1
|
Veneri C, Brandtner D, Mancini P, Bonanno Ferraro G, Iaconelli M, Del Giudice C, Ciccaglione AR, Bruni R, Equestre M, Marcantonio C, Suffredini E, La Rosa G. Detection and full genomic sequencing of rare hepatitis E virus genotype 4d in Italian wastewater, undetected by clinical surveillance. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 913:169698. [PMID: 38160838 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Hepatitis E is a liver disease caused by the hepatitis E virus (HEV), primarily transmitted through contaminated water or food. There are four different HEV genotypes in humans, with genotypes 1 and 2 being the most widespread. Genotypes 3 and 4 are found in animals and can also infect humans. Genotype 4 is prevalent in Asia, mainly in China. In Italy, only one outbreak of HEV-4 has been documented, which occurred in 2011, involving five patients. In 2013, HEV G4 was also detected in a pig farm. Since then, no further evidence of HEV genotype 4 has been found in the country. This study describes the first detection of HEV genotype 4, subtype d, in wastewater in central Italy, despite a lack of any clinical case reported in the area. By using a multiplex PCR protocol and two sequencing strategies, Illumina and ONT, the virus's complete genome was sequenced and characterized as subtype 4d. These findings shed light on the potential of environmental surveillance for infectious agents to improve our understanding of epidemiology and support public health efforts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Veneri
- National Center for Water Safety (CeNSiA), Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - D Brandtner
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - P Mancini
- National Center for Water Safety (CeNSiA), Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - G Bonanno Ferraro
- National Center for Water Safety (CeNSiA), Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - M Iaconelli
- National Center for Water Safety (CeNSiA), Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - C Del Giudice
- National Center for Water Safety (CeNSiA), Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - A R Ciccaglione
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - R Bruni
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - M Equestre
- Department of Neurosciences, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - C Marcantonio
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - E Suffredini
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - G La Rosa
- National Center for Water Safety (CeNSiA), Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Di Cola G, Di Cola G, Fantilli A, Mamani V, Tamiozzo P, Martínez Wassaf M, Nates SV, Ré VE, Pisano MB. High circulation of hepatitis E virus (HEV) in pigs from the central region of Argentina without evidence of virus occurrence in pork meat and derived products. Res Vet Sci 2023; 164:105000. [PMID: 37708830 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2023.105000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emerging cause of viral hepatitis and pigs are considered a reservoir for the virus. HEV genotype 3 (HEV-3) has been reported in pigs, environmental matrices, and sporadic human cases in Argentina. We aimed to investigate HEV circulation in pigs from central Argentina and to assess the virus presence in pork meat and food products. Four types of samples obtained or derived from pigs collected in Córdoba province (Argentina) between 2019 and 2022, were tested: 276 serum samples were analyzed for anti-HEV antibody detection; stool (n = 20), pork meat (n = 71), and salami (n = 76) samples were studied for RNA-HEV detection, followed by sequencing and phylogenetic analyses. The positivity rate for anti-HEV antibodies was 80.1% (221/276). Eleven fecal samples (11/20) tested positive for RNA-HEV, from animals under 120 days of age. Three samples could be sequenced, and phylogenetic analyses revealed that they belonged to HEV-3 clade abchijklm, clustering close to strains previously detected in wastewater from Córdoba. None of the muscle meat or salami samples tested positive. A high HEV circulation in pigs was found, showing that these animals may play a significant role in the viral maintenance in the region, becoming a potential risk to the exposed population. Despite not detecting RNA-HEV in pork meat and salami in our study, we cannot rule out the possibility of foodborne transmission in Córdoba province.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guadalupe Di Cola
- Instituto de Virología "Dr. J.M. Vanella", Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional Córdoba, Enfermera Gordillo Gomez S/N, Córdoba, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina.
| | - Gabriel Di Cola
- Facultad de Agronomía y Veterinaria, Universidad Nacional de Río Cuarto, Ruta N° 36 - Km. 601, Río Cuarto, Córdoba, Argentina; Laboratorio de Salud Animal, Juan B. Justo 269, Río Cuarto, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Anabella Fantilli
- Instituto de Virología "Dr. J.M. Vanella", Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional Córdoba, Enfermera Gordillo Gomez S/N, Córdoba, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina
| | - Vanesa Mamani
- LACE Laboratorios, Av. Vélez Sarsfield 528, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Pablo Tamiozzo
- Facultad de Agronomía y Veterinaria, Universidad Nacional de Río Cuarto, Ruta N° 36 - Km. 601, Río Cuarto, Córdoba, Argentina
| | | | - Silvia Viviana Nates
- Instituto de Virología "Dr. J.M. Vanella", Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional Córdoba, Enfermera Gordillo Gomez S/N, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Viviana E Ré
- Instituto de Virología "Dr. J.M. Vanella", Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional Córdoba, Enfermera Gordillo Gomez S/N, Córdoba, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina
| | - María Belén Pisano
- Instituto de Virología "Dr. J.M. Vanella", Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional Córdoba, Enfermera Gordillo Gomez S/N, Córdoba, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Ferri G, Giantomassi G, Piccinini A, Olivastri A, Vergara A. Hepatitis E Virus RNA Detection from Hunted Wild Boars in Central Italy: an Epidemiological Investigation. FOOD AND ENVIRONMENTAL VIROLOGY 2023; 15:158-166. [PMID: 37029274 PMCID: PMC10261184 DOI: 10.1007/s12560-023-09554-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Every year, foodborne pathogens, including the hepatitis E virus (HEV), cause thousands of infections in different continents. Final consumers become infected through the ingestion of contaminated animal origin foodstuffs. Generally, in industrialized countries, HEV genotype 3 is involved in sporadic outbreaks. Infections have been described, in Europe and Japan as consequence of pork products and contaminated wild boar's primary or processed products (liver and muscle tissues) consumption. In Central Italy, hunting activities are largely practiced. In these small and rural communities, game meat and liver are ingested by hunters' families or at local and traditional restaurants. Therefore, these food chains can be considered critical HEV reservoirs. In this study, 506 liver and diaphragm tissues were collected from hunted wild boars in the Southern Marche region (Central Italy) and were screened for HEV RNA detection. From the 10.87% of liver and 2.76% of muscle samples, HEV3 subtype c was discovered. The observed prevalence values resulted in line with previous investigations performed in other Central Italian regions, but higher than Northern ones (3.7% and 1.9% from liver tissue). Therefore, the obtained epidemiological data highlighted the wide occurrence of HEV RNA circulation in a low-investigated area. Basing on results, a One-health approach was adopted due to the sanitary relevance of this Public Health concern.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gianluigi Ferri
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Specialization School in Food Inspection "G. Tiecco", University of Teramo, Piano d'Accio, Strada Porvinciale 18, 64100, Teramo, Italy.
| | | | - Andrea Piccinini
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Specialization School in Food Inspection "G. Tiecco", University of Teramo, Piano d'Accio, Strada Porvinciale 18, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | | | - Alberto Vergara
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Specialization School in Food Inspection "G. Tiecco", University of Teramo, Piano d'Accio, Strada Porvinciale 18, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Yang L, Sun Y, Chen T, Miao F, Cong Y, Zhao J. Comment on: Hepatitis E virus in blood donors from Argentina: A possible source of viral infection? Travel Med Infect Dis 2023; 51:102474. [PMID: 36307009 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2022.102474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lihua Yang
- College of Life Science, Changchun Sci-Tech University, Changchun, 130600, China
| | - Yixue Sun
- Jilin Research & Development Center of Biomedical Engineering, Changchun University, Changchun, 130022, China
| | - Teng Chen
- Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, 130122, China
| | - Faming Miao
- Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, 130122, China
| | - Yanlong Cong
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Research, Ministry of Education, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, China.
| | - Jinghui Zhao
- College of Life Science, Changchun Sci-Tech University, Changchun, 130600, China; Jilin DaBeiNong Agriculture and Animal Husbandry Technology Co., Ltd, Changchun, 130102, China; State Key Laboratory of Direct-Fed Microbial Engineering, Beijing DaBeiNong Science and Technology Group Co., Ltd, (DBN), Beijing, 100192, China.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Pisano MB, Blanco S, Di Cola G, Fantilli AC, Martínez Wassaf MG, Carrizo LH, Ré VE, Gallego SV. Reply to comment on "Hepatitis E virus in blood donors from Argentina: A possible source of viral infection?". Travel Med Infect Dis 2023; 51:102475. [PMID: 36307010 DOI: 10.1016/j.tmaid.2022.102475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- María Belén Pisano
- Instituto de Virología "Dr. J. M. Vanella", Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Enfermera Gordillo Gómes s/n, CP, 5016, Córdoba, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz, 2290, C1425FQB, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Sebastián Blanco
- Instituto de Virología "Dr. J. M. Vanella", Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Enfermera Gordillo Gómes s/n, CP, 5016, Córdoba, Argentina; Fundación Banco Central de Sangre, Caseros 1576, CP, 5000, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Guadalupe Di Cola
- Instituto de Virología "Dr. J. M. Vanella", Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Enfermera Gordillo Gómes s/n, CP, 5016, Córdoba, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz, 2290, C1425FQB, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Anabella C Fantilli
- Instituto de Virología "Dr. J. M. Vanella", Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Enfermera Gordillo Gómes s/n, CP, 5016, Córdoba, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz, 2290, C1425FQB, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Luis H Carrizo
- Fundación Banco Central de Sangre, Caseros 1576, CP, 5000, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Viviana E Ré
- Instituto de Virología "Dr. J. M. Vanella", Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Enfermera Gordillo Gómes s/n, CP, 5016, Córdoba, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz, 2290, C1425FQB, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Sandra V Gallego
- Instituto de Virología "Dr. J. M. Vanella", Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Enfermera Gordillo Gómes s/n, CP, 5016, Córdoba, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Godoy Cruz, 2290, C1425FQB, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Wang Y, Zhao C, Qi Y, Geng Y. Hepatitis E Virus. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1417:1-13. [PMID: 37223855 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-99-1304-6_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Since the sequence of hepatitis E virus (HEV) was determined from a patient with enterically transmitted non-A, non-B hepatitis in 1989, similar sequences have been isolated from many different animals, including pigs, wild boars, deer, rabbits, bats, rats, chicken, and trout. All of these sequences have the same genomic organization, which contains open reading frames (ORFs) 1, 2, and 3, although their genomic sequences are variable. Some have proposed that they be classified as new family, Hepeviridae, which would be further divided into different genera and species according to their sequence variability. The size of these virus particles generally ranged from 27 to 34 nm. However, HEV virions produced in cell culture differ in structure from the viruses found in feces. Those from cell culture have a lipid envelope and either lack or have a little ORF3, whereas the viruses isolated from feces lack a lipid envelope but have ORF3 on their surfaces. Surprisingly, most of the secreted ORF2 proteins from both these sources are not associated with HEV RNA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Youchun Wang
- Institute of Medical Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Science & Peking Union Medical College, Kunming, China.
| | - Chenyan Zhao
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-Transmitted Virus Vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Qi
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-Transmitted Virus Vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing, China
| | - Yansheng Geng
- Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety of Hebei Province, School of Public Health, Hebei University, Baoding, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ferri G, Lauteri C, Festino AR, Piccinini A, Olivastri A, Vergara A. Hepatitis E Virus Detection in Hunted Wild Boar Liver and Muscle Tissues in Central Italy. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10081628. [PMID: 36014046 PMCID: PMC9414245 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10081628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In different European countries, including Italy, hepatitis E virus (HEV) has been recognized as an emerging public health concern. Humans are infected through the orofecal route by the ingestion of contaminated uncooked or undercooked animal-origin foodstuffs. Wild boars (Sus scrofa) have gained a crucial role as viral reservoirs. HEV-3 is the most frequently identified genotype from hunted wild boar liver and muscle tissues. The Marche region, more specifically Ascoli Piceno province, is characterized by a rooted hunting tradition and related product consumption. In this research study, 312 liver and 296 muscle specimens were screened using biomolecular assays, and HEV RNA was detected from 5.45% and 1.35% of liver and muscle samples, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that positive animals were infected by genotype 3 subtype c. Based on the environmental pathogen characteristics, HEV has also evolved to guarantee its survival in a wild environment. Therefore, wild boars and ruminants have a key role in its persistence. Epidemiological data regarding HEV circulation have resulted as necessary, and biomolecular analysis represents an important means of monitoring and establishing preventive measures. A multidisciplinary approach could provide a wide perspective regarding HEV and infectious implications on human, animal, and environmental health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gianluigi Ferri
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Post-Graduate Specialization School in Food Inspection “G. Tiecco”, University of Teramo, Strada Provinciale 18, Piano d’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0861266886
| | - Carlotta Lauteri
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Post-Graduate Specialization School in Food Inspection “G. Tiecco”, University of Teramo, Strada Provinciale 18, Piano d’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Anna Rita Festino
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Post-Graduate Specialization School in Food Inspection “G. Tiecco”, University of Teramo, Strada Provinciale 18, Piano d’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Andrea Piccinini
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Post-Graduate Specialization School in Food Inspection “G. Tiecco”, University of Teramo, Strada Provinciale 18, Piano d’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| | - Alberto Olivastri
- Veterinary Service I.A.O.A., ASUR Marche, Area Vasta 5 Ascoli Piceno/San Benedetto del Tronto, 63900 Fermo, Italy
| | - Alberto Vergara
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Post-Graduate Specialization School in Food Inspection “G. Tiecco”, University of Teramo, Strada Provinciale 18, Piano d’Accio, 64100 Teramo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ferri G, Piccinini A, Olivastri A, Vergara A. Hepatitis E virus detection in hunted wild boar ( Sus scrofa) livers in Central Italy. Ital J Food Saf 2022; 11:9979. [PMID: 35795462 PMCID: PMC9251872 DOI: 10.4081/ijfs.2022.9979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a zoonotic pathogen, responsible for numerous cases of infection in humans. Transmission occurs through the orofecal route, and ingestion of contaminated foods represents an important risk factor for final consumer's health. Wild animal species, in particular wild boar (Sus scrofa), are the main virus reservoirs; liver is the target organ, from which, through the hematic diffusion, HEV reaches different tissues and organs, as muscular one. The hygienic-sanitary critical issues connected with game meat food chain in general, and particularly wild boar, with special regards to any geographical area where this animal species can be directly in contact with humans, domestic ones (i.e., domestic pig), and other wild reservoirs (i.e., wild ruminants), finds favorable environmental conditions, have induced us to conduce the present scientific investigation. During the hunting season 2019/2020, a total of 156 wild boar livers were collected from provided plucks at slaughterhouse in Ascoli Piceno. Nested RT-PCR was used for the viral RNA detection. Results demonstrated a positivity of 5.12% (8/156), and the circulation in the screened area of genotype 3 subtype c, which is frequently identified in Central Italy. HEV sanitary relevance and the emerging role of any food chains in its transmission impose further detailed studies. The molecular screening of hunted wild boars' livers can provide important information about virus's circulation in wild animal populations in a specific area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gianluigi Ferri
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Post- Graduate Specialization School in Food Inspection "G. Tiecco", University of Teramo
| | - Andrea Piccinini
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Post- Graduate Specialization School in Food Inspection "G. Tiecco", University of Teramo
| | - Alberto Olivastri
- Veterinary Service I.A.O.A., ASUR Marche, Area Vasta 5 Ascoli Piceno/San Benedetto del Tronto, Italy
| | - Alberto Vergara
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Post- Graduate Specialization School in Food Inspection "G. Tiecco", University of Teramo
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Li B, Wagner AL, Song Y, Chen X, Lu Y. Distribution and phylogenetics of hepatitis E virus genotype 4 in humans and animals. Zoonoses Public Health 2022; 69:458-467. [PMID: 35246959 DOI: 10.1111/zph.12934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Worldwide, hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is considered a significant public health concern. In particular, HEV genotype 4 (HEV-4) has spread to more areas and host species. In this study, we describe the global distribution of HEV-4 and characterize HEV-4 subtypes by host, country and year of isolation. METHODS We retrospectively collected HEV-4 sequences available before December 31, 2019, in GenBank. HEV-4 and its subtypes were determined using phylogenetic comparison with HEV reference sequences. Information on the isolation of the sequences was extracted from the GenBank or original publications. Temporal, spatial and host characteristics of the sequences were summarized and nucleotide similarity was calculated based on five amplified fragments within HEV genome, stratified by host, country and year. RESULTS A total of 2295 HEV-4 complete and partial nucleotide sequences were studied. The majority (92.7%) was isolated in China's mainland, Japan, Hong Kong and France. A total of 20 animal hosts were documented, though swine remained predominant (71.7%). Globally, prevalent HEV-4 subtypes changed remarkably over the last 18 years. Subtypes 4a, 4b, 4d and 4h were most commonly isolated (80.3%). Subtypes 4c, 4e, 4f, 4g and 4i remained limited in temporal distribution. High nucleotide similarities were observed between the sequences amplified in HEV ORF2, in the same and neighbouring countries, and in similar animal hosts. CONCLUSION China and Japan are endemic for HEV-4, and have all the subtypes. In Europe, France has a high prevalence of HEV-4. Increases in affected areas and animal hosts imply consistent cross-border and cross-species transmission.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bingzhe Li
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Abram L Wagner
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Yujian Song
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiangxiang Chen
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yihan Lu
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.,Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Public Health Safety (Fudan University), Shanghai, China.,Global Health Institute, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Broadly Reactive Real-Time RT-PCR Assay for the Detection of Hepatitis E Virus and Simultaneous Genotyping by Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Analysis. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0191221. [PMID: 35138152 PMCID: PMC8826742 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01912-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is a global public health concern. Although HEV infection is usually asymptomatic and self-limiting, extrahepatic manifestations and chronic infections in immunocompromised patients have been described. HEV strains infecting humans have been classified into four main genotypes. In this study we have developed and validated a novel sensitive real-time RT-PCR assay for the detection of all four HEV genotypes. Simultaneous discrimination of genotypes 1, 2, and 4 from genotype 3 by single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis was possible. In all, 201 serum samples from cases and carriers previously tested for HEV by nested RT-PCR were analyzed. Twenty-seven HEV-positive samples could not be typed by the nested RT-PCR and nucleotide sequencing, but were newly typed by SNP analysis. As polymorphisms were present at the primer or probe binding site, we adopted a degenerate primer and mixed probes. When a mixed probe was added, the fluorescence intensity increased, facilitating genotype determination. IMPORTANCE The distribution of HEV-3 and HEV-4 has been changing. HEV-4, which had been predominantly found in Asia, is now being detected in other parts of the world, and there are now reports of chronic infections. Additionally, neurological disorders have frequently been reported in patients with acute or chronic HEV infections. HEV-4 has also been shown to lead to a higher severity in terms of acute hepatitis than does HEV-3. Early typing can provide useful information regarding the route of infection and for tailoring treatment to the expected course of the disease. The present method afforded a good detection rate even when polymorphisms were present within the target region for viral gene detection. We believe that this method can be applied to the analysis of mutation-prone viral genes in the future.
Collapse
|
11
|
Sridhar S, Yip CCY, Lo KHY, Wu S, Situ J, Chew NFS, Leung KH, Chan HSY, Wong SCY, Leung AWS, Tse CWS, Fung KSC, Tsang OTY, Hon KL, Cheng VCC, Ng KHL, Yuen KY. Hepatitis E virus species C infection in humans, Hong Kong. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 75:288-296. [PMID: 34718428 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciab919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis E virus (HEV) variants belonging to Orthohepevirus species A (HEV-A) are the primary cause of human hepatitis E. However, we previously reported that Orthohepevirus C (HEV-C1), a divergent HEV variant commonly found in rats, also causes hepatitis in humans. Here, we present a clinical-epidemiological investigation of human HEV-C1 infections detected in Hong Kong, with an emphasis on outcomes in immunocompromised individuals.. METHODS A surveillance system for detecting human HEV-C1 infections was established in Hong Kong. Epidemiological and clinical characteristics of HEV-C1 cases identified via this system between August 1, 2019 and December 31, 2020 were retrieved. Phylogenetic analysis of HEV-C1 strain sequences was performed. Infection outcomes of immunocompromised individuals with HEV-A and HEV-C1 infections were analyzed. RESULTS HEV-C1 accounted for 8/53 (15.1%) RT-PCR confirmed hepatitis E infections in Hong Kong during the study period, raising the total number of HEV-C1 infections detected in the city to 16. Two distinct HEV-C1 strain groups caused human infections. Patients were elderly and/or immunocompromised; half tested negative for HEV IgM. Cumulatively, HEV-C1 accounted for 9/21 (42.9%) cases of hepatitis E recorded in immunocompromised patients in Hong Kong. Immunocompromised HEV-C1 patients progressed to persistent hepatitis at similar rates (7/9; 77.8%) as HEV-A patients (10/12; 75%). HEV-C1 patients responded to oral ribavirin although response to first course was sometimes poor or delayed. CONCLUSIONS Dedicated RT-PCR-based surveillance detected human HEV-C1 cases that evade conventional hepatitis E diagnostic testing. Immunosuppressed HEV-C1-infected patients frequently progress to persistent HEV-C1 infection for which ribavirin is a suitable treatment option.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Siddharth Sridhar
- Department of Microbiology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,State Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Hong Kong.,Carol Yu Centre for Infection, The University of Hong Kong
| | - Cyril Chik-Yan Yip
- Department of Microbiology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kelvin Hon-Yin Lo
- Department of Microbiology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shusheng Wu
- Department of Microbiology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jianwen Situ
- Department of Microbiology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Nicholas Foo-Siong Chew
- Department of Microbiology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kit-Hang Leung
- Department of Microbiology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Kam-Lun Hon
- The Hong Kong Children's Hospital, Hong Kong
| | - Vincent Chi-Chung Cheng
- Department of Microbiology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ken Ho-Leung Ng
- Public Health Laboratory Services Branch, Department of Health, Hong Kong
| | - Kwok-Yung Yuen
- Department of Microbiology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,State Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Hong Kong.,Carol Yu Centre for Infection, The University of Hong Kong.,The Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The University of Hong Kong
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Cortez A, Metorima C, Miyagi S, Sousa A, Peyser A, Castro A, Baldisseri Jr F, Souza Filho A, Brandão P, Heinemann M. High genetic diversity of hepatitis E virus in swine in São Paulo State, Brazil. ARQ BRAS MED VET ZOO 2021. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-4162-12203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - C.S. Metorima
- Universidade Santo Amaro, Brazil; Universidade Santo Amaro, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zhang W, Ami Y, Suzaki Y, Doan YH, Takeda N, Muramatsu M, Li TC. Generation of a Bactrian camel hepatitis E virus by a reverse genetics system. J Gen Virol 2021; 102. [PMID: 34242156 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.001618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Bactrian camel hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a novel HEV belonging to genotype 8 (HEV-8) in the Orthohepevirus A species of the genus Hepevirus in the family Hepeviridae. HEV-8 cross-transmits to cynomolgus monkeys and has a potential risk for zoonotic infection. Until now, neither a cell-culture system to grow the virus nor a reverse genetics system to generate the virus has been developed. To generate replication-competent HEV-8 and to establish a cell-culture system, we synthesized capped genomic HEV-8 RNAs by in vitro transcription and used them to transfect into PLC/PRF/5 cells. A HEV-8 strain, HEV-8M2, was recovered from the capped HEV-8 RNA-transfected cell-culture supernatants and subsequently passaged in the cells, demonstrating that PLC/PRF/5 cells were capable of supporting the replication of the HEV-8, and that a cell-culture system for HEV-8 was successfully established. In addition to PLC/PRF/5 cells, A549 and Caco-2 cells appeared to be competent for the replication, but HepG2 C3/A, Vero, Hela S3, HEp-2C, 293T and GL37 cells were incompetent. The HEV-8M2 strain was capable of infecting cynomolgus monkeys by an intravenous inoculation, indicating that HEV-8 was infectious and again carried a risk for zoonotic infection. In contrast, HEV-8 did not infect nude rats and BALB/c nude mice, suggesting that the reservoir of HEV-8 was limited. In addition, the replication of the HEV-8M2 strain was efficiently abrogated by ribavirin but not by favipiravir, suggesting that ribavirin is a drug candidate for therapeutic treatment of HEV-8-induced hepatitis. The infectious HEV-8 produced by a reverse genetics system would be useful to elucidate the mechanisms of HEV replication and the pathogenesis of type E hepatitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Zhang
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Gakuen 4-7-1, Musashi-murayama, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan
| | - Yasushi Ami
- Division of Experimental Animals Research, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Gakuen 4-7-1, Musashi-murayama, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan
| | - Yuriko Suzaki
- Division of Experimental Animals Research, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Gakuen 4-7-1, Musashi-murayama, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan
| | - Yen Hai Doan
- Department of Environmental Parasitology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, M&D Tower 16F, 1-5-45 Yushima, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8519, Japan
| | - Naokazu Takeda
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0781, Japan
| | - Masamichi Muramatsu
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Gakuen 4-7-1, Musashi-murayama, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan
| | - Tian-Cheng Li
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Gakuen 4-7-1, Musashi-murayama, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Dogadov DI, Korzaya LI, Kyuregyan KK, Karlsen AA, Mikhailov MI. [Markers of viral hepatitis E (Hepeviridae, Orthohepevirus, Orthohepevirus A) in the imported Old World monkeys]. Vopr Virusol 2021; 66:182-188. [PMID: 34251155 DOI: 10.36233/0507-4088-34] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Viral hepatitis E is a zooanthroponotic disease that occurs in humans and various animals, including monkeys. It is caused by hepatitis E virus (HEV) (Hepeviridae, Orthohepevirus: Orthohepevirus A), for which 8 genotypes have been described to date. Among them, strains of genotypes 1 and 2 have been isolated from humans, strains of genotypes 3 and 4 from humans and animals, and strains of genotypes 5-8 from animals only. The main threat of the disease is associated with the documented zoonotic transmission of HEV genotypes 3, 4, 7, and 8, to humans through infected meat, blood and milk. Thus, monkeys could be involved in the transmission of HEV.The aim of this work was to study serological and molecular genetic markers of HEV infection in strepsirrhines (Old World monkeys, Cercopithecoidea), imported to the Adler Primate Center from various regions of the world (Tanzania, Vietnam, Mauritius). MATERIAL AND METHODS Fecal (n = 224) and blood serum samples (n = 395) from cynomolgus (Macaca fascicularis) and vervet monkeys (Chlorocebus pygerythrus) were examined by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The data obtained show the high detection rate (51.8%) of IgG antibodies to HEV among 5 groups of cynomolgus monkeys imported from Vietnam, with a predominance of highly reactive sera (84%). High detection rate of IgM antibodies in these animals (10.4%) was observed, with the large number of IgM-reactive sera in one particular group of animals (36.8%). The fact of detection of HEV RNA in two groups of cynomolgus monkeys (11.9% and 5.7%) is of particular importance. All HEV sequences of isolated from monkeys belonged to genotype 4. CONCLUSION Our data indicate that monkeys (in particular, cynomolgus monkeys) can serve as a natural reservoir of HEV genotype 4 for humans. This requires an appropriate set of anti-epidemic measures in a number of situations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D I Dogadov
- FSBRI «Research Institute of Medical Primatology» of the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia
| | - L I Korzaya
- FSBRI «Research Institute of Medical Primatology» of the Ministry of Education and Science of Russia
| | - K K Kyuregyan
- FSBRI «I.I. Mechnikov Research Institute of Vaccines and Sera»; FSBEI FPE «Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education» of the Ministry of Health of Russia
| | - A A Karlsen
- FSBRI «I.I. Mechnikov Research Institute of Vaccines and Sera»; FSBEI FPE «Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education» of the Ministry of Health of Russia
| | - M I Mikhailov
- FSBRI «I.I. Mechnikov Research Institute of Vaccines and Sera»; FSBEI FPE «Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education» of the Ministry of Health of Russia
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Hepatitis E Virus Occurrence in Pigs Slaughtered in Italy. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11020277. [PMID: 33499160 PMCID: PMC7911034 DOI: 10.3390/ani11020277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Hepatitis E is now recognized as an emerging zoonotic disease in Europe caused by an RNA virus (HEV) and foodborne is the main route of transmission. Human cases have been linked to the consumption of contaminated pig liver sausages, raw venison, or undercooked wild boar meat. The zoonotic genotype HEV-3 is widespread in pigs at farm level but little information is available on the occurrence of HEV-positive pigs at the slaughterhouse. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of HEV-positive pigs during slaughtering, to understand which biological samples (feces and organs) were more frequently HEV positive. Our results showed that pigs positive for HEV can be slaughtered and that the percentage of positive animals depends on the age of animals. The other main result is the presence of the virus in the plasma of animals, which may contribute to the contamination of meat (muscle). Nevertheless, muscles are rarely contaminated by HEV-RNA compared to liver, which is the organ of replication. Abstract In Europe, foodborne transmission has been clearly associated to sporadic cases and small clusters of hepatitis E in humans linked to the consumption of contaminated pig liver sausages, raw venison, or undercooked wild boar meat. In Europe, zoonotic HEV-genotype 3 strains are widespread in pig farms but little information is available on the prevalence of HEV positive pigs at slaughterhouse. In the present study, the prevalence of HEV-RNA positive pigs was assessed on 585 animals from 4 abattoirs located across Italy. Twenty-one pigs (3.6%) tested positive for HEV in either feces or liver by real-time RT-PCR. In these 21 pigs, eight diaphragm muscles resulted positive for HEV-RNA. Among animals collected in one abattoir, 4 out of 91 plasma tested positive for HEV-RNA. ELISA tests for the detection of total antibodies against HEV showed a high seroprevalence (76.8%), confirming the frequent exposure of pigs to the virus. The phylogenetic analyses conducted on sequences of both ORF1 and ORF2 fragments, shows the circulation of HEV-3c and of a novel unclassified subtype. This study provides information on HEV occurrence in pigs at the slaughterhouse, confirming that muscles are rarely contaminated by HEV-RNA compared to liver, which is the most frequently positive for HEV.
Collapse
|
16
|
Lu J, Li Q, Jiang J, Li Z, Wang P, Sheng Z, Lai R, Zhou H, Cai W, Wang H, Guo Q, Gui H, Xie Q. Laboratory-based Surveillance and Clinical Profile of Sporadic HEV Infection in Shanghai, China. Virol Sin 2021; 36:644-654. [PMID: 33433848 DOI: 10.1007/s12250-020-00336-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The study aimed to describe the epidemiological, virological and clinical features of sporadic HEV infection in eastern China. A total of 6112 patient sera were tested for anti-HEV IgG or anti-HEV IgM during one consecutive year (between August 2018 and July 2019). HEV RNA presence was evaluated by RT-PCR and HEV sequences were phylogenetically analyzed. Clinical features of confirmed HEV-infected patients were delineated. The sero-positivity rate of anti-HEV IgG maintained stable around 40%, while an obvious winter spike of anti-HEV IgM prevalence was observed. A total of 111 patients were confirmed of HEV viremia by molecular diagnosis. Subtype 4d was predominant. Phylogenetic analyses suggest that certain strains circulate across species and around the country. Subjects with confirmed current HEV infection had a high median age (58 years) and males were predominant (62.2%). Most patients presented with jaundice (75.7%) and anorexia (68.0%). Significantly elevated levels of liver enzymes and bilirubin were observed. Remarkably, the baseline bilirubin level was positively correlated with illness severity. Pre-existing HBV carriage may deteriorate illness. The clinical burden caused by locally acquired HEV infection is increasing. Surveillance should be enforced especially during the transition period from winter to spring. Patients with higher level of bilirubin at disease onset had slower recovery from HEV infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Lu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Qing Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Jiayuan Jiang
- Clinical Research Institute, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Ziqiang Li
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Peiyun Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Zike Sheng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Rongtao Lai
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Huijuan Zhou
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Wei Cai
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Qing Guo
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China.
| | - Honglian Gui
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China.
| | - Qing Xie
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Thakur V, Ratho RK, Kumar S, Saxena SK, Bora I, Thakur P. Viral Hepatitis E and Chronicity: A Growing Public Health Concern. Front Microbiol 2020; 11:577339. [PMID: 33133046 PMCID: PMC7550462 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2020.577339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E viral infection recently emerges as a global health concern. Over the last decade, the understanding of hepatitis E virus (HEV) had changed with the discovery of new genotypes like genotype-7 and genotype-8 with associated host and mode of infection. Diversification in the mode of hepatitis E infection transmission through blood transfusion, and organ transplants in contrast to classical feco-oral and zoonotic mode is the recent medical concern. The wide spectrum of infection ranging from self-limiting to acute liver failure is now overpowered by HEV genotype-specific chronic infection especially in transplant patients. This concern is further escalated by the extra-hepatic manifestations of HEV targeting the central nervous system (CNS), kidney, heart, and pancreas. However, with the development of advanced efficient cell culture systems and animal models simulating the infection, much clarity toward understanding the pathogenetic mechanism of HEV has been developed. Also this facilitates the development of vaccines research or therapeutics. In this review, we highlight all the novel findings in every aspect of HEV with special emphasis on recently emerging chronic mode of infection with specific diagnosis and treatment regime with an optimistic hope to help virologists and/or liver specialists working in the field of viral hepatitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vikram Thakur
- Department of Virology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Radha Kanta Ratho
- Department of Virology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Swatantra Kumar
- Centre for Advanced Research, Faculty of Medicine, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India
| | - Shailendra K Saxena
- Centre for Advanced Research, Faculty of Medicine, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, India
| | - Ishani Bora
- Department of Virology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Pryanka Thakur
- Department of Virology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Viera-Segura O, Panduro A, Trujillo-Ochoa JL, Copado-Villagrana E, Torres-Valadez R, Sepulveda-Villegas M, Roman S, Fierro NA. Evidence for Increased Inflammatory Cytokine Profile in Hepatitis E Virus-Infected Obese Patients: Implications for Chronic Liver Disease. Viral Immunol 2020; 33:600-609. [PMID: 32986530 DOI: 10.1089/vim.2020.0064] [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] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
We aimed to characterize the contribution of hepatitis E virus (HEV) in perpetuating the cytokine-mediated inflammatory setting related to liver damage in the context of obesity. Herein, serum samples from patients with liver disease were retrospectively analyzed and categorized as normal-weight patients (NW), overweight patients (OW), obese patients (ObP), and high alcohol consumer patients (HAC), and biochemical, anthropometrical, and transient elastography measurements were obtained. The positivity for immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) anti-HEV antibodies in samples was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Available samples from ObP were tested by reverse transcription-nested polymerase chain reaction for the presence of HEV-RNA. Cytokine profile in the serum of ObP was identified using a multiplexed immune assay. Globally, the highest frequency of IgG anti-HEV was found in ObP (57.5%), followed by HAC (20%), OW (15%), and NW (7.5%). A strong association between HEV serology and obesity was found (odds ratio = 4.21, confidence interval = 1.91.9.27) with a cutoff of 29.3 kg/m2 (area under curve [AUC] = 0-66; p = 0.003) and, a 23.7% of available samples of ObP provided amplification of HEV genome. Cytokine analysis revealed significantly higher levels of proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin [IL]-12, interferon [IFN]-γ, and IL-1β) in IgG anti-HEV-positive ObP than in IgG anti-HEV-negative ObP. Moreover, a high proportion of patients with positive serology showed advanced liver damage. In conclusion, the high percentage of anti-HEV antibodies and viral RNA detection in the setting of an excess of fat, along with an associated proinflammatory cytokine profile found in IgG anti-HEV-positive ObP with more severe liver disease, support an interplay between HEV and obesity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Viera-Segura
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico.,Servicio de Biologia Molecular en Medicina, Hospital Civil de Guadalajara "Fray Antonio Alcalde," Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - Arturo Panduro
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico.,Servicio de Biologia Molecular en Medicina, Hospital Civil de Guadalajara "Fray Antonio Alcalde," Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - Jorge L Trujillo-Ochoa
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - Edgar Copado-Villagrana
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico
| | | | | | - Sonia Roman
- Departamento de Biología Molecular, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico.,Servicio de Biologia Molecular en Medicina, Hospital Civil de Guadalajara "Fray Antonio Alcalde," Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - Nora A Fierro
- Departamento de Inmunologia, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomedicas, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Viera-Segura O, Realpe-Quintero M, Panduro A, Roman S, Jose-Abrego A, Gonzalez-Aldaco K, Trujillo-Ochoa JL, Fierro NA. First detection of hepatitis E virus genotype 3 as a common infectious agent in patients with chronic liver damage in Mexico. Ann Hepatol 2020; 18:571-577. [PMID: 31080055 DOI: 10.1016/j.aohep.2019.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Revised: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES To characterize the virological features of hepatitis E virus (HEV) in serum from patients exhibiting chronic liver damage. METHODS A data-base of 513 unrelated individuals from West-Mexico with liver-disease determined by clinical and biochemical tests and transient elastography between 2011 and 2016 were retrospectively analyzed. According to infectious etiologies, patients were classified as hepatitis B virus (HBV)-, hepatitis C virus (HCV)-infected patients, and patients exhibiting chronic liver damage with non-identified infectious etiological agent (NIIEA). Available serum samples from NIIEA-patients were tested by RT-nPCR for the presence of HEV-RNA and partially sequenced for genotyping. RESULTS Out of the 513 cases, 5.85% were patients infected with HBV, 67.64% with HCV, and 26.51% were NIIEA-patients. Among 76 available samples from NIIEA-cases, 30.26% tested positive for HEV-RNA. Twelve (15.79%) partial HEV sequences allowed phylogenetic analysis, revealing the classification of HEV as HEV-Gt3. Advanced fibrosis (F3-F4 stage) was found in a 26.1% of patients with HEV-active infection. CONCLUSION Although HCV is the main infectious agent related to chronic liver disease in Mexico, liver damage without an infectious etiology is common. Our findings reveal that an elevated rate of chronic liver disease might be represented by autochthonous infection of HEV-Gt3, whose detection makes Mexico unique in Latin-America with the circulation of HEV strains belonging to three genotypes (Gt1, Gt2, and Gt3). Thus, HEV infection should be a matter of health concern, and mandates for HEV screening to properly handle this commonly undiagnosed disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Viera-Segura
- Health Sciences Center, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico; Immunovirology Unit, Department of Molecular Biology in Medicine, Civil Hospital of Guadalajara, "Fray Antonio Alcalde", Department of Physiology, Health Sciences Center, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, 44280 Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Mauricio Realpe-Quintero
- Department of Veterinarian Medicine, Biological-Agricultural Sciences, University of Guadalajara, Nextipac, Zapopan, 44600 Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Arturo Panduro
- Department of Molecular Biology in Medicine, Civil Hospital of Guadalajara "Fray Antonio Alcalde", and Health Sciences Center, University of Guadalajara, Hospital #278, Col. El Retiro, Guadalajara, 44280 Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Sonia Roman
- Department of Molecular Biology in Medicine, Civil Hospital of Guadalajara "Fray Antonio Alcalde", and Health Sciences Center, University of Guadalajara, Hospital #278, Col. El Retiro, Guadalajara, 44280 Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Alexis Jose-Abrego
- Department of Molecular Biology in Medicine, Civil Hospital of Guadalajara "Fray Antonio Alcalde", and Health Sciences Center, University of Guadalajara, Hospital #278, Col. El Retiro, Guadalajara, 44280 Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Karina Gonzalez-Aldaco
- Department of Molecular Biology in Medicine, Civil Hospital of Guadalajara "Fray Antonio Alcalde", and Health Sciences Center, University of Guadalajara, Hospital #278, Col. El Retiro, Guadalajara, 44280 Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Jorge L Trujillo-Ochoa
- Immunovirology Unit, Department of Molecular Biology in Medicine, Civil Hospital of Guadalajara, "Fray Antonio Alcalde", Department of Physiology, Health Sciences Center, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, 44280 Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Nora A Fierro
- Immunovirology Unit, Department of Molecular Biology in Medicine, Civil Hospital of Guadalajara, "Fray Antonio Alcalde", Department of Physiology, Health Sciences Center, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara, 44280 Jalisco, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Zhang W, Ami Y, Suzaki Y, Doan YH, Jirintai S, Takahashi M, Okamoto H, Takeda N, Muramatsu M, Li TC. Persistent infection with a rabbit hepatitis E virus created by a reverse genetics system. Transbound Emerg Dis 2020; 68:615-625. [PMID: 32649803 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.13723] [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: 04/22/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Rabbit hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a novel zoonotic infectious agent. Although a cell culture system to grow the virus has been established, there is currently no reverse genetics system for generating the virus. In this study, capped genomic rabbit HEV RNAs generated by in vitro transcription were transfected into PLC/PRF/5 cells, and the recovered viruses were subsequently passaged in the cells. The cell culture supernatant was capable of infecting rabbits negative for anti-HEV antibody by intravenous and oral inoculation, indicating that rabbit HEV generated by the reverse genetics system is infectious. Genome-wide analyses indicated that no nucleotide sequence change occurred in the virus genomes that were recovered from the cell culture supernatant after transfection and passaged one time or in the virus genomes recovered from faecal specimens of the infected rabbits. Ribavirin, a broad-spectrum anti-viral inhibitor, efficiently abrogated virus replication ex vivo and transiently suppressed the virus growth in the virus-infected rabbits, suggesting that this reagent is a candidate for therapeutic treatment. In addition, transmission of rabbit HEV to rabbits caused persistent infection, suggesting that the virus-infected rabbit could be an animal model for virus-induced hepatitis. The infectious rabbit HEV produced by a reverse genetics system would be useful to elucidate the mechanisms of HEV replication and the pathogenesis of viral hepatitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing Zhang
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yasushi Ami
- Division of Experimental Animals Research, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuriko Suzaki
- Division of Experimental Animals Research, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yen Hai Doan
- Department of Environmental Parasitology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Suljid Jirintai
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke-Shi, Japan
| | - Masaharu Takahashi
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke-Shi, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Okamoto
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Jichi Medical University School of Medicine, Shimotsuke-Shi, Japan
| | - Naokazu Takeda
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Japan
| | - Masamichi Muramatsu
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tian-Cheng Li
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Bai H, Li W, Guan D, Su J, Ke C, Ami Y, Suzaki Y, Takeda N, Muramatsu M, Li TC. Characterization of a Novel Rat Hepatitis E Virus Isolated from an Asian Musk Shrew ( Suncus murinus). Viruses 2020; 12:v12070715. [PMID: 32630296 PMCID: PMC7411586 DOI: 10.3390/v12070715] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The Asian musk shrew (shrew) is a new reservoir of a rat hepatitis E virus (HEV) that has been classified into genotype HEV-C1 in the species Orthohepevirus C. However, there is no information regarding classification of the new rat HEV based on the entire genome sequences, and it remains unclear whether rat HEV transmits from shrews to humans. We herein inoculated nude rats (Long-Evans rnu/rnu) with a serum sample from a shrew trapped in China, which was positive for rat HEV RNA, to isolate and characterize the rat HEV distributed in shrews. A rat HEV strain, S1129, was recovered from feces of the infected nude rat, indicating that rat HEV was capable of replicating in rats. S1129 adapted and grew well in PLC/PRF/5 cells, and the recovered virus (S1129c1) infected Wistar rats. The entire genomes of S1129 and S1129c1 contain four open reading frames and share 78.3–81.8% of the nucleotide sequence identities with known rat HEV isolates, demonstrating that rat HEVs are genetically diverse. We proposed that genotype HEV-C1 be further classified into subtypes HEV-C1a to HEV-C1d and that the S1129 strain circulating in the shrew belonged to the new subtype HEV-C1d. Further studies should focus on whether the S1129 strain infects humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huimin Bai
- Department of Basic Medicine and Forensic Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Jianshe Road 31, Baotou 014060, China;
| | - Wei Li
- Institute of Microbiology, Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Guangdong Province, 160 Qunxian Road, Dashi Street, Panyu District, Guangzhou 511430, China; (W.L.); (D.G.); (J.S.); (C.K.)
| | - Dawei Guan
- Institute of Microbiology, Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Guangdong Province, 160 Qunxian Road, Dashi Street, Panyu District, Guangzhou 511430, China; (W.L.); (D.G.); (J.S.); (C.K.)
| | - Juan Su
- Institute of Microbiology, Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Guangdong Province, 160 Qunxian Road, Dashi Street, Panyu District, Guangzhou 511430, China; (W.L.); (D.G.); (J.S.); (C.K.)
| | - Changwen Ke
- Institute of Microbiology, Center for Disease Control and Prevention of Guangdong Province, 160 Qunxian Road, Dashi Street, Panyu District, Guangzhou 511430, China; (W.L.); (D.G.); (J.S.); (C.K.)
| | - Yasushi Ami
- Division of Experimental Animals Research, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Gakuen 4-7-1, Musashi-murayama, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan; (Y.A.); (Y.S.)
| | - Yuriko Suzaki
- Division of Experimental Animals Research, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Gakuen 4-7-1, Musashi-murayama, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan; (Y.A.); (Y.S.)
| | - Naokazu Takeda
- Research Institute for Microbial Diseases, Osaka University, Suita, Osaka 565-0781, Japan;
| | - Masamichi Muramatsu
- Department of Virology II, 2, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Gakuen 4-7-1, Musashi-murayama, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan;
| | - Tian-Cheng Li
- Department of Virology II, 2, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Gakuen 4-7-1, Musashi-murayama, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-42-561-0771; Fax: +81-42-565-4729
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Di Profio F, Melegari I, Palombieri A, Sarchese V, Arbuatti A, Fruci P, Marsilio F, Martella V, Di Martino B. High prevalence of hepatitis E virus in raw sewage in Southern Italy. Virus Res 2019; 272:197710. [PMID: 31415790 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2019.197710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infections constitute a significant health problem worldwide. The burden of hepatitis E in Italy seems low when compared with other European countries. In recent years, improved surveillance activities in Italy have revealed marked geographical differences in HEV epidemiology, with some regions characterised by higher seroprevalence rates. Abruzzo Region (Southern Italy) is currently recognised as a high-risk area for HEV infection. In this study, we investigated the epidemiology of HEV in Teramo Province by monitoring four wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). Out of 56 influent sewage specimens collected during 2016-2017, HEV RNA was detected in 13/56 (23.2%) sewage samples from all the four WWTPs. Upon sequence analysis of the partial ORF2 gene, four strains showed the highest nucleotide identity to Gt3 subtype c, being more closely related to other HEVs previously identified in human and animal hosts in Abruzzo. For one strain, sequence data were generated only for a short region of the ORF1 gene, revealing the highest identity to HEVs Gt3 of subtype f. Altogether, the findings of this study confirm that HEV largely circulates in the setting investigated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Irene Melegari
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Università degli Studi di Teramo, Italy
| | - Andrea Palombieri
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Università degli Studi di Teramo, Italy
| | - Vittorio Sarchese
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Università degli Studi di Teramo, Italy
| | - Alessio Arbuatti
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Università degli Studi di Teramo, Italy
| | - Paola Fruci
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Università degli Studi di Teramo, Italy
| | - Fulvio Marsilio
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Università degli Studi di Teramo, Italy
| | - Vito Martella
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Università Aldo Moro di Bari, Valenzano, Italy
| | - Barbara Di Martino
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Università degli Studi di Teramo, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Lemon SM, Walker CM. Enterically Transmitted Non-A, Non-B Hepatitis and the Discovery of Hepatitis E Virus. Cold Spring Harb Perspect Med 2019; 9:cshperspect.a033449. [PMID: 29735576 DOI: 10.1101/cshperspect.a033449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The recognition of hepatitis E as a discreet disease entity in the late 1970s followed the development of serological tests for hepatitis A and the discovery that large waterborne outbreaks of hepatitis in India were not caused by hepatitis A virus (HAV). These "enterically transmitted non-A, non-B hepatitis" outbreaks had distinctive epidemiologic features, including the highest attack rates among young adults, little secondary household transmission of infection, and severe disease in pregnant women. The responsible agent, hepatitis E virus (HEV), was identified several years later in extracts of feces from a self-inoculated virologist. Multiple genetically related HEV genotypes are now known to exist, two of which are common in domestic swine herds and the cause of sporadic cases of acute hepatitis in economically well-developed countries. HEV genotypes possess impressive genetic and biologic diversity, and present many unanswered questions concerning their natural host range, potential for zoonotic transmission, and disease pathogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stanley M Lemon
- Departments of Medicine and Microbiology & Immunology, Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center; The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-7292
| | - Christopher M Walker
- Center for Vaccines and Immunity, The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital and College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43205
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Detection and characterization of hepatitis E virus genotype 3 in HIV-infected patients and blood donors from southern Brazil. Int J Infect Dis 2019; 86:114-121. [PMID: 31279609 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2019.06.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2019] [Revised: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis E virus genotype 3 (HEV-3) infection usually causes self-limited acute hepatitis. In immunosuppressed patients, HEV-3 infection can rapidly progress to chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis. In southern Brazil, data on HEV seroprevalence are scarce. METHODS Testing for HEV RNA and antibodies (anti-HEV) was performed for 320 HIV-infected patients followed at the HIV/AIDS Service of the Federal University of Rio Grande between 2012 and 2013, as well as 281 blood donor samples obtained in 2015. Variables associated with anti-HEV positivity were assessed by multivariable logistic regression analysis. RESULTS HIV and blood donor groups showed similar HEV seroprevalence (6.7% and 7.1%, respectively). Risk factors associated with anti-HEV detection were older age, marital status, a higher number of sexual partners, poor sanitation, and alcohol use (HIV group), and living in a rural area (blood donors). HEV RNA was detected in eight serum samples from HIV-infected patients and in one blood donor, who was also positive for anti-HEV IgM and IgG. CONCLUSIONS The prevalence rates of HEV infection were comparable between HIV-seropositive patients who were not severely immunocompromised and blood donors. The blood donor's HEV isolate showed high similarity with swine HEV strains from Brazilian herds in the same region, thus indicating a potential risk of foodborne and parenteral transmission via blood transfusion.
Collapse
|
25
|
van Wezel EM, de Bruijne J, Damman K, Bijmolen M, van den Berg AP, Verschuuren EAM, Ruigrok GA, Riezebos-Brilman A, Knoester M. Sofosbuvir Add-on to Ribavirin Treatment for Chronic Hepatitis E Virus Infection in Solid Organ Transplant Recipients Does Not Result in Sustained Virological Response. Open Forum Infect Dis 2019; 6:5540719. [PMID: 31404927 PMCID: PMC6690733 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofz346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Ribavirin is effective for treating immunocompromised patients with chronic hepatitis E virus infection. However, ribavirin treatment is not always successful. We describe 3 solid organ transplant recipients treated with sofosbuvir and ribavirin after failing ribavirin monotherapy. Complete elimination of hepatitis E virus could not be achieved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E M van Wezel
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Infection Prevention, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - J de Bruijne
- Department of Gastroenterology, University of Utrecht, Utrecht University Medical Center, The Netherlands
| | - K Damman
- Department of Cardiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - M Bijmolen
- Department of Gastroenterology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - A P van den Berg
- Pulmonology and Tuberculosis, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - E A M Verschuuren
- Department of Gastroenterology, University of Utrecht, Utrecht University Medical Center, The Netherlands
| | - G A Ruigrok
- Department of Pulmonology, University of Utrecht, Utrecht University Medical Center, The Netherlands
| | - A Riezebos-Brilman
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, University of Utrecht, Utrecht University Medical Center, The Netherlands
| | - M Knoester
- Department of Cardiology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Hudu SA, Niazlin MT, Nordin SA, Harmal NS, Tan SS, Omar H, Shahar H, Mutalib NA, Sekawi Z. Hepatitis E virus isolated from chronic hepatitis B patients in Malaysia: Sequences analysis and genetic diversity suggest zoonotic origin. ALEXANDRIA JOURNAL OF MEDICINE 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ajme.2017.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Shuaibu Abdullahi Hudu
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra, Malaysia
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Nigeria
| | - Mohd Taib Niazlin
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra, Malaysia
| | - Syafinaz Amin Nordin
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra, Malaysia
| | - Nabil Saad Harmal
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Asia Metropolitan University, 81750 Johor Bahru, Malaysia
| | - Soek Siam Tan
- Department of Hepatology, Selayang Hospital, Lebuh Selayang-Kepong , Batu Caves, 68100 Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Haniza Omar
- Department of Hepatology, Selayang Hospital, Lebuh Selayang-Kepong , Batu Caves, 68100 Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Hamiza Shahar
- Department of Hepatology, Selayang Hospital, Lebuh Selayang-Kepong , Batu Caves, 68100 Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Noor Aliza Mutalib
- Department of Hepatology, Selayang Hospital, Lebuh Selayang-Kepong , Batu Caves, 68100 Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Zamberi Sekawi
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Molina CV, Heinemann MB, Kierulff C, Pissinatti A, da Silva TF, de Freitas DG, de Souza GO, Miotto BA, Cortez A, Semensato BDP, Moreno LZ, Catão-Dias JL, Bueno MG. Leptospira spp., rotavirus, norovirus, and hepatitis E virus surveillance in a wild invasive golden-headed lion tamarin (Leontopithecus chrysomelas; Kuhl, 1820) population from an urban park in Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Am J Primatol 2019; 81:e22961. [PMID: 30828830 DOI: 10.1002/ajp.22961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Revised: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 02/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The world currently faces severe biodiversity losses caused by anthropogenic activities such as deforestation, pollution, the introduction of exotic species, habitat fragmentation, and climate changes. Disease ecology in altered environments is still poorly understood. The golden-headed lion tamarin (GHLT, Leontopithecus chrysomelas) is an endangered species that became invasive in an urban park in Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The initially few invasive GHLT individuals became hundreds, adapted to living in proximity to humans and domestic animals. These GHLTs were captured as part of a conservation project; some animals were translocated to Bahia and some were kept in captivity. This study tested 593 GHLT for Leptospira serology; 100 and 95 GHLT for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) toLeptospira and hepatitis E virus genotype 3 (HEV-3), respectively, and 101 familiar groups for PCR to viruses (rotavirus A, norovirus GI and GII, and HEV-3). One animal had antibodies for Leptospira serovar Shermani and another for serovar Hebdomadis. One saprophyticLeptospira was found by the 16S PCR and sequencing. Viruses were not detected in samples tested. Findings suggest that the epidemiological importance of such pathogens in this GHLT population is either low or nonexistent. These data are important to understand the local disease ecology, as well as monitoring a translocation project, and to contribute data for species conservation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Camila V Molina
- Laboratório de Patologia Comparada de Animais Selvagens (LAPCOM), Departamento de Patologia (VPT), Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia (FMVZ), Universidade de São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil.,Instituto Pri-Matas para a Conservação da Biodiversidade, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Marcos B Heinemann
- Laboratório de Zoonoses Bacterianas, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal (VPS), Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia (FMVZ), Universidade de São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Cecilia Kierulff
- Instituto Pri-Matas para a Conservação da Biodiversidade, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.,Programa de Pós-graduação em Biodiversidade Tropical, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo (UFES), São Mateus, ES, Brazil
| | - Alcides Pissinatti
- Centro de Primatologia do Rio de Janeiro (CPRJ), Instituto Estadual do Ambiente (INEA), Guapimirim, RJ, Brazil.,Centro Universitário Serra dos Órgãos, Teresópolis, RJ, Brazil
| | - Tiago F da Silva
- Instituto Pri-Matas para a Conservação da Biodiversidade, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Danilo G de Freitas
- Instituto Pri-Matas para a Conservação da Biodiversidade, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Gisele O de Souza
- Laboratório de Zoonoses Bacterianas, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal (VPS), Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia (FMVZ), Universidade de São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Bruno A Miotto
- Departamento de Clínica Médica (VCM), Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia (FMVZ), Universidade de São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Adriana Cortez
- Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Santo Amaro (UNISA), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Luisa Z Moreno
- Laboratório de Sanidade Suína, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal (VPS), Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia (FMVZ), Universidade de São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - José L Catão-Dias
- Laboratório de Patologia Comparada de Animais Selvagens (LAPCOM), Departamento de Patologia (VPT), Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia (FMVZ), Universidade de São Paulo (USP), São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Marina G Bueno
- Instituto Pri-Matas para a Conservação da Biodiversidade, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.,Presidência, Plataforma Institucional Biodiversidade e Saúde Silvestre, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Ticehurst JR, Pisanic N, Forman MS, Ordak C, Heaney CD, Ong E, Linnen JM, Ness PM, Guo N, Shan H, Nelson KE. Probable transmission of hepatitis E virus (HEV) via transfusion in the United States. Transfusion 2019; 59:1024-1034. [PMID: 30702157 DOI: 10.1111/trf.15140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2018] [Revised: 09/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis E virus (HEV) can inapparently infect blood donors. To assess transfusion transmission of HEV in the United States, which has not been documented, a donor-recipient repository was evaluated. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS To identify donations that contained HEV RNA and were linked to patient-recipients with antibody evidence of HEV exposure, we assayed samples from the Retrovirus Epidemiology Donor Study (REDS) Allogeneic Donor and Recipient repository that represents 13,201 linked donations and 3384 transfused patients. Posttransfusion samples, determined to contain IgG anti-HEV by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, were reassayed along with corresponding pretransfusion samples for seroconversion (incident exposure) or at least fourfold IgG anti-HEV increase (reexposure). HEV-exposed patients were linked to donations in which HEV RNA was then detected by reverse-transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction, confirmed by transcription-mediated amplification, and phylogenetically analyzed as subgenomic cDNA sequences. RESULTS Among all patients, 19 of 1036 (1.8%) who had IgG anti-HEV before transfusion were reexposed; 40 of 2348 (1.7%) without pretransfusion IgG anti-HEV seroconverted. These 59 patients were linked to 257 donations, 1 of which was positive by reverse-transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction and transcription-mediated amplification. Plasma from this donation contained 5.5 log IU/mL of HEV RNA that grouped with HEV genotype 3, clade 3abchij. The patient-recipient of RBCs from this donation had a greater than eightfold IgG increase; however, clinical data are unavailable. CONCLUSIONS This is the first report of probable HEV transmission via transfusion in the United States, although it has been frequently observed in Europe and Japan. Additional data on the magnitude of the risk in the United States are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John R Ticehurst
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland.,Division of Medical Microbiology, Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Nora Pisanic
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Michael S Forman
- Division of Medical Microbiology, Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Carly Ordak
- Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Christopher D Heaney
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of Environmental Health and Engineering, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland.,Department of International Health, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | | | | | - Paul M Ness
- Division of Transfusion Medicine, Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland.,Division of Oncology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Nan Guo
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Hua Shan
- Department of Transfusion Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California
| | - Kenrad E Nelson
- Department of Epidemiology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland.,Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Hepatitis E virus infection in Wuhan, Central China. Arch Virol 2018; 164:27-32. [PMID: 30229302 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-018-4036-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emergent virus of global importance. Previous studies of HEV infection in China mainly focused on the rural areas. This work aims to study the epidemiology of HEV in a large urban environment. With a registered population of 10 million, the dense city of Wuhan presents itself as a prime opportunity to better understand this emergent virus. The epidemiological data from 2011 to 2016 were analyzed. A cross-sectional study on the seroprevalence of anti-HEV IgG was conducted among the general population (age range 0-59) in 2013. Serum and fecal samples of hepatitis E patients were collected over a period of two years: serum samples were tested for anti-HEV IgM and IgG, and fecal samples were tested for HEV-RNA. The overall seroprevalence of anti-HEV IgG was 35% in Wuhan. Among 415 hepatitis E patients, 286 cases (68.9%) were positive for HEV-IgM, 108 cases (26%) were positive for HEV-IgG alone, and 21 cases (5.1%) were negative for both IgM and IgG. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the detected genotype of HEV was genotype 4. Reported cases occurred sporadically throughout the year with the peak value appearing in the first quarter and a large proportion of male cases (2.1:1). The incidence increased with age for persons under 60 years, reaching its peak level after 60 years of age. Wuhan is endemic for HEV with its currently detected genotype being genotype 4. It is estimated that 68.9% hepatitis E cases were due to primary infection between 2012 and 2013 in Wuhan.
Collapse
|
30
|
A case of incidental infection of Hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotype 1 in a domestic pig. Arch Virol 2018; 163:3403-3407. [PMID: 30220034 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-018-4025-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection involving zoonotic genotypes is a public health problem in high-income and non-endemic developing countries. Herein we report the detection of a human genotype 1 (HEV-1) strain infecting a domestic pig, which is not considered a natural reservoir of this genotype. Viral load was quantified in stool by Real-Time qPCR and sequence analyses were performed. Infectivity of the HEV-1 strain was assesed by in vitro isolation in A549 cell line. Results suggest that certain epidemiological settings might favour accidental spillover infection and thus influence the host range restriction of HEV.
Collapse
|
31
|
Salvio AL, Lopes AO, Almeida AJ, Gardinali NR, Lima LRP, de Oliveira JM, Sion FS, Ribeiro LCP, Pinto MA, de Paula VS. Detection and quantification of hepatitis E virus in the absence of IgG and IgM anti-HEV in HIV-positive patients. J Appl Microbiol 2018; 125:1208-1215. [PMID: 29920871 DOI: 10.1111/jam.14024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Revised: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To improve RT-qPCR with an internal control and a synthetic standard curve to detect HEV in HIV co-infected patients. METHODS AND RESULTS A single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) and a double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) synthetic curve were designed, compared to the international reference panel for HEV genotypes, and tested to quantify and detect a reference panel for HEV genotypes. The detection limit of the RNA synthetic curve (50 copies per ml) was better than the DNA synthetic curve (100 copies per ml) and the WHO standard curve (250 copies per ml). Then, 280 serum samples from HIV-positive patients were tested for HEV RNA, which was detected in 3·6% of serum samples. The viral load ranged from 2 × 102 copies per ml to 4·78 × 108 copies per ml. HEV IgM/IgG antibodies were not detected in the RNA-positive patients. Sequencing analysis of HEV showed that the virus belongs to genotype 3 (HEV GT3). CONCLUSIONS Real-time PCR was a useful tool to estimate co-infection with HEV/HIV, even in patients with low viral loads and undetectable anti-HEV IgG and IgM antibodies. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY Hepatitis E virus genotype 3 (HEV GT3) has been associated with silent chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis in HIV-positive subjects worldwide, but there is a lack of data on this co-infection in Brazil.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A L Salvio
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute/Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - A O Lopes
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute/Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - A J Almeida
- Hematology Department, Gaffrée & Guinle Universitary Hospital, Rio de Janeiro State Federal University/UniRio, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - N R Gardinali
- Laboratory of Technological Development in Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute/Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - L R P Lima
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute/Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - J M de Oliveira
- Laboratory of Technological Development in Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute/Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - F S Sion
- Hematology Department, Gaffrée & Guinle Universitary Hospital, Rio de Janeiro State Federal University/UniRio, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - L C P Ribeiro
- Hematology Department, Gaffrée & Guinle Universitary Hospital, Rio de Janeiro State Federal University/UniRio, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - M A Pinto
- Laboratory of Technological Development in Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute/Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - V S de Paula
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute/Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Detection of hepatitis E virus genotype 3 in pigs from subsistence farms in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2018; 58:11-16. [PMID: 30245045 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2018.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2017] [Revised: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 06/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E is a zoonotic disease, recognized as an important global public health concern. In this study, molecular detection of the ORF1 and ORF2 genomic regions of the hepatitis E virus (HEV) was carried out in fecal and serum samples from pigs in subsistence farms of Mato Grosso, Brazil. Fragments of the ORF2 region were amplified in 8% (12/150) of fecal samples, with 53.3% (8/15) of farms having positive results. Of the 12 positive samples, fragments of the ORF1 region were amplified in 33.3% (4/12) of these. Molecular characterization confirmed the phylogenetic groupings as HEV subtypes 3d, 3 h, and 3i. The results revealed that meat from pigs that was originally meant for personal consumption is being traded in marketplaces in metropolitan Cuiabá, thereby creating a source of transmission to consumers in Mato Grosso. The environmental conditions must be taken into account when investigating the presence and transmission of HEV.
Collapse
|
33
|
Melegari I, Di Profio F, Marsilio F, Sarchese V, Palombieri A, Friedrich KG, Coccia F, Di Martino B. Serological and molecular investigation for hepatitis E virus (HEV) in captive non-human primates, Italy. Virus Res 2018; 251:17-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2018.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2018] [Revised: 04/25/2018] [Accepted: 04/27/2018] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
|
34
|
Affiliation(s)
- F. Fabrizi
- Nephrology and Dialysis Division, Hospital, Lecco - Italy
| | - P. Martin
- Department of Medicine, Division of Digestive Diseases, UCLA School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California - USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Nan Y, Wu C, Zhao Q, Sun Y, Zhang YJ, Zhou EM. Vaccine Development against Zoonotic Hepatitis E Virus: Open Questions and Remaining Challenges. Front Microbiol 2018; 9:266. [PMID: 29520257 PMCID: PMC5827553 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2018.00266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2017] [Accepted: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a fecal-orally transmitted foodborne viral pathogen that causes acute hepatitis in humans and is responsible for hepatitis E outbreaks worldwide. Since the discovery of HEV as a zoonotic agent, this virus has been isolated from a variety of hosts with an ever-expanding host range. Recently, a subunit HEV vaccine developed for the prevention of human disease was approved in China, but is not yet available to the rest of the world. Meanwhile, notable progress and knowledge has been made and revealed in recent years to better understand HEV biology and infection, including discoveries of quasi-enveloped HEV virions and of a new function of the HEV-ORF3 product. However, the impact of these new findings on the development of a protective vaccine against zoonotic HEV infection requires further discussion. In this review, hallmark characteristics of HEV zoonosis, the history of HEV vaccine development, and recent discoveries in HEV virology are described. Moreover, special attention is focused on quasi-enveloped HEV virions and the potential role of the HEV-ORF3 product as antibody-neutralization target on the surface of quasi-enveloped HEV virions to provide new insights for the future development of improved vaccines against zoonotic HEV infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Nan
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
- Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Veterinary Pharmacology and Diagnostic Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, China
| | - Chunyan Wu
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
- Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Veterinary Pharmacology and Diagnostic Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, China
| | - Qin Zhao
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
- Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Veterinary Pharmacology and Diagnostic Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, China
| | - Yani Sun
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
- Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Veterinary Pharmacology and Diagnostic Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, China
| | - Yan-Jin Zhang
- Molecular Virology Laboratory, VA-MD College of Veterinary Medicine and Maryland Pathogen Research Institute, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, United States
| | - En-Min Zhou
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
- Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Veterinary Pharmacology and Diagnostic Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Yangling, China
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Proposal for a new subtype of the zoonotic genotype 3 Hepatitis E virus: HEV-3l. Virus Res 2018; 248:1-4. [PMID: 29452164 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2018.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2018] [Revised: 02/09/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2018] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The near-complete genomic sequences of two hepatitis E virus (HEV) strains, detected from feces of infected pigs, were obtained. Phylogenetic analysis and p-distance comparisons of the complete coding regions showed a close relationship to the French swine strain FR-SHEV3c-like detected in 2006 (p-distance value 0.101), belonging to HEV-3 but not assigned to any known subtype. The three HEV sequences showed, relatively high nucleotide distances (p-distance >0.129) compared to the other defined HEV subtype references and unclassified strains. The HEV classification criteria and the high sequence similarity suggest that these strains can be assigned to a putative novel subtype of genotype 3, HEV-3l.
Collapse
|
37
|
Lu W, Wen J. The divergence of epidemiological, antigenic and immunogenic characteristics of hepatitis E virus of different genotypes. Future Virol 2018. [DOI: 10.2217/fvl-2017-0094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an enterically transmitted pathogen that causes hepatitis E (HE). HEVs infecting mammals have been classified into four genotypes. Numerously diverse behaviors have been found among HEV genotypes; the first two genotypes are endemic in developing countries and only infect humans, whereas genotypes 3 and 4 infect other mammalian species as well. It is still unclear why only HEV genotypes 3 and 4 can infect across species. This article comprehensively: reviews the divergence of epidemiological and immunogenic characteristics of HEV infection derived from different genotypes; provides the current knowledge on the antigenic and immunogenic differences between different HEV genotypes; and will give useful information on serological diagnosis development and vaccines preparation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Weizhuo Lu
- Medical Branch, Hefei Technology College, Hefei, China
| | - Jiyue Wen
- Department of Pharmacology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Nan Y, Wu C, Zhao Q, Zhou EM. Zoonotic Hepatitis E Virus: An Ignored Risk for Public Health. Front Microbiol 2017; 8:2396. [PMID: 29255453 PMCID: PMC5723051 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2017.02396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a quasi-enveloped, single-stranded positive-sense RNA virus. HEV belongs to the family Hepeviridae, a family comprised of highly diverse viruses originating from various species. Since confirmation of HEV's zoonosis, HEV-induced hepatitis has been a public health concern both for developing and developed countries. Meanwhile, the demonstration of a broad host range for zoonotic HEV suggests the existence of a variety of transmission routes that could lead to human infection. Moreover, anti-HEV antibody serosurveillance worldwide demonstrates a higher than expected HEV prevalence rate that conflicts with the rarity and sporadic nature of reported acute hepatitis E cases. In recent years, chronic HEV infection, HEV-related acute hepatic failure, and extrahepatic manifestations caused by HEV infection have been frequently reported. These observations suggest a significant underestimation of the number and complexity of transmission routes previously predicted to cause HEV-related disease, with special emphasis on zoonotic HEV as a public health concern. Significant research has revealed details regarding the virology and infectivity of zoonotic HEV in both humans and animals. In this review, the discovery of HEV zoonosis, recent progress in our understanding of the zoonotic HEV host range, and classification of diverse HEV or HEV-like isolates from various hosts are reviewed in a historic context. Ultimately, this review focuses on current understanding of viral pathogenesis and cross-species transmission of zoonotic HEV. Moreover, host factors and viral determinants influencing HEV host tropism are discussed to provide new insights into HEV transmission and prevalence mechanisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Nan
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, China
- Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Veterinary Pharmacology and Diagnostic Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Xianyang, China
| | - Chunyan Wu
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, China
- Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Veterinary Pharmacology and Diagnostic Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Xianyang, China
| | - Qin Zhao
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, China
- Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Veterinary Pharmacology and Diagnostic Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Xianyang, China
| | - En-Min Zhou
- Department of Preventive Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, China
- Scientific Observing and Experimental Station of Veterinary Pharmacology and Diagnostic Technology, Ministry of Agriculture, Xianyang, China
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Abstract
Serological and nucleic acid tests for detecting hepatitis E virus (HEV) have been developed for both epidemiologic and diagnostic purposes. The laboratory diagnosis of HEV infection depends on the detection of HEV antigen, HEV RNA, and serum antibodies against HEV (immunoglobulin [Ig]A, IgM, and IgG). Anti-HEV IgM antibodies can be detected during the acute phase of the illness and can last approximately 4 or 5 months, representing recent exposure, whereas anti-HEV IgG antibodies can last more than 10 years, representing remote exposure. Thus, the diagnosis of acute infection is based on the presence of anti-HEV IgM, HEV antigen, and HEV RNA, while epidemiological investigations are mainly based on anti-HEV IgG. Although significant progress has been made in developing and optimizing different formats of HEV assays, improving their sensitivity and specificity, there are many shortcomings and challenges in inter-assay concordance, validation, and standardization. This article reviews the current knowledge on the diagnosis of HEV infection, including the most common available laboratory diagnostic techniques.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chenyan Zhao
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-transmitted Virus Vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, No. 2 Tiantanxili, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100050, China
| | - Youchun Wang
- Division of HIV/AIDS and Sex-transmitted Virus Vaccines, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, No. 2 Tiantanxili, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100050, China.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Gardinali NR, Guimarães JR, Melgaço JG, Kevorkian YB, Bottino FDO, Vieira YR, da Silva ACDA, Pinto DP, da Fonseca LB, Vilhena LS, Uiechi E, da Silva MCC, Moran J, Marchevsky RS, Cruz OG, Otonel RAA, Alfieri AA, de Oliveira JM, Gaspar AMC, Pinto MA. Cynomolgus monkeys are successfully and persistently infected with hepatitis E virus genotype 3 (HEV-3) after long-term immunosuppressive therapy. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0174070. [PMID: 28328941 PMCID: PMC5362194 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0174070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2016] [Accepted: 03/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological studies found that hepatitis E virus genotype 3 (HEV-3) infection was associated with chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis in immunocompromised patients. Our study aimed to investigate the relationship between the host immunosuppressive status and the occurrence of HEV-related chronic hepatitis. Here we describe a successful experimental study, using cynomolgus monkeys previously treated with tacrolimus, a potent calcineurin inhibitor immunosuppressant, and infected with a Brazilian HEV-3 strain isolated from naturally infected pigs. HEV infected monkeys were followed up during 160 days post infection (dpi) by clinical signs; virological, biochemical and haematological parameters; and liver histopathology. The tacrolimus blood levels were monitored throughout the experiment. Immunosuppression was confirmed by clinical and laboratorial findings, such as: moderate weight loss, alopecia, and herpes virus opportunistic infection. In this study, chronic HEV infection was characterized by the mild increase of liver enzymes serum levels; persistent RNA viremia and viral faecal shedding; and liver histopathology. Three out of four immunosuppressed monkeys showed recurrent HEV RNA detection in liver samples, evident hepatocellular ballooning degeneration, mild to severe macro and microvesicular steatosis (zone 1), scattered hepatocellular apoptosis, and lobular focal inflammation. At 69 dpi, liver biopsies of all infected monkeys revealed evident ballooning degeneration (zone 3), discrete hepatocellular apoptosis, and at most mild portal and intra-acinar focal inflammation. At 160 dpi, the three chronically HEV infected monkeys showed microscopic features (piecemeal necrosis) corresponding to chronic hepatitis in absence of fibrosis and cirrhosis in liver parenchyma. Within 4-months follow up, the tacrolimus-immunosuppressed cynomolgus monkeys infected with a Brazilian swine HEV-3 strain exhibited more severe hepatic lesions progressing to chronic hepatitis without liver fibrosis, similarly as shown in tacrolimus-immunosuppressed solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients. The cause-effect relationship between HEV infection and tacrolimus treatment was confirmed in this experiment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noemi Rovaris Gardinali
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico em Virologia, Oswaldo Cruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- * E-mail:
| | - Juliana Rodrigues Guimarães
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico em Virologia, Oswaldo Cruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Juliana Gil Melgaço
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico em Virologia, Oswaldo Cruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Yohan Britto Kevorkian
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico em Virologia, Oswaldo Cruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Fernanda de Oliveira Bottino
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico em Virologia, Oswaldo Cruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Yasmine Rangel Vieira
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico em Virologia, Oswaldo Cruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Aline Campos de Azevedo da Silva
- Serviço de Equivalência e Farmacocinética –SEFAR, Vice-Presidência de Produção e Inovação em Saúde–VPPIS, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Douglas Pereira Pinto
- Serviço de Equivalência e Farmacocinética –SEFAR, Vice-Presidência de Produção e Inovação em Saúde–VPPIS, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Laís Bastos da Fonseca
- Serviço de Equivalência e Farmacocinética –SEFAR, Vice-Presidência de Produção e Inovação em Saúde–VPPIS, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Leandro Schiavo Vilhena
- Serviço de Equivalência e Farmacocinética –SEFAR, Vice-Presidência de Produção e Inovação em Saúde–VPPIS, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | - Maria Cristina Carlan da Silva
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular de Patógenos (Virologia Molecular), Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas-CCNH, Universidade Federal do ABC-UFABC, São Bernardo do Campo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Julio Moran
- Dr. Julio Moran Laboratories, Ebmatingen, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Renato Sérgio Marchevsky
- Laboratório de Neurovirulência, Instituto de Tecnologia em Imunobiológicos Bio-Manguinhos, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | | | | | - Amauri Alcindo Alfieri
- Laboratório de Virologia Animal, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Jaqueline Mendes de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico em Virologia, Oswaldo Cruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Ana Maria Coimbra Gaspar
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico em Virologia, Oswaldo Cruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Alves Pinto
- Laboratório de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico em Virologia, Oswaldo Cruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
High frequency of hepatitis E virus infection in swine from South Brazil and close similarity to human HEV isolates. Braz J Microbiol 2017; 48:373-379. [PMID: 28089613 PMCID: PMC5470454 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjm.2016.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2016] [Revised: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 10/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus is responsible for acute and chronic liver infections worldwide. Swine hepatitis E virus has been isolated in Brazil, and a probable zoonotic transmission has been described, although data are still scarce. The aim of this study was to investigate the frequency of hepatitis E virus infection in pigs from a small-scale farm in the rural area of Paraná State, South Brazil. Fecal samples were collected from 170 pigs and screened for hepatitis E virus RNA using a duplex real-time RT-PCR targeting a highly conserved 70nt long sequence within overlapping parts of ORF2 and ORF3 as well as a 113nt sequence of ORF2. Positive samples with high viral loads were subjected to direct sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. hepatitis E virus RNA was detected in 34 (20.0%) of the 170 pigs following positive results in at least one set of screening real-time RT-PCR primers and probes. The swine hepatitis E virus strains clustered with the genotype hepatitis E virus-3b reference sequences in the phylogenetic analysis and showed close similarity to human hepatitis E virus isolates previously reported in Brazil.
Collapse
|
42
|
The effect of phylogenetic signal reduction on genotyping of hepatitis E viruses of the species Orthohepevirus A. Arch Virol 2016; 162:645-656. [PMID: 27817109 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-016-3135-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2016] [Accepted: 10/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Commonly, hepatitis E virus (HEV) sequences are genotyped phylogenetically using subgenomic sequences. This paper examines this practice with sequences from members of the species Orthohepevirus A. As the length of sequences becomes progressively shorter, the number of identical sequences in an alignment tends to increase; however, these sequences retain their genotypic identity down to 100 nucleotides in length. The best substitution models tend to become less parameterized, bootstrap support decreases, and trees created from short subgenomic fragments are less likely to be isomorphic with trees from longer subgenomic fragments or complete genome sequences. However, it is still possible to correctly genotype sequences using fragments as small as 200 nucleotides. While it is possible to correctly genotype sequences with short subgenomic sequences, the estimates of evolutionary relationships between genotypes degrade to such an extent that sequences below 1600 nucleotides long cannot be used reliably to study these relationships, and comparisons of trees from different subgenomic regions with little or no sequence overlap can be problematic. Subtyping may be done, but it requires a careful examination of the region to be used to ensure that it correctly resolves the subtypes.
Collapse
|
43
|
Di Martino B, Di Profio F, Melegari I, Sarchese V, Robetto S, Marsilio F, Martella V. Detection of hepatitis E virus (HEV) in goats. Virus Res 2016; 225:69-72. [PMID: 27647265 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2016.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Revised: 09/14/2016] [Accepted: 09/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a major cause of acute hepatitis worldwide. Genotypes 1 and 2 are restricted to humans, whereas genotypes 3 and 4 also occur in animals and are recognized as zoonotic pathogens. In this study, by screening goat faecal samples collected from six small farms located in the province of Teramo (Abruzzo region, Italy), HEV RNA was found with an overall prevalence of 9.2% (11/119). Upon sequence analysis of a 0.8kb portion of the ORF2 gene, four strains were grouped with animal and human genotype 3 HEVs, subtype c, with the highest match (94.2-99.4% nt identity) to a wild boar strain, WB/P6-15/ITA, identified in the same geographical area in which the six goat farms were located. Further investigations are needed in order to assess if goat may represent an additional active host for HEV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Di Martino
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Università degli Studi di Teramo, Italy.
| | | | - Irene Melegari
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Università degli Studi di Teramo, Italy
| | - Vittorio Sarchese
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Università degli Studi di Teramo, Italy
| | - Serena Robetto
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Piemonte, Liguria e Valle d'Aosta, Centro di Referenza Nazionale per le Malattie degli Animali Selvatici (CeRMAS), Italy
| | - Fulvio Marsilio
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Università degli Studi di Teramo, Italy
| | - Vito Martella
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Università Aldo Moro di Bari, Valenzano, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
O'Riordan J, Boland F, Williams P, Donnellan J, Hogema BM, Ijaz S, Murphy WG. Hepatitis E virus infection in the Irish blood donor population. Transfusion 2016; 56:2868-2876. [DOI: 10.1111/trf.13757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2016] [Revised: 06/23/2016] [Accepted: 06/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Joan O'Riordan
- Irish Blood Transfusion Service, National Blood Centre; Dublin Ireland
| | - Fiona Boland
- Irish Blood Transfusion Service, National Blood Centre; Dublin Ireland
| | - Padraig Williams
- Irish Blood Transfusion Service, National Blood Centre; Dublin Ireland
| | - Joe Donnellan
- Irish Blood Transfusion Service, National Blood Centre; Dublin Ireland
| | - Boris M. Hogema
- Departments of Blood-borne Infections and Virology; Sanquin Research and Diagnostic Services; Amsterdam the Netherlands
| | - Samreen Ijaz
- Blood Borne Virus Unit, Virus Reference Department; National Infection Service, Public Health England; London UK
| | - William G. Murphy
- Irish Blood Transfusion Service, National Blood Centre; Dublin Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Detection and genetic characterization of hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotype 3 subtype c in wild boars in Italy. Arch Virol 2016; 161:2829-34. [DOI: 10.1007/s00705-016-2964-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2016] [Accepted: 07/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
|
46
|
|
47
|
Di Bartolo I, Angeloni G, Monini M, Maione E, Marrone R, Ostanello F, Ruggeri FM. Complete genome sequencing of a genotype 3 hepatitis E virus strain identified in a swine farm in Italy. Virus Res 2016; 211:89-95. [DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2015.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Revised: 09/22/2015] [Accepted: 09/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
|
48
|
Coinfection of hepatitis E virus and other hepatitis virus in Colombia and its genotypic characterization. BIOMEDICA 2015; 36:69-78. [PMID: 27622794 DOI: 10.7705/biomedica.v36i0.2957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2015] [Revised: 10/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hepatitis E virus has emerged as a public health problem, particularly in developing countries. The four genotypes identified in mammals include the G3 found in indigenous hepatitis in countries and regions with high porcine population, and the G1, associated with maternal deaths. OBJECTIVE To determine coinfection by hepatitis E virus and the circulating genotypes in Colombia in 1,097 samples using serological markers for hepatitis A, B and C. MATERIALS AND METHODS Serum samples of 1,097 patients from different regions of Colombia stored at the Laboratorio de Virología of the Instituto Nacional de Salud were selected to detect IgG and IgM anti-hepatitis E virus antibodies. The viral genomes of positive samples were amplified by RT-PCR, and the products were sequenced and phylogenetically analyzed by comparing ORF2 sequences deposited in the GenBank. RESULTS IgG anti-hepatitis E virus antibodies were found in 278 samples, IgM in 62, and both markers in 64. Hepatitis E virus and hepatitis A virus coinfection determined by IgG anti-hepatitis E virus was 33.6% and 16.1% by IgM; hepatitis E virus and hepatitis B virus coinfection was 23.4% and 8.1%, and hepatitis E virus and hepatitis C virus coinfection was 35.4% and 5.83%, respectively. Among the 52 positive samples by PCR nine were sequenced and grouped within genotype 3A of the American porcine strain. CONCLUSIONS The highest seropositivity was observed for hepatitis A and E. The incidence of hepatitis E virus coinfection with other hepatotropic viruses indicated that this pathogen is more frequent than expected. The circulation of genotype 3A implies that this disease may occur in outbreaks and as zoonosis in Colombia.
Collapse
|
49
|
Ivanova A, Tefanova V, Reshetnjak I, Kuznetsova T, Geller J, Lundkvist Å, Janson M, Neare K, Velström K, Jokelainen P, Lassen B, Hütt P, Saar T, Viltrop A, Golovljova I. Hepatitis E Virus in Domestic Pigs, Wild Boars, Pig Farm Workers, and Hunters in Estonia. FOOD AND ENVIRONMENTAL VIROLOGY 2015; 7:403-12. [PMID: 26141050 DOI: 10.1007/s12560-015-9210-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2015] [Accepted: 06/27/2015] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
While hepatitis E is a growing health concern in Europe, epidemiological data on hepatitis E virus (HEV) in Estonia are scarce. Along with imported HEV infections, autochthonous cases are reported from European countries. Both domestic and wild animals can be a source of human cases of this zoonosis. Here, we investigated the presence of anti-HEV antibodies and HEV RNA in domestic pigs and wild boars, as well as in pig farm workers and hunters in Estonia. Anti-HEV antibodies were detected in 234/380 (61.6%) of sera from domestic pigs and in all investigated herds, and in 81/471 (17.2%) of meat juice samples from wild boars. HEV RNA was detected by real-time PCR in 103/449 (22.9%) of fecal samples from younger domestic pigs and 13/81 (16.0%) of anti-HEV-positive wild boar samples. Analysis of sera from 67 pig farm workers and 144 hunters revealed the presence of HEV-specific IgG in 13.4 and 4.2% of the samples, respectively. No HEV RNA was detected in the human serum samples. Phylogenetic analyses of HEV sequences from domestic pigs and wild boars, based on a 245 bp fragment from the open reading frame 2 showed that all of them belonged to genotype 3. The present study demonstrates the presence of HEV in Estonian domestic pig and wild boar populations, as well as in humans who have direct regular contact with these animals. Our results suggest that HEV infections are present in Estonia and require attention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Ivanova
- Department of Virology, National Institute for Health Development, Tallinn, Estonia.
| | - Valentina Tefanova
- Department of Virology, National Institute for Health Development, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Irina Reshetnjak
- Department of Virology, National Institute for Health Development, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Tatiana Kuznetsova
- Department of Virology, National Institute for Health Development, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Julia Geller
- Department of Virology, National Institute for Health Development, Tallinn, Estonia
| | - Åke Lundkvist
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Zoonosis Science Center (ZSC), Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Marilin Janson
- Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences and Population Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kädi Neare
- Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences and Population Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Kaisa Velström
- Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences and Population Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Pikka Jokelainen
- Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences and Population Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Brian Lassen
- Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences and Population Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Pirje Hütt
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Tiiu Saar
- Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences and Population Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Arvo Viltrop
- Department of Basic Veterinary Sciences and Population Medicine, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Irina Golovljova
- Department of Virology, National Institute for Health Development, Tallinn, Estonia
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Zoonosis Science Center (ZSC), Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|