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Xu LD, Zhang F, Xu P, Huang YW. Cross-species transmission and animal infection model of hepatitis E virus. Microbes Infect 2024:105338. [PMID: 38636821 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2024.105338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Zoonotic hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is an emerging global public health concern, and understanding the dynamics of HEV transmission between animals and humans is crucial for public health. Animal models are critical to advancing the understanding of HEV pathogenesis, drug screening, vaccine development, and other related areas. Here, we provide an overview of recent studies investigating the cross-species transmission of HEV, and also delve into the current research and application of animal HEV infection models including non-human primates, rodents, pigs, and chickens, offering a comprehensive assessment of the advantages and disadvantages of each model. This review highlights the findings related to viral replication, shedding patterns, and immune response in these animal models, and discusses the implications for our understanding of HEV transmission to humans. These advancements in the field enhance our understanding of the biological traits and pathogenic mechanisms of HEV, offering robust support for the development of highly effective and targeted prevention and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Dong Xu
- Laboratory Animal Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China.
| | - Fei Zhang
- Institute of Intelligent Medicine, ZJU-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Hangzhou, 311200, China; MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
| | - Pinglong Xu
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
| | - Yao-Wei Huang
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China; State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China; Department of Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
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Liu T, He Q, Yang X, Li Y, Yuan D, Lu Q, Tang T, Guan G, Zheng L, Zhang H, Xia C, Yin X, Wei G, Chen X, Lu F, Wang L. An Immunocompetent Mongolian Gerbil Model for Hepatitis E Virus Genotype 1 Infection. Gastroenterology 2024:S0016-5085(24)00364-0. [PMID: 38582270 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2024.03.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Hepatitis E virus (HEV), primarily genotype 1 (HEV-1), causes approximately 20.1 million infections, 44,000 deaths, and 3000 stillbirths annually. Current evidence indicates that HEV-1 is only transmitted in humans. Here, we evaluated whether Mongolian gerbils can serve as animal models for HEV-1 infection. METHODS Mongolian gerbils were used for HEV-1 and hepatitis E virus genotype 3 infection experiments. HEV infection parameters, including detection of HEV RNA and HEV antigen, liver function assessment, and histopathology, were evaluated. RESULTS We adapted a clinical isolate of HEV-1 for Mongolian gerbils by serial passaging in feces of aged male gerbils. The gerbil-adapted strain obtained at passage 3 induced a robust, acute HEV infection, characterized by stable fecal virus shedding, elevated liver enzymes, histopathologic changes in the liver, and seroconversion to anti-HEV. An infectious complementary DNA clone of the adapted virus was generated. HEV-1-infected pregnant gerbils showed a high rate of maternal mortality and vertical transmission. HEV RNA or antigens were detected in the liver, kidney, intestine, placenta, testis, and fetus liver. Liver and placental transcriptomic analyses indicated activation of host immunity. Tacrolimus prolonged HEV-1 infection, whereas ribavirin cleared infection. The protective efficacy of a licensed HEV vaccine was validated using this model. CONCLUSIONS HEV-1 efficiently infected Mongolian gerbils. This HEV-1 infection model will be valuable for investigating hepatitis E immunopathogenesis and evaluating vaccines and antivirals against HEV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianxu Liu
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Qiyu He
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyue Yang
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Yuebao Li
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Disen Yuan
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Qinghui Lu
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Tianyu Tang
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Guiwe Guan
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Liwei Zheng
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - He Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Changyou Xia
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Xin Yin
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Guochao Wei
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangmei Chen
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Fengmin Lu
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.
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Animal Models for Studying Congenital Transmission of Hepatitis E Virus. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11030618. [PMID: 36985191 PMCID: PMC10057890 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11030618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/05/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the most intriguing issues in the hepatitis E virus (HEV) field is the significant increase in mortality rates of the mother and fetus when infection occurs in the second and third trimesters of gestation. A virus that is normally self-limiting and has a mortality rate of less than one percent in otherwise healthy individuals steeply rises by up to 30% in these pregnant populations. Answering this pivotal question has not been a simple task. HEV, in general, has been a difficult pathogen to understand in the laboratory setting. A historical lack of ability to efficiently propagate the virus in tissue culture models has led to many molecular aspects of the viral lifecycle being understudied. Although great strides have been made in recent years to adapt viruses to cell culture, this field remains behind other viruses that are much easier to replicate efficiently in vitro. Some of the greatest discoveries regarding HEV have come from using animal models for which naturally occurring strains of HEV have been identified, including pigs and chickens, but key limitations have made animal models imperfect for studying all aspects of human HEV infections. In addition to the difficulties working with HEV, pregnancy is a very complicated biological process with an elaborate interplay between many different host systems, including hormones, cardiovascular, kidneys, respiratory, gastrointestinal, epithelial, liver, metabolic, immune, and others. Significant differences between the timing and interplay of these systems are notable between species, and making direct comparisons between animals and humans can be difficult at times. No simple answer exists as to how HEV enhances mortality in pregnant populations. One of the best approaches to studying HEV in pregnancy is likely a combinatorial approach that uses the best combination of emerging in vitro and in vivo systems while accounting for the deficiencies that are present in each model. This review describes many of the current HEV animal model systems and the strengths and weaknesses of each as they apply to HEV pregnancy-associated mortality. We consider factors that are critical to analyzing HEV infection within the host and how, despite no perfect animal model for human pregnancy mortality existing, recent developments in HEV models, both in vitro and in vivo, are advancing our overall understanding of HEV in the pregnant host.
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Zorzetto R, Klein RL, Erpen LMS, Klein BD, Giacobbo I, da Silveira RA, Frandoloso R, Kreutz LC. Unusual high prevalence of antibodies to hepatitis E virus in South Brazil. FEMS Microbiol Lett 2021; 368:6312495. [PMID: 34196363 DOI: 10.1093/femsle/fnab076] [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: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is worldwide distributed and might cause acute or chronic hepatitis mainly in immunocompromised individuals. In previous studies we found a high prevalence of antibodies to HEV within blood donors in south Brazil and also within backyard-raised pigs. Here, we aimed to investigate the prevalence of anti-HEV antibody and HEV RNA within the general population from three major municipalities (Caxias do Sul, Passo Fundo and Santa Maria) in south Brazil. A total of 3000 blood samples were randomly obtained from clinical laboratories at each of the three municipality (n = 1000 each) to determine the presence of anti-HEV antibodies and HEV RNA. Overall, anti-HEV antibodies were detected in 574/1000 (57,4%) samples in Caxias do Sul, 655/1000 (65.5%) samples in Passo Fundo and 554/1000 (55.4%) samples in Santa Maria. The prevalence of HEV-positive samples increased steadily and significantly (P < 0,001) with age and was unusually higher within individual over 40 years. Despite of this, none of the pooled serum samples had detectable levels of HEV RNA. The high anti-HEV antibody prevalence suggests that the virus might be present on the environment and/or foodstuff and poses a permanent threat to immune-compromised individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Zorzetto
- Laboratório de Microbiologia e Imunologia Avançada, Faculdade de Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Passo Fundo, BR 285, Km 292 - Campus I, Bairro São José, Passo Fundo, 99052-900, Brazil
| | - Rafaela Luiza Klein
- Laboratório de Microbiologia e Imunologia Avançada, Faculdade de Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Passo Fundo, BR 285, Km 292 - Campus I, Bairro São José, Passo Fundo, 99052-900, Brazil
| | - Luana Marina Sheer Erpen
- Laboratório de Microbiologia e Imunologia Avançada, Faculdade de Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Passo Fundo, BR 285, Km 292 - Campus I, Bairro São José, Passo Fundo, 99052-900, Brazil
| | - Bárbara Diel Klein
- Laboratório de Microbiologia e Imunologia Avançada, Faculdade de Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Passo Fundo, BR 285, Km 292 - Campus I, Bairro São José, Passo Fundo, 99052-900, Brazil
| | - Igor Giacobbo
- Laboratório de Microbiologia e Imunologia Avançada, Faculdade de Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Passo Fundo, BR 285, Km 292 - Campus I, Bairro São José, Passo Fundo, 99052-900, Brazil
| | - Rafael Arrua da Silveira
- Scientia Cursos. Rua Carlos Brenner, 220, Bairro Nossa Senhora de Lourdes, 97050-100, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Rafael Frandoloso
- Laboratório de Microbiologia e Imunologia Avançada, Faculdade de Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Passo Fundo, BR 285, Km 292 - Campus I, Bairro São José, Passo Fundo, 99052-900, Brazil
| | - Luiz Carlos Kreutz
- Laboratório de Microbiologia e Imunologia Avançada, Faculdade de Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Passo Fundo, BR 285, Km 292 - Campus I, Bairro São José, Passo Fundo, 99052-900, Brazil
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Yang M, Cheng XQ, Zhao ZY, Li PH, Rui J, Lin SN, Xu JW, Zhu YZ, Wang Y, Liu XC, Luo L, Deng B, Liu C, Huang JF, Yang TL, Li ZY, Liu WK, Liu WD, Zhao BH, He Y, Yin Q, Mao SY, Su YH, Zhang XF, Chen TM. Feasibility of controlling hepatitis E in Jiangsu Province, China: a modelling study. Infect Dis Poverty 2021; 10:91. [PMID: 34187566 PMCID: PMC8240442 DOI: 10.1186/s40249-021-00873-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis E, an acute zoonotic disease caused by the hepatitis E virus (HEV), has a relatively high burden in developing countries. The current research model on hepatitis E mainly uses experimental animal models (such as pigs, chickens, and rabbits) to explain the transmission of HEV. Few studies have developed a multi-host and multi-route transmission dynamic model (MHMRTDM) to explore the transmission feature of HEV. Hence, this study aimed to explore its transmission and evaluate the effectiveness of intervention using the dataset of Jiangsu Province. METHODS We developed a dataset comprising all reported HEV cases in Jiangsu Province from 2005 to 2018. The MHMRTDM was developed according to the natural history of HEV cases among humans and pigs and the multi-transmission routes such as person-to-person, pig-to-person, and environment-to-person. We estimated the key parameter of the transmission using the principle of least root mean square to fit the curve of the MHMRTDM to the reported data. We developed models with single or combined countermeasures to assess the effectiveness of interventions, which include vaccination, shortening the infectious period, and cutting transmission routes. The indicator, total attack rate (TAR), was adopted to assess the effectiveness. RESULTS From 2005 to 2018, 44 923 hepatitis E cases were reported in Jiangsu Province. The model fits the data well (R2 = 0.655, P < 0.001). The incidence of the disease in Jiangsu Province and its cities peaks are around March; however, transmissibility of the disease peaks in December and January. The model showed that the most effective intervention was interrupting the pig-to-person route during the incidence trough of September, thereby reducing the TAR by 98.11%, followed by vaccination (reducing the TAR by 76.25% when the vaccination coefficient is 100%) and shortening the infectious period (reducing the TAR by 50.05% when the infectious period is shortened to 15 days). CONCLUSIONS HEV could be controlled by interrupting the pig-to-person route, shortening the infectious period, and vaccination. Among these interventions, the most effective was interrupting the pig-to-person route.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, 4221-117 South Xiang’an Road, Xiang’an District, Xiamen City, 361102 Fujian Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Qing Cheng
- Jiangsu Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing City, Jiangsu Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Ze-Yu Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, 4221-117 South Xiang’an Road, Xiang’an District, Xiamen City, 361102 Fujian Province People’s Republic of China
- Cirad, UMR 17, Intertryp, Université de Montpellier, 34398, Montpellier, France
| | - Pei-Hua Li
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, 4221-117 South Xiang’an Road, Xiang’an District, Xiamen City, 361102 Fujian Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Jia Rui
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, 4221-117 South Xiang’an Road, Xiang’an District, Xiamen City, 361102 Fujian Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Sheng-Nan Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, 4221-117 South Xiang’an Road, Xiang’an District, Xiamen City, 361102 Fujian Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Jing-Wen Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, 4221-117 South Xiang’an Road, Xiang’an District, Xiamen City, 361102 Fujian Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Yuan-Zhao Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, 4221-117 South Xiang’an Road, Xiang’an District, Xiamen City, 361102 Fujian Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Yao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, 4221-117 South Xiang’an Road, Xiang’an District, Xiamen City, 361102 Fujian Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Xing-Chun Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, 4221-117 South Xiang’an Road, Xiang’an District, Xiamen City, 361102 Fujian Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Li Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, 4221-117 South Xiang’an Road, Xiang’an District, Xiamen City, 361102 Fujian Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Bin Deng
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, 4221-117 South Xiang’an Road, Xiang’an District, Xiamen City, 361102 Fujian Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Chan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, 4221-117 South Xiang’an Road, Xiang’an District, Xiamen City, 361102 Fujian Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Jie-Feng Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, 4221-117 South Xiang’an Road, Xiang’an District, Xiamen City, 361102 Fujian Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Tian-Long Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, 4221-117 South Xiang’an Road, Xiang’an District, Xiamen City, 361102 Fujian Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhuo-Yang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, 4221-117 South Xiang’an Road, Xiang’an District, Xiamen City, 361102 Fujian Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei-Kang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, 4221-117 South Xiang’an Road, Xiang’an District, Xiamen City, 361102 Fujian Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Wen-Dong Liu
- Jiangsu Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing City, Jiangsu Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Ben-Hua Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, 4221-117 South Xiang’an Road, Xiang’an District, Xiamen City, 361102 Fujian Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Yue He
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, 4221-117 South Xiang’an Road, Xiang’an District, Xiamen City, 361102 Fujian Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Qi Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, 4221-117 South Xiang’an Road, Xiang’an District, Xiamen City, 361102 Fujian Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Si-Ying Mao
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, 4221-117 South Xiang’an Road, Xiang’an District, Xiamen City, 361102 Fujian Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan-Hua Su
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, 4221-117 South Xiang’an Road, Xiang’an District, Xiamen City, 361102 Fujian Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Xue-Feng Zhang
- Jiangsu Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Nanjing City, Jiangsu Province People’s Republic of China
| | - Tian-Mu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, School of Public Health, Xiamen University, 4221-117 South Xiang’an Road, Xiang’an District, Xiamen City, 361102 Fujian Province People’s Republic of China
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Käser T. Swine as biomedical animal model for T-cell research-Success and potential for transmittable and non-transmittable human diseases. Mol Immunol 2021; 135:95-115. [PMID: 33873098 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2021.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Swine is biologically one of the most relevant large animal models for biomedical research. With its use as food animal that can be exploited as a free cell and tissue source for research and its high susceptibility to human diseases, swine additionally represent an excellent option for both the 3R principle and One Health research. One of the previously most limiting factors of the pig model was its arguably limited immunological toolbox. Yet, in the last decade, this toolbox has vastly improved including the ability to study porcine T-cells. This review summarizes the swine model for biomedical research with focus on T cells. It first contrasts the swine model to the more commonly used mouse and non-human primate model before describing the current capabilities to characterize and extend our knowledge on porcine T cells. Thereafter, it not only reflects on previous biomedical T-cell research but also extends into areas in which more in-depth T-cell analyses could strongly benefit biomedical research. While the former should inform on the successes of biomedical T-cell research in swine, the latter shall inspire swine T-cell researchers to find collaborations with researchers working in other areas - such as nutrition, allergy, cancer, transplantation, infectious diseases, or vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Käser
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, 1060 William Moore Drive, 27607 Raleigh, NC, USA.
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Hedman HD, Krawczyk E, Helmy YA, Zhang L, Varga C. Host Diversity and Potential Transmission Pathways of SARS-CoV-2 at the Human-Animal Interface. Pathogens 2021; 10:180. [PMID: 33567598 PMCID: PMC7915269 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10020180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Emerging infectious diseases present great risks to public health. The novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), causing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), has become an urgent public health issue of global concern. It is speculated that the virus first emerged through a zoonotic spillover. Basic research studies have suggested that bats are likely the ancestral reservoir host. Nonetheless, the evolutionary history and host susceptibility of SARS-CoV-2 remains unclear as a multitude of animals has been proposed as potential intermediate or dead-end hosts. SARS-CoV-2 has been isolated from domestic animals, both companion and livestock, as well as in captive wildlife that were in close contact with human COVID-19 cases. Currently, domestic mink is the only known animal that is susceptible to a natural infection, develop severe illness, and can also transmit SARS-CoV-2 to other minks and humans. To improve foundational knowledge of SARS-CoV-2, we are conducting a synthesis review of its host diversity and transmission pathways. To mitigate this COVID-19 pandemic, we strongly advocate for a systems-oriented scientific approach that comprehensively evaluates the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 at the human and animal interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayden D. Hedman
- Summit County Local Public Health Agency, Summit County, Frisco, CO 80443, USA;
| | - Eric Krawczyk
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA;
| | - Yosra A. Helmy
- Food Animal Health Research Program, Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center, The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH 44691, USA;
| | - Lixin Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA;
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Csaba Varga
- Department of Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
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Yadav KK, Boley PA, Fritts Z, Kenney SP. Ectopic Expression of Genotype 1 Hepatitis E Virus ORF4 Increases Genotype 3 HEV Viral Replication in Cell Culture. Viruses 2021; 13:v13010075. [PMID: 33430442 PMCID: PMC7827316 DOI: 10.3390/v13010075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) can account for up to a 30% mortality rate in pregnant women, with highest incidences reported for genotype 1 (gt1) HEV. Reasons contributing to adverse maternal-fetal outcome during pregnancy in HEV-infected pregnant women remain elusive in part due to the lack of a robust tissue culture model for some strains. Open reading frame (ORF4) was discovered overlapping ORF1 in gt1 HEV whose protein expression is regulated via an IRES-like RNA element. To experimentally determine whether gt3 HEV contains an ORF4-like gt1, gt1 and gt3 sequence comparisons were performed between the gt1 and the homologous gt3 sequence. To assess whether ORF4 protein could enhance gt3 replication, Huh7 cell lines constitutively expressing ORF4 were created and used to assess the replication of the Kernow-C1 gt3 and sar55 gt1 HEV. Virus stocks from transfected Huh7 cells with or without ORF4 were harvested and infectivity assessed via infection of HepG2/C3A cells. We also studied the replication of gt1 HEV in the ORF4-expressing tunicamycin-treated cell line. To directly show that HEV transcripts have productively replicated in the target cells, we assessed events at the single-cell level using indirect immunofluorescence and flow cytometry. Despite not naturally encoding ORF4, replication of gt3 HEV was enhanced by the presence of gt1 ORF4 protein. These results suggest that the function of ORF4 protein from gt1 HEV is transferrable, enhancing the replication of gt3 HEV. ORF4 may be utilized to enhance replication of difficult to propagate HEV genotypes in cell culture. IMPORTANCE: HEV is a leading cause of acute viral hepatitis (AVH) around the world. The virus is a threat to pregnant women, particularly during the second and third trimester of pregnancy. The factors enhancing virulence to pregnant populations are understudied. Additionally, field strains of HEV remain difficult to culture in vitro. ORF4 was recently discovered in gt1 HEV and is purported to play a role in pregnancy related pathology and enhanced replication. We present evidence that ORF4 protein provided in trans enhances the viral replication of gt3 HEV even though it does not encode ORF4 naturally in its genome. These data will aid in the development of cell lines capable of supporting replication of non-cell culture adapted HEV field strains, allowing viral titers sufficient for studying these strains in vitro. Furthermore, development of gt1/gt3 ORF4 chimeric virus may shed light on the role that ORF4 plays during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kush K. Yadav
- Food Animal Health Research Program, Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center (OARDC), The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH 44691, USA; (K.K.Y.); (P.A.B.)
| | - Patricia A. Boley
- Food Animal Health Research Program, Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center (OARDC), The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH 44691, USA; (K.K.Y.); (P.A.B.)
| | - Zachary Fritts
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48105, USA;
| | - Scott P. Kenney
- Food Animal Health Research Program, Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center (OARDC), The Ohio State University, Wooster, OH 44691, USA; (K.K.Y.); (P.A.B.)
- Correspondence:
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Kozyra I, Jabłoński A, Bigoraj E, Rzeżutka A. Wild Boar as a Sylvatic Reservoir of Hepatitis E Virus in Poland: A Cross-Sectional Population Study. Viruses 2020; 12:v12101113. [PMID: 33008103 PMCID: PMC7600272 DOI: 10.3390/v12101113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The most important wildlife species in the epidemiology of hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections are wild boars, which are also the main reservoir of the virus in a sylvatic environment. The aim of the study was a serological and molecular assessment of the prevalence of HEV infections in wild boars in Poland. In total, 470 pairs of samples (wild boar blood and livers) and 433 samples of faeces were tested. An ELISA (ID.vet, France) was used for serological analysis. For the detection of HEV RNA, real-time (RT)-qPCR was employed. The presence of specific anti-HEV IgG antibodies was found in 232 (49.4%; 95%CI: 44.7–54%) sera, with regional differences observed in the seroprevalence of infections. HEV RNA was detected in 57 (12.1%, 95%CI: 9.3–15.4%) livers and in 27 (6.2%, 95%CI: 4.1–8.9%) faecal samples, with the viral load ranging from 1.4 to 1.7 × 1011 G.C./g and 38 to 9.3 × 107 G.C./mL, respectively. A correlation between serological and molecular results of testing of wild boars infected with HEV was shown. HEV infections in wild boars appeared to be common in Poland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iwona Kozyra
- Department of Food and Environmental Virology, National Veterinary Research Institute, Al. Partyzantów 57, 24-100 Puławy, Poland; (I.K.); (E.B.)
| | - Artur Jabłoński
- Department of Large Animal Diseases and Clinic, Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Nowoursynowska Street 100, 02-797 Warsaw, Poland;
| | - Ewelina Bigoraj
- Department of Food and Environmental Virology, National Veterinary Research Institute, Al. Partyzantów 57, 24-100 Puławy, Poland; (I.K.); (E.B.)
| | - Artur Rzeżutka
- Department of Food and Environmental Virology, National Veterinary Research Institute, Al. Partyzantów 57, 24-100 Puławy, Poland; (I.K.); (E.B.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48–081-889–3036
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10
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Wyre NR. Emerging Zoonotic Diseases in Ferrets. Vet Clin North Am Exot Anim Pract 2020; 23:299-308. [PMID: 32327037 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvex.2020.01.012] [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: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
As veterinarians, we may be the first to diagnose emerging zoonotic diseases in ferrets and may be at increased risk of exposure. Pseudomonas luteola is a bacterial infection that causes respiratory disease, panniculitis, sialadenitis, and abscess formation. Hepatitis E virus can cause subclinical infection, acute hepatitis, and persistent infection. Since the 2013 article discussing the 2009 influenza pandemic affecting ferrets, there has been an additional case of suspected anthroponotic infection in a pet ferret and experimental infection with influenza viruses from humans, cats, and dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole R Wyre
- Zodiac Pet & Exotic Hospital, Victoria Centre, Shop 101A, 1/F, Fortress Hill, Hong Kong.
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11
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Scholz J, Falkenhagen A, Bock CT, Johne R. Reverse genetics approaches for hepatitis E virus and related viruses. Curr Opin Virol 2020; 44:121-128. [PMID: 32818718 DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2020.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The hepatitis E virus (HEV) is the causative agent of acute and chronic hepatitis in humans. Related viruses have been found in several animal species. Reverse genetics systems (RGSs), which enable the generation of infectious virus from cloned cDNA by transfection of cultured cells or intrahepatic injection into laboratory animals, have been developed for HEV genotypes 1, 3, 4, 5 and 7 as well as for avian HEV and rat HEV. However, low virus recovery rates and slow replication in cell cultures are observed for most of the HEV types. Nevertheless, the RGSs enabled the site-directed mutagenesis of single nucleotides, deletion of genome fragments, insertion of sequence tags and a marker gene as well as the generation of chimeric viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Scholz
- Department Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alexander Falkenhagen
- Department Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany
| | - Claus-Thomas Bock
- Division of Viral Gastroenteritis and Hepatitis Pathogens and Enteroviruses, Department of Infectious Diseases, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Reimar Johne
- Department Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany.
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12
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Detection of hepatitis E virus (rabbit genotype) in farmed rabbits entering the food chain. Int J Food Microbiol 2020; 319:108507. [PMID: 31981930 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2020.108507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infects humans and many animal species. The rabbit HEV has been found in farmed, wild and pet rabbits as well as in human patients suggesting zoonotic transmission. Although the routes of human infection with rabbit strains are unclear a foodborne transmission is suggested especially when asymptomatically infected animals could enter the food chain. The aims of the study were an evaluation of the prevalence of HEV infections in slaughtered rabbits, identification of the virus genotype(s) and assessment of their genetic relatedness to other zoonotic HEV strains. A pair of blood and liver samples (n = 482) were collected from meat rabbits of different breeds slaughtered at the age of 2.8 to 6 months. The animals originated from 20 small-scale and 4 large-scale commercial farms operating in Poland. The presence of anti-HEV antibodies in animals was detected by the use of a recomWell HEV IgG (human) ELISA kit (Mikrogen Diagnostik) adapted to rabbit sera. The isolation of HEV and sample process control virus (feline calicivirus) RNA from homogenates of liver destined for food and virus-positive sera was performed using a QIAamp® Viral RNA Mini Kit (Qiagen). A one-step real-time reverse transcription PCR method containing a target-specific internal amplification control was used for detection of HEV. The (sub)genotype of detected rabbit HEV strains was identified based on sequence analysis of the ORF2 and ORF2/3 virus genome fragments. Anti-HEV antibodies were detected in 29 (6%) out of 482 rabbit sera samples collected from animals raised only on the small-scale rabbit farms. Four sera were also positive for HEV RNA. Viral RNA was detected in 72 (14.9%) animal livers. Analysing ELISA and PCR results using Student's t-test, there were significant differences observed in the frequency of HEV infections between rabbits from small-scale and commercial farms (t = 2.675, p = 0.015 < 0.05 for ELISA and t = 2.705, p = 0.014 < 0.05 for PCR). All detected virus strains were identified as HEV gt3 ra subtype. The results of this study provide data on the occurrence of HEV infections in rabbits entering the food chain, suggesting that a risk of foodborne HEV infection due to consumption of contaminated meat and liver exists. In this light, the presence of rabbit HEV in food animals is pertinent as an issue of food safety and the surveillance of these animals for emerging or re-emerging viruses.
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13
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Li TC, Wakita T. Small Animal Models of Hepatitis E Virus Infection. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2019; 9:cshperspect.a032581. [PMID: 29735581 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a032581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Novel hepeviruses have been recovered from many different animal species in recent years, increasing the diversity known to exist among the Hepeviridae, which now include two genera, Piscihepevirus and Orthohepevirus Multiple viral genotypes in the Orthohepevirus A species are able to replicate and cause acute hepatitis E in humans, and thus represent an important public health problem in industrialized as well as developing countries. Although hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections typically result in acute and self-limited hepatitis, immunocompromised and transplant patients are vulnerable to prolonged infections and to chronic hepatitis. Cell culture systems have been established for several HEV strains and offer new opportunities for the study of HEV biology. Similarly, a variety of new small animal models have been developed, using either nonhuman hepeviruses in their cognate hosts as surrogates for human HEV, or human HEV infection of immunodeficient mice with chimeric livers engrafted with human hepatocytes. These new models provide several advantages over previous nonhuman primate models of hepatitis E infection and will facilitate studies of pathogenicity, cross-species infection, mechanisms of virus replication, and vaccine and antiviral agent development. This article reviews the current understanding of small animal models for HEV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian-Cheng Li
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan
| | - Takaji Wakita
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan
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14
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Animal Models for Hepatitis E virus. Viruses 2019; 11:v11060564. [PMID: 31216711 PMCID: PMC6630473 DOI: 10.3390/v11060564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Accepted: 06/12/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an underdiagnosed pathogen with approximately 20 million infections each year and currently the most common cause of acute viral hepatitis. HEV was long considered to be confined to developing countries but there is increasing evidence that it is also a medical problem in the Western world. HEV that infects humans belongs to the Orthohepevirus A species of the Hepeviridae family. Novel HEV-like viruses have been observed in a variety of animals and some have been shown to be able to cross the species barrier, causing infection in humans. Several cell culture models for HEV have been established in the past years, but their efficiency is usually relatively low. With the circulation of this virus and related viruses in a variety of species, several different animal models have been developed. In this review, we give an overview of these animal models, indicate their main characteristics, and highlight how they may contribute to our understanding of the basic aspects of the viral life cycle and cross-species infection, the study of pathogenesis, and the evaluation of novel preventative and therapeutic strategies.
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15
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The Current Host Range of Hepatitis E Viruses. Viruses 2019; 11:v11050452. [PMID: 31108942 PMCID: PMC6563279 DOI: 10.3390/v11050452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emerging zoonotic pathogen transmitting both human to human via the fecal oral route and from animals to humans through feces, direct contact, and consumption of contaminated meat products. Understanding the host range of the virus is critical for determining where potential threats to human health may be emerging from and where potential reservoirs for viral persistence in the environment may be hiding. Initially thought to be a human specific disease endemic to developing countries, the identification of swine as a primary host for genotypes 3 and 4 HEV in industrialized countries has begun a long journey of discovering novel strains of HEV and their animal hosts. As we continue identifying new strains of HEV in disparate animal species, it is becoming abundantly clear that HEV has a broad host range and many of these HEV strains can cross between differing animal species. These cross-species transmitting strains pose many unique challenges to human health as they are often unrecognized as sources of viral transmission.
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16
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Cullen JM, Lemon SM. Comparative Pathology of Hepatitis A Virus and Hepatitis E Virus Infection. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2019; 9:cshperspect.a033456. [PMID: 29712683 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a033456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis A virus (HAV) and hepatitis E virus (HEV) cause acute, self-limiting hepatic infections that are usually spread by the fecal-oral route in humans. Naturally occurring and experimental infections are possible in a variety of nonhuman primates and, in the case of HEV, a number of other species. Many advances in understanding the pathogenesis of these viruses have come from studies in experimental animals. In general, animals infected with these viruses recapitulate the histologic lesions seen in infected humans, but typically with less severe clinical and histopathological manifestations. This review describes the histopathologic changes associated with HAV and HEV infection in humans and experimental animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- John M Cullen
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Raleigh, North Carolina 27607
| | - Stanley M Lemon
- Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, Departments of Medicine and Microbiology & Immunology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-7030
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17
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Transmission of a Novel Genotype of Hepatitis E Virus from Bactrian Camels to Cynomolgus Macaques. J Virol 2019; 93:JVI.02014-18. [PMID: 30700602 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.02014-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 01/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is zoonotic and a major cause of acute viral hepatitis worldwide. Recently, we identified a novel HEV genotype 8 (HEV8) in Bactrian camels in Xinjiang, China. However, the epidemiology, pathogenicity, and zoonotic potential of HEV8 are unclear. Here, we present the prevalence of HEV8 in China and investigate its pathogenicity and cross-species transmission in cynomolgus macaques. Fresh fecal and milk samples from Bactrian camels collected from four provinces/regions in China were screened for HEV RNA by reverse transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR). An HEV8-positive sample was used to inoculate two cynomolgus macaques to examine the potential for cross-species infection. The pathogenicity of HEV8 was analyzed by testing HEV markers and liver function during the study period and histopathology of liver biopsy specimens at 3, 13, and 25 weeks postinoculation. Extrahepatic replication was tested by using reverse transcriptase quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) and immunofluorescence assays. The overall prevalence of HEV8 RNA in Chinese Bactrian camels was 1.4% (4/295), and positive samples were found in three different provinces/regions in China. Histopathology confirmed acute and chronic HEV8 infections in the two monkeys. Multiple tissues were positive for HEV RNA and ORF2 proteins. Renal pathology was observed in the monkey with chronic hepatitis. Whole-genome sequencing showed only 1 to 3 mutations in the HEV8 in the fecal samples from the two monkeys compared to that from the camel. HEV8 is circulating in multiple regions in China. Infection of two monkeys with HEV8 induced chronic and systemic infections, demonstrating the high potential zoonotic risk of HEV8.IMPORTANCE It is estimated that one-third of the world population have been exposed to hepatitis E virus (HEV). In developed countries and China, zoonotic HEV strains are responsible for almost all acute and chronic HEV infection cases. It is always of immediate interest to investigate the zoonotic potential of novel HEV strains. In 2016, we discovered a novel HEV genotype, HEV8, in Bactrian camels, but the epidemiology, zoonotic potential, and pathogenicity of the virus were unknown. In the present study, we demonstrated that HEV8 was circulating in multiple regions in China and was capable of infecting cynomolgus macaques, a surrogate for humans, posing high risk of zoonosis. Chronic hepatitis, systemic infection, and renal pathology were observed. Collectively, these data indicate that HEV8 exhibits a high potential for zoonotic transmission. Considering the importance of Bactrian camels as livestock animals, risk groups, such as camelid meat and milk consumers, should be screened for HEV8 infection.
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18
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Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) possesses many of the features of other positive-stranded RNA viruses but also adds HEV-specific nuances, making its virus-host interactions unique. Slow virus replication kinetics and fastidious growth conditions, coupled with the historical lack of an efficient cell culture system to propagate the virus, have left many gaps in our understanding of its structure and replication cycle. Recent advances in culturing selected strains of HEV and resolving the 3D structure of the viral capsid are filling in knowledge gaps, but HEV remains an extremely understudied pathogen. Many steps in the HEV life cycle and many aspects of HEV pathogenesis remain unknown, such as the host and viral factors that determine cross-species infection, the HEV-specific receptor(s) on host cells, what determines HEV chronicity and the ability to replicate in extrahepatic sites, and what regulates processing of the open reading frame 1 (ORF1) nonstructural polyprotein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott P Kenney
- Food Animal Health Research Program, The Ohio State University, Wooster, Ohio 44691
| | - Xiang-Jin Meng
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061
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19
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Infection Dynamics of Hepatitis E Virus in Wild-Type and Immunoglobulin Heavy Chain Knockout J H -/- Gnotobiotic Piglets. J Virol 2018; 92:JVI.01208-18. [PMID: 30111571 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01208-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 08/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV), the causative agent of hepatitis E, is an important but incompletely understood pathogen causing high mortality during pregnancy and leading to chronic hepatitis in immunocompromised individuals. The underlying mechanisms leading to hepatic damage remain unknown; however, the humoral immune response is implicated. In this study, immunoglobulin (Ig) heavy chain JH -/- knockout gnotobiotic pigs were generated using CRISPR/Cas9 technology to deplete the B-lymphocyte population, resulting in an inability to generate a humoral immune response to genotype 3 HEV infection. Compared to wild-type gnotobiotic piglets, the frequencies of B lymphocytes in the Ig heavy chain JH -/- knockouts were significantly lower, despite similar levels of other innate and adaptive T-lymphocyte cell populations. The dynamic of acute HEV infection was subsequently determined in heavy chain JH -/- knockout and wild-type gnotobiotic pigs. The data showed that wild-type piglets had higher viral RNA loads in feces and sera compared to the JH -/- knockout pigs, suggesting that the Ig heavy chain JH -/- knockout in pigs actually decreased the level of HEV replication. Both HEV-infected wild-type and JH -/- knockout gnotobiotic piglets developed more pronounced lymphoplasmacytic hepatitis and hepatocellular necrosis lesions than other studies with conventional pigs. The HEV-infected JH -/- knockout pigs also had significantly enlarged livers both grossly and as a ratio of liver/body weight compared to phosphate-buffered saline-inoculated groups. This novel gnotobiotic pig model will aid in future studies into HEV pathogenicity, an aspect which has thus far been difficult to reproduce in the available animal model systems.IMPORTANCE According to the World Health Organization, approximately 20 million HEV infections occur annually, resulting in 3.3 million cases of hepatitis E and >44,000 deaths. The lack of an efficient animal model that can mimic the full-spectrum of infection outcomes hinders our ability to delineate the mechanism of HEV pathogenesis. Here, we successfully generated immunoglobulin heavy chain JH -/- knockout gnotobiotic pigs using CRISPR/Cas9 technology, established a novel JH -/- knockout and wild-type gnotobiotic pig model for HEV, and systematically determined the dynamic of acute HEV infection in gnotobiotic pigs. It was demonstrated that knockout of the Ig heavy chain in pigs decreased the level of HEV replication. Infected wild-type and JH -/- knockout gnotobiotic piglets developed more pronounced HEV-specific lesions than other studies using conventional pigs, and the infected JH -/- knockout pigs had significantly enlarged livers. The availability of this novel model will facilitate future studies of HEV pathogenicity.
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Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an important human pathogen that historically has been difficult to study. Limited levels of replication in vitro hindered our understanding of the viral life cycle. Sporadic and low-level virus shedding, lack of standardized detection methods, and subclinical infections made the development of animal models difficult. Better diagnostic techniques and understanding of the virus increased our ability to identify and characterize animal strains and animals that are amenable to model human-relevant infection. These advances are translating into the development of useful HEV animal models so that some of the greatest concerns associated with HEV infection, including host immunology, chronic infection, severe pregnancy mortality, and extrahepatic manifestations, can now be studied. Continued development of these animal models will be instrumental in understanding the many complex questions associated with HEV infection and for assessing therapeutics and prevention strategies to minimize HEV becoming a greater risk to the human population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott P Kenney
- Food Animal Health Research Program, College of Veterinary Medicine, Ohio State University, Wooster, Ohio 44691, USA;
| | - Xiang-Jin Meng
- Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia 24060, USA;
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21
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Harrison L, DiCaprio E. Hepatitis E Virus: An Emerging Foodborne Pathogen. FRONTIERS IN SUSTAINABLE FOOD SYSTEMS 2018. [DOI: 10.3389/fsufs.2018.00014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
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22
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Wang L, Liu L, Wang L. An overview: Rabbit hepatitis E virus (HEV) and rabbit providing an animal model for HEV study. Rev Med Virol 2017; 28. [PMID: 29148605 DOI: 10.1002/rmv.1961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2016] [Revised: 09/13/2017] [Accepted: 10/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a single-stranded, positive-sense RNA virus and the causative agent of hepatitis E. The virus belongs to genus Orthohepevirus in the family Hepeviridae, which contains 4 major genotypes closely relating to humans. Genotypes 1 and 2 only infect humans whereas genotypes 3 and 4 HEV are harbored in a wide range of animal species worldwide and are zoonotic to humans. Recently, a novel animal strain of HEV has been isolated in farmed rabbits in China, and subsequently more strains were discovered in the rabbit populations in at least 7 other countries. Due to high sequence similarity to genotype 3 HEV, rabbit HEV (rHEV) has been assigned to genotype 3. Experimental study showed that rHEV could infect non-human primate and human, which pose a direct threat to human. Further pathogenesis studies showed laboratory rabbits infected with rHEV and genotype 4 HEV could present similar signs of acute and chronic hepatitis E along with extra-hepatic replication as observed in humans. High mortality and vertical transmission were reproduced in rHEV infected pregnant rabbits. Furthermore, rabbit model was also found suitable for evaluating HEV vaccine efficacy in order to manage zoonotic transmission. These data showed laboratory rabbits could serve as an alternative animal model for HEV study under the current circumstances that HEV propagation is limited in vitro. In general, this review aims at presenting comprehensive up-to-date information about rHEV strains and rabbit model for HEV studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Liu
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Ling Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
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23
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Risalde MA, Rivero-Juárez A, Romero-Palomo F, Frías M, López-López P, Cano-Terriza D, García-Bocanegra I, Jiménez-Ruíz S, Camacho Á, Machuca I, Gomez-Villamandos JC, Rivero A. Persistence of hepatitis E virus in the liver of non-viremic naturally infected wild boar. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0186858. [PMID: 29117209 PMCID: PMC5678868 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0186858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emerging zoonotic pathogen with pigs and wild boar serving as reservoirs for human infection through direct contact with infected animals or the consumption of raw or undercooked pork products. The liver is considered the main target site of HEV replication in swine and an important organ in the pathogenesis of the disease. The aim of this study was to characterize the target liver cells for HEV entry in naturally infected wild boar and to evaluate the type and severity of the pathological changes in order to reach a better understanding of the hepatic pathogenic mechanisms involved in hepatitis E. In total, 58 livers from hunted wild boar were histopathologically evaluated. The presence of specific HEV antibodies in serum was determined by indirect ELISA. Immunohistochemistry was used for the detection of HEV antigen and Real time RT-PCR to detect HEV RNA in liver and serum. HEV seroprevalence in these animals was of 5.197% (CI95%: 1.77–14.14). By Real time RT-PCR, HEV was detected in the liver tissue of four wild boar (6.8%; CI95%: 2.7–16.4) and only one animal was also positive in serum (1.7%; CI95%: 0.3–9.1). The non-viremic animals naturally infected with HEV presented evidence of liver infection, mainly in Kupffer cells and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells, without apparent associated hepatitis lesions. This study supports the hypothesis that low viral titers may persist in the liver of non-viremic individuals, giving thus the possibility of consumption of contaminated liver of animals diagnosed as HEV-negative in serum. Further immunopathogenic studies are necessary to elucidate the mechanisms responsible for this process and to evaluate the protocols of HEV diagnosis in animals destined for human consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- María A. Risalde
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía de Córdoba, Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
| | - Antonio Rivero-Juárez
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía de Córdoba, Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
| | - Fernando Romero-Palomo
- Dpto. de Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Veterinaria, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Córdoba (UCO)—Agrifood Excellence International Campus (ceiA3), Córdoba, Spain
| | - Mario Frías
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía de Córdoba, Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
| | - Pedro López-López
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía de Córdoba, Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
| | - David Cano-Terriza
- Dpto. de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, UCO—ceiA3, Córdoba, Spain
| | | | - Saúl Jiménez-Ruíz
- Dpto. de Sanidad Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, UCO—ceiA3, Córdoba, Spain
| | - Ángela Camacho
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía de Córdoba, Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
| | - Isabel Machuca
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía de Córdoba, Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
| | - José C. Gomez-Villamandos
- Dpto. de Anatomía y Anatomía Patológica Veterinaria, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Córdoba (UCO)—Agrifood Excellence International Campus (ceiA3), Córdoba, Spain
| | - Antonio Rivero
- Unidad de Enfermedades Infecciosas, Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía de Córdoba, Instituto Maimonides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Córdoba, Spain
- * E-mail:
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24
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Spahr C, Knauf-Witzens T, Vahlenkamp T, Ulrich RG, Johne R. Hepatitis E virus and related viruses in wild, domestic and zoo animals: A review. Zoonoses Public Health 2017; 65:11-29. [PMID: 28944602 DOI: 10.1111/zph.12405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis E is a human disease mainly characterized by acute liver illness, which is caused by infection with the hepatitis E virus (HEV). Large hepatitis E outbreaks have been described in developing countries; however, the disease is also increasingly recognized in industrialized countries. Mortality rates up to 25% have been described for pregnant women during outbreaks in developing countries. In addition, chronic disease courses could be observed in immunocompromised transplant patients. Whereas the HEV genotypes 1 and 2 are mainly confined to humans, genotypes 3 and 4 are also found in animals and can be zoonotically transmitted to humans. Domestic pig and wild boar represent the most important reservoirs for these genotypes. A distinct subtype of genotype 3 has been repeatedly detected in rabbits and a few human patients. Recently, HEV genotype 7 has been identified in dromedary camels and in an immunocompromised transplant patient. The reservoir animals get infected with HEV without showing any clinical symptoms. Besides these well-known animal reservoirs, HEV-specific antibodies and/or the genome of HEV or HEV-related viruses have also been detected in many other animal species, including primates, other mammals and birds. In particular, genotypes 3 and 4 infections are documented in many domestic, wildlife and zoo animal species. In most cases, the presence of HEV in these animals can be explained by spillover infections, but a risk of virus transmission through contact with humans cannot be excluded. This review gives a general overview on the transmission pathways of HEV to humans. It particularly focuses on reported serological and molecular evidence of infections in wild, domestic and zoo animals with HEV or HEV-related viruses. The role of these animals for transmission of HEV to humans and other animals is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Spahr
- Wilhelma Zoological-Botanical Gardens, Stuttgart, Germany.,Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Virology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | | | - T Vahlenkamp
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Virology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - R G Ulrich
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany.,German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), partner site Hamburg-Luebeck-Borstel-Insel Riems, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - R Johne
- Department Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany
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Pig model mimicking chronic hepatitis E virus infection in immunocompromised patients to assess immune correlates during chronicity. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017. [PMID: 28630341 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1705446114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is a significant clinical problem in immunocompromised individuals such as organ transplant recipients, although the mechanism remains unknown because of the lack of an animal model. We successfully developed a pig model of chronic HEV infection and examined immune correlates leading to chronicity. The conditions of immunocompromised patients were mimicked by treating pigs with an immunosuppressive regimen including cyclosporine, azathioprine, and prednisolone. Immunocompromised pigs infected with HEV progressed to chronicity, because 8/10 drug-treated HEV-infected pigs continued fecal virus shedding beyond the acute phase of infection, whereas the majority (7/10) of mock-treated HEV-infected pigs cleared fecal viral shedding at 8 wk postinfection. During chronic infection, serum levels of the liver enzyme γ-glutamyl transferase and fecal virus shedding were significantly higher in immunocompromised HEV-infected pigs. To identify potential immune correlates of chronic infection, we determined serum levels of cytokines and cell-mediated immune responses in pigs. Results showed that HEV infection of immunocompromised pigs reduced the serum levels of Th1 cytokines IL-2 and IL-12, and Th2 cytokines IL-4 and IL-10, particularly during the acute phase of infection. Furthermore IFN-γ-specific CD4+ T-cell responses were reduced in immunocompromised pigs during the acute phase of infection, but TNF-α-specific CD8+ T-cell responses increased during the chronic phase of infection. Thus, active suppression of cell-mediated immune responses under immunocompromised conditions may facilitate the establishment of chronic HEV infection. This pig model will aid in delineating the mechanisms of chronic HEV infection and in developing effective therapeutics against chronic hepatitis E.
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26
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Wang L, Zhang Y, Gong W, Song WT, Wang L. Hepatitis E Virus in 3 Types of Laboratory Animals, China, 2012-2015. Emerg Infect Dis 2016; 22:2157-2159. [PMID: 27314902 PMCID: PMC5189131 DOI: 10.3201/eid2212.160131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
We found seroprevalences for hepatitis E virus (HEV) of 7.5%, 18.5%, and 83.3% in specific pathogen-free (SPF) laboratory rabbits, monkeys, and pigs, respectively, in China. HEV RNA was detected in 4.8% of SPF rabbits, and 11 rabbits had latent infections. Screening for HEV in SPF animals before relevant experiments are conducted is recommended.
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27
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von Nordheim M, Boinay M, Leisi R, Kempf C, Ros C. Cutthroat Trout Virus-Towards a Virus Model to Support Hepatitis E Research. Viruses 2016; 8:v8100289. [PMID: 27775612 PMCID: PMC5086621 DOI: 10.3390/v8100289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2016] [Revised: 10/07/2016] [Accepted: 10/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cutthroat trout virus (CTV) is a non-pathogenic fish virus belonging to the Hepeviridae family, and it is distantly related to hepatitis E virus (HEV). Here, we report the development of an efficient cell culture system where CTV can consistently replicate to titers never observed before with a hepevirus. By using the rainbow trout gill (RTGill-W1) cell line, CTV reaches 1010 geq/mL intracellularly and 109 geq/mL extracellularly within 5–6 days in culture. We additionally established a qPCR system to investigate CTV infectivity, and developed a specific antibody directed against the viral capsid protein encoded by ORF2. With these methods, we were able to follow the progressive accumulation of viral RNA and the capsid protein, and their intracellular distribution during virus replication. Virus progeny purified through iodixanol density gradients indicated—that similar to HEV—CTV produced in cell culture is also lipid-associated. The lack of an efficient cell culture system has greatly impeded studies with HEV, a major human pathogen that causes hepatitis worldwide. Although several cell culture systems have recently been established, the replication efficiency of HEV is not robust enough to allow studies on different aspects of the virus replication cycle. Therefore, a surrogate virus that can replicate easily and efficiently in cultured cells would be helpful to boost research studies with hepeviruses. Due to its similarities, but also its key differences to HEV, CTV represents a promising tool to elucidate aspects of the replication cycle of Hepeviridae in general, and HEV in particular.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus von Nordheim
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Bern, Bern 3012, Switzerland.
| | - Michel Boinay
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Bern, Bern 3012, Switzerland.
| | - Remo Leisi
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Bern, Bern 3012, Switzerland.
| | - Christoph Kempf
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Bern, Bern 3012, Switzerland.
- CSL Behring AG, Bern 3014, Switzerland.
| | - Carlos Ros
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Bern, Bern 3012, Switzerland.
- CSL Behring AG, Bern 3014, Switzerland.
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Doceul V, Bagdassarian E, Demange A, Pavio N. Zoonotic Hepatitis E Virus: Classification, Animal Reservoirs and Transmission Routes. Viruses 2016; 8:v8100270. [PMID: 27706110 PMCID: PMC5086606 DOI: 10.3390/v8100270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 165] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2016] [Accepted: 09/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
During the past ten years, several new hepatitis E viruses (HEVs) have been identified in various animal species. In parallel, the number of reports of autochthonous hepatitis E in Western countries has increased as well, raising the question of what role these possible animal reservoirs play in human infections. The aim of this review is to present the recent discoveries of animal HEVs and their classification within the Hepeviridae family, their zoonotic and species barrier crossing potential, and possible use as models to study hepatitis E pathogenesis. Lastly, this review describes the transmission pathways identified from animal sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginie Doceul
- French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES), Animal Health Laboratory, UMR (joint research unit) 1161 Virology, 94701 Maisons-Alfort, France.
- French National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA), UMR (joint research unit) 1161 Virology, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France.
- Association of Universities and High Education Institutions (ComUE), Paris-Est Créteil Val-de-Marne University, National Veterinary School, UMR (joint research unit) 1161 Virology, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France.
| | - Eugénie Bagdassarian
- French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES), Animal Health Laboratory, UMR (joint research unit) 1161 Virology, 94701 Maisons-Alfort, France.
- French National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA), UMR (joint research unit) 1161 Virology, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France.
- Association of Universities and High Education Institutions (ComUE), Paris-Est Créteil Val-de-Marne University, National Veterinary School, UMR (joint research unit) 1161 Virology, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France.
| | - Antonin Demange
- French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES), Animal Health Laboratory, UMR (joint research unit) 1161 Virology, 94701 Maisons-Alfort, France.
- French National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA), UMR (joint research unit) 1161 Virology, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France.
- Association of Universities and High Education Institutions (ComUE), Paris-Est Créteil Val-de-Marne University, National Veterinary School, UMR (joint research unit) 1161 Virology, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France.
| | - Nicole Pavio
- French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES), Animal Health Laboratory, UMR (joint research unit) 1161 Virology, 94701 Maisons-Alfort, France.
- French National Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA), UMR (joint research unit) 1161 Virology, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France.
- Association of Universities and High Education Institutions (ComUE), Paris-Est Créteil Val-de-Marne University, National Veterinary School, UMR (joint research unit) 1161 Virology, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France.
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Transmission of Hepatitis E Virus in Developing Countries. Viruses 2016; 8:v8090253. [PMID: 27657112 PMCID: PMC5035967 DOI: 10.3390/v8090253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2016] [Revised: 09/08/2016] [Accepted: 09/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV), an RNA virus of the Hepeviridae family, has marked heterogeneity. While all five HEV genotypes can cause human infections, genotypes HEV-1 and -2 infect humans alone, genotypes HEV-3 and -4 primarily infect pigs, boars and deer, and genotype HEV-7 primarily infects dromedaries. The global distribution of HEV has distinct epidemiological patterns based on ecology and socioeconomic factors. In resource-poor countries, disease presents as large-scale waterborne epidemics, and few epidemics have spread through person-to-person contact; however, endemic diseases within these countries can potentially spread through person-to-person contact or fecally contaminated water and foods. Vertical transmission of HEV from infected mother to fetus causes high fetal and perinatal mortality. Other means of transmission, such as zoonotic transmission, can fluctuate depending upon the region and strain of the virus. For instance, zoonotic transmission can sometimes play an insignificant role in human infections, such as in India, where human and pig HEV infections are unrelated. However, recently China and Southeast Asia have experienced a zoonotic spread of HEV-4 from pigs to humans and this has become the dominant mode of transmission of hepatitis E in eastern China. Zoonotic HEV infections in humans occur by eating undercooked pig flesh, raw liver, and sausages; through vocational contact; or via pig slurry, which leads to environmental contamination of agricultural products and seafood. Lastly, blood transfusion-associated HEV infections occur in many countries and screening of donors for HEV RNA is currently under serious consideration. To summarize, HEV genotypes 1 and 2 cause epidemic and endemic diseases in resource poor countries, primarily spreading through contaminated drinking water. HEV genotypes 3 and 4 on the other hand, cause autochthonous infections in developed, and many developing countries, by means of a unique zoonotic food-borne transmission.
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Debing Y, Mishra N, Verbeken E, Ramaekers K, Dallmeier K, Neyts J. A rat model for hepatitis E virus. Dis Model Mech 2016; 9:1203-1210. [PMID: 27483350 PMCID: PMC5087834 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.024406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2015] [Accepted: 07/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is one of the prime causes of acute viral hepatitis, and chronic hepatitis E is increasingly recognized as an important problem in the transplant setting. Nevertheless, the fundamental understanding of the biology of HEV replication is limited and there are few therapeutic options. The development of such therapies is partially hindered by the lack of a robust and convenient animal model. We propose the infection of athymic nude rats with the rat HEV strain LA-B350 as such a model. A cDNA clone, pLA-B350, was constructed and the infectivity of its capped RNA transcripts was confirmed in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, a subgenomic replicon, pLA-B350/luc, was constructed and validated for in vitro antiviral studies. Interestingly, rat HEV proved to be less sensitive to the antiviral activity of α-interferon, ribavirin and mycophenolic acid than genotype 3 HEV (a strain that infects humans). As a proof-of-concept, part of the C-terminal polymerase sequence of pLA-B350/luc was swapped with its genotype 3 HEV counterpart: the resulting chimeric replicon replicated with comparable efficiency as the wild-type construct, confirming that LA-B350 strain is amenable to humanization (replacement of certain sequences or motifs by their counterparts from human HEV strains). Finally, ribavirin effectively inhibited LA-B350 replication in athymic nude rats, confirming the suitability of the rat model for antiviral studies. Summary: Rat hepatitis E virus strain LA-B350 is used as a model for antiviral studies for hepatitis E virus using a cDNA clone, replicon and in vivo studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yannick Debing
- Rega Institute for Medical Research, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Niraj Mishra
- Rega Institute for Medical Research, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Erik Verbeken
- Department of Imaging & Pathology, Translational Cell & Tissue Research, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Kaat Ramaekers
- Rega Institute for Medical Research, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Kai Dallmeier
- Rega Institute for Medical Research, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
| | - Johan Neyts
- Rega Institute for Medical Research, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, KU Leuven, Leuven 3000, Belgium
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31
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Allweiss L, Gass S, Giersch K, Groth A, Kah J, Volz T, Rapp G, Schöbel A, Lohse AW, Polywka S, Pischke S, Herker E, Dandri M, Lütgehetmann M. Human liver chimeric mice as a new model of chronic hepatitis E virus infection and preclinical drug evaluation. J Hepatol 2016; 64:1033-1040. [PMID: 26805671 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2016.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2015] [Revised: 01/14/2016] [Accepted: 01/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a major cause of acute hepatitis as well as chronic infection in immunocompromised individuals; however, in vivo infection models are limited. The aim of this study was to establish a small animal model to improve our understanding of HEV replication mechanisms and permit the development of effective therapeutics. METHODS UPA/SCID/beige mice repopulated with primary human hepatocytes were used for infection experiments with HEV genotype (GT) 1 and 3. Virological parameters were determined at the serological and intrahepatic level by real time PCR, immunohistochemistry and RNA in situ hybridization. RESULTS Establishment of HEV infection was achieved after intravenous injection of stool-derived virions and following co-housing with HEV-infected animals but not via inoculation of serum-derived HEV. GT 1 infection resulted in a rapid rise of viremia and high stable titres in serum, liver, bile and faeces of infected mice for more than 25 weeks. In contrast, viremia in GT 3 infected mice developed more slowly and displayed lower titres in all analysed tissues as compared to GT 1. HEV-infected human hepatocytes could be visualized using HEV ORF2 and ORF3 specific antibodies and HEV RNA in situ hybridization probes. Finally, six-week administration of ribavirin led to a strong reduction of viral replication in the serum and liver of GT 1 infected mice. CONCLUSION We established an efficient model of HEV infection to test the efficacy of antiviral agents and to exploit mechanisms of HEV replication and interaction with human hepatocytes in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Allweiss
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sofia Gass
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Katja Giersch
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anne Groth
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Janine Kah
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tassilo Volz
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gianna Rapp
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Anja Schöbel
- Heinrich-Pette-Institute, Leibniz Institute for Experimental Virology, Germany
| | - Ansgar W Lohse
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research, Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel Partner Site, Germany
| | - Susanne Polywka
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sven Pischke
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Eva Herker
- Heinrich-Pette-Institute, Leibniz Institute for Experimental Virology, Germany
| | - Maura Dandri
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; German Center for Infection Research, Hamburg-Lübeck-Borstel Partner Site, Germany
| | - Marc Lütgehetmann
- Department of Internal Medicine, Center for Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany; Department of Medical Microbiology, Virology and Hygiene, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
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Gouttenoire J, Moradpour D. A mouse model for hepatitis E virus infection. J Hepatol 2016; 64:1003-1005. [PMID: 26892936 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2016.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2016] [Accepted: 02/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jérôme Gouttenoire
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Darius Moradpour
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, University of Lausanne, Switzerland.
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Cossaboom CM, Heffron CL, Cao D, Yugo DM, Houk-Miles AE, Lindsay DS, Zajac AM, Bertke AS, Elvinger F, Meng XJ. Risk factors and sources of foodborne hepatitis E virus infection in the United States. J Med Virol 2016; 88:1641-5. [PMID: 26889628 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.24497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an important human pathogen with pigs and other species serving as natural animal reservoirs. Ample evidence documents sporadic cases of hepatitis E acquired via consumption of undercooked meat. Chronic hepatitis E cases in immunosuppressed individuals are mostly caused by zoonotic HEV of swine origin. We report here the identification of genotype 3 HEV from non-liver commercial pork from local grocery stores in southwest Virginia, and association of HEV seropositivity to the consumption of undercooked meat in healthy young adults at a university in the United States. These results raise concerns about foodborne HEV transmission in the United States. J. Med. Virol. 88:1641-1645, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin M Cossaboom
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia
| | - Connie L Heffron
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia
| | - Dianjun Cao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia
| | - Danielle M Yugo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia
| | - Alice E Houk-Miles
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia
| | - David S Lindsay
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia
| | - Anne M Zajac
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia
| | - Andrea S Bertke
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia
| | - François Elvinger
- Animal Health Diagnostic Center, Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, New York
| | - Xiang-Jin Meng
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia
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Li TC, Yang T, Yoshizaki S, Ami Y, Suzaki Y, Ishii K, Kishida N, Shirakura M, Asanuma H, Takeda N, Wakita T. Ferret hepatitis E virus infection induces acute hepatitis and persistent infection in ferrets. Vet Microbiol 2015; 183:30-6. [PMID: 26790932 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2015.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2015] [Revised: 11/04/2015] [Accepted: 11/14/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Ferret hepatitis E virus (HEV), a novel hepatitis E virus, has been identified in ferrets. However, the pathogenicity of ferret HEV remains unclear. In the present study, we compared the HEV RNA-positivity rates and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels of 63 ferrets between before and after import from the US to Japan. We found that the ferret HEV-RNA positivity rates were increased from 12.7% (8/63) to 60.3% (38/63), and ALT elevation was observed in 65.8% (25/38) of the ferret HEV RNA-positive ferrets, indicating that ferret HEV infection is responsible for liver damage. From long term-monitoring of ferret HEV infection we determined that this infection in ferrets exhibits three patterns: sub-clinical infection, acute hepatitis, and persistent infection. The ALT elevation was also observed in ferret HEV-infected ferrets in a primary infection experiment. These results indicate that the ferret HEV infection induced acute hepatitis and persistent infection in ferrets, suggesting that the ferrets are a candidate animal model for immunological as well as pathological studies of hepatitis E.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian-Cheng Li
- Department of Virology II, Gakuen 4-7-1, Musashi-murayama, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan.
| | - Tingting Yang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University Medical College, Jiangsu Road 16, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Sayaka Yoshizaki
- Department of Virology II, Gakuen 4-7-1, Musashi-murayama, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan
| | - Yasushi Ami
- Division of Experimental Animals Research, Gakuen 4-7-1, Musashi-murayama, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan
| | - Yuriko Suzaki
- Division of Experimental Animals Research, Gakuen 4-7-1, Musashi-murayama, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan
| | - Koji Ishii
- Department of Virology II, Gakuen 4-7-1, Musashi-murayama, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan
| | - Noriko Kishida
- Influenza Virus Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Gakuen 4-7-1, Musashi-murayama, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan
| | - Masayuki Shirakura
- Influenza Virus Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Gakuen 4-7-1, Musashi-murayama, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan
| | - Hideki Asanuma
- Influenza Virus Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Gakuen 4-7-1, Musashi-murayama, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan
| | - Naokazu Takeda
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0781, Japan
| | - Takaji Wakita
- Department of Virology II, Gakuen 4-7-1, Musashi-murayama, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is one of the most common causes of acute viral hepatitis in the world with an estimated 20 million infections per year. Although the mortality rate is < 1% among the general population, pregnant women can have a fatality rate of up to 30%. Additionally, chronic hepatitis E has increasingly become a significant clinical problem in immunocompromised individuals. Effective antivirals against HEV are needed. AREAS COVERED This review article addresses the current state of knowledge of HEV infections with regard to animal and cell culture model systems that are important for antiviral discovery and testing, our current understanding of the molecular mechanisms of virus replication, our understanding of how each viral protein functions, and areas that can potentially be exploited as therapeutic targets. EXPERT OPINION Lack of an efficient cell culture system for HEV propagation, the limited knowledge of HEV lifecycle, and the inherent self-limiting infection within the normal populace make the development of new therapeutic agents against HEV challenging. There are many promising therapeutic targets, and the tools for identifying and testing potential antivirals are rapidly evolving. The development of effective therapeutics against HEV in immunocompromised and pregnant patient populations is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott P Kenney
- Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech), College of Veterinary Medicine, Center for Molecular Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology , CRC-Integrated Life Sciences Building (0913), 1981 Kraft Drive, Blacksburg, VA 24061-0913 , USA +1 540 231 6912 ; +1 540 231 3414 ;
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Pavio N, Meng XJ, Doceul V. Zoonotic origin of hepatitis E. Curr Opin Virol 2015; 10:34-41. [PMID: 25588602 DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2014.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 133] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2014] [Revised: 12/10/2014] [Accepted: 12/17/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The concept of zoonotic viral hepatitis E has emerged a few years ago following the discovery of animal strains of hepatitis E virus (HEV), closely related to human HEV, in countries where sporadic cases of hepatitis E were autochthonous. Recent advances in the identification of animal reservoirs of HEV have confirmed that strains circulating in domestic and wild pigs are genetically related to strains identified in indigenous human cases. The demonstration of HEV contamination in the food chain or pork products has indicated that HEV is frequently a foodborne zoonotic pathogen. Direct contacts with infected animals, consumption of contaminated animal meat or meat products are all potential means of zoonotic HEV transmission. The recent identification of numerous other genetically diverse HEV strains from various animal species poses additional potential concerns for HEV zoonotic infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Pavio
- UMR 1161 Virology, ANSES, Laboratory for Animal Health, 94706 Maisons-Alfort, France; UMR 1161 Virology, INRA, 94706 Maisons-Alfort, France; UMR 1161 Virology, Université Paris Est, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, 94706 Maisons-Alfort, France.
| | - Xiang-Jin Meng
- Centre for Molecular Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Virginie Doceul
- UMR 1161 Virology, ANSES, Laboratory for Animal Health, 94706 Maisons-Alfort, France; UMR 1161 Virology, INRA, 94706 Maisons-Alfort, France; UMR 1161 Virology, Université Paris Est, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, 94706 Maisons-Alfort, France
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Lairmore MD, Ilkiw J. Animals Used in Research and Education, 1966-2016: Evolving Attitudes, Policies, and Relationships. JOURNAL OF VETERINARY MEDICAL EDUCATION 2015; 42:425-440. [PMID: 26673210 DOI: 10.3138/jvme.0615-087r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Since the inception of the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC), the use of animals in research and education has been a central element of the programs of member institutions. As veterinary education and research programs have evolved over the past 50 years, so too have societal views and regulatory policies. AAVMC member institutions have continually responded to these events by exchanging best practices in training their students in the framework of comparative medicine and the needs of society. Animals provide students and faculty with the tools to learn the fundamental knowledge and skills of veterinary medicine and scientific discovery. The study of animal models has contributed extensively to medicine, veterinary medicine, and basic sciences as these disciplines seek to understand life processes. Changing societal views over the past 50 years have provided active examination and continued refinement of the use of animals in veterinary medical education and research. The future use of animals to educate and train veterinarians will likely continue to evolve as technological advances are applied to experimental design and educational systems. Natural animal models of both human and animal health will undoubtedly continue to serve a significant role in the education of veterinarians and in the development of new treatments of animal and human disease. As it looks to the future, the AAVMC as an organization will need to continue to support and promote best practices in the humane care and appropriate use of animals in both education and research.
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MESH Headings
- Animal Experimentation/history
- Animal Experimentation/legislation & jurisprudence
- Animal Use Alternatives/history
- Animal Use Alternatives/legislation & jurisprudence
- Animal Use Alternatives/trends
- Animal Welfare/history
- Animal Welfare/legislation & jurisprudence
- Animals
- Animals, Laboratory
- Education, Veterinary/history
- Education, Veterinary/methods
- Education, Veterinary/trends
- History, 18th Century
- History, 19th Century
- History, 20th Century
- History, 21st Century
- History, Ancient
- Human-Animal Bond
- Humans
- Models, Animal
- United States
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