immunochromatographic test (RICT) for the diagnosis of rabies. The efficacy of the RICT was compared with that of the FAT. Brain samples were collected from humans, dogs, cats, and other animals in Sri Lanka (n = 248), Bhutan (n = 27), and Thailand (n = 228). The sensitivity (0.74-0.95), specificity (0.98-1.0), positive predictive value (0.98-1.0), negative predictive value (0.75-0.97), accuracy (0.91-0.98), and kappa measure of agreement (0.79-0.93) were all satisfactory for animal samples and samples preserved in 50% glycerol saline solution. Because the RICT showed high sensitivity but low specificity with human brain samples, it is unsuitable for confirming rabies in humans. No amino acid substitutions were found in the antibody attachment sites of the nucleoprotein gene with FAT-positive, RICT-negative samples. The RICT is reliable, user friendly, rapid, robust, and can be used in laboratories with a modest infrastructure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamruddin Ahmed
- Research Promotion Institute, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, Yufu, Japan.
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22
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Yamada K, Park CH, Noguchi K, Kojima D, Kubo T, Komiya N, Matsumoto T, Mitui MT, Ahmed K, Morimoto K, Inoue S, Nishizono A. Serial passage of a street rabies virus in mouse neuroblastoma cells resulted in attenuation: potential role of the additional N-glycosylation of a viral glycoprotein in the reduced pathogenicity of street rabies virus. Virus Res 2012; 165:34-45. [PMID: 22248643 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2012.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2011] [Revised: 12/23/2011] [Accepted: 01/01/2012] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Street rabies viruses are field isolates known to be highly neurotropic. However, the viral elements related to their pathogenicity have yet to be identified at the nucleotide or amino acid level. Here, through 30 passages in mouse neuroblastoma NA cells, we have established an attenuated variant of street rabies virus strain 1088, originating from a rabid woodchuck followed by 2 passages in the brains of suckling mice. The variant, 1088-N30, was well adapted to NA cells and highly attenuated in adult mice after intramuscular (i.m.) but not intracerebral (i.c.) inoculations. 1088-N30 had seven nucleotide substitutions, and the R196S mutation of the G protein led to an additional N-glycosylation. Street viruses usually possess one or two N-glycosylation sites on the G protein, 1088 has two, while an additional N-glycosylation site is observed in laboratory-adapted strains. We also established a cloned variant 1088-N4#14 by limiting dilution. Apart from the R196S mutation, 1088-N4#14 possessed only one amino acid substitution in the P protein, which is found in several field isolates. 1088-N4#14 also efficiently replicated in NA cells and was attenuated in adult mice after i.m. inoculations, although it was more pathogenic than 1088-N30. The spread of 1088-N30 in the brain was highly restricted after i.m. inoculations, although the pattern of 1088-N4#14's spread was intermediate between that of the parental 1088 and 1088-N30. Meanwhile, both variants strongly induced humoral immune responses in mice compared to 1088. Our results indicate that the additional N-glycosylation is likely related to the reduced pathogenicity. Taken together, we propose that the number of N-glycosylation sites in the G protein is one of the determinants of the pathogenicity of street rabies viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kentaro Yamada
- Research Promotion Project, Oita University, 1-1 Idaigaoka, Hasama-machi, Yufu, Oita 879-5593, Japan
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Jiao W, Yin X, Li Z, Lan X, Li X, Tian X, Li B, Yang B, Zhang Y, Liu J. Molecular characterization of China rabies virus vaccine strain. Virol J 2011; 8:521. [PMID: 22093774 PMCID: PMC3226571 DOI: 10.1186/1743-422x-8-521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2011] [Accepted: 11/17/2011] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rabies virus (RV), the agent of rabies, can cause a severe encephalomyelitis in several species of mammals, including humans. As a human rabies vaccine strain employed in China, the genetic knowledge of the aG strain has not been fully studied. The main goal of the present study is to amplify the whole genome of aG strain, and genetic relationships between other vaccine strains and wild strains were analyzed. RESULTS The entire genome of human rabies virus vaccine strain aG employed in China was sequenced; this is the second rabies virus vaccine strain from China to be fully characterized. The overall organization and the length of the genome were similar to that of other lyssaviruses. The length of aG strain was 11925nt, comprising a leader sequence of 58nt, nucleoprotein (N) gene of 1353nt, phosphoprotein (P) gene of 894 nt, matrix protein (M) gene of 609nt, glycoprotein (G) gene of 1575nt, RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp,L) gene of 6384nt, and a trailer region of 70 nt. There was TGAAAAAAA (TGA7) consensus sequence in the end of each gene, except AGA7 at the end of G gene. There was AACAYYYCT consensus start signal at the beginning of each gene. CONCLUSIONS In this report, we analyzed the full genome of China human rabies vaccine strain aG. Our studies indicated that the genome of aG retained the basic characteristics of RV. At gene level, N was the most conserved among the five coding genes, indicating this gene is the most appropriate for quantitative genotype definition. The phylogenetic analysis of the N indicated the aG strain clustered most closely with Japanese and Russian rabies vaccine strains, suggesting that they may share the same ancestor; also, the aG strain did not share high homology with wild strains isolated from China, making it may not be the best vaccine strain, more research is needed to elucidate the genetic relationship among the RV circulating in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenqiang Jiao
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological biology, Ministry of Agriculture, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Science, Xujia ping 1, Yanchang bu, Lanzhou, Gansu, China
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24
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Aravindhbabu RP, Manoharan S, Ramadass P, Chandran NDJ. Rabies in South Indian Cows: An evidence of Sri Lankan Rabies virus Variant Infection Based on the Analysis of Partial Nucleoprotein Gene. INDIAN JOURNAL OF VIROLOGY : AN OFFICIAL ORGAN OF INDIAN VIROLOGICAL SOCIETY 2011; 22:138-41. [PMID: 23637516 DOI: 10.1007/s13337-011-0050-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2011] [Accepted: 08/12/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Rabies is a highly fatal non-suppurative encephalomyelitis, caused by the Rabies virus. Dogs are the major reservoir of rabies in India and are the source of infection to other domestic animals. In this report, laboratory investigation and molecular characterization of isolates from two cows with paralytic rabies is described. Necropsy brain samples from the two cows were tested for the presence of rabies antigen using a fluorescent antibody test and the results were confirmed using RT-PCR. Rabies virus was successfully isolated from both the brain samples in a murine neuroblastoma cell line. The phylogenetic analysis of partial nucleoprotein gene sequences of these isolates showed them to be of a variant of Rabies virus which is closely related to the Sri Lankan Rabies virus lineage as previously reported. In addition, partial nucleoprotein genes of 19 more Rabies virus isolates from southern India were sequenced and of these 11 isolates were found to be closely related to the Sri Lankan lineage. The deduced amino acid sequences of the partial nucleoprotein of the Indian isolates were 96-99% identical to the Sri Lankan isolates. This investigation re-confirms the previous speculations that the Sri Lankan variant of the virus may still be actively transmitted by animals in India.
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Affiliation(s)
- R P Aravindhbabu
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Madras Veterinary College, Chennai, India ; Research Scientist, Institute for Animal Health, Pirbright Laboratory, Ash Road, Pirbright, GU240ND United Kingdom
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