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Feng K, Bendiwhobel Ushie B, Zhang H, Li S, Deng F, Wang H, Ning YJ. Pathogenesis and virulence of Heartland virus. Virulence 2024; 15:2348252. [PMID: 38712703 PMCID: PMC11085952 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2024.2348252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Heartland virus (HRTV), an emerging tick-borne pathogenic bunyavirus, has been a concern since 2012, with an increasing incidence, expanding geographical distribution, and high pathogenicity in the United States. Infection from HRTV results in fever, thrombocytopenia, and leucopenia in humans, and in some cases, symptoms can progress to severe outcomes, including haemorrhagic disease, multi-organ failure, and even death. Currently, no vaccines or antiviral drugs are available for treatment of the HRTV disease. Moreover, little is known about HRTV-host interactions, viral replication mechanisms, pathogenesis and virulence, further hampering the development of vaccines and antiviral interventions. Here, we aimed to provide a brief review of HRTV epidemiology, molecular biology, pathogenesis and virulence on the basis of published article data to better understand this virus and provide clues for further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuan Feng
- Hubei Jiangxia Laboratory, Wuhan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and National Virus Resource Center, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety and Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Benjamin Bendiwhobel Ushie
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and National Virus Resource Center, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Haiyan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and National Virus Resource Center, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety and Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Shu Li
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Guangzhou Women & Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fei Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and National Virus Resource Center, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety and Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Hualin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and National Virus Resource Center, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety and Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Yun-Jia Ning
- Hubei Jiangxia Laboratory, Wuhan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Virology and National Virus Resource Center, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Virology and Biosafety and Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
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2
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Fujii H, Fukushi S, Yoshikawa T, Nagata N, Taniguchi S, Shimojima M, Yamada S, Tani H, Uda A, Maeki T, Harada S, Kurosu T, Lim CK, Nakayama E, Takayama-Ito M, Watanabe S, Ebihara H, Morikawa S, Saijo M. Pathological and virological findings of type I interferon receptor knockout mice upon experimental infection with Heartland virus. Virus Res 2024; 340:199301. [PMID: 38096954 PMCID: PMC10733679 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2023.199301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
Heartland virus (HRTV) causes generalized symptoms, severe shock, and multiple organ failure. We previously reported that interferon-α/β receptor knockout (IFNAR-/-) mice infected intraperitoneally with 1 × 107 tissue culture-infective dose (TCID50) of HRTV died, while those subcutaneously infected with the same dose of HRTV did not. The pathophysiology of IFNAR-/- mice infected with HRTV and the mechanism underlying the difference in disease severity, which depends on HRTV infection route, were analyzed in this study. The liver, spleen, mesenteric and axillary lymph nodes, and gastrointestinal tract of intraperitoneally (I.P.) infected mice had pathological changes; however, subcutaneously (S.C.) infected mice only had pathological changes in the axillary lymph node and gastrointestinal tract. HRTV RNA levels in the mesenteric lymph node, lung, liver, spleen, kidney, stomach, intestine, and blood were significantly higher in I.P. infected mice than those in S.C. infected mice. Chemokine ligand-1 (CXCL-1), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-12, interferon (IFN)-γ, and IL-10 levels in plasma of I.P. infected mice were higher than those of S.C. infected mice. These results indicated that high levels of viral RNA and the induction of inflammatory responses in HRTV-infected IFNAR-/- mice may be associated with disease severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hikaru Fujii
- The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, 1-3 Ikoino-oka, Imabari, Ehime, 794-8555, Japan; Department of Virology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan.
| | - Shuetsu Fukushi
- Department of Virology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Tomoki Yoshikawa
- Department of Virology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Noriyo Nagata
- Department of Pathology, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Satoshi Taniguchi
- Department of Virology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Masayuki Shimojima
- Department of Virology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Souichi Yamada
- Department of Virology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Hideki Tani
- Department of Virology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan; Department of Virology, Toyama Institute of Health, 17-1 Nakataikouyama, Imizu-shi, Toyama, 939-0363, Japan
| | - Akihiko Uda
- Department of Veterinary Science, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Takahiro Maeki
- Department of Virology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Shizuko Harada
- Department of Virology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Takeshi Kurosu
- Department of Virology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Chang Kweng Lim
- Department of Virology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Eri Nakayama
- Department of Virology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Mutsuyo Takayama-Ito
- Department of Virology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Shumpei Watanabe
- The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, 1-3 Ikoino-oka, Imabari, Ehime, 794-8555, Japan
| | - Hideki Ebihara
- Department of Virology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Shigeru Morikawa
- The Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Okayama University of Science, 1-3 Ikoino-oka, Imabari, Ehime, 794-8555, Japan; Department of Veterinary Science, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Masayuki Saijo
- Department of Virology I, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan; Sapporo City Health & Welfare Bureau, Public Health Office, WEST 19, Chuo-ku West 19,Sapporo, 060-0042, Japan
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3
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Dembek ZF, Mothershead JL, Cirimotich CM, Wu A. Heartland Virus Disease-An Underreported Emerging Infection. Microorganisms 2024; 12:286. [PMID: 38399689 PMCID: PMC10892980 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms12020286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2024] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
First recognized 15 years ago, Heartland virus disease (Heartland) is a tickborne infection contracted from the transmission of Heartland virus (HRTV) through tick bites from the lone star tick (Amblyomma americanum) and potentially other tick species. Heartland symptoms include a fever <100.4 °F, lethargy, fatigue, headaches, myalgia, a loss of appetite, nausea, diarrhea, weight loss, arthralgia, leukopenia and thrombocytopenia. We reviewed the existing peer-reviewed literature for HRTV and Heartland to more completely characterize this rarely reported, recently discovered illness. The absence of ongoing serosurveys and targeted clinical and tickborne virus investigations specific to HRTV presence and Heartland likely contributes to infection underestimation. While HRTV transmission occurs in southern and midwestern states, the true range of this infection is likely larger than now understood. The disease's proliferation benefits from an expanded tick range due to rising climate temperatures favoring habitat expansion. We recommend HRTV disease be considered in the differential diagnosis for patients with a reported exposure to ticks in areas where HRTV has been previously identified. HRTV testing should be considered early for those matching the Heartland disease profile and nonresponsive to initial broad-spectrum antimicrobial treatment. Despite aggressive supportive therapy, patients deteriorating to sepsis early in the course of the disease have a very grim prognosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zygmunt F. Dembek
- Battelle Memorial Institute, Support to DTRA Technical Reachback, Columbus, OH 43201, USA; (Z.F.D.); (C.M.C.)
| | - Jerry L. Mothershead
- Applied Research Associates (ARA), Support to DTRA Technical Reachback, Albuquerque, NM 87110, USA;
| | - Christopher M. Cirimotich
- Battelle Memorial Institute, Support to DTRA Technical Reachback, Columbus, OH 43201, USA; (Z.F.D.); (C.M.C.)
| | - Aiguo Wu
- Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA), Fort Belvoir, VA 22060, USA
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4
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Dupuis AP, Lange RE, Ciota AT. Emerging tickborne viruses vectored by Amblyomma americanum (Ixodida: Ixodidae): Heartland and Bourbon viruses. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2023; 60:1183-1196. [PMID: 37862097 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjad060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Heartland (HRTV) and Bourbon (BRBV) viruses are newly identified tick-borne viruses, isolated from serious clinical cases in 2009 and 2014, respectively. Both viruses originated in the lower Midwest United States near the border of Missouri and Kansas, cause similar disease manifestations, and are presumably vectored by the same tick species, Amblyomma americanum Linnaeus (Ixodida: Ixodidae). In this article, we provide a current review of HRTV and BRBV, including the virology, epidemiology, and ecology of the viruses with an emphasis on the tick vector. We touch on current challenges of vector control and surveillance, and we discuss future directions in the study of these emergent pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan P Dupuis
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Griffin Laboratory, 5668 State Farm Road, Slingerlands, NY 12159, USA
| | - Rachel E Lange
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Griffin Laboratory, 5668 State Farm Road, Slingerlands, NY 12159, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Public Health, State University of New York University at Albany, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA
| | - Alexander T Ciota
- Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Griffin Laboratory, 5668 State Farm Road, Slingerlands, NY 12159, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Public Health, State University of New York University at Albany, Rensselaer, NY 12144, USA
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5
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Reynolds ES, Wooldridge JT, Stevenson HL, Thangamani S. The Lone Star tick, Amblyomma americanum, salivary factors exacerbate the clinical outcome of Heartland virus disease in a small animal model. Sci Rep 2023; 13:13304. [PMID: 37587216 PMCID: PMC10432400 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-40397-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Heartland virus was first isolated in 2009 from two patients in Missouri and is transmitted by the Lone Star tick, Amblyomma americanum. To understand disease transmission and pathogenesis, it is necessary to develop an animal model which utilizes the natural route of transmission and manifests in a manner similar to documented human cases. Herein we describe our investigations on identifying A129 mice as the most appropriate small animal model for HRTV pathogenesis that mimics human clinical outcomes. We further investigated the impact of tick saliva in enhancing pathogen transmission and clinical outcomes. Our investigations revealed an increase in viral load in the groups of mice that received both virus and tick salivary gland extract (SGE). Spleens of all infected mice showed extramedullary hematopoiesis (EH), depleted white pulp, and absence of germinal centers. This observation mimics the splenomegaly observed in natural human cases. In the group that received both HRTV and tick SGE, the clinical outcome of HRTV infection was exacerbated compared to HRTV only infection. EH scores and the presence of viral antigens in spleen were higher in mice that received both HRTV and tick SGE. In conclusion, we have developed a small animal model that mimics natural human infection and also demonstrated the impact of tick salivary factors in exacerbating the HRTV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin S Reynolds
- SUNY Center for Vector-Borne Diseases, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
- Institute for Global Health and Translational Sciences, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Jacob T Wooldridge
- Department of Pathology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | - Heather L Stevenson
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Saravanan Thangamani
- SUNY Center for Vector-Borne Diseases, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA.
- Institute for Global Health and Translational Sciences, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA.
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA.
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6
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Shah T, Li Q, Wang B, Baloch Z, Xia X. Geographical distribution and pathogenesis of ticks and tick-borne viral diseases. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1185829. [PMID: 37293222 PMCID: PMC10244671 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1185829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Ticks are obligatory hematophagous arthropods that harbor and transmit infectious pathogens to humans and animals. Tick species belonging to Amblyomma, Ixodes, Dermacentor, and Hyalomma genera may transmit certain viruses such as Bourbon virus (BRBV), Dhori virus (DHOV), Powassan virus (POWV), Omsk hemorrhagic fever virus (OHFV), Colorado tick fever virus (CTFV), Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV), Heartland virus (HRTV), Kyasanur forest disease virus (KFDV), etc. that affect humans and certain wildlife. The tick vectors may become infected through feeding on viraemic hosts before transmitting the pathogen to humans and animals. Therefore, it is vital to understand the eco-epidemiology of tick-borne viruses and their pathogenesis to optimize preventive measures. Thus this review summarizes knowledge on some medically important ticks and tick-borne viruses, including BRBV, POWV, OHFV, CTFV, CCHFV, HRTV, and KFDV. Further, we discuss these viruses' epidemiology, pathogenesis, and disease manifestations during infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taif Shah
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Provincial Center for Molecular Medicine, Kunming, China
| | - Qian Li
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Provincial Center for Molecular Medicine, Kunming, China
| | - Binghui Wang
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Provincial Center for Molecular Medicine, Kunming, China
| | - Zulqarnain Baloch
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Provincial Center for Molecular Medicine, Kunming, China
| | - Xueshan Xia
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Provincial Center for Molecular Medicine, Kunming, China
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7
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Liu S, Kannan S, Meeks M, Sanchez S, Girone KW, Broyhill JC, Martines RB, Bernick J, Flammia L, Murphy J, Hills SL, Burkhalter KL, Laven JJ, Gaines D, Hoffmann CJ. Fatal Case of Heartland Virus Disease Acquired in the Mid-Atlantic Region, United States. Emerg Infect Dis 2023; 29:992-996. [PMID: 36821867 PMCID: PMC10124632 DOI: 10.3201/eid2905.221488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Heartland virus (HRTV) disease is an emerging tickborne illness in the midwestern and southern United States. We describe a reported fatal case of HRTV infection in the Maryland and Virginia region, states not widely recognized to have human HRTV disease cases. The range of HRTV could be expanding in the United States.
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8
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Reynolds ES, Wooldridge JT, Stevenson H, Thangamani S. The Lone Star Tick, Amblyomma americanum, salivary factors exacerbate the clinical outcome of Heartland virus disease in a small animal model. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-2828801. [PMID: 37163121 PMCID: PMC10168474 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2828801/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Heartland virus was first isolated in 2009 from two patients in Missouri and is transmitted by the lone star tick, Amblyomma americanum. To understand disease transmission and pathogenesis, it is necessary to develop an animal model that utilizes the natural transmission route and manifests in a manner similar to documented human cases. Herein we describe our investigations on identifying A129 mice as the most appropriate small animal model for HRTV pathogenesis that mimics human clinical outcomes. We further investigated the impact of tick saliva in enhancing pathogen transmission and clinical outcomes. Our investigations revealed an increase in viral load in the groups of mice that received both virus and tick salivary gland extract (SGE). Spleens of all infected mice showed extramedullary hematopoiesis (EH), depleted white pulp, and absence of germinal centers. This observation mimics the splenomegaly observed in natural human cases. In the group that received both HRTV and tick SGE, the clinical outcome of HRTV infection was exacerbated compared to HRTV-only infection. EH scores and viral antigens in the spleen were higher in mice that received both HRTV and tick SGE. In conclusion, we have developed a small animal model that mimics natural human infection and also demonstrated the impact to tick salivary factors in exacerbating the HRTV infection.
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9
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Susceptibility of Type I Interferon Receptor Knock-Out Mice to Heartland Bandavirus (HRTV) Infection and Efficacy of Favipiravir and Ribavirin in the Treatment of the Mice Infected with HRTV. Viruses 2022; 14:v14081668. [PMID: 36016290 PMCID: PMC9416051 DOI: 10.3390/v14081668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Heartland bandavirus (HRTV) is an emerging tick-borne virus that is distributed in the United States and that causes febrile illness with thrombocytopenia and leukocytopenia. It is genetically close to Dabie bandavirus, which is well known as severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) virus (SFTSV). The mortality rate of human HRTV infection is approximately 10%; however, neither approved anti-HRTV agents nor vaccines exist. An appropriate animal model should be developed to evaluate the efficacy of antiviral agents and vaccines against HRTV. The susceptibility of IFNAR−/− mice with HRTV infection was evaluated using subcutaneous, intraperitoneal, and retro-orbital inoculation routes. IFNAR−/− mice intraperitoneally infected with HRTV showed the most severe clinical signs, and the 50% lethal dose was 3.2 × 106 TCID50. Furthermore, to evaluate the utility of a novel lethal IFNAR−/− mice model, IFNAR−/− mice were orally administered favipiravir, ribavirin, or a solvent for 5 days immediately after a lethal dose of HRTV inoculation. The survival rates of the favipiravir-, ribavirin-, and solvent-administered mice were 100, 33, and 0%, respectively. The changes in bodyweights and HRTV RNA loads in the blood of favipiravir-treated IFNAR−/− mice were the lowest among the three groups, which suggests that favipiravir is a promising drug candidate for the treatment of patients with HRTV infection.
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Clarke LL, Mead DG, Ruder MG, Howerth EW, Stallknecht D. North American Arboviruses and White-Tailed Deer ( Odocoileus virginianus): Associated Diseases and Role in Transmission. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2022; 22:425-442. [PMID: 35867036 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2022.0005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Arboviral disease is of increasing concern to human and animal health professionals as emerging and re-emerging arboviruses are more frequently recognized. Wildlife species are known to play a role in the transmission and maintenance of arboviruses and infections can result in morbidity and mortality in wildlife hosts. Materials and Methods: In this review, we detail existing evidence of white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) as an important host to a diverse collection of arboviruses and evaluate the utility of this species as a resource to better understand the epidemiology of related viral diseases. Results: Relevant veterinary and zoonotic viral pathogens endemic to North America include epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus, bluetongue virus, orthobunyaviruses, vesicular stomatitis virus, Eastern equine encephalitis virus, West Nile virus, and Powassan virus. Exotic viral pathogens that may infect white-tailed deer are also identified with an emphasis on zoonotic disease risks. The utility of this species is attributed to the high degree of contact with humans and domestic livestock and evidence of preferential feeding by various insect vectors. Conclusions: There is mounting evidence that white-tailed deer are a useful, widely available source of information regarding arboviral circulation, and that surveillance and monitoring of deer populations would be of value to the understanding of certain viral transmission dynamics, with implications for improving human and domestic animal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorelei L Clarke
- Wisconsin Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Daniel G Mead
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Mark G Ruder
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Elizabeth W Howerth
- Department of Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - David Stallknecht
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
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11
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Pathogen Spillover to an Invasive Tick Species: First Detection of Bourbon Virus in Haemaphysalis longicornis in the United States. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11040454. [PMID: 35456129 PMCID: PMC9030182 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11040454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Haemaphysalis longicornis (Neumann, 1901) (Acari: Ixodidae), the Asian longhorned tick, is an invasive tick species present in the USA since at least 2017 and has been detected in one-third of Virginia counties. While this species is associated with the transmission of multiple pathogens in its native geographical range of eastern Asia, little is known about its ability to acquire and transmit pathogens in the USA, specifically those that are transmissible to humans, although from an animal health perspective, it has already been shown to vector Theileria orientalis Ikeda strains. Emerging tick-borne viruses such as Bourbon virus (genus: Thogotovirus) are of concern, as these newly discovered pathogenic agents have caused fatal clinical cases, and little is known about their distribution or enzootic maintenance. This study examined H. longicornis collected within Virginia (from ten counties) for Bourbon and Heartland viruses using PCR methods. All ticks tested negative for Heartland virus via qRT-PCR (S segment target). Bourbon-virus-positive samples were confirmed on two different gene targets and with Sanger sequencing of the PB2 (segment 1) gene. Bourbon virus RNA was detected in one nymphal stage H. longicornis from Patrick County, one nymph from Staunton City, and one larval pool and one adult female tick from Wythe County, Virginia. An additional 100 Amblyomma americanum (Linnaeus 1758; lone star tick) collected at the same Patrick County site revealed one positive nymphal pool, suggesting that Bourbon virus may have spilled over from the native vector, potentially by co-feeding on a shared Bourbon-virus-infected vertebrate host. Blood tested from local harvested deer revealed a 11.1% antibody seroprevalence against Bourbon virus, exposure which further corroborates that this tick-borne virus is circulating in the southwest Virginia region. Through these results, it can be concluded that H. longicornis can carry Bourbon virus and that pathogen spillover may occur from native to invasive tick species.
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12
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Romer Y, Adcock K, Wei Z, Mead DG, Kirstein O, Bellman S, Piantadosi A, Kitron U, Vazquez-Prokopec GM. Isolation of Heartland Virus from Lone Star Ticks, Georgia, USA, 2019. Emerg Infect Dis 2022; 28:786-792. [PMID: 35318917 PMCID: PMC8962890 DOI: 10.3201/eid2804.211540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
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13
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Dupuis AP, Prusinski MA, O'Connor C, Maffei JG, Ngo KA, Koetzner CA, Santoriello MP, Romano CL, Xu G, Ribbe F, Campbell SR, Rich SM, Backenson PB, Kramer LD, Ciota AT. Heartland Virus Transmission, Suffolk County, New York, USA. Emerg Infect Dis 2021; 27:3128-3132. [PMID: 34648421 PMCID: PMC8632170 DOI: 10.3201/eid2712.211426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
During 2018, Heartland virus RNA was detected in an Amblyomma americanum tick removed from a resident of Suffolk County, New York, USA. The person showed seroconversion. Tick surveillance and white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) serosurveys showed widespread distribution in Suffolk County, emphasizing a need for disease surveillance anywhere A. americanum ticks are established or emerging.
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14
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Higuita NIA, Franco-Paredes C, Henao-Martínez AF. The expanding spectrum of disease caused by the Lone Star Tick, Amblyomma americanum. LE INFEZIONI IN MEDICINA 2021; 29:378-385. [PMID: 35146342 PMCID: PMC8805489 DOI: 10.53854/liim-2903-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Ticks are remarkable vectors of a diverse and growing list of infectious agents of importance to both medical and veterinary disciplines. The tick Amblyomma americanum is one of the most frequently identified ticks in the United States with an expanding spectrum of human disease given its vast geographic range. The recently described Bourbon and Heartland viruses are likely transmitted by the Lone Star tick and are just two of the several novel tick-borne pathogens discovered in recent decades. The review will focus on these two viruses that can cause illness with similar characteristics to other diseases transmitted by the Lone Star tick. Healthcare professionals should consider these viruses in patients presenting with an ailment suggestive of a tick-born rickettsial disease that fails to improve with treatment with doxycycline. Additionally, some individuals may develop life-threatening allergic reactions triggered by the bite of the Lone Star tick.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelson Iván Agudelo Higuita
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Carlos Franco-Paredes
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Denver, Colorado, USA
| | - Andrés F. Henao-Martínez
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Denver, Colorado, USA
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15
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Abstract
Public health messaging in the eastern United States has historically underemphasized the risks posed by lone star ticks (Amblyomma americanum), focusing instead on blacklegged ticks (Ixodes scapularis). This gap persists despite mounting evidence that lone star ticks also play an important role in disease ecology as confirmed vectors for a wide variety of tick-borne pathogens. These pathogens include several distinct bacterial agents that cause ehrlichiosis and tularensis in humans and dogs, a protozoal agent that causes cytauxzoonosis in cats, and emerging viruses such as Heartland, Bourbon, and Tacaribe. Lone star ticks are additionally linked to Rocky Mountain spotted fever, southern tick-associated rash illness, and alpha-gal syndrome, a condition marked by immune reactions to ingestion of mammalian meat. Moreover, their distribution in North America is expanding due to changing climatic factors and land use patterns. Lone star ticks are the most commonly encountered tick in Delaware, especially in Sussex and Kent Counties, and make up the vast majority of ticks collected in the first two years of the state’s tick surveillance program. Given the magnitude of lone star ticks’ medical and veterinary import, it is vital for healthcare professionals and health educators to devote more attention to this emerging threat.
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16
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Viral RNA Metagenomics of Hyalomma Ticks Collected from Dromedary Camels in Makkah Province, Saudi Arabia. Viruses 2021; 13:v13071396. [PMID: 34372602 PMCID: PMC8310382 DOI: 10.3390/v13071396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 07/05/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Arthropod-borne infections are a medical and economic threat to humans and livestock. Over the last three decades, several unprecedented viral outbreaks have been recorded in the Western part of the Arabian Peninsula. However, little is known about the circulation and diversity of arthropod-borne viruses in this region. To prepare for new outbreaks of vector-borne diseases, it is important to detect which viruses circulate in each vector population. In this study, we used a metagenomics approach to characterize the RNA virome of ticks infesting dromedary camels (Camelus dromedaries) in Makkah province, Saudi Arabia. Two hundred ticks of species Hyalomma dromedarii (n = 196) and Hyalomma impeltatum (n = 4) were collected from the Alkhurma district in Jeddah and Al-Taif city. Virome analysis showed the presence of several tick-specific viruses and tick-borne viruses associated with severe illness in humans. Some were identified for the first time in the Arabian Peninsula. The human disease-associated viruses detected included Crimean Congo Hemorrhagic fever virus and Tamdy virus (family Nairoviridae), Guertu virus (family Phenuiviridae), and a novel coltivirus that shares similarities with Tarumizu virus, Tai forest reovirus and Kundal virus (family Reoviridae). Furthermore, Alkhurma hemorrhagic virus (Flaviviridae) was detected in two tick pools by specific qPCR. In addition, tick-specific viruses in families Phenuiviridae (phleboviruses), Iflaviridae, Chuviridae, Totiviridae and Flaviviridae (Pestivirus) were detected. The presence of human pathogenetic viruses warrants further efforts in tick surveillance, xenosurveillence, vector control, and sero-epidemiological investigations in human and animal populations to predict, contain and mitigate future outbreaks in the region.
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17
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Entry of Phenuiviruses into Mammalian Host Cells. Viruses 2021; 13:v13020299. [PMID: 33672975 PMCID: PMC7918600 DOI: 10.3390/v13020299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Phenuiviridae is a large family of arthropod-borne viruses with over 100 species worldwide. Several cause severe diseases in both humans and livestock. Global warming and the apparent geographical expansion of arthropod vectors are good reasons to seriously consider these viruses potential agents of emerging diseases. With an increasing frequency and number of epidemics, some phenuiviruses represent a global threat to public and veterinary health. This review focuses on the early stage of phenuivirus infection in mammalian host cells. We address current knowledge on each step of the cell entry process, from virus binding to penetration into the cytosol. Virus receptors, endocytosis, and fusion mechanisms are discussed in light of the most recent progress on the entry of banda-, phlebo-, and uukuviruses, which together constitute the three prominent genera in the Phenuiviridae family.
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18
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Decker MD, Morton CT, Moncayo AC. One Confirmed and 2 Suspected Cases of Heartland Virus Disease. Clin Infect Dis 2020; 71:3237-3240. [PMID: 32459327 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaa647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Heartland virus is a tickborne phlebovirus first identified in Missouri in 2009; 11 human cases have been reported in the literature. Reported hallmarks of infection have included fever, malaise, anorexia, gastrointestinal complaints, thrombocytopenia, neutropenia, and aminotransferase elevations. We report 1 confirmed and 2 suspected cases and discuss implications for case-finding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Decker
- Department of Health Policy, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Colleen T Morton
- Division of Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Abelardo C Moncayo
- Vector-Borne Diseases Program, Tennessee Department of Health, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
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19
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Shelite TR, Bopp NE, Moncayo A, Reynolds ES, Thangamani S, Melby PC, Bloch K, Aguilar PV, Travi BL. Isothermal Recombinase Polymerase Amplification-Lateral Flow Point-of-Care Diagnostic Test for Heartland Virus. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2020; 21:110-115. [PMID: 33259736 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2020.2670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The detection of novel or re-emergent pathogens necessitates the development of rapid, easy-to-use diagnostic tests that can be readily adapted and utilized in both clinical laboratories and field settings. Heartland virus (HRTV) is the first pathogenic Phlebovirus responsible for serious and fatal cases in the United States. We developed a qualitative test based on recombinase-polymerase-amplification coupled with lateral flow reading (RPA-LF) for rapid detection of HRTV. The RPA-LF detected HRTV with a limit of detection of 1.19-1.54 plaque-forming unit equivalents/reaction. In addition, the RPA-LF was able to detect 0.6075 copies/μL of HRTV nucleoprotein gene-containing plasmid. We evaluated six clinical samples that were previously found to be real-time PCR positive for HRTV and found five out of six samples to be positive by RPA-LF, yielding 83.3% concordance with real-time PCR. All six samples had Ct values between 29 and 39 by real-time PCR. We also determined that the HRTV primers and probe do not cross-react with other tick-transmitted viruses such as Bourbon and Powassan, or other related viruses, including Lonestar tick virus and Sunday canyon virus (100% specificity). This is the first isothermal amplification test developed for a tick-borne virus, which will allow for rapid differentiation between HRTV and other pathogens producing similar clinical manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas R Shelite
- Department of Internal Medicine-Infectious Diseases and University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Nathen E Bopp
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), Galveston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Erin S Reynolds
- SUNY Center for Environmental Health and Medicine, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA
| | - Saravanan Thangamani
- SUNY Center for Environmental Health and Medicine, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA.,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA
| | - Peter C Melby
- Department of Internal Medicine-Infectious Diseases and University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Karen Bloch
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Patricia V Aguilar
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), Galveston, Texas, USA
| | - Bruno L Travi
- Department of Internal Medicine-Infectious Diseases and University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB), Galveston, Texas, USA
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20
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Li J, Li S, Yang L, Cao P, Lu J. Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus: a highly lethal bunyavirus. Crit Rev Microbiol 2020; 47:112-125. [PMID: 33245676 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2020.1847037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) is a novel bunyavirus. Since 2007, SFTS disease has been reported in China with high fatality rate up to 30%, which drew high attention from Centre for Disease Control and Prevention and government. SFTSV is endemic in the centra l and eastern China, Korea and Japan. There also have been similar cases reported in Vietnam. The number of SFTSV infection cases has a steady growth in these years. As SFTSV could transmitted from person to person, it will expose the public to infectious risk. In 2018 annual review of the Blueprint list of priority diseases, World Health Organisation has listed SFTSV infection as prioritised diseases for research and development in emergency contexts. However, the pathogenesis of SFTSV remains largely unclear. Currently, there are no specific therapeutics or vaccines to combat infections of SFTSV. This review discusses recent findings of epidemiology, transmission pathway, pathogenesis and treatments of SFTS disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Li
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Department of Hematology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China.,China-Africa Research Center of Infectious Diseases, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Shen Li
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Department of Hematology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China.,China-Africa Research Center of Infectious Diseases, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Li Yang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Department of Hematology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China.,China-Africa Research Center of Infectious Diseases, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Pengfei Cao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Department of Hematology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China.,China-Africa Research Center of Infectious Diseases, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jianhong Lu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Carcinogenesis, Department of Hematology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Department of Microbiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China.,China-Africa Research Center of Infectious Diseases, Central South University, Changsha, China
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21
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Miao D, Dai K, Zhao GP, Li XL, Shi WQ, Zhang JS, Yang Y, Liu W, Fang LQ. Mapping the global potential transmission hotspots for severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome by machine learning methods. Emerg Microbes Infect 2020; 9:817-826. [PMID: 32212956 PMCID: PMC7241453 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2020.1748521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is an emerging infectious disease with increasing spread. Currently SFTS transmission has expanded beyond Asian countries, however, with definitive global extents and risk patterns remained obscure. Here we established an exhaustive database that included globally reported locations of human SFTS cases and the competent vector, Haemaphysalis longicornis (H. longicornis), as well as the explanatory environmental variables, based on which, the potential geographic range of H. longicornis and risk areas for SFTS were mapped by applying two machine learning methods. Ten predictors were identified contributing to global distribution for H. longicornis with relative contribution ≥1%. Outside contemporary known distribution, we predict high receptivity to H. longicornis across two continents, including northeastern USA, New Zealand, parts of Australia, and several Pacific islands. Eight key drivers of SFTS cases occurrence were identified, including elevation, predicted probability of H. longicornis presence, two temperature-related factors, two precipitation-related factors, the richness of mammals and percentage coverage of water bodies. The globally model-predicted risk map of human SFTS occurrence was created and validated effective for discriminating the actual affected and unaffected areas (median predictive probability 0.74 vs. 0.04, P < 0.001) in three countries with reported cases outside China. The high-risk areas (probability ≥50%) were predicted mainly in east-central China, most parts of the Korean peninsula and southern Japan, and northern New Zealand. Our findings highlight areas where an intensive vigilance for potential SFTS spread or invasion events should be advocated, owing to their high receptibility to H. longicornis distribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Ke Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Guo-Ping Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin-Lou Li
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen-Qiang Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiu Song Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Yang
- Department of Biostatistics, College of Public Health and Health Professions, and Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Wei Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Li-Qun Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Pathogen and Biosecurity, Beijing Institute of Microbiology and Epidemiology, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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22
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Rodino KG, Theel ES, Pritt BS. Tick-Borne Diseases in the United States. Clin Chem 2020; 66:537-548. [PMID: 32232463 DOI: 10.1093/clinchem/hvaa040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tick-borne diseases are an important cause of human morbidity and mortality in the United States. The past several decades have witnessed an increase in both the number of recognized tick-borne pathogens and the number of tick-borne disease cases, whereas tick surveys have revealed substantial geographic expansions of tick populations throughout the country. Multiple laboratory testing options exist for diagnosis of tick-borne diseases, including serology, microscopy, and molecular-based methods. The preferred approach varies by the specific disease, locally available test options, and the stage of illness at patient presentation. Accurate and timely detection of tick-borne illness is of utmost importance, as prompt treatment is strongly linked to better outcomes. CONTENT This review covers the clinical manifestations and preferred diagnostic approaches for important bacterial, viral, and parasitic tick-borne diseases in the United States, including Lyme disease, tick-borne relapsing fever, anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, spotted fever rickettsioses, and babesiosis. Infection with emerging pathogens such as Borrelia miyamotoi, Powassan virus, Heartland virus, Colorado tick fever virus, and Bourbon virus are also covered. SUMMARY Our understanding of tick-borne diseases in the United States continues to improve with the detection of novel pathogens and development of new diagnostic modalities. While conventional diagnostic methods, including serology and microscopy, will play an ongoing role in the diagnosis of tick-borne diseases, implementation of advanced molecular diagnostics will further broaden our understanding of these diseases by facilitating detection of emerging pathogens and providing more accurate and timely diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyle G Rodino
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Elitza S Theel
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
| | - Bobbi S Pritt
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN
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23
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Identification of recently identified tick-borne viruses (Dabieshan tick virus and SFTSV) by metagenomic analysis in ticks from Shandong Province, China. J Infect 2020; 81:973-978. [PMID: 33115659 DOI: 10.1016/j.jinf.2020.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to systematically examine the variety of viruses maintained in ticks from Shandong Province. A total of 2522 ticks were sampled from five cities of Shandong Province and divided into 264 pools according to location and species. Viral megagenomic analysis revealed the sequences of two viruses, Dabieshan tick virus and SFTSV. Then qRT-PCR and nested PCR were performed to confirm the presence of corresponding pathogens, which showed positive results for Dabieshan tick virus and SFTSV, with a minimum infection rate of 0.67% (17/2522) and 2.5% (63/2522), respectively. Phylogenetic analysis showed that Dabieshan tick virus formed a monophyletic cluster with the Yongjia tick virus and Uukuniemi virus from China, and SFTSV shared over 95% identity with human and animal derived isolates. These findings are the first time to demonstrate molecular evidence of Dabieshan tick virus in unrecognized endemic regions and indicate the need for further investigation.
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24
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Diaz JH. Emerging Tickborne Viral Infections: What Wilderness Medicine Providers Need to Know. Wilderness Environ Med 2020; 31:489-497. [PMID: 32891500 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2020.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Ticks are versatile vectors of infectious diseases and transmit a broad range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Ticks harbor pathogens without infection and share pathogens with other ticks while feeding together on a host. The primary objective of this review is to identify tickborne viral pathogens in the United States, focusing on emerging pathogens. Additional objectives include describing the epidemiology of tick-transmitted viruses, identifying the most common tick vectors of viral pathogens in the United States, identifying the most common tick-transmitted viruses worldwide, and recommending effective strategies for the prevention and treatment of tickborne viral infections. Flaviviruses transmitted by ixodid ticks cause most tickborne viral infections that present clinically as either encephalitis or hemorrhagic fever. Recently, several new tickborne viruses have emerged in the United States, including Bourbon virus, Heartland virus, Powassan virus, and the severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus transmitted by a tick recently introduced from China, the Asian long-horned tick (Haemaphysalis longicornis). In most cases, there are no specific drug therapies for tickborne viral infections, and treatment is supportive. Vaccination, personal protection, landscape management, and wildlife management are all effective strategies for the primary prevention and control of tickborne viral infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- James H Diaz
- Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, Louisiana.
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25
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Abstract
Ticks are the most important vectors of human pathogens, leading to increased public health burdens worldwide. Tick-borne pathogens include viruses (e.g. tick-borne encephalitis and Powassan); bacteria, such as the causative agents of Lyme disease, spotted fever rickettsiosis and human anaplasmosis; and malaria-like protozoan parasites causing babesiosis. Tick-borne diseases are emerging due to the geographical expansion of their tick vectors, especially in the northern hemisphere. Two examples of this phenomenon are Ixodes scapularis and Amblyomma americanum, which have expanded their ranges in the USA in recent decades and are responsible for the continuous emergence of Lyme disease and human ehrlichiosis, respectively. This phenomenon is also occurring worldwide and is reflected by the increasing number of tick-borne encephalitis and haemorrhagic fever cases in Europe and Asia. In this review, we provide a concise synopsis of the most medically important tick-borne pathogen worldwide, with a particular emphasis on emerging public health threats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilia Rochlin
- Center for Vector Biology, Rutgers University, 180 Jones Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
| | - Alvaro Toledo
- Department of Entomology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
- Center for Vector Biology, Rutgers University, 180 Jones Avenue, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, USA
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26
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Staples JE, Pastula DM, Panella AJ, Rabe IB, Kosoy OI, Walker WL, Velez JO, Lambert AJ, Fischer M. Investigation of Heartland Virus Disease Throughout the United States, 2013-2017. Open Forum Infect Dis 2020; 7:ofaa125. [PMID: 32478118 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofaa125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Heartland virus (HRTV) was first described as a human pathogen in 2012. From 2013 to 2017, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) implemented a national protocol to evaluate patients for HRTV disease, better define its geographic distribution, epidemiology, and clinical characteristics, and develop diagnostic assays for this novel virus. Methods Individuals aged ≥12 years whose clinicians contacted state health departments or the CDC about testing for HRTV infections were screened for recent onset of fever with leukopenia and thrombocytopenia. A questionnaire was administered to collect data on demographics, risk factors, and signs and symptoms; blood samples were tested for the presence of HRTV RNA and neutralizing antibodies. Results Of 85 individuals enrolled and tested, 16 (19%) had evidence of acute HRTV infection, 1 (1%) had past infection, and 68 (80%) had no infection. Patients with acute HRTV disease were residents of 7 states, 12 (75%) were male, and the median age (range) was 71 (43-80) years. Illness onset occurred from April to September. The majority reported fatigue, anorexia, nausea, headache, confusion, arthralgia, or myalgia. Fourteen (88%) cases were hospitalized; 2 (13%) died. Fourteen (88%) participants reported finding a tick on themselves in the 2 weeks before illness onset. HRTV-infected individuals were significantly older (P < .001) and more likely to report an attached tick (P = .03) than uninfected individuals. Conclusions Health care providers should consider HRTV disease testing in patients with an acute febrile illness with either leukopenia or thrombocytopenia not explained by another condition or who were suspected to have a tickborne disease but did not improve following appropriate treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Erin Staples
- Arboviral Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Daniel M Pastula
- Arboviral Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Amanda J Panella
- Arboviral Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Ingrid B Rabe
- Arboviral Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Olga I Kosoy
- Arboviral Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - William L Walker
- Arboviral Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Jason O Velez
- Arboviral Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Amy J Lambert
- Arboviral Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Marc Fischer
- Arboviral Diseases Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
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27
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Ren F, Zhou M, Deng F, Wang H, Ning YJ. Combinatorial Minigenome Systems for Emerging Banyangviruses Reveal Viral Reassortment Potential and Importance of a Protruding Nucleotide in Genome "Panhandle" for Promoter Activity and Reassortment. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:599. [PMID: 32322247 PMCID: PMC7156889 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.00599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Banyangvirus is a new genus (Phenuiviridae family, Bunyavirales order) that comprises a group of emerging tick-borne viruses with severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) and Heartland virus (HRTV) as virulent representatives. As segmented RNA viruses, bunyaviruses may have genome reassortment potential, increasing the concern about new life-threatening bunyavirus emergence. Using a series of combinatory minigenome reporter assays based on transfection and superinfection, we showed that replication machinery proteins of designated banyangviruses can recognize genomic untranslated regions (UTRs) of other banyangviruses and assemble heterogenous minigenomes into functional ribonucleoproteins (RNPs). Moreover, both heterogenous and heterozygous RNPs were efficiently packaged by viral glycoproteins into infectious virus-like particles, manifesting remarkable reassortment potential of banyangviruses. Meanwhile, UTR promoter strength of the three banyangvirus segments appeared to be M > L > S. Secondary structure analysis revealed a conservative non-basepairing protruding nucleotide in the terminal UTR panhandles of M and L (but not S) segments of all banyangviruses and some related phleboviruses (Phlebovirus genus). Furthermore, not only a conserved panhandle region but also the protruding nucleotide proved important for UTR function. Removal of the protruding nucleotide abated M and L UTR activities and compatibilities with heterogenous viral proteins, and introduction of a protruding nucleotide into S panhandle, conversely, enhanced UTR promoter strength and compatibility, revealing the significance of the protruding nucleotide as a new signature of the genomic panhandle structure in both UTR activity and reassortment potential. The study demonstrates not only banyangvirus reassortment potential but also the notable role of the protruding nucleotide in UTR function and reassortment, providing clues to viral evolution and replication mechanisms and perhaps benefiting disease control and prevention in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuli Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Min Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China.,National Virus Resource Center, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Fei Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China.,National Virus Resource Center, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China.,Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Hualin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China.,National Virus Resource Center, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China.,Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Yun-Jia Ning
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China.,National Virus Resource Center, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China.,Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
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Endy TP. Viral Febrile Illnesses and Emerging Pathogens. HUNTER'S TROPICAL MEDICINE AND EMERGING INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2020. [PMCID: PMC7151808 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-55512-8.00036-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Emerging or emerged diseases and viral pathogens are responsible historically and currently for large epidemics, global pandemics, and significant morbidity and mortality. Our civilization will continue to face the emergence of new pathogens and viruses: viruses will continue to evolve and adapt to new environments at a high rate; our population continues to grow through birth rate, land development, and migration; climate change will continue to increase the vector burden and spread and change the migratory pattern of animals; and our societal mobility will continue to increase through rapid transportation. The clinical evaluation of the febrile patient with a potential emerging viral pathogen involves documenting the likelihood for an infection by a detailed travel history, calculation of an incubation time by exposure, and an understanding of the disease progression though the clinical illness, which drives the differential diagnosis and the type of diagnostics ordered. Ultimately, the proper identification and diagnosis of a patient with a viral febrile illness due to an emerging pathogen will elicit the appropriate precautions to protect health care providers and communities, deliver appropriate therapeutic interventions, and initiate a targeted public health response. The majority of emerging diseases are caused by viruses, with many that are transmitted by insect vectors or are zoonotic. RNA viruses in particular have high mutation rates and can evolve rapidly in new and changing environments. This, in combination with societal factors, climate change, and rapid travel, has increased the number of epidemics from emerging pathogens in the last several decades. Understanding the travel history, incubation time of potential viruses, and the clinical presentation by illness day is essential in making the right diagnosis and identifying the infecting virus.
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Wang L, Wan G, Shen Y, Zhao Z, Lin L, Zhang W, Song R, Tian D, Wen J, Zhao Y, Yu X, Liu L, Feng Y, Liu Y, Qiang C, Duan J, Ma Y, Liu Y, Liu Y, Chen C, Ge Z, Li X, Chen Z, Fan T, Li W. A nomogram to predict mortality in patients with severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome at the early stage-A multicenter study in China. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2019; 13:e0007829. [PMID: 31765414 PMCID: PMC6934327 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0007829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Revised: 12/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) caused by the SFTS virus is an emerging infectious disease that was first identified in the rural areas of China in 2011. Severe cases often result in death due to multiple organ failure. To date, there are still numerous problems remain unresolved in SFTS, including unclear pathogenesis, lack of specific treatment, and no effective vaccines available. Aim To analyze the clinical information of patients with early-stage SFTS and to establish a nomogram for the mortality risk. Methods Between April 2011 and December 2018, data on consecutive patients who were diagnosed with SFTS were prospectively collected from five medical centers distributed in central and northeastern China. Multivariable Cox analyses were used to identify the factors independently associated with mortality. A nomogram for mortality was established using those factors. Results During the study period, 429 consecutive patients were diagnosed with SFTS at the early stage of the disease (within 7 days of fever), among whom 69 (16.1%) died within 28 days. The multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression analysis showed that low lymphocyte percentage, early-stage encephalopathy, and elevated concentration of serum LDH and BUN were independent risk factors for fatal outcomes. Received-operating characteristic curves for 7-, 14-, and 28-days survival had AUCs of 0.944 (95% CI: 0.920–0.968), 0.924 (95% CI: 0.896–0.953), and 0.924 (95% CI: 0.895–0.952), respectively. Among low-risk patients, 6 patients died (2.2%). Among moderate-risk patients, 25 patients died (24.0%, hazard ratio (HR) = 11.957). Among high-risk patients, the mortality rate was 69.1% (HR = 57.768). Conclusion We established a simple and practical clinical scoring system, through which we can identify critically ill patients and provide intensive medical intervention for patients as soon as possible to reduce mortality. We established a SFTS nomogram scoring system, which is the first nomogram for this disease. According to this nomogram, patients were divided into three levels of mortality risk: low, moderate, and high. This scoring system is helpful to identify critically ill patients, allowing for early intervention and intensive care, which may contribute to reducing the mortality of SFTS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Wang
- Center of Infectious Disease, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Gang Wan
- Statistics Room, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Shen
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Dandong Infectious Disease Hospital, Dandong, China
| | - Zhenghua Zhao
- Department of Infectious Disease, Taian City Central Hospital, Taian, China
| | - Ling Lin
- Department of Infectious Disease, Yantai City Hospital for Infectious Disease, Yantai, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Center of Infectious Disease, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Rui Song
- Center of Infectious Disease, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Di Tian
- Center of Infectious Disease, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Jing Wen
- Center of Infectious Disease, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yongxiang Zhao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Dandong Infectious Disease Hospital, Dandong, China
| | - Xiaoli Yu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Dandong Infectious Disease Hospital, Dandong, China
| | - Li Liu
- Department of Infectious Disease, Taian City Central Hospital, Taian, China
| | - Yang Feng
- Department of Infectious Disease, Taian City Central Hospital, Taian, China
| | - Yuanni Liu
- Department of Infectious Disease, Yantai City Hospital for Infectious Disease, Yantai, China
| | - Chunqian Qiang
- Department of Infectious Disease, Yantai City Hospital for Infectious Disease, Yantai, China
| | - Jianping Duan
- Department of Infectious Disease, Qing Dao No. 6 People's Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Yanli Ma
- Department of Infectious Disease, Qing Dao No. 6 People's Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Clinical Laboratory, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yanan Liu
- Clinical Laboratory, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Chong Chen
- Graduate School of Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ziruo Ge
- Graduate School of Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xingwang Li
- Center of Infectious Disease, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhihai Chen
- Center of Infectious Disease, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Tianli Fan
- Department of Infectious Disease, Qing Dao No. 6 People's Hospital, Qingdao, China
| | - Wei Li
- Interventional Therapy Oncology, Beijing Ditan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
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Fine epitope mapping of glycoprotein Gn in Guertu virus. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0223978. [PMID: 31618247 PMCID: PMC6795428 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0223978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Guertu virus (GTV) is a tick-borne phleboviruses (TBPVs) which belongs to the genus Banyangvirus in the family of Phenuiviridae. In vitro and in vivo studies of GTV demonstrated that it was able to infect animal and human cell lines and could cause pathological lesions in mice. Glycoproteins (GP, including Gn and Gc) on the surface of Guertu virus (GTV) could bind to receptors on host cells and induce protective immunity in the host, but knowledge is now lacking on the information of B cell epitopes (BCEs) present on GTV-GP protein. The aim of this study was to identify all BCEs on Gn of the GTV DXM strain using rabbit pAbs against GTV-Gn. Seven fine BCEs and two antigenic peptides (APs) from nine reactive 16mer-peptides were identified, which are EGn1 (2PIICEGLTHS11), EGn2 (135CSQDSGT141), EGn3 (165IP EDVF170), EGn4 (169VFQEL K174), EGn5 (187IDGILFN193), EGn6 (223QTKWIQ228), EGn7 (237CHKDGIGPC245), AP-8 (299GVRVRPKCYGFSRMMA314) and AP-9 (355CASH FCSSAESGKKNT370), of which six of mapped BCEs were recognized by the IgG-positive sheep serum obtained from sheep GTV-infected naturally. Multiple sequence alignments (MSA) based on each mapped BCE motif identified that the most of identified BCEs and APs are highly conserved among 10 SFTSV strains from different countries and lineages that share relatively close evolutionary relationships with GTV. The fine epitope mapping of the GTV-Gn would provide basic data with which to explore the GTV-Gn antigen structure and pathogenic mechanisms, and it could lay the foundation for the design and development of a GTV multi-epitope peptide vaccine and detection antigen.
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31
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Westover JB, Hickerson BT, Van Wettere AJ, Hurst BL, Kurz JP, Dagley A, Wülfroth P, Komeno T, Furuta Y, Steiner T, Gowen BB. Vascular Leak and Hypercytokinemia Associated with Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome Virus Infection in Mice. Pathogens 2019; 8:pathogens8040158. [PMID: 31546590 PMCID: PMC6963364 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens8040158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2019] [Revised: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is an emerging viral hemorrhagic fever (VHF) endemic to China, South Korea, Japan, and Vietnam. Here we characterize the pathogenesis and natural history of disease in IFNAR-/- mice challenged with the HB29 strain of SFTS virus (SFTSV) and demonstrate hallmark features of VHF such as vascular leak and high concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines in blood and tissues. Treatment with FX06, a natural plasmin digest product of fibrin in clinical development as a treatment for vascular leak, reduced vascular permeability associated with SFTSV infection but did not significantly improve survival outcome. Further studies are needed to assess the role of vascular compromise in the SFTS disease process modeled in IFNAR-/- mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonna B Westover
- Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322, USA.
| | - Brady T Hickerson
- Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322, USA.
| | - Arnaud J Van Wettere
- Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322, USA.
- Utah Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84341, USA.
| | - Brett L Hurst
- Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322, USA.
| | - Jacqueline P Kurz
- Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322, USA.
- Utah Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84341, USA.
| | - Ashley Dagley
- Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322, USA.
| | | | - Takashi Komeno
- FUJIFILM Toyama Chemical Co., Ltd., Toyama 930-8508, Japan.
| | - Yousuke Furuta
- FUJIFILM Toyama Chemical Co., Ltd., Toyama 930-8508, Japan.
| | | | - Brian B Gowen
- Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84322, USA.
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Immune Modulation and Immune-Mediated Pathogenesis of Emerging Tickborne Banyangviruses. Vaccines (Basel) 2019; 7:vaccines7040125. [PMID: 31547199 PMCID: PMC6963857 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines7040125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2019] [Revised: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 09/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last decade, the emergence of several, novel tickborne viruses have caused significant disease in humans. Of interest are the tickborne banyangviruses: Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV), Heartland virus (HRTV), and Guertu virus (GTV). SFTSV and HRTV infection in humans cause viral hemorrhagic fever-like disease leading to mortality rates ranging from 6–30% of the cases. The systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) associated with SFTSV infection is hypothesized to contribute significantly to pathology seen in patients. Despite the severe disease caused by HRTV and SFTSV, there are no approved therapeutics or vaccines. Investigation of the immune response during and following infection is critical to the generation of fully protective vaccines and/or supportive treatments, and overall understanding of viral immune evasion mechanisms may aid in the development of a new class of therapeutics.
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33
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Calcium channel blockers reduce severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) related fatality. Cell Res 2019; 29:739-753. [PMID: 31444469 DOI: 10.1038/s41422-019-0214-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS), an emerging tick-borne infectious disease caused by a novel phlebovirus (SFTS virus, SFTSV), was listed among the top 10 priority infectious diseases by the World Health Organization due to its high fatality of 12%-50% and possibility of pandemic transmission. Currently, effective anti-SFTSV intervention remains unavailable. Here, by screening a library of FDA-approved drugs, we found that benidipine hydrochloride, a calcium channel blocker (CCB), inhibited SFTSV replication in vitro. Benidipine hydrochloride was revealed to inhibit virus infection through impairing virus internalization and genome replication. Further experiments showed that a broad panel of CCBs, including nifedipine, inhibited SFTSV infection. The anti-SFTSV effect of these two CCBs was further analyzed in a humanized mouse model in which CCB treatment resulted in reduced viral load and decreased fatality rate. Importantly, by performing a retrospective clinical investigation on a large cohort of 2087 SFTS patients, we revealed that nifedipine administration enhanced virus clearance, improved clinical recovery, and remarkably reduced the case fatality rate by >5-fold. These findings are highly valuable for developing potential host-oriented therapeutics for SFTS and other lethal acute viral infections known to be inhibited by CCBs in vitro.
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Werner SL, Banda BK, Burnsides CL, Stuber AJ. Zoonosis: Update on Existing and Emerging Vector-Borne Illnesses in the USA. CURRENT EMERGENCY AND HOSPITAL MEDICINE REPORTS 2019; 7:91-106. [PMID: 32288973 PMCID: PMC7102350 DOI: 10.1007/s40138-019-00189-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review describes mosquito- and tick-borne diseases found in the Western Hemisphere. It focuses on emerging diseases and recent geographic shifts in the presence of disease vectors. RECENT FINDINGS Mosquito and tick vectors have become more widespread as environmental conditions have become more favorable. Zika recently has emerged as a concern for fetal anomalies. West Nile Virus has become widespread. Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases are more prevalent in areas previously inhospitable to these ticks. SUMMARY Healthcare providers must consider the possibility of mosquito- and tick-borne diseases in broader geographic areas and council patients traveling to endemic areas on precautions against these diseases. Treatment for suspected cases of serious tick-borne illnesses should not be delayed pending culture results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Lee Werner
- MetroHealth/Cleveland Clinic/CWRU Emergency Medicine Residency Program, Department of Emergency Medicine, MetroHealth Medical Center, 2500 MetroHealth Drive, Cleveland, OH 44109 USA
| | - Bhanu Kirthi Banda
- MetroHealth/Cleveland Clinic/CWRU Emergency Medicine Residency Program, Department of Emergency Medicine, MetroHealth Medical Center, 2500 MetroHealth Drive, Cleveland, OH 44109 USA
| | - Christopher Lee Burnsides
- MetroHealth/Cleveland Clinic/CWRU Emergency Medicine Residency Program, Department of Emergency Medicine, MetroHealth Medical Center, 2500 MetroHealth Drive, Cleveland, OH 44109 USA
| | - Alexander James Stuber
- MetroHealth/Cleveland Clinic/CWRU Emergency Medicine Residency Program, Department of Emergency Medicine, MetroHealth Medical Center, 2500 MetroHealth Drive, Cleveland, OH 44109 USA
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Feng K, Deng F, Hu Z, Wang H, Ning YJ. Heartland virus antagonizes type I and III interferon antiviral signaling by inhibiting phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of STAT2 and STAT1. J Biol Chem 2019; 294:9503-9517. [PMID: 31040183 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.ra118.006563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2018] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Heartland virus (HRTV) is a pathogenic phlebovirus recently identified in the United States and related to severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) emerging in Asia. We previously reported that SFTSV disrupts host antiviral responses directed by interferons (IFNs) and their downstream regulators, signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) proteins. However, whether HRTV infection antagonizes the IFN-STAT signaling axis remains unclear. Here, we show that, similar to SFTSV, HRTV also inhibits IFN-α- and IFN-λ-mediated antiviral responses. As expected, the nonstructural protein (NSs) of HRTV (HNSs) robustly antagonized both type I and III IFN signaling. Protein interaction analyses revealed that a common component downstream of type I and III IFN signaling, STAT2, is the target of HNSs. Of note, the DNA-binding and linker domains of STAT2 were required for an efficient HNSs-STAT2 interaction. Unlike the NSs of SFTSV (SNSs), which blocks both STAT2 and STAT1 nuclear accumulation, HNSs specifically blocked IFN-triggered nuclear translocation only of STAT2. However, upon HRTV infection, IFN-induced nuclear translocation of both STAT2 and STAT1 was suppressed, suggesting that STAT1 is an additional HRTV target for IFN antagonism. Consistently, despite HNSs inhibiting phosphorylation only of STAT2 and not STAT1, HRTV infection diminished both STAT2 and STAT1 phosphorylation. These results suggest that HRTV antagonizes IFN antiviral signaling by dampening both STAT2 and STAT1 activities. We propose that HNSs-specific targeting of STAT2 likely plays an important role but is not all of the "tactics" of HRTV in its immune evasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuan Feng
- From the State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China and.,the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 101408, China
| | - Fei Deng
- From the State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China and
| | - Zhihong Hu
- From the State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China and
| | - Hualin Wang
- From the State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China and
| | - Yun-Jia Ning
- From the State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China and
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M Segment-Based Minigenomes and Virus-Like Particle Assays as an Approach To Assess the Potential of Tick-Borne Phlebovirus Genome Reassortment. J Virol 2019; 93:JVI.02068-18. [PMID: 30567991 PMCID: PMC6401446 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.02068-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Bunyaviruses have a tripartite negative-sense RNA genome. Due to the segmented nature of these viruses, if two closely related viruses coinfect the same host or vector cell, it is possible that RNA segments from either of the two parental viruses will be incorporated into progeny virions to give reassortant viruses. Little is known about the ability of tick-borne phleboviruses to reassort. The present study describes the development of minigenome assays for the tick-borne viruses Uukuniemi phlebovirus (UUKV) and Heartland phlebovirus (HRTV). We used these minigenome assays in conjunction with the existing minigenome system of severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) phlebovirus (SFTSV) to assess the abilities of viral N and L proteins to recognize, transcribe, and replicate the M segment-based minigenome of a heterologous virus. The highest minigenome activity was detected with the M segment-based minigenomes of cognate viruses. However, our findings indicate that several combinations utilizing N and L proteins of heterologous viruses resulted in M segment minigenome activity. This suggests that the M segment untranslated regions (UTRs) are recognized as functional promoters of transcription and replication by the N and L proteins of related viruses. Further, virus-like particle assays demonstrated that HRTV glycoproteins can package UUKV and SFTSV S and L segment-based minigenomes. Taken together, these results suggest that coinfection with these viruses could lead to the generation of viable reassortant progeny. Thus, the tools developed in this study could aid in understanding the role of genome reassortment in the evolution of these emerging pathogens in an experimental setting.IMPORTANCE In recent years, there has been a large expansion in the number of emerging tick-borne viruses that are assigned to the Phlebovirus genus. Bunyaviruses have a tripartite segmented genome, and infection of the same host cell by two closely related bunyaviruses can, in theory, result in eight progeny viruses with different genome segment combinations. We used genome analogues expressing reporter genes to assess the abilities of Phlebovirus nucleocapsid protein and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase to recognize the untranslated region of a genome segment of a related phlebovirus, and we used virus-like particle assays to assess whether viral glycoproteins can package genome analogues of related phleboviruses. Our results provide strong evidence that these emerging pathogens could reassort their genomes if they were to meet in nature in an infected host or vector. This reassortment process could result in viruses with new pathogenic properties.
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Carlson AL, Pastula DM, Lambert AJ, Staples JE, Muehlenbachs A, Turabelidze G, Eby CS, Keller J, Hess B, Buller RS, Storch GA, Byrnes K, Dehner L, Kirmani N, Kuhlmann FM. Heartland Virus and Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis in Immunocompromised Patient, Missouri, USA. Emerg Infect Dis 2019; 24:893-897. [PMID: 29664369 PMCID: PMC5938783 DOI: 10.3201/eid2405.171802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Heartland virus is a suspected tickborne pathogen in the United States. We describe a case of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, then death, in an immunosuppressed elderly man in Missouri, USA, who was infected with Heartland virus.
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38
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Bergren NA, Kading RC. The Ecological Significance and Implications of Transovarial Transmission among the Vector-Borne Bunyaviruses: A Review. INSECTS 2018; 9:E173. [PMID: 30486417 PMCID: PMC6315607 DOI: 10.3390/insects9040173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2018] [Revised: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Transovarial transmission (TOT) is a widespread and efficient process through which pathogens can be passed between generations of arthropod vectors. Many species within the order Bunyavirales utilize TOT as a means of persisting within the environment when classical horizontal transmission is not possible due to ecological constraints. The purpose of this review is to summarize previous findings regarding the ecological significance of TOT among viruses in the order Bunyavirales and identify the gaps in knowledge regarding this important mechanism of arboviral maintenance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas A Bergren
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA.
| | - Rebekah C Kading
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA.
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Souza WMD, Fumagalli MJ, Torres Carrasco ADO, Romeiro MF, Modha S, Seki MC, Gheller JM, Daffre S, Nunes MRT, Murcia PR, Acrani GO, Figueiredo LTM. Viral diversity of Rhipicephalus microplus parasitizing cattle in southern Brazil. Sci Rep 2018; 8:16315. [PMID: 30397237 PMCID: PMC6218518 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-34630-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Ticks are ectoparasites spread worldwide and are well known as vectors of many viruses of great importance to human and animal health. However, the viral diversity in ticks is still poorly understood, particularly in South America. Here we characterized the viral diversity present in Rhipicephalus microplus parasitizing cattle in the southern region of Brazil using metagenomics. Our study revealed the presence of viruses that had not been previously described in the region, including lihan tick virus (Phenuiviridae family) and wuhan tick virus 2 (Chuviridae family), as well as expands the biogeography of jingmen tick virus (Flaviviridae family) in Brazil. Also, we described three novel tymoviruses (Tymovirales order), named guarapuava tymovirus-like 1 to 3. We described the genomic and phylogenetic characterization of these viruses. Our study sheds light on the viral diversity of Rhipicephalus microplus in South America, and also expands the biogeography of tick viruses that were previously described only in Asia.
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Affiliation(s)
- William Marciel de Souza
- Virology Research Center, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto of University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, 14049-900, SP, Brazil. .,MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, G61 1QH, Scotland, United Kingdom.
| | - Marcílio Jorge Fumagalli
- Virology Research Center, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto of University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, 14049-900, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Marilia Farignoli Romeiro
- Virology Research Center, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto of University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, 14049-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Sejal Modha
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, G61 1QH, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Sirlei Daffre
- Laboratório de Bioquímica e Imunologia de Artrópode, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, 05508-900, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Pablo Ramiro Murcia
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, G61 1QH, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | | | - Luiz Tadeu Moraes Figueiredo
- Virology Research Center, School of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto of University of São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, 14049-900, SP, Brazil
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40
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Clarke LL, Ruder MG, Mead DG, Howerth EW. Heartland Virus Exposure in White-Tailed Deer in the Southeastern United States, 2001-2015. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2018; 99:1346-1349. [PMID: 30255829 PMCID: PMC6221220 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.18-0555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2018] [Accepted: 08/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Heartland virus (HRTV) is a North American phlebovirus suspected to be transmitted by the lone star tick Amblyomma americanum. White-tailed deer (WTD) have been shown to develop HRTV-neutralizing antibodies following experimental infection. To further define the geographic distribution of HRTV through retrospective sampling of WTD, sera from the WTD herd health serum archive at the Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study between 2001 and 2015 were analyzed using serum neutralization. Of 783 serum samples tested, 57 (7.3%) were positive for HRTV-neutralizing antibodies. Deer with moderate to heavy tick burdens were more likely seropositive. Seropositive samples were obtained from deer originating from states with documented human cases of HRTV-associated disease. Seropositive samples were identified from years before the recognition of the first human case in 2009. Overall, this study indicates that WTD in the southeastern United States have been exposed to HRTV as early as 2001 and that the presence of seropositive animals corresponds roughly with reported human HRTV-associated disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mark G. Ruder
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
| | - Daniel G. Mead
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
| | - Elizabeth W. Howerth
- Department of Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
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Heartland Virus Epidemiology, Vector Association, and Disease Potential. Viruses 2018; 10:v10090498. [PMID: 30223439 PMCID: PMC6164824 DOI: 10.3390/v10090498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 09/08/2018] [Accepted: 09/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
First identified in two Missouri farmers exhibiting low white-blood-cell and platelet counts in 2009, Heartland virus (HRTV) is genetically closely related to severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV), a tick-borne phlebovirus producing similar symptoms in China, Korea, and Japan. Field isolations of HRTV from several life stages of unfed, host-seeking Amblyomma americanum, the lone star tick, implicated it as a putative vector capable of transstadial transmission. Laboratory vector competence assessments confirmed transstadial transmission of HRTV, demonstrated vertical infection, and showed co-feeding infection between A. americanum. A vertical infection rate of 33% from adult females to larvae in the laboratory was observed, while only one of 386 pools of molted nymphs (1930) reared from co-feeding larvae was positive for HRTV (maximum-likelihood estimate of infection rate = 0.52/1000). Over 35 human HRTV cases, all within the distribution range of A. americanum, have been documented. Serological testing of wildlife in areas near the index human cases, as well as in widely separated regions of the eastern United States where A. americanum occur, indicated many potential hosts such as raccoons and white-tailed deer. Attempts, however, to experimentally infect mice, rabbits, hamsters, chickens, raccoons, goats, and deer failed to produce detectable viremia. Immune-compromised mice and hamsters are the only susceptible models. Vertical infection augmented by co-feeding transmission could play a role in maintaining the virus in nature. A more complete assessment of the natural transmission cycle of HRTV coupled with serosurveys and enhanced HRTV disease surveillance are needed to better understand transmission dynamics and human health risks.
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Abstract
Purpose of Review This review highlights some of the recent concerning emerging infectious diseases, a number of them specifically that the World Health Organization has categorized as priorities for research. Recent Findings Emerging and reemerging infectious diseases account for significant losses in not only human life, but also financially. There are a number of contributing factors, most commonly surrounding human behavior, that lead to disease emergence. Zoonoses are the most common type of infection, specifically from viral pathogens. The most recent emerging diseases in the USA are Emergomyces canadensis, the Heartland virus, and the Bourbon virus. Summary In addition to the aforementioned pathogens, the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, Middle East Respiratory Syndrome, Nipah virus, New Delhi metallo-ß-lactamase-1 Enterobacteriaceae, Rift Valley Fever virus, and Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever virus are reviewed. These pathogens are very concerning with a high risk for potential epidemic, ultimately causing both significant mortality and financial costs. Research should be focused on monitoring, prevention, and treatment of these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Watkins
- Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Akron General Medical Center, 1 Akron General Avenue, Akron, OH 44307 USA
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43
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Shen S, Duan X, Wang B, Zhu L, Zhang Y, Zhang J, Wang J, Luo T, Kou C, Liu D, Lv C, Zhang L, Chang C, Su Z, Tang S, Qiao J, Moming A, Wang C, Abudurexiti A, Wang H, Hu Z, Zhang Y, Sun S, Deng F. A novel tick-borne phlebovirus, closely related to severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus and Heartland virus, is a potential pathogen. Emerg Microbes Infect 2018; 7:95. [PMID: 29802259 PMCID: PMC5970217 DOI: 10.1038/s41426-018-0093-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2017] [Revised: 03/30/2018] [Accepted: 04/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Tick-borne viral diseases have attracted much attention in recent years because of their increasing incidence and threat to human health. Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome phlebovirus (SFTSV) and Heartland virus (HRTV) were recently identified as tick-borne phleboviruses (TBPVs) in Asia and the United States, respectively, and are associated with severe human diseases with similar clinical manifestations. In this study, we report the first identification and isolation of a novel TBPV named Guertu virus (GTV) from Dermacentor nuttalli ticks in Xinjiang Province, China, where TBPVs had not been previously discovered. Genome sequence and phylogenetic analyses showed that GTV is closely related to SFTSV and HRTV and was classified as a member of the genus Phlebovirus, family Phenuiviridae, order Bunyavirales. In vitro and in vivo investigations of the properties of GTV demonstrated that it was able to infect animal and human cell lines and can suppress type I interferon signaling, similar to SFTSV, that GTV nucleoprotein (NP) can rescue SFTSV replication by replacing SFTSV NP, and that GTV infection can cause pathological lesions in mice. Moreover, a serological survey identified antibodies against GTV from serum samples of individuals living in Guertu County, three of which contained neutralizing antibodies, suggesting that GTV can infect humans. Our findings suggested that this virus is a potential pathogen that poses a threat to animals and humans. Further studies and surveillance of GTV are recommended to be carried out in Xinjiang Province as well as in other locations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Xiaomei Duan
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi, 830046, China
| | - Bo Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Liying Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Yanfang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Jingyuan Zhang
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi, 830046, China
| | - Jun Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Tao Luo
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, 830001, China
| | - Chun Kou
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi, 830046, China
| | - Dan Liu
- School of Medicine, Wuhan University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430065, China
| | - Chuanwei Lv
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Chenchen Chang
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi, 830046, China
| | - Zhengyuan Su
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Shuang Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Jie Qiao
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China.,Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Green Transformation of Bio-resources, Hubei Key Laboratory of Industrial Biotechnology, College of Life Science, Hubei University, Wuhan, 430061, China
| | - Abulimiti Moming
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi, 830046, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, 830001, China
| | - Abulikemu Abudurexiti
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, 830001, China
| | - Hualin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Zhihong Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Yujiang Zhang
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Urumqi, 830001, China.
| | - Surong Sun
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Genetic Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi, 830046, China.
| | - Fei Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China.
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44
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Clarke LL, Ruder MG, Mead D, Howerth EW. Experimental Infection of White-Tailed Deer ( Odocoileus virginanus) with Heartland Virus. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2018; 98:1194-1196. [PMID: 29488458 PMCID: PMC5928841 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.17-0963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Heartland virus (HRTV) is a phlebovirus suspected to be transmitted by Amblyomma americanum, commonly known as the lone star tick, and reported to cause illness in humans, which is characterized by thrombocytopenia and leukopenia. Heartland virus-reactive antibodies have been detected in a variety of wildlife species including white-tailed deer (WTD). To better understand the potential role of deer in the epidemiology of HRTV, we experimentally inoculated five WTD fawns with HRTV and monitored for clinical disease, viremia, virus shedding, and seroconversion. None of the animals showed signs of clinical disease, and there was no detectable viremia or virus shedding postinoculation. Two wild-caught fawns entered the study with preexisting antibody titers against HRTV. All animals showed minimal immune responses against HRTV after needle inoculation. In conclusion, this study does not indicate that WTD are a likely reservoir for HRTV in natural settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorelei L Clarke
- Department of Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
| | - Mark G Ruder
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
| | - Daniel Mead
- Southeastern Cooperative Wildlife Disease Study, Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
| | - Elizabeth W Howerth
- Department of Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
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45
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Tsuda Y, Igarashi M, Ito R, Nishio S, Shimizu K, Yoshimatsu K, Arikawa J. The amino acid at position 624 in the glycoprotein of SFTSV (severe fever with thrombocytopenia virus) plays a critical role in low-pH-dependent cell fusion activity. Biomed Res 2018; 38:89-97. [PMID: 28442665 DOI: 10.2220/biomedres.38.89] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) is a novel phlebovirus responsible for causing an emerging zoonotic disease. We previously established subclones from SFTSV strain YG1 based on differences in low-pH-dependent cell fusion activities and found two amino acid substitutions, Y328H and R624W, in the envelope glycoprotein (GP) of high fusion subclones. In this study, we show that transiently expressed GP with the R624W mutation, but not the Y328H mutation, induced cell fusion under acidic conditions. GP possessing either tryptophan, serine, glycine or aspartic acid at position 624 induced cell fusion, whereas GP possessing basic amino acids such as arginine or lysine did not induce cell fusion. These results indicated that the amino acid at position 624 has an important role for inducing low-pH-dependent cell fusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshimi Tsuda
- Department of Microbiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University
| | - Manabu Igarashi
- Division of Global Epidemiology, Research Center for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University.,Global Station for Zoonosis Control, Global Institution for Collaborative Research and Education, Hokkaido University
| | - Ryo Ito
- Department of Microbiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University
| | - Sanae Nishio
- Department of Microbiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University
| | - Kenta Shimizu
- Department of Microbiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University
| | - Kumiko Yoshimatsu
- Department of Microbiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University
| | - Jiro Arikawa
- Department of Microbiology, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University
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46
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Abstract
Ticks are important vectors for the transmission of pathogens including viruses. The viruses carried by ticks also known as tick-borne viruses (TBVs), contain a large group of viruses with diverse genetic properties and are concluded in two orders, nine families, and at least 12 genera. Some members of the TBVs are notorious agents causing severe diseases with high mortality rates in humans and livestock, while some others may pose risks to public health that are still unclear to us. Herein, we review the current knowledge of TBVs with emphases on the history of virus isolation and identification, tick vectors, and potential pathogenicity to humans and animals, including assigned species as well as the recently discovered and unassigned species. All these will promote our understanding of the diversity of TBVs, and will facilitate the further investigation of TBVs in association with both ticks and vertebrate hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junming Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Zhihong Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China
| | - Fei Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China.
| | - Shu Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430071, China.
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47
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Bosco-Lauth AM, Calvert AE, Root JJ, Gidlewski T, Bird BH, Bowen RA, Muehlenbachs A, Zaki SR, Brault AC. Vertebrate Host Susceptibility to Heartland Virus. Emerg Infect Dis 2018; 22:2070-2077. [PMID: 27869591 PMCID: PMC5189141 DOI: 10.3201/eid2212.160472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Virus-infected Ag129 mice could be a useful model for identifying tick infection or virus transmission. Heartland virus (HRTV) is a recently described phlebovirus initially isolated in 2009 from 2 humans who had leukopenia and thrombocytopenia. Serologic assessment of domestic and wild animal populations near the residence of 1 of these persons showed high exposure rates to raccoons, white-tailed deer, and horses. To our knowledge, no laboratory-based assessments of viremic potential of animals infected with HRTV have been performed. We experimentally inoculated several vertebrates (raccoons, goats, chickens, rabbits, hamsters, C57BL/6 mice, and interferon-α/β/γ receptor–deficient [Ag129]) mice with this virus. All animals showed immune responses against HRTV after primary or secondary exposure. However, neutralizing antibody responses were limited. Only Ag129 mice showed detectable viremia and associated illness and death, which were dose dependent. Ag129 mice also showed development of mean peak viral antibody titers >8 log10 PFU/mL, hemorrhagic hepatic lesions, splenomegaly, and large amounts of HRTV antigen in mononuclear cells and hematopoietic cells in the spleen.
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48
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The Postfusion Structure of the Heartland Virus Gc Glycoprotein Supports Taxonomic Separation of the Bunyaviral Families Phenuiviridae and Hantaviridae. J Virol 2017; 92:JVI.01558-17. [PMID: 29070692 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01558-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Heartland virus (HRTV) is an emerging human pathogen that belongs to the newly defined family Phenuiviridae, order Bunyavirales Gn and Gc are two viral surface glycoproteins encoded by the M segment and are required for early events during infection. HRTV delivers its genome into the cytoplasm by fusion of the viral envelope and endosomal membranes under low-pH conditions. Here, we describe the crystal structure of HRTV Gc in its postfusion conformation. The structure shows that Gc displays a typical class II fusion protein conformation, and the overall structure is identical to severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) Gc, which also belongs to the Phenuiviridae family. However, our structural analysis indicates that the hantavirus Gc presents distinct features in the aspects of subdomain orientation, N-linked glycosylation, the interaction pattern between protomers, and the fusion loop conformation. This suggests their family-specific subunit arrangement during the fusogenic process and supports the recent taxonomic revision of bunyaviruses. Our results provide insights into the comprehensive comparison of class II membrane fusion proteins in two bunyavirus families, yielding valuable information for treatments against these human pathogens.IMPORTANCE HRTV is an insect-borne virus found in America that can infect humans. It belongs to the newly defined family Phenuiviridae, order Bunyavirales HRTV contains three single-stranded RNA segments (L, M, and S). The M segment of the virus encodes a polyprotein precursor that is cleaved into two glycoproteins, Gn and Gc. Gc is a fusion protein facilitating virus entry into host cells. Here, we report the crystal structure of the HRTV Gc protein. The structure displays a typical class II fusion protein conformation. Comparison of HRTV Gc with a recently solved structure of another bunyavirus Gc revealed that these Gc structures display a newly defined family specificity, supporting the recent International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses reclassification of the bunyaviruses. Our results expand the knowledge of bunyavirus fusion proteins and help us to understand bunyavirus characterizations. This study provides useful information to improve protection against and therapies for bunyavirus infections.
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49
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Westover JB, Rigas JD, Van Wettere AJ, Li R, Hickerson BT, Jung KH, Miao J, Reynolds ES, Conrad BL, Nielson S, Furuta Y, Thangamani S, Wang Z, Gowen BB. Heartland virus infection in hamsters deficient in type I interferon signaling: Protracted disease course ameliorated by favipiravir. Virology 2017; 511:175-183. [PMID: 28865344 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2017.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2017] [Revised: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Heartland virus (HRTV) is an emerging tick-borne virus (Bunyaviridae, Phlebovirus) that has caused sporadic cases of human disease in several central and mid-eastern states of America. Animal models of HRTV disease are needed to gain insights into viral pathogenesis and advancing antiviral drug development. Presence of clinical disease following HRTV challenge in hamsters deficient in STAT2 function underscores the important role played by type I interferon-induced antiviral responses. However, the recovery of most of the infected animals suggests that other mechanisms to control infection and limit disease offer substantial protection. The most prominent disease sign with HRTV infection in STAT2 knockout hamsters was dramatic weight loss with clinical laboratory and histopathology demonstrating acute inflammation in the spleen, lymph node, liver and lung. Finally, we show that HRTV disease in hamsters can be prevented by the use of favipiravir, a promising broad-spectrum antiviral in clinical development for the treatment of influenza.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Johanna D Rigas
- Utah State University, 5600 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322, USA; Utah Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, 950 E. 1400 N., Logan, UT 84341, USA
| | - Arnaud J Van Wettere
- Utah State University, 5600 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322, USA; Utah Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, 950 E. 1400 N., Logan, UT 84341, USA
| | - Rong Li
- Utah State University, 5600 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322, USA
| | | | - Kie-Hoon Jung
- Utah State University, 5600 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322, USA
| | - Jinxin Miao
- Utah State University, 5600 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322, USA; Zhengzhou University, 100 Kexue Ave., Zhengzhou Shi, Henan Sheng, People's Republic of China
| | - Erin S Reynolds
- University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Bettina L Conrad
- Utah Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, 950 E. 1400 N., Logan, UT 84341, USA
| | - Skot Nielson
- Utah State University, 5600 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322, USA
| | - Yousuke Furuta
- Research Laboratories, Toyama Chemical Co., Ltd., Toyama 930-8508, Japan
| | - Saravanan Thangamani
- University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Zhongde Wang
- Utah State University, 5600 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322, USA
| | - Brian B Gowen
- Utah State University, 5600 Old Main Hill, Logan, UT 84322, USA.
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50
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Ning YJ, Feng K, Min YQ, Deng F, Hu Z, Wang H. Heartland virus NSs protein disrupts host defenses by blocking the TBK1 kinase-IRF3 transcription factor interaction and signaling required for interferon induction. J Biol Chem 2017; 292:16722-16733. [PMID: 28848048 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m117.805127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2017] [Revised: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Heartland virus (HRTV) is a pathogenic phlebovirus related to the severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV), another phlebovirus causing life-threatening disease in humans. Previous findings have suggested that SFTSV can antagonize the host interferon (IFN) system via viral nonstructural protein (NSs)-mediated sequestration of antiviral signaling proteins into NSs-induced inclusion bodies. However, whether and how HRTV counteracts the host innate immunity is unknown. Here, we report that HRTV NSs (HNSs) also antagonizes IFN and cytokine induction and bolsters viral replication, although no noticeable inclusion body formation was observed in HNSs-expressing cells. Furthermore, HNSs inhibited the virus-triggered activation of IFN-β promoter by specifically targeting the IFN-stimulated response element but not the NF-κB response element. Consistently, HNSs blocked the phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of IFN regulatory factor 3 (IRF3, an IFN-stimulated response element-activating transcription factor). Reporter gene assays next showed that HNSs blockades the antiviral signaling mediated by RIG-I-like receptors likely at the level of TANK-binding kinase 1 (TBK1). Indeed, HNSs strongly interacts with TBK1 as indicated by confocal microscopy and pulldown analyses, and we also noted that the scaffold dimerization domain of TBK1 is required for the TBK1-HNSs interaction. Finally, pulldown assays demonstrated that HNSs expression dose-dependently diminishes a TBK1-IRF3 interaction, further explaining the mechanism for HNSs function. Collectively, these data suggest that HNSs, an antagonist of host innate immunity, interacts with TBK1 and thereby hinders the association of TBK1 with its substrate IRF3, thus blocking IRF3 activation and transcriptional induction of the cellular antiviral responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Jia Ning
- From the State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China and
| | - Kuan Feng
- From the State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China and.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yuan-Qin Min
- From the State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China and
| | - Fei Deng
- From the State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China and
| | - Zhihong Hu
- From the State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China and
| | - Hualin Wang
- From the State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China and
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