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Elbert JA, Schuh AJ, Amman BR, Guito JC, Graziano JC, Sealy TK, Howerth EW, Towner JS. Characterization of Ravn virus viral shedding dynamics in experimentally infected Egyptian rousette bats ( Rousettus aegypticus). J Virol 2025; 99:e0004525. [PMID: 40265897 PMCID: PMC12090798 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00045-25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2025] [Accepted: 03/27/2025] [Indexed: 04/24/2025] Open
Abstract
Marburg virus (MARV) and Ravn virus (RAVV), the only two known members of the species Orthomarburgvirus marburgense (family Filoviridae), are causative agents of Marburg virus disease, a severe viral disease that typically emerges in sub-Saharan Africa and is characterized by human-to-human transmission and high case fatalities. Despite the robust characterization of MARV experimental infection in Egyptian rousette bats (ERBs; Rousettus aegyptiacus; common name: Egyptian rousettes), a natural MARV reservoir, experimental infection with RAVV in ERBs has not been completed. Here, we experimentally infect 12 ERBs with RAVV and quantify viral loads in blood, oral swabs, and rectal swabs over a 21-day timeline with serological and cumulative shedding data and baseline clinical parameters. Compared to previously described experimental MARV infection in ERBs, these bats experimentally inoculated with RAVV had significantly higher and prolonged rectal viral shedding loads, as well as significantly prolonged oral shedding and higher peak viremia. All ERBs seroconverted by 21 days post-infection. Additionally, all ERBs demonstrated marked heterogeneity in RAVV viral shedding loads consistent with the Pareto Principle and viral "supershedders." Our results introduce the possibility of variation in transmission dynamics and subsequent spillover differences between RAVV and MARV.IMPORTANCERavn virus, along with Marburg virus, causes severe viral disease in humans with high fatality but little to no clinical disease in its reservoir host, the Egyptian rousette bat. Our findings provide important insights into how Ravn virus behaves in its natural reservoir host, showing that Ravn virus infection followed a similar timeline to Marburg virus infection, with virus detected in blood, saliva, and feces. However, Ravn virus-infected bats had higher levels of viral shedding and shed the virus for a longer period, particularly in feces, compared to Marburg virus. These differences in viral shedding may impact the spread of the virus within bat populations and potentially alter the likelihood of spillover into humans, non-human primates, and other animal species. These insights are crucial for understanding Ravn virus maintenance in its bat reservoir and improving our ability to mitigate or prevent future human outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A. Elbert
- Department of Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Amy J. Schuh
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- USA Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Brian R. Amman
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jonathan C. Guito
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - James C. Graziano
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Tara K. Sealy
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Elizabeth W. Howerth
- Department of Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Jonathan S. Towner
- Department of Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Letafati A, Fakhr SSH, Najafabadi AQ, Karami N, Karami H. Marburg Virus Disease: A Narrative Review. Health Sci Rep 2025; 8:e70669. [PMID: 40330770 PMCID: PMC12053247 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.70669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2025] [Accepted: 03/21/2025] [Indexed: 05/08/2025] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Given the recent deadly outbreaks of the Marburg virus (MARV), in early 2023 in Tanzania and Equatorial Guinea, and the most recent one in Rwanda in 2024, there has been renewed attention across Africa on the threat posed by the re-emergence of MARV as a growing concern for public health. Therefore, it needs to provide a comprehensive overview of the virus and its related infections, encompassing virus classification, historical outbreaks, transmission dynamics, the intricate interface between the virus and its hosts, the methods of diagnosis, core prevention strategies, and current therapeutic options, to better understand the virus and the disease characteristics in responding to future outbreaks. Methods For this review, four scientific online databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science were thoroughly searched for peer-reviewed journal papers (original, case reports/series, and review studies) published in English language using the following keywords: Filovirus, Marburg virus, Marburg Haemorrhagic Fever, Marburg virus disease, and Marburg virus outbreak. Results MARV shares similarities with its close cousin -the Ebola virus [EBOV]-in terms of viral characteristics and most clinical features. These two viruses are of animal origin and primarily spread to humans through infected bats (both direct and indirect close contact), which serve as the common natural host reservoirs. The potential for interhuman transmission, coupled with the ability to cross borders of endemic regions combined with the absence of a licensed vaccine and effective treatment, have made MARV a significant threat to human health. This virus is clinically characterized by a range of symptoms and organ dysfunctions. The disease is often fatal in a significant proportion of infected individuals. This viral infection is diagnosed by various diagnostic tools, prevented mainly through personal protective measures, and treated usually with clinical management and supportive care. Conclusion The outbreaks of MARV are continuously threaten public health; therefore, the world must be alert and well-prepared. For MVD, taking precautions along with investing in research and preparedness at regional, national, and global levels is of crucial importance and should be prioritized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arash Letafati
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Public HealthTehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS)TehranIran
| | | | - Ali Qaraee Najafabadi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological SciencesTarbiat Modares UniversityTehranIran
| | - Negin Karami
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of NursingAlborz University of Medical SciencesKarajIran
| | - Hassan Karami
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Public HealthTehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS)TehranIran
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Ngai S, Evers ES, Seoane AKL, Ameh G, Anoko JN, Barnadas C, Choi MJ, Diaz J, Fontana L, Formenty P, Nezu IH, Jacquerioz F, Klena J, Laurenson-Schafer H, de Waroux OLP, Legand A, Carrera RM, Metcalf T, Montgomery J, Morreale S, Negrón ME, Nvé JO, Ayekaba MO, Pavlin BI, Shoemaker T, Hernandez YT, Venta MV, Gutierrez EZ, Ndoho FAO. Outbreak of Marburg Virus Disease, Equatorial Guinea, 2023. Emerg Infect Dis 2025; 31:887-895. [PMID: 40180579 PMCID: PMC12044228 DOI: 10.3201/eid3105.241749] [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] [Indexed: 04/05/2025] Open
Abstract
In February 2023, the government of Equatorial Guinea declared an outbreak of Marburg virus disease. We describe the response structure and epidemiologic characteristics, including case-patient demographics, clinical manifestations, risk factors, and the serial interval and timing of symptom onset, treatment seeking, and recovery or death. We identified 16 laboratory-confirmed and 23 probable cases of Marburg virus disease in 5 districts and noted several unlinked chains of transmission and a case-fatality ratio of 90% (35/39 cases). Transmission was concentrated in family clusters and healthcare settings. The median serial interval was 18.5 days; most transmission occurred during late-stage disease. Rapid isolation of symptomatic case-patients is critical in preventing transmission and improving patient outcomes; community engagement and surveillance strengthening should be prioritized in emerging outbreaks. Further analysis of this outbreak and a One Health surveillance approach can help prevent and prepare for future potential spillover events.
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Haase JA, Marzi A. Molecular virulence determinants of human-pathogenic filoviruses. Adv Virus Res 2025; 121:1-29. [PMID: 40379380 DOI: 10.1016/bs.aivir.2025.03.003] [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] [Indexed: 05/19/2025]
Abstract
The Filoviridae family encompasses Ebola virus (EBOV) and Marburg virus (MARV), some of the most lethal viruses known to cause sporadic, recurring outbreaks of severe hemorrhagic fever mainly throughout central Africa. However, other lesser-known viruses also belong to the filovirus family as they are closely related, such as Bundibugyo, Reston and Taï Forest virus. These viruses differ in their virulence in humans significantly: while EBOV and MARV show lethality in humans of up to 90 %, Reston virus appears to be avirulent in humans. Here, underlying molecular factors leading to differences in virulence via changes in filovirus entry, replication and immune evasion strategies are summarized and assessed. While the filovirus glycoprotein contributes towards virulence by facilitating entry into a wide variety of tissues, differences in virus-host interactions and replication efficacies lead to measurable variances of progeny virus production. Additionally, immune evasion strategies lead to alterations in replication efficacy thus changing who has the upper hand between the virus and the host. Understanding and unraveling the contributions of these molecular determinants on filovirus virulence provide insights into the processes causing the underlying pathogenesis. It will further help to assess the pathogenicity of newly discovered filoviruses. Finally, these molecular determinants and processes present attractive targets for therapeutic intervention and development of novel antiviral countermeasures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jil A Haase
- Laboratory of Virology, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, United States
| | - Andrea Marzi
- Laboratory of Virology, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, United States.
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Schuh AJ, Amman BR, Guito JC, Graziano JC, Sealy TK, Towner JS. Modeling natural coinfection in a bat reservoir shows modulation of Marburg virus shedding and spillover potential. PLoS Pathog 2025; 21:e1012901. [PMID: 40096181 PMCID: PMC11978059 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1012901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2025] [Accepted: 01/12/2025] [Indexed: 03/19/2025] Open
Abstract
The Egyptian rousette bat (ERB) is a natural reservoir for Marburg virus (MARV; family Filoviridae), a putative reservoir for Sosuga virus (SOSV; family Paramyxoviridae), and a vertebrate reservoir for Kasokero virus (KASV; family Orthonairoviridae); however, the effect of naturally occurring coinfection by those viruses on MARV shedding and spillover potential is unknown. To answer this question, we experimentally infected one cohort of captive-bred ERBs with SOSV+MARV (n=12 bats) or MARV only (n=12 bats) and a second cohort with KASV+MARV (n=12 bats) or MARV only (n=12 bats), and then collected blood, oral swab, and rectal swab specimens throughout the course of infection to monitor viral shedding. Compared to the MARV-monoinfected bat group, the SOSV+MARV-coinfected bat group exhibited a significantly shortened duration of MARV oral shedding and a significantly decreased anti-MARV IgG response, which may increase the capacity for MARV reinfection. In contrast, relative to the MARV-monoinfected bat group, the KASV+MARV-coinfected bat group exhibited significantly increased peak magnitudes and durations of MARV viremia and oral shedding, as well as a significantly increased anti-MARV IgG response. Correspondingly, cumulative MARV shedding loads, a measure of infectiousness, were significantly higher in the KASV+MARV-coinfected bat group than the MARV-monoinfected bat group. Four of the KASV+MARV-coinfected bats were classified as MARV supershedders, together accounting for 72.5% of the KASV-MARV experimental cohort's total shedding. Our results demonstrate that SOSV+MARV and KASV+MARV coinfection of ERBs differentially modulates MARV shedding and anti-MARV IgG responses, thereby implicating MARV coinfection as playing a critical role in bat-to-bat MARV transmission dynamics and spillover potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy J. Schuh
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
- United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Brian R. Amman
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Jonathan C. Guito
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - James C. Graziano
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Tara K. Sealy
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Jonathan S. Towner
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
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Fatima M, An T, Park PG, Hong KJ. Advancements and Challenges in Addressing Zoonotic Viral Infections with Epidemic and Pandemic Threats. Viruses 2025; 17:352. [PMID: 40143281 PMCID: PMC11946417 DOI: 10.3390/v17030352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2025] [Revised: 02/23/2025] [Accepted: 02/25/2025] [Indexed: 03/28/2025] Open
Abstract
Zoonotic viruses have significant pandemic potential, as evidenced by the coronavirus pandemic, which underscores that zoonotic infections have historically caused numerous outbreaks and millions of deaths over centuries. Zoonotic viruses induce numerous types of illnesses in their natural hosts. These viruses are transmitted to humans via biological vectors, direct contact with infected animals or their bites, and aerosols. Zoonotic viruses continuously evolve and adapt to human hosts, resulting in devastating consequences. It is very important to understand pathogenesis pathways associated with zoonotic viral infections across various hosts and develop countermeasure strategies accordingly. In this review, we briefly discuss advancements in diagnostics and therapeutics for zoonotic viral infections. It provides insight into recent outbreaks, viral dynamics, licensed vaccines, as well as vaccine candidates progressing to clinical investigations. Despite advancements, challenges persist in combating zoonotic viruses due to immune evasion, unpredicted outbreaks, and the complexity of the immune responses. Most of these viruses lack effective treatments and vaccines, relying entirely on supportive care and preventive measures. Exposure to animal reservoirs, limited vaccine access, and insufficient coverage further pose challenges to preventive efforts. This review highlights the critical need for ongoing interdisciplinary research and collaboration to strengthen preparedness and response strategies against emerging infectious threats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Munazza Fatima
- Department of Microbiology, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon 21936, Republic of Korea; (M.F.)
- Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
| | - Timothy An
- Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
| | - Pil-Gu Park
- Department of Microbiology, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon 21936, Republic of Korea; (M.F.)
- Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
| | - Kee-Jong Hong
- Department of Microbiology, Gachon University College of Medicine, Incheon 21936, Republic of Korea; (M.F.)
- Lee Gil Ya Cancer and Diabetes Institute, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
- Korea mRNA Vaccine Initiative, Gachon University, Seongnam 13120, Republic of Korea
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Schuh AJ, Amman BR, Towner JS. Experimental Infection of Egyptian Rousette Bats (Rousettus aegyptiacus) with Marburg Virus. Methods Mol Biol 2025; 2877:259-280. [PMID: 39585627 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-4256-6_18] [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] [Indexed: 11/26/2024]
Abstract
In this chapter, we detail the procedures used in experimental infection studies of Egyptian rousette bats (Rousettus aegyptiacus) with Marburg virus. We start by reviewing study planning and preparation considerations, personal protective equipment use, and then describe general procedures used in all experimental Egyptian rousette bat-Marburg virus infection study designs. We end by describing procedures specific to serial sampling and serial sacrifice studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy J Schuh
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, Rockville, MD, USA.
| | - Brian R Amman
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jonathan S Towner
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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Nasr A, Copeland N, Munir M. Structural Analysis of Virus Regulatory N6-Methyladenosine (m6A) Machinery of the Black Flying Fox ( Pteropus alecto) and the Egyptian Fruit Bat ( Rousettus aegyptiacus) Shows Evolutionary Conservation Amongst Mammals. Genes (Basel) 2024; 15:1361. [PMID: 39596561 PMCID: PMC11594476 DOI: 10.3390/genes15111361] [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: 08/17/2024] [Revised: 09/13/2024] [Accepted: 10/19/2024] [Indexed: 11/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND N6-methyladenosine (m6A) is an abundant RNA epitranscriptomic modification in eukaryotes. The m6A machinery includes cellular writer, eraser and reader proteins that regulate m6A. Pteropus alecto (P. alecto) (the Australian black flying fox) and Rousettus aegyptiacus (R. aegyptiacus) (the Egyptian fruit bat) are bats associated with several viral zoonoses yet neglected in the field of m6A epigenetics studies. OBJECTIVES This study utilises various bioinformatics and in silico tools to genetically identify, characterise and annotate the m6A machinery in P. alecto and R. aegyptiacus. METHODS A range of bioinformatic tools were deployed to comprehensively characterise all known m6A-associated proteins of P. alecto and R. aegyptiacus. Results: Phylogenetically, the m6A fat mass and obesity-associated protein (FTO) eraser placed the order Chiroptera (an order including all bat species) in a separate clade. Additionally, it showed the lowest identity matrices in P. alecto and R. aegyptiacus when compared to other mammals (74.1% and 72.8%) and Homo sapiens (84.0% and 76.1%), respectively. When compared to humans, genetic loci-based analysis of P. alecto and R. aegyptiacus showed syntenic conservation in multiple flanking genes of 8 out the 10 m6A-associated genes. Furthermore, amino acid alignment and protein tertiary structure of the two bats' m6A machinery demonstrated conservation in the writers but not in erasers and readers, compared to humans. CONCLUSIONS These studies provide foundational annotation and genetic characterisation of m6A machinery in two important species of bats which can be exploited to study bat-virus interactions at the interface of epitranscriptomics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa Nasr
- Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YG, UK or (A.N.); (N.C.)
- Department of Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza 12211, Egypt
| | - Nikki Copeland
- Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YG, UK or (A.N.); (N.C.)
| | - Muhammad Munir
- Division of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YG, UK or (A.N.); (N.C.)
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Siddiquee NH, Talukder MEK, Ahmed E, Zeba LT, Aivy FS, Rahman MH, Barua D, Rumman R, Hossain MI, Shimul MEK, Rama AR, Chowdhury S, Hossain I. Cheminformatics-based analysis identified (Z)-2-(2,5-dimethoxy benzylidene)-6-(2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-2-oxoethoxy) benzofuran-3(2H)-one as an inhibitor of Marburg replication by interacting with NP. Microb Pathog 2024; 195:106892. [PMID: 39216611 DOI: 10.1016/j.micpath.2024.106892] [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: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 08/17/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
The highly pathogenic Marburg virus (MARV) is a member of the Filoviridae family, a non-segmented negative-strand RNA virus. This article represents the computer-aided drug design (CADD) approach for identifying drug-like compounds that prevent the MARV virus disease by inhibiting nucleoprotein, which is responsible for their replication. This study used a wide range of in silico drug design techniques to identify potential drugs. Out of 368 natural compounds, 202 compounds passed ADMET, and molecular docking identified the top two molecules (CID: 1804018 and 5280520) with a high binding affinity of -6.77 and -6.672 kcal/mol, respectively. Both compounds showed interactions with the common amino acid residues SER_216, ARG_215, TYR_135, CYS_195, and ILE_108, which indicates that lead compounds and control ligands interact in the common active site/catalytic site of the protein. The negative binding free energies of CID: 1804018 and 5280520 were -66.01 and -31.29 kcal/mol, respectively. Two lead compounds were re-evaluated using MD modeling techniques, which confirmed CID: 1804018 as the most stable when complexed with the target protein. PC3 of the (Z)-2-(2,5-dimethoxybenzylidene)-6-(2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-2-oxoethoxy) benzofuran-3(2H)-one (CID: 1804018) was 8.74 %, whereas PC3 of the 2'-Hydroxydaidzein (CID: 5280520) was 11.25 %. In this study, (Z)-2-(2,5-dimethoxybenzylidene)-6-(2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-2-oxoethoxy) benzofuran-3(2H)-one (CID: 1804018) unveiled the significant stability of the proteins' binding site in ADMET, Molecular docking, MM-GBSA and MD simulation analysis studies, which also showed a high negative binding free energy value, confirming as the best drug candidate which is found in Angelica archangelica which may potentially inhibit the replication of MARV nucleoprotein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noimul Hasan Siddiquee
- Department of Microbiology, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh; Bioinformatics Laboratory (BioLab), Bangladesh
| | - Md Enamul Kabir Talukder
- Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Bangladesh
| | - Ezaz Ahmed
- Department of Microbiology, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh; Bioinformatics Laboratory (BioLab), Bangladesh
| | - Labiba Tasnim Zeba
- Bioinformatics Laboratory (BioLab), Bangladesh; Department of Mathematics & Natural Sciences, BRAC University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Farjana Sultana Aivy
- Department of Microbiology, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh; Bioinformatics Laboratory (BioLab), Bangladesh
| | - Md Hasibur Rahman
- Bioinformatics Laboratory (BioLab), Bangladesh; Department of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh
| | - Durjoy Barua
- Bioinformatics Laboratory (BioLab), Bangladesh; Department of Pharmacy, BGC Trust University, Bangladesh
| | - Rahnumazzaman Rumman
- Bioinformatics Laboratory (BioLab), Bangladesh; Department Of Environmental Science and Disaster Management, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh
| | - Md Ifteker Hossain
- Department of Microbiology, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh; Bioinformatics Laboratory (BioLab), Bangladesh
| | - Md Ebrahim Khalil Shimul
- Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Jashore University of Science and Technology, Bangladesh
| | - Anika Rahman Rama
- Bioinformatics Laboratory (BioLab), Bangladesh; Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, East West University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Sristi Chowdhury
- Bioinformatics Laboratory (BioLab), Bangladesh; Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh
| | - Imam Hossain
- Department of Microbiology, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh; Bioinformatics Laboratory (BioLab), Bangladesh.
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Wang S, Li W, Wang Z, Yang W, Li E, Xia X, Yan F, Chiu S. Emerging and reemerging infectious diseases: global trends and new strategies for their prevention and control. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2024; 9:223. [PMID: 39256346 PMCID: PMC11412324 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-024-01917-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024] Open
Abstract
To adequately prepare for potential hazards caused by emerging and reemerging infectious diseases, the WHO has issued a list of high-priority pathogens that are likely to cause future outbreaks and for which research and development (R&D) efforts are dedicated, known as paramount R&D blueprints. Within R&D efforts, the goal is to obtain effective prophylactic and therapeutic approaches, which depends on a comprehensive knowledge of the etiology, epidemiology, and pathogenesis of these diseases. In this process, the accessibility of animal models is a priority bottleneck because it plays a key role in bridging the gap between in-depth understanding and control efforts for infectious diseases. Here, we reviewed preclinical animal models for high priority disease in terms of their ability to simulate human infections, including both natural susceptibility models, artificially engineered models, and surrogate models. In addition, we have thoroughly reviewed the current landscape of vaccines, antibodies, and small molecule drugs, particularly hopeful candidates in the advanced stages of these infectious diseases. More importantly, focusing on global trends and novel technologies, several aspects of the prevention and control of infectious disease were discussed in detail, including but not limited to gaps in currently available animal models and medical responses, better immune correlates of protection established in animal models and humans, further understanding of disease mechanisms, and the role of artificial intelligence in guiding or supplementing the development of animal models, vaccines, and drugs. Overall, this review described pioneering approaches and sophisticated techniques involved in the study of the epidemiology, pathogenesis, prevention, and clinical theatment of WHO high-priority pathogens and proposed potential directions. Technological advances in these aspects would consolidate the line of defense, thus ensuring a timely response to WHO high priority pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Wujian Li
- Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, 130000, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Zhenshan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, 130000, China
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Jilin Agricultural University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Wanying Yang
- Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Entao Li
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, Anhui, China
- Key Laboratory of Anhui Province for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, Hefei, 230027, Anhui, China
| | - Xianzhu Xia
- Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, 130000, China
| | - Feihu Yan
- Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, Changchun Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changchun, 130000, China.
| | - Sandra Chiu
- Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, 230027, Anhui, China.
- Key Laboratory of Anhui Province for Emerging and Reemerging Infectious Diseases, Hefei, 230027, Anhui, China.
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China.
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11
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Mmbaga V, Mrema G, Ngenzi D, Magoge W, Mwakapasa E, Jacob F, Matimba H, Beyanga M, Samweli A, Kiremeji M, Kitambi M, Sylvanus E, Kyungu E, Manase G, Hokororo J, Kanyankole C, Rwabilimbo M, Kaniki I, Kauki G, Kelly ME, Mwengee W, Ayeni G, Msemwa F, Saguti G, Mgomella GS, Mukurasi K, Mponela M, Kapyolo E, Mcharo J, Mayige M, Gatei W, Conteh I, Mala P, Swaminathan M, Horumpende P, Ruggajo P, Magembe G, Yoti Z, Kwesi E, Nagu T. Epidemiological description of Marburg virus disease outbreak in Kagera region, Northwestern Tanzania. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0309762. [PMID: 39236024 PMCID: PMC11376503 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0309762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 08/17/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In March 2023, a Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) outbreak was declared in Kagera region, Northwestern Tanzania. This was the first MVD outbreak in the country. We describe the epidemiological characteristics of MVD cases and contacts. METHODS The Ministry of Health activated an outbreak response team. Outbreak investigation methods were applied to cases identified through MVD standard case definitions and confirmed through reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT PCR). All identified case contacts were added into the contact listing form and followed up in-person daily for any signs or symptoms for 21 days. Data collected from various forms was managed and analyzed using Excel and QGIS software for mapping. RESULTS A total of nine MVD cases were reported with eight laboratory-confirmed and one probable. Two of the reported cases were frontline healthcare workers and seven were family related members. Cases were children and adults between 1-59 years of age with a median age of 34 years. Six were males. Six cases died equivalent to a case fatality rate (CFR) of 66.7%. A total of 212 individuals were identified as contacts and two (2) became cases. The outbreak was localized in two geo-administrative wards (Maruku and Kanyangereko) of Bukoba District Council. CONCLUSION Transmission during this outbreak occurred among family members and healthcare workers who provided care to the cases. The delay in detection aggravated the spread and possibly the consequent fatality but once confirmed the swift response stemmed further transmission containing the disease at the epicenter wards. The outbreak lasted for 72 days but as the origin is still unknown, further research is required to explore the source of this outbreak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vida Mmbaga
- Epidemiology and Disease Control Section, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - George Mrema
- Epidemiology and Disease Control Section, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
- Tanzania Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, Ministry of Health, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Danstan Ngenzi
- Epidemiology and Disease Control Section, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Welema Magoge
- Epidemiology and Disease Control Section, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Emmanuel Mwakapasa
- Epidemiology and Disease Control Section, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Frank Jacob
- Epidemiology and Disease Control Section, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Hamza Matimba
- National Public Health Laboratory, Ministry of Health, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Medard Beyanga
- National Public Health Laboratory, Ministry of Health, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Angela Samweli
- Emergency Preparedness and Response Unit, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Michael Kiremeji
- Emergency Preparedness and Response Unit, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Mary Kitambi
- Emergency Preparedness and Response Unit, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Erasto Sylvanus
- Emergency Preparedness and Response Unit, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Ernest Kyungu
- President Office Regional Administrative Local Government, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Gerald Manase
- President Office Regional Administrative Local Government, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Joseph Hokororo
- Health Quality Assurance Unit, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | | | | | | | - George Kauki
- World Health Organization, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | | | | | | | - Grace Saguti
- World Health Organization, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | | | - Marcelina Mponela
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Eliakimu Kapyolo
- National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Jonathan Mcharo
- National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Mary Mayige
- National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Wangeci Gatei
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | - Peter Mala
- World Health Organization, HQ, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Pius Horumpende
- Directorate of Curative Services, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Paschal Ruggajo
- Directorate of Curative Services, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Grace Magembe
- Office of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Zabulon Yoti
- World Health Organization, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Elias Kwesi
- Emergency Preparedness and Response Unit, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Tumaini Nagu
- Office of the Government Chief Medical Officer, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
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12
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Cui N, Perez YL, Hume AJ, Nunley BE, Kong K, Mills MG, Xie H, Greninger AL. A high-throughput, polymerase-targeted RT-PCR for broad detection of mammalian filoviruses. Microbiol Spectr 2024; 12:e0101024. [PMID: 39046245 PMCID: PMC11370238 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01010-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Filoviruses are some of the most lethal viruses in the modern world, and increasing numbers of filovirus species and genera have been discovered in recent years. Despite the potential severity of filovirus outbreaks in the human population, comparably few sensitive pan-filovirus RT-PCR assays have been described that might facilitate early detection and prevention. Here, we present a new pan-filovirus RT-PCR assay targeting the L polymerase gene for detection of all known mammalian filoviruses. We demonstrate the detection of 10 synthetic filovirus RNA templates with analytical sensitivity ranging from 178 to 3,354 copies/mL, without cross-reactivity on 10 non-filoviral human viral species. We verified assay performance on 10 inactivated filovirus isolates, yielding initial sensitivities of 0.012-44.17 TCID50/mL. We coupled this broadly reactive RT-PCR with a deep sequencing workflow that is amenable to high-throughput pooling to maximize detection and discovery potential. In summary, this pan-filovirus RT-PCR assay targets the most conserved filovirus gene, offers the widest breadth of coverage to date, and may help in the detection and discovery of novel filoviruses.IMPORTANCEFiloviruses remain some of the most mysterious viruses known to the world, with extremely high lethality rates and significant pandemic potential. Yet comparably few filovirus species and genera have been discovered to date and questions surround the definitive host species for zoonotic infections. Here, we describe a novel broadly reactive RT-PCR assay targeting the conserved L polymerase gene for high-throughput screening for filoviruses in a variety of clinical and environmental specimens. We demonstrate the assay can detect all known mammalian filoviruses and determine the sensitivity and specificity of the assay on synthetic RNA sequences, inactivated filovirus isolates, and non-filoviral species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Cui
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Yael L. Perez
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Adam J. Hume
- Department of Microbiology/National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories, Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - B. Ethan Nunley
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Kevin Kong
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Margaret G. Mills
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Hong Xie
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
| | - Alexander L. Greninger
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, Washington, USA
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Division, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, Washington, USA
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13
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Hood G, Carroll M. Host-pathogen interactions of emerging zoonotic viruses: bats, humans and filoviruses. Curr Opin Virol 2024; 68-69:101436. [PMID: 39537444 DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2024.101436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2024] [Accepted: 10/21/2024] [Indexed: 11/16/2024]
Abstract
This paper provides an overview of the phenomena of cross-species transmission of viruses (known as spillover), focusing on the highly pathogenic filovirus family and their natural reservoir: bats. It also describes the host-pathogen relationship of viruses and their reservoirs, in addition to humans, and discusses current theories of persistent infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Hood
- Pandemic Sciences Institute & Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK.
| | - Miles Carroll
- Pandemic Sciences Institute & Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK.
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14
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Fereidouni S, Keleş SJ, Schlottau K, Bagó Z, Reiter G, Milchram M, Hoffmann B. Monitoring of Astroviruses, Brno-Hantaviruses, Coronaviruses, Influenza Viruses, Bornaviruses, Morbilliviruses, Lyssaviruses and Pestiviruses in Austrian Bats. Viruses 2024; 16:1232. [PMID: 39205206 PMCID: PMC11359250 DOI: 10.3390/v16081232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Revised: 07/08/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Here, we report the results of a monitoring study of bat viruses in Austria to strengthen the knowledge of circulating viruses in Austrian bat populations. In this study, we analyzed 618 oropharyngeal and rectal swab samples from 309 bats and 155 pooled tissue samples from dead bats. Samples were collected from 18 different bat species from multiple locations in Austria, from November 2015 to April 2018, and examined for astroviruses, bornaviruses, coronaviruses, hantaviruses, morbilliviruses, orthomyxoviruses (influenza A/C/D viruses), pestiviruses and rhabdoviruses (lyssaviruses) using molecular techniques and sequencing. Using RT-qPCR, 36 samples revealed positive or suspicious results for astroviruses, Brno-hantaviruses, and coronaviruses in nine different bat species. Further sequencing revealed correspondent sequences in five samples. In contrast, none of the tested samples was positive for influenza viruses A/C/D, bornaviruses, morbilliviruses, lyssaviruses, or pestiviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sasan Fereidouni
- Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1160 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Sinan Julian Keleş
- Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1160 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Kore Schlottau
- Institute of Diagnostic Virology, Friedrich Loeffler Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, D-17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany; (K.S.); (B.H.)
| | - Zoltán Bagó
- Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety Ltd. (AGES), Institute for Veterinary Disease Control, 2340 Mödling, Austria;
| | - Guido Reiter
- Austrian Coordination Centre for Bat Conservation and Research (KFFÖ), 4060 Leonding, Austria;
| | - Markus Milchram
- Institute of Zoology, BOKU University, 1180 Vienna, Austria;
| | - Bernd Hoffmann
- Institute of Diagnostic Virology, Friedrich Loeffler Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, D-17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany; (K.S.); (B.H.)
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15
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Pawęska JT, Storm N, Jansen van Vuren P, Markotter W, Kemp A. Attempted Transmission of Marburg Virus by Bat-Associated Fleas Thaumapsylla breviceps breviceps (Ischnopsyllidae: Thaumapsyllinae) to the Egyptian Rousette Bat ( Rousettus aegyptiacus). Viruses 2024; 16:1197. [PMID: 39205171 PMCID: PMC11360628 DOI: 10.3390/v16081197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Egyptian rousette bats (ERBs) are implicated as reservoir hosts for Marburg virus (MARV), but natural mechanisms involved in maintenance of MARV in ERB populations remain undefined. A number of hematophagous ectoparasites, including fleas, parasitize bats. Subcutaneous (SC) inoculation of ERBs with MARV consistently results in viremia, suggesting that infectious MARV could be ingested by blood-sucking ectoparasites during feeding. In our study, MARV RNA was detected in fleas that took a blood meal during feeding on viremic bats on days 3, 7, and 11 after SC inoculation. Virus concentration in individual ectoparasites was consistent with detectable levels of viremia in the blood of infected host bats. There was neither seroconversion nor viremia in control bats kept in close contact with MARV-infected bats infested with fleas for up to 40 days post-exposure. In fleas inoculated intracoelomically, MARV was detected up to 14 days after intracoelomic (IC) inoculation, but the virus concentration was lower than that delivered in the inoculum. All bats that had been infested with inoculated, viremic fleas remained virologically and serologically negative up to 38 days after infestation. Of 493 fleas collected from a wild ERB colony in Matlapitsi Cave, South Africa, where the enzootic transmission of MARV occurs, all tested negative for MARV RNA. While our findings seem to demonstrate that bat fleas lack vectorial capacity to transmit MARV biologically, their role in mechanical transmission should not be discounted. Regular blood-feeds, intra- and interhost mobility, direct feeding on blood vessels resulting in venous damage, and roosting behaviour of ERBs provide a potential physical bridge for MARV dissemination in densely populated cave-dwelling bats by fleas. The virus transfer might take place through inoculation of skin, mucosal membranes, and wounds when contaminated fleas are squashed during auto- and allogrooming, eating, biting, or fighting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janusz T. Pawęska
- Centre for Emerging Zoonotic and Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases of the National Health Laboratory Service, Sandringham 2131, South Africa; (N.S.); (P.J.v.V.); (A.K.)
- Centre for Viral Zoonoses, Department of Medical Virology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2050, South Africa
| | - Nadia Storm
- Centre for Emerging Zoonotic and Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases of the National Health Laboratory Service, Sandringham 2131, South Africa; (N.S.); (P.J.v.V.); (A.K.)
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Petrus Jansen van Vuren
- Centre for Emerging Zoonotic and Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases of the National Health Laboratory Service, Sandringham 2131, South Africa; (N.S.); (P.J.v.V.); (A.K.)
- CSIRO Health & Biosecurity, Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
| | - Wanda Markotter
- Centre for Viral Zoonoses, Department of Medical Virology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
| | - Alan Kemp
- Centre for Emerging Zoonotic and Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases of the National Health Laboratory Service, Sandringham 2131, South Africa; (N.S.); (P.J.v.V.); (A.K.)
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16
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Towner JS, Nyakarahuka L, Atimnedi P. Bat-Borne Pathogens and Public Health in Rural African Artisanal Gold Mines. AMA J Ethics 2024; 26:E109-115. [PMID: 38306200 PMCID: PMC11932451 DOI: 10.1001/amajethics.2024.109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
Marburg virus, the first filovirus discovered and a close cousin to the Ebola virus, is carried by the Egyptian rousette bat, a common cave-dwelling fruit bat endemic to sub-Saharan Africa whose populations can exceed 50 000 individuals. Community outbreaks of Marburg virus can result in high morbidity rates. In eastern Africa, favorite habitats of these bats include rural subterranean gold mines-sometimes worked illegally-that create environments conducive to zoonotic virus transmission. This commentary on a case describes how outbreaks of Marburg virus disease among people exposed to sub-Saharan African caves and mines containing these bats cause tensions among miners, companies, public health officials, and conservationists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan S Towner
- Lead virologist for the Virus Host Ecology Section within the Viral Special Pathogens Branch at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Georgia
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17
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Riesle-Sbarbaro SA, Wibbelt G, Düx A, Kouakou V, Bokelmann M, Hansen-Kant K, Kirchoff N, Laue M, Kromarek N, Lander A, Vogel U, Wahlbrink A, Wozniak DM, Scott DP, Prescott JB, Schaade L, Couacy-Hymann E, Kurth A. Selective replication and vertical transmission of Ebola virus in experimentally infected Angolan free-tailed bats. Nat Commun 2024; 15:925. [PMID: 38297087 PMCID: PMC10830451 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45231-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The natural reservoir of Ebola virus (EBOV), agent of a zoonosis burdening several African countries, remains unidentified, albeit evidence points towards bats. In contrast, the ecology of the related Marburg virus is much better understood; with experimental infections of bats being instrumental for understanding reservoir-pathogen interactions. Experiments have focused on elucidating reservoir competence, infection kinetics and specifically horizontal transmission, although, vertical transmission plays a key role in many viral enzootic cycles. Herein, we investigate the permissiveness of Angolan free-tailed bats (AFBs), known to harbour Bombali virus, to other filoviruses: Ebola, Marburg, Taï Forest and Reston viruses. We demonstrate that only the bats inoculated with EBOV show high and disseminated viral replication and infectious virus shedding, without clinical disease, while the other filoviruses fail to establish productive infections. Notably, we evidence placental-specific tissue tropism and a unique ability of EBOV to traverse the placenta, infect and persist in foetal tissues of AFBs, which results in distinct genetic signatures of adaptive evolution. These findings not only demonstrate plausible routes of horizontal and vertical transmission in these bats, which are expectant of reservoir hosts, but may also reveal an ancillary transmission mechanism, potentially required for the maintenance of EBOV in small reservoir populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- S A Riesle-Sbarbaro
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - G Wibbelt
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - A Düx
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
- Helmholtz Institute for One Health, Greifswald, Germany
| | - V Kouakou
- LANADA, Laboratoire National d'Appui au Développement Agricole, Bingerville, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - M Bokelmann
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - K Hansen-Kant
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - N Kirchoff
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - M Laue
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - N Kromarek
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - A Lander
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - U Vogel
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - A Wahlbrink
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - D M Wozniak
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
- Bernhard-Nocht-Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - D P Scott
- Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - J B Prescott
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - L Schaade
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - E Couacy-Hymann
- LANADA, Laboratoire National d'Appui au Développement Agricole, Bingerville, Côte d'Ivoire
- Centre National de Recherches Agronomiques, LIRED, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - A Kurth
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany.
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18
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Amman BR, Schuh AJ, Akurut G, Kamugisha K, Namanya D, Sealy TK, Graziano JC, Enyel E, Wright EA, Balinandi S, Lutwama JJ, Kading RC, Atimnedi P, Towner JS. Micro‒Global Positioning Systems for Identifying Nightly Opportunities for Marburg Virus Spillover to Humans by Egyptian Rousette Bats. Emerg Infect Dis 2023; 29:2238-2245. [PMID: 37877537 PMCID: PMC10617345 DOI: 10.3201/eid2911.230362] [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] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Marburg virus disease, caused by Marburg and Ravn orthomarburgviruses, emerges sporadically in sub-Saharan Africa and is often fatal in humans. The natural reservoir is the Egyptian rousette bat (ERB), which sheds virus in saliva, urine, and feces. Frugivorous ERBs discard test-bitten and partially eaten fruit, potentially leaving infectious virus behind that could be consumed by other susceptible animals or humans. Historically, 8 of 17 known Marburg virus disease outbreaks have been linked to human encroachment on ERB habitats, but no linkage exists for the other 9 outbreaks, raising the question of how bats and humans might intersect, leading to virus spillover. We used micro‒global positioning systems to identify nightly ERB foraging locations. ERBs from a known Marburg virus‒infected population traveled long distances to feed in cultivated fruit trees near homes. Our results show that ERB foraging behavior represents a Marburg virus spillover risk to humans and plausibly explains the origins of some past outbreaks.
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19
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Weber N, Nagy M, Markotter W, Schaer J, Puechmaille SJ, Sutton J, Dávalos LM, Dusabe MC, Ejotre I, Fenton MB, Knörnschild M, López-Baucells A, Medellin RA, Metz M, Mubareka S, Nsengimana O, O'Mara MT, Racey PA, Tuttle M, Twizeyimana I, Vicente-Santos A, Tschapka M, Voigt CC, Wikelski M, Dechmann DK, Reeder DM. Robust evidence for bats as reservoir hosts is lacking in most African virus studies: a review and call to optimize sampling and conserve bats. Biol Lett 2023; 19:20230358. [PMID: 37964576 PMCID: PMC10646460 DOI: 10.1098/rsbl.2023.0358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Africa experiences frequent emerging disease outbreaks among humans, with bats often proposed as zoonotic pathogen hosts. We comprehensively reviewed virus-bat findings from papers published between 1978 and 2020 to evaluate the evidence that African bats are reservoir and/or bridging hosts for viruses that cause human disease. We present data from 162 papers (of 1322) with original findings on (1) numbers and species of bats sampled across bat families and the continent, (2) how bats were selected for study inclusion, (3) if bats were terminally sampled, (4) what types of ecological data, if any, were recorded and (5) which viruses were detected and with what methodology. We propose a scheme for evaluating presumed virus-host relationships by evidence type and quality, using the contrasting available evidence for Orthoebolavirus versus Orthomarburgvirus as an example. We review the wording in abstracts and discussions of all 162 papers, identifying key framing terms, how these refer to findings, and how they might contribute to people's beliefs about bats. We discuss the impact of scientific research communication on public perception and emphasize the need for strategies that minimize human-bat conflict and support bat conservation. Finally, we make recommendations for best practices that will improve virological study metadata.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Weber
- Department of Migration, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Radolfzell, Germany
- University of Ulm, Institute of Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation Genomics, Ulm, Germany
| | - Martina Nagy
- Museum für Naturkunde, Leibniz-Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity Science, Berlin, Germany
| | - Wanda Markotter
- Centre for Viral Zoonoses, Department of Medical Virology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Juliane Schaer
- Museum für Naturkunde, Leibniz-Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity Science, Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Biology, Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sébastien J. Puechmaille
- ISEM, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France
- Zoological Institute and Museum, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | | | - Liliana M. Dávalos
- Department of Ecology and Evolution and Consortium for Inter-Disciplinary Environmental Research, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, USA
| | | | - Imran Ejotre
- Institute of Biology, Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany
- Muni University, Arua, Uganda
| | - M. Brock Fenton
- Department of Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mirjam Knörnschild
- Museum für Naturkunde, Leibniz-Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity Science, Berlin, Germany
- Evolutionary Ethology, Institute for Biology, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Balboa, Ancón, Panama
| | | | - Rodrigo A. Medellin
- Institute of Ecology, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Samira Mubareka
- Sunnybrook Research Institute and Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - M. Teague O'Mara
- Department of Migration, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Radolfzell, Germany
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Balboa, Ancón, Panama
- Bat Conservation International Austin, TX, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Southeastern Louisiana University, Hammond, LA, USA
| | - Paul A. Racey
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Merlin Tuttle
- Merlin Tuttle's Bat Conservation, Austin, TX USA
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Texas, Austin, USA
| | | | - Amanda Vicente-Santos
- Graduate Program in Population Biology, Ecology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Biology, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, USA
| | - Marco Tschapka
- University of Ulm, Institute of Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation Genomics, Ulm, Germany
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Balboa, Ancón, Panama
| | | | - Martin Wikelski
- Department of Migration, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Radolfzell, Germany
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Dina K.N. Dechmann
- Department of Migration, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Radolfzell, Germany
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Balboa, Ancón, Panama
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
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20
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Dupuy LC, Spiropoulou CF, Towner JS, Spengler JR, Sullivan NJ, Montgomery JM. Filoviruses: Scientific Gaps and Prototype Pathogen Recommendation. J Infect Dis 2023; 228:S446-S459. [PMID: 37849404 PMCID: PMC11009505 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiad362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Viruses in the family Filoviridae, including the commonly known Ebola (EBOV) and Marburg (MARV) viruses, can cause severe hemorrhagic fever in humans and nonhuman primates. Sporadic outbreaks of filovirus disease occur in sub-Saharan Africa with reported case fatality rates ranging from 25% to 90%. The high mortality and increasing frequency and magnitude of recent outbreaks along with the increased potential for spread from rural to urban areas highlight the importance of pandemic preparedness for these viruses. Despite their designation as high-priority pathogens, numerous scientific gaps exist in critical areas. In this review, these gaps and an assessment of potential prototype pathogen candidates are presented for this important virus family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley C Dupuy
- Virology Branch, Division of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Christina F Spiropoulou
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jonathan S Towner
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jessica R Spengler
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Nancy J Sullivan
- National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Joel M Montgomery
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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21
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Makenov MT, Le LAT, Stukolova OA, Radyuk EV, Morozkin ES, Bui NTT, Zhurenkova OB, Dao MN, Nguyen CV, Luong MT, Nguyen DT, Fedorova MV, Valdokhina AV, Bulanenko VP, Akimkin VG, Karan LS. Detection of Filoviruses in Bats in Vietnam. Viruses 2023; 15:1785. [PMID: 37766193 PMCID: PMC10534609 DOI: 10.3390/v15091785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
A new filovirus named Měnglà virus was found in bats in southern China in 2015. This species has been assigned to the new genus Dianlovirus and has only been detected in China. In this article, we report the detection of filoviruses in bats captured in Vietnam. We studied 248 bats of 15 species caught in the provinces of Lai Chau and Son La in northern Vietnam and in the province of Dong Thap in the southern part of the country. Filovirus RNA was found in four Rousettus leschenaultii and one Rousettus amplexicaudatus from Lai Chau Province. Phylogenetic analysis of the polymerase gene fragment showed that three positive samples belong to Dianlovirus, and two samples form a separate clade closer to Orthomarburgvirus. An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay showed that 9% of Rousettus, 13% of Eonycteris, and 10% of Cynopterus bats had antibodies to the glycoprotein of marburgviruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marat T. Makenov
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics and Epidemiology, Central Research Institute of Epidemiology, 111123 Moscow, Russia; (M.T.M.); (O.A.S.); (E.V.R.); (O.B.Z.); (M.V.F.); (A.V.V.); (V.P.B.); (V.G.A.); (L.S.K.)
| | - Lan Anh T. Le
- Biomedicine Institute, Joint Vietnam-Russia Tropical Science and Technology Research Center, Hanoi 122000, Vietnam; (L.A.T.L.); (N.T.T.B.); (M.N.D.)
| | - Olga A. Stukolova
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics and Epidemiology, Central Research Institute of Epidemiology, 111123 Moscow, Russia; (M.T.M.); (O.A.S.); (E.V.R.); (O.B.Z.); (M.V.F.); (A.V.V.); (V.P.B.); (V.G.A.); (L.S.K.)
| | - Ekaterina V. Radyuk
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics and Epidemiology, Central Research Institute of Epidemiology, 111123 Moscow, Russia; (M.T.M.); (O.A.S.); (E.V.R.); (O.B.Z.); (M.V.F.); (A.V.V.); (V.P.B.); (V.G.A.); (L.S.K.)
| | - Evgeny S. Morozkin
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics and Epidemiology, Central Research Institute of Epidemiology, 111123 Moscow, Russia; (M.T.M.); (O.A.S.); (E.V.R.); (O.B.Z.); (M.V.F.); (A.V.V.); (V.P.B.); (V.G.A.); (L.S.K.)
| | - Nga T. T. Bui
- Biomedicine Institute, Joint Vietnam-Russia Tropical Science and Technology Research Center, Hanoi 122000, Vietnam; (L.A.T.L.); (N.T.T.B.); (M.N.D.)
| | - Olga B. Zhurenkova
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics and Epidemiology, Central Research Institute of Epidemiology, 111123 Moscow, Russia; (M.T.M.); (O.A.S.); (E.V.R.); (O.B.Z.); (M.V.F.); (A.V.V.); (V.P.B.); (V.G.A.); (L.S.K.)
| | - Manh N. Dao
- Biomedicine Institute, Joint Vietnam-Russia Tropical Science and Technology Research Center, Hanoi 122000, Vietnam; (L.A.T.L.); (N.T.T.B.); (M.N.D.)
| | - Chau V. Nguyen
- National Institute of Malariology, Parasitology and Entomology, Hanoi 110000, Vietnam;
| | - Mo T. Luong
- Southern Branch of Joint Vietnam-Russia Tropical Science and Technology Research Center, Ho Chi Minh City 740500, Vietnam; (M.T.L.); (D.T.N.)
| | - Dung T. Nguyen
- Southern Branch of Joint Vietnam-Russia Tropical Science and Technology Research Center, Ho Chi Minh City 740500, Vietnam; (M.T.L.); (D.T.N.)
| | - Marina V. Fedorova
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics and Epidemiology, Central Research Institute of Epidemiology, 111123 Moscow, Russia; (M.T.M.); (O.A.S.); (E.V.R.); (O.B.Z.); (M.V.F.); (A.V.V.); (V.P.B.); (V.G.A.); (L.S.K.)
| | - Anna V. Valdokhina
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics and Epidemiology, Central Research Institute of Epidemiology, 111123 Moscow, Russia; (M.T.M.); (O.A.S.); (E.V.R.); (O.B.Z.); (M.V.F.); (A.V.V.); (V.P.B.); (V.G.A.); (L.S.K.)
| | - Victoria P. Bulanenko
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics and Epidemiology, Central Research Institute of Epidemiology, 111123 Moscow, Russia; (M.T.M.); (O.A.S.); (E.V.R.); (O.B.Z.); (M.V.F.); (A.V.V.); (V.P.B.); (V.G.A.); (L.S.K.)
| | - Vasiliy G. Akimkin
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics and Epidemiology, Central Research Institute of Epidemiology, 111123 Moscow, Russia; (M.T.M.); (O.A.S.); (E.V.R.); (O.B.Z.); (M.V.F.); (A.V.V.); (V.P.B.); (V.G.A.); (L.S.K.)
| | - Lyudmila S. Karan
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics and Epidemiology, Central Research Institute of Epidemiology, 111123 Moscow, Russia; (M.T.M.); (O.A.S.); (E.V.R.); (O.B.Z.); (M.V.F.); (A.V.V.); (V.P.B.); (V.G.A.); (L.S.K.)
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22
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Alsaady IM, Bajrai LH, Alandijany TA, Gattan HS, El-Daly MM, Altwaim SA, Alqawas RT, Dwivedi VD, Azhar EI. Cheminformatics Strategies Unlock Marburg Virus VP35 Inhibitors from Natural Compound Library. Viruses 2023; 15:1739. [PMID: 37632081 PMCID: PMC10459822 DOI: 10.3390/v15081739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The Ebola virus and its close relative, the Marburg virus, both belong to the family Filoviridae and are highly hazardous and contagious viruses. With a mortality rate ranging from 23% to 90%, depending on the specific outbreak, the development of effective antiviral interventions is crucial for reducing fatalities and mitigating the impact of Marburg virus outbreaks. In this investigation, a virtual screening approach was employed to evaluate 2042 natural compounds for their potential interactions with the VP35 protein of the Marburg virus. Average and worst binding energies were calculated for all 20 poses, and compounds that exhibited binding energies <-6 kcal/mol in both criteria were selected for further analysis. Based on binding energies, only six compounds (Estradiol benzoate, INVEGA (paliperidone), Isosilybin, Protopanaxadiol, Permethrin, and Bufalin) were selected for subsequent investigations, focusing on interaction analysis. Among these selected compounds, Estradiol benzoate, INVEGA (paliperidone), and Isosilybin showed strong hydrogen bonds, while the others did not. In this study, the compounds Myricetin, Isosilybin, and Estradiol benzoate were subjected to a molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and free binding energy calculation using MM/GBSA analysis. The reference component Myricetin served as a control. Estradiol benzoate exhibited the most stable and consistent root-mean-square deviation (RMSD) values, whereas Isosilybin showed significant fluctuations in RMSD. The compound Estradiol benzoate exhibited the lowest ΔG binding free energy (-22.89 kcal/mol), surpassing the control compound's binding energy (-9.29 kcal/mol). Overall, this investigation suggested that Estradiol benzoate possesses favorable binding free energies, indicating a potential inhibitory mechanism against the VP35 protein of the Marburg virus. The study proposes that these natural compounds could serve as a therapeutic option for preventing Marburg virus infection. However, experimental validation is required to further corroborate these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isra M. Alsaady
- Special Infectious Agents Unit BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21362, Saudi Arabia; (I.M.A.)
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21362, Saudi Arabia
| | - Leena H. Bajrai
- Special Infectious Agents Unit BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21362, Saudi Arabia; (I.M.A.)
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21362, Saudi Arabia
| | - Thamir A. Alandijany
- Special Infectious Agents Unit BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21362, Saudi Arabia; (I.M.A.)
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21362, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hattan S. Gattan
- Special Infectious Agents Unit BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21362, Saudi Arabia; (I.M.A.)
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21362, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mai M. El-Daly
- Special Infectious Agents Unit BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21362, Saudi Arabia; (I.M.A.)
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21362, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sarah A. Altwaim
- Special Infectious Agents Unit BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21362, Saudi Arabia; (I.M.A.)
- Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rahaf T. Alqawas
- Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21362, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Vivek Dhar Dwivedi
- Bioinformatics Research Division, Quanta Calculus, Greater Noida 201310, India
- Center for Global Health Research, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha Medical College and Hospitals, Saveetha University, Tamil Nadu 602105, India
| | - Esam I. Azhar
- Special Infectious Agents Unit BSL3, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21362, Saudi Arabia; (I.M.A.)
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21362, Saudi Arabia
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23
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Kim Y, Leopardi S, Scaravelli D, Zecchin B, Priori P, Festa F, Drzewnioková P, De Benedictis P, Nouvellet P. Transmission dynamics of lyssavirus in Myotis myotis: mechanistic modelling study based on longitudinal seroprevalence data. Proc Biol Sci 2023; 290:20230183. [PMID: 37072038 PMCID: PMC10113028 DOI: 10.1098/rspb.2023.0183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
We investigated the transmission dynamics of lyssavirus in Myotis myotis and Myotis blythii, using serological, virological, demographic and ecological data collected between 2015 and 2022 from two maternity colonies in northern Italian churches. Despite no lyssavirus detection in 556 bats sampled over 11 events by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), 36.3% of 837 bats sampled over 27 events showed neutralizing antibodies to European bat lyssavirus 1, with a significant increase in summers. By fitting sets of mechanistic models to seroprevalence data, we investigated factors that influenced lyssavirus transmission within and between years. Five models were selected as a group of final models: in one model, a proportion of exposed bats (median model estimate: 5.8%) became infectious and died while the other exposed bats recovered with immunity without becoming infectious; in the other four models, all exposed bats became infectious and recovered with immunity. The final models supported that the two colonies experienced seasonal outbreaks driven by: (i) immunity loss particularly during hibernation, (ii) density-dependent transmission, and (iii) a high transmission rate after synchronous birthing. These findings highlight the importance of understanding ecological factors, including colony size and synchronous birthing timing, and potential infection heterogeneities to enable more robust assessments of lyssavirus spillover risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Younjung Kim
- Department of Evolution, Behaviour, and Environment, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, BN1 9RH Brighton, UK
| | - Stefania Leopardi
- FAO and National Reference Centre for Rabies, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università 10, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy
| | - Dino Scaravelli
- S.T.E.R.N.A. and Museo Ornitologico ‘F. Foschi’, via Pedrali 12, 47121 Forlì, Italy
- Department of Biological, Geological and Environmental Sciences, University of Bologna, via Selmi 3, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Barbara Zecchin
- FAO and National Reference Centre for Rabies, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università 10, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy
| | - Pamela Priori
- S.T.E.R.N.A. and Museo Ornitologico ‘F. Foschi’, via Pedrali 12, 47121 Forlì, Italy
| | - Francesca Festa
- FAO and National Reference Centre for Rabies, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università 10, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy
| | - Petra Drzewnioková
- FAO and National Reference Centre for Rabies, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università 10, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy
| | - Paola De Benedictis
- FAO and National Reference Centre for Rabies, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale delle Venezie, Viale dell'Università 10, Legnaro, 35020 Padua, Italy
| | - Pierre Nouvellet
- Department of Evolution, Behaviour, and Environment, School of Life Sciences, University of Sussex, BN1 9RH Brighton, UK
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, SW7 2AZ London, UK
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24
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Coertse J, Mortlock M, Grobbelaar A, Moolla N, Markotter W, Weyer J. Development of a Pan- Filoviridae SYBR Green qPCR Assay for Biosurveillance Studies in Bats. Viruses 2023; 15:v15040987. [PMID: 37112966 PMCID: PMC10145118 DOI: 10.3390/v15040987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 04/16/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies have indicated that bats are hosts to diverse filoviruses. Currently, no pan-filovirus molecular assays are available that have been evaluated for the detection of all mammalian filoviruses. In this study, a two-step pan-filovirus SYBR Green real-time PCR assay targeting the nucleoprotein gene was developed for filovirus surveillance in bats. Synthetic constructs were designed as representatives of nine filovirus species and used to evaluate the assay. This assay detected all synthetic constructs included with an analytical sensitivity of 3-31.7 copies/reaction and was evaluated against the field collected samples. The assay's performance was similar to a previously published probe based assay for detecting Ebola- and Marburgvirus. The developed pan-filovirus SYBR Green assay will allow for more affordable and sensitive detection of mammalian filoviruses in bat samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Coertse
- Centre for Emerging Zoonotic and Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, A Division of the National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg 2131, South Africa
- Centre for Viral Zoonoses, Department of Medical Virology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Marinda Mortlock
- Centre for Viral Zoonoses, Department of Medical Virology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Antoinette Grobbelaar
- Centre for Emerging Zoonotic and Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, A Division of the National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg 2131, South Africa
| | - Naazneen Moolla
- Centre for Emerging Zoonotic and Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, A Division of the National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg 2131, South Africa
- Centre for Viral Zoonoses, Department of Medical Virology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Wanda Markotter
- Centre for Viral Zoonoses, Department of Medical Virology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
| | - Jacqueline Weyer
- Centre for Emerging Zoonotic and Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases, A Division of the National Health Laboratory Service, Johannesburg 2131, South Africa
- Centre for Viral Zoonoses, Department of Medical Virology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, School of Pathology, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2131, South Africa
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25
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Su H, Wang Y, Han Y, Jin Q, Yang F, Wu Z. Discovery and characterization of novel paramyxoviruses from bat samples in China. Virol Sin 2023; 38:198-207. [PMID: 36649817 PMCID: PMC10176441 DOI: 10.1016/j.virs.2023.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Many paramyxoviruses are responsible for a variety of mild to severe human and animal diseases. Based on the novel discoveries over the past several decades, the family Paramyxoviridae infecting various hosts across the world includes 4 subfamilies, 17 classified genera and 78 species now. However, no systematic surveys of bat paramyxoviruses are available from the Chinese mainland. In this study, 13,064 samples from 54 bat species were collected and a comprehensive paramyxovirus survey was conducted. We obtained 94 new genome sequences distributed across paramyxoviruses from 22 bat species in seven provinces. Bayesian phylodynamic and phylogenetic analyses showed that there were four different lineages in the Jeilongvirus genus. Based on available data, results of host and region switches showed that the bat colony was partial to interior, whereas the rodent colony was exported, and the felines and hedgehogs were most likely the intermediate hosts from Scotophilus spp. rather than rodents. Based on the evolutionary trend, genus Jeilongvirus may have originated from Mus spp. in Australia, then transmitted to bats and rodents in Africa, Asia and Europe, and finally to bats and rodents in America.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoxiang Su
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yuyang Wang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yelin Han
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Qi Jin
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China.
| | - Fan Yang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China.
| | - Zhiqiang Wu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China; Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease Pathogenomics, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China.
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26
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Abstract
Zoonoses are diseases and infections naturally transmitted between humans and vertebrate animals. Over the years, zoonoses have become increasingly significant threats to global health. They form the dominant group of diseases among the emerging infectious diseases (EID) and currently account for 73% of EID. Approximately 25% of zoonoses originate in domestic animals. The etiological agents of zoonoses include different pathogens, with viruses accounting for approximately 30% of all zoonotic infections. Zoonotic diseases can be transmitted directly or indirectly, by contact, via aerosols, through a vector, or vertically in utero. Zoonotic diseases are found in every continent except Antarctica. Numerous factors associated with the pathogen, human activities, and the environment play significant roles in the transmission and emergence of zoonotic diseases. Effective response and control of zoonotic diseases call for multiple-sector involvement and collaboration according to the One Health concept.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oyewale Tomori
- African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer's University, Ede, Nigeria; ,
| | - Daniel O Oluwayelu
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Centre for Control and Prevention of Zoonoses, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria; ,
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27
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Islam MR, Akash S, Rahman MM, Sharma R. Epidemiology, pathophysiology, transmission, genomic structure, treatment, and future perspectives of the novel Marburg virus outbreak. Int J Surg 2023; 109:36-38. [PMID: 36799786 PMCID: PMC10389455 DOI: 10.1097/js9.0000000000000096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Md Rezaul Islam
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Shopnil Akash
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Md Mominur Rahman
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Rohit Sharma
- Department of Rasa Shastra and Bhaishajya Kalpana, Faculty of Ayurveda, Institute of Medical Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
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28
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The Prevalence of Viral Pathogens among Bats in Kazakhstan. Viruses 2022; 14:v14122743. [PMID: 36560747 PMCID: PMC9788601 DOI: 10.3390/v14122743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Bats carry thousands of viruses from 28 different families. To determine the presence of various pathogens in bat populations in Kazakhstan, 1149 samples (393 oropharyngeal swabs, 349 brain samples, 407 guano) were collected. The samples were collected from four species of bats (Vespertilio murinus, Nyctalus noctula, Myotis blythii, Eptesicus serotinus) in nine regions. The Coronavirus RNA was found in 38 (4.75%) samples, and the rabies virus in 27 (7.74%) samples from bats. Coronaviruses and the rabies virus were found in bats in six out of nine studied areas. The RNAs of SARS-CoV-2, MERS, TBE, CCHF, WNF, influenza A viruses were not detected in the bat samples. The phylogeny of the RdRp gene of 12 samples made it possible to classify them as alphacoronaviruses and divide them into two groups. The main group (n = 11) was closely related to bat coronaviruses from Ghana, Zimbabwe and Kenya. The second group (n = 1) was closely related to viruses previously isolated in the south of Kazakhstan. The phylogeny of the N gene sequence from a bat from west Kazakhstan revealed its close relationship with isolates from the Cosmopolitan group of rabies viruses (Central Asia). These results highlight the need for a continuous monitoring of volatile populations to improve the surveillance and detection of infectious diseases.
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29
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Natural reservoir Rousettus aegyptiacus bat host model of orthonairovirus infection identifies potential zoonotic spillover mechanisms. Sci Rep 2022; 12:20936. [PMID: 36463252 PMCID: PMC9719536 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-24673-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
The human-pathogenic Kasokero virus (KASV; genus Orthonairovirus) has been isolated from the sera of Egyptian rousette bats (ERBs; Rousettus aegyptiacus) captured in Uganda and unengorged Ornithodoros (Reticulinasus) faini ticks collected from the rock crevices of ERB colonies in South Africa and Uganda. Although evidence suggests that KASV is maintained in an enzootic transmission cycle between O. (R.) faini ticks and ERBs with potential for incidental virus spillover to humans through the bite of an infected tick, the vertebrate reservoir status of ERBs for KASV has never been experimentally evaluated. Furthermore, the potential for bat-to-bat and bat-to-human transmission of KASV is unknown. Herein, we inoculate two groups of ERBs with KASV; one group of bats is serially sampled to assess viremia, oral, fecal, and urinary shedding and the second group of bats is serially euthanized to assess virus-tissue tropism. Throughout the study, none of the bats exhibit overt signs of clinical disease. Following the detection of high KASV loads of long duration in blood, oral, fecal, and urine specimens collected from ERBs in the serial sampling group, all bats seroconvert to KASV. ERBs from the serial euthanasia group exhibit high KASV loads indicative of virus replication in the skin at the inoculation site, spleen, and inguinal lymph node tissue, and histopathology and in situ hybridization reveal virus replication in the liver and self-limiting, KASV-induced lymphohistiocytic hepatitis. The results of this study suggest that ERBs are competent, natural vertebrate reservoir hosts for KASV that can sustain viremias of appropriate magnitude and duration to support virus maintenance through bat-tick-bat transmission cycles. Viral shedding data suggests that KASV might also be transmitted bat-to-bat and highlights the potential for KASV spillover to humans through contact with infectious oral secretions, feces, or urine.
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Abir MH, Rahman T, Das A, Etu SN, Nafiz IH, Rakib A, Mitra S, Emran TB, Dhama K, Islam A, Siyadatpanah A, Mahmud S, Kim B, Hassan MM. Pathogenicity and virulence of Marburg virus. Virulence 2022; 13:609-633. [PMID: 35363588 PMCID: PMC8986239 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2022.2054760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Marburg virus (MARV) has been a major concern since 1967, with two major outbreaks occurring in 1998 and 2004. Infection from MARV results in severe hemorrhagic fever, causing organ dysfunction and death. Exposure to fruit bats in caves and mines, and human-to-human transmission had major roles in the amplification of MARV outbreaks in African countries. The high fatality rate of up to 90% demands the broad study of MARV diseases (MVD) that correspond with MARV infection. Since large outbreaks are rare for MARV, clinical investigations are often inadequate for providing the substantial data necessary to determine the treatment of MARV disease. Therefore, an overall review may contribute to minimizing the limitations associated with future medical research and improve the clinical management of MVD. In this review, we sought to analyze and amalgamate significant information regarding MARV disease epidemics, pathophysiology, and management approaches to provide a better understanding of this deadly virus and the associated infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehedy Hasan Abir
- Faculty of Food Science and Technology, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Tanjilur Rahman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Ayan Das
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Silvia Naznin Etu
- Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Iqbal Hossain Nafiz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Ahmed Rakib
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Saikat Mitra
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Talha Bin Emran
- Department of Pharmacy, BGC Trust University Bangladesh, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Kuldeep Dhama
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, India
| | - Ariful Islam
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, NY, USA
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Science, Deakin University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Abolghasem Siyadatpanah
- Ferdows School of Paramedical and Health, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Shafi Mahmud
- Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi, Bangladesh
| | - Bonlgee Kim
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Mohammad Mahmudul Hassan
- Queensland Alliance for One Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton, Australia
- Department of Physiology, Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chattogram, Bangladesh
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Gamage AM, Chan WOY, Zhu F, Lim YT, Long S, Ahn M, Tan CW, Hiang Foo RJ, Sia WR, Lim XF, He H, Zhai W, Anderson DE, Sobota RM, Dutertre CA, Wang LF. Single-cell transcriptome analysis of the in vivo response to viral infection in the cave nectar bat Eonycteris spelaea. Immunity 2022; 55:2187-2205.e5. [PMID: 36351376 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2022.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Bats are reservoir hosts of many zoonotic viruses with pandemic potential. We utilized single-cell transcriptome sequencing (scRNA-seq) to analyze the immune response in bat lungs upon in vivo infection with a double-stranded RNA virus, Pteropine orthoreovirus PRV3M. Bat neutrophils were distinguished by high basal IDO1 expression. NK cells and T cells were the most abundant immune cells in lung tissue. Three distinct CD8+ effector T cell populations could be delineated by differential expression of KLRB1, GFRA2, and DPP4. Select NK and T clusters increased expression of genes involved in T cell activation and effector function early after viral infection. Alveolar macrophages and classical monocytes drove antiviral interferon signaling. Infection expanded a CSF1R+ population expressing collagen-like genes, which became the predominant myeloid cell type post-infection. This work uncovers features relevant to viral disease tolerance in bats, lays a foundation for future experimental work, and serves as a resource for comparative immunology studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshamal M Gamage
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wharton O Y Chan
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Feng Zhu
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yan Ting Lim
- Functional Proteomics Laboratory, SingMass National Laboratory, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sandy Long
- Functional Proteomics Laboratory, SingMass National Laboratory, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Matae Ahn
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chee Wah Tan
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Randy Jee Hiang Foo
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wan Rong Sia
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xiao Fang Lim
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Haopeng He
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, P.R. China
| | - Weiwei Zhai
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, P.R. China; Center for Excellence in Animal Evolution and Genetics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650223, P.R. China; Human Genetics, Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, 138672, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Danielle E Anderson
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne 3000, Victoria, Australia
| | - Radoslaw Mikolaj Sobota
- Functional Proteomics Laboratory, SingMass National Laboratory, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Charles-Antoine Dutertre
- Institut National de la Santé Et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U1015, Equipe Labellisée-Ligue Nationale contre le Cancer, Villejuif, France; Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Villejuif, France
| | - Lin-Fa Wang
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore; Singhealth Duke-NUS Global Health Institute, Singapore, Singapore.
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Landscape and age dynamics of immune cells in the Egyptian rousette bat. Cell Rep 2022; 40:111305. [PMID: 36070695 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2022.111305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Bats harbor high-impact zoonotic viruses often in the absence of disease manifestation. This restriction and disease tolerance possibly rely on specific immunological features. In-depth molecular characterization of cellular immunity and imprinting of age on leukocyte compartments remained unexplored in bats. We employ single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and establish immunostaining panels to characterize the immune cell landscape in juvenile, subadult, and adult Egyptian rousette bats (ERBs). Transcriptomic and flow cytometry data reveal conserved subsets and substantial enrichments of CD79a+ B cells and CD11b+ T cells in juvenile animals, whereas neutrophils, CD206+ myeloid cells, and CD3+ T cells dominate as bats reach adulthood. Despite differing frequencies, phagocytosis of circulating and tissue-resident myeloid cells and proliferation of peripheral and splenic lymphocytes are analogous in juvenile and adult ERBs. We provide a comprehensive map of the immune landscape in ERBs and show age-imprinted resilience progression and find that variability in cellular immunity only partly recapitulates mammalian archetypes.
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Shi YN, Li LM, Zhou JB, Hua Y, Zeng ZL, Yu YP, Liu P, Yuan ZG, Chen JP. Detection of a novel Pestivirus strain in Java ticks (Amblyomma javanense) and the hosts Malayan pangolin (Manis javanica) and Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla). Front Microbiol 2022; 13:988730. [PMID: 36118205 PMCID: PMC9479695 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.988730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pangolins are endangered animals and are listed in the CITES Appendix I of the Convention International Trade Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora as well as being the national first-level protected wild animal in China. Based on a few reports on pangolins infected with pestiviruses of the Flaviviridae family, Pestivirus infections in pangolins have attracted increasing attention. Pangolin pestivirus is a pathogen that may cause diseases such as acute diarrhea and acute hemorrhagic syndrome. To better understand the epidemiology and genomic characterization of pestiviruses carried by pangolins, we detected pestiviruses in dead Malayan pangolin using metavirome sequencing technology and obtained a Pestivirus sequence of 12,333 nucleotides (named Guangdong pangolin Pestivirus, GDPV). Phylogenetic tree analysis based on the entire coding sequence, NS3 gene or RdRp gene sequences, showed that GDPV was closely related to previously reported pangolin-derived Pestivirus and clustered into a separate branch. Molecular epidemiological investigation revealed that 15 Pestivirus-positive tissues from two pangolins individuals with a positivity rate of 5.56%, and six Amblyomma javanense carried pestiviruses with a positivity rate of 19.35%. Moreover, the RdRp gene of the Pestivirus carried by A. javanense showed a high similarity to that carried by pangolins (93–100%), indicating A. javanense is likely to represent the vector of Pestivirus transmission. This study expands the diversity of viruses carried by pangolins and provides an important reference value for interrupting the transmission route of the virus and protecting the health of pangolins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Ni Shi
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Institute of Zoology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Lin-Miao Li
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Institute of Zoology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jia-Bin Zhou
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Institute of Zoology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Yan Hua
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Silviculture, Protection and Utilization, Guangdong Academy of Forestry, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zhi-Liao Zeng
- Shenzhen Management Bureau of Natural Reserve, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Ye-Pin Yu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Institute of Zoology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Ping Liu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Institute of Zoology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Zi-Guo Yuan
- College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Key Laboratory of Zoonosis Prevention and Control of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Zi-Guo Yuan,
| | - Jin-Ping Chen
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Animal Conservation and Resource Utilization, Institute of Zoology, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Jin-Ping Chen,
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Rissmann M, Friedrichs V, Kley N, Straube M, Sadeghi B, Balkema-Buschmann A. Baseline of Physiological Body Temperature and Hematological Parameters in Captive Rousettus aegyptiacus and Eidolon helvum Fruit Bats. Front Physiol 2022; 13:910157. [PMID: 36105294 PMCID: PMC9465388 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.910157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The discovery of bats as reservoir hosts for a number of highly pathogenic zoonotic agents has led to an increasing interest of infectious disease research in experimental studies with bats. Therefore, we established breeding colonies of Rousettus aegyptiacus and Eidolon helvum fruit bats, which both have been identified as reservoir hosts for relevant zoonotic disease agents, such as Marburg virus and Lagos bat virus. Since 2013, individuals of both species have been recruited to the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut (FLI) from zoological gardens in Europe, to where these species had been introduced from the wild several decades ago. The aviaries have been designed according to national recommendations published by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture. Under these conditions, both species have been reproducing for years. To better understand the physiology of these animals, and to generate baseline knowledge for infection experiments, we monitored the body core temperatures of R. aegyptiacus bats in the aviaries, and found a circadian variation between 34°C and 41.5°C. We also determined the hematological parameters of both species, and detected specific differences between both bat species. For values of clinical chemistry, no correlation to age or sex was observed. However, species-specific differences were detected since ALT, BUN and CREA were found to be significantly higher in R. aegyptiacus and GLU and TP were significantly higher in E. helvum bats. A higher hematocrit, hemoglobin and red blood cell level was observed in subadult R. aegyptiacus, with hemoglobin and red blood cells also being significantly increased compared to E. helvum. Lymphocytes were found to be the dominant white blood cells in both species and are higher in female E. helvum. Neutrophil granulocytes were significantly higher in E. helvum bats. This underlines the necessity to define baseline profiles for each bat species prior to their use in experimental challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Rissmann
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald, Germany
- Department of Viroscience, Erasmus MC, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - Nils Kley
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Martin Straube
- Landratsamt Ortenaukreis, Amt für Veterinärwesen und Lebensmittelüberwachung, Offenburg, Germany
| | - Balal Sadeghi
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald, Germany
| | - Anne Balkema-Buschmann
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald, Germany
- *Correspondence: Anne Balkema-Buschmann,
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Peng W, Rayaprolu V, Parvate AD, Pronker MF, Hui S, Parekh D, Shaffer K, Yu X, Saphire EO, Snijder J. Glycan shield of the ebolavirus envelope glycoprotein GP. Commun Biol 2022; 5:785. [PMID: 35927436 PMCID: PMC9352669 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-022-03767-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The envelope glycoprotein GP of the ebolaviruses is essential for host cell entry and the primary target of the host antibody response. GP is heavily glycosylated with up to 17 N-linked sites, numerous O-linked glycans in its disordered mucin-like domain (MLD), and three predicted C-linked mannosylation sites. Glycosylation is important for host cell attachment, GP stability and fusion activity, and shielding from neutralization by serum antibodies. Here, we use glycoproteomics to profile the site-specific glycosylation patterns of ebolavirus GP. We detect up to 16 unique O-linked glycosylation sites in the MLD, and two O-linked sites in the receptor-binding GP1 subunit. Multiple O-linked glycans are observed within N-linked glycosylation sequons, suggesting crosstalk between the two types of modifications. We confirmed C-mannosylation of W288 in full-length trimeric GP. We find complex glycosylation at the majority of N-linked sites, while the conserved sites N257 and especially N563 are enriched in unprocessed glycans, suggesting a role in host-cell attachment via DC-SIGN/L-SIGN. Our findings illustrate how N-, O-, and C-linked glycans together build the heterogeneous glycan shield of GP, guiding future immunological studies and functional interpretation of ebolavirus GP-antibody interactions. Site-specific N-, O-, and C-linked glycans are characterized in the ebolavirus envelope glycoprotein GP using mass spectrometry-based glycoproteomics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Peng
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584, CH, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Vamseedhar Rayaprolu
- Center for Infectious Disease and Vaccine Discovery, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA.,Pacific Northwest Center for CryoEM, Portland, OR, 97225, USA
| | - Amar D Parvate
- Center for Infectious Disease and Vaccine Discovery, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA.,Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Richland, WA, 99354, USA
| | - Matti F Pronker
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584, CH, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Sean Hui
- Center for Infectious Disease and Vaccine Discovery, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA.,Molecular Microbiology and Microbial Pathogenesis Program, Washington University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, 63108, USA
| | - Diptiben Parekh
- Center for Infectious Disease and Vaccine Discovery, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Kelly Shaffer
- Center for Infectious Disease and Vaccine Discovery, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA.,Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, 91125, USA
| | - Xiaoying Yu
- Center for Infectious Disease and Vaccine Discovery, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Erica O Saphire
- Center for Infectious Disease and Vaccine Discovery, La Jolla Institute for Immunology, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92039, USA
| | - Joost Snijder
- Biomolecular Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics, Bijvoet Center for Biomolecular Research and Utrecht Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Padualaan 8, 3584, CH, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Weinberg M, Yovel Y. Revising the paradigm: Are bats really pathogen reservoirs or do they possess an efficient immune system? iScience 2022; 25:104782. [PMID: 35982789 PMCID: PMC9379578 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
While bats are often referred to as reservoirs of viral pathogens, a meta-analysis of the literature reveals many cases in which there is not enough evidence to claim so. In many cases, bats are able to confront viruses, recover, and remain immune by developing a potent titer of antibodies, often without becoming a reservoir. In other cases, bats might have carried an ancestral virus that at some time point might have mutated into a human pathogen. Moreover, bats exhibit a balanced immune response against viruses that have evolved over millions of years. Using genomic tools, it is now possible to obtain a deeper understanding of that unique immune system and its variability across the order Chiroptera. We conclude, that with the exception of a few viruses, bats pose little zoonotic danger to humans and that they operate a highly efficient anti-inflammatory response that we should strive to understand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maya Weinberg
- School of Zoology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
- Corresponding author
| | - Yossi Yovel
- School of Zoology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
- Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 6997801, Israel
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Viral Hyperparasitism in Bat Ectoparasites: Implications for Pathogen Maintenance and Transmission. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10061230. [PMID: 35744747 PMCID: PMC9230612 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10061230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Humans continue to encroach on the habitats of wild animals, potentially bringing different species into contact that would not typically encounter each other under natural circumstances, and forcing them into stressful, suboptimal conditions. Stressors from unsustainable human land use changes are suspected to dramatically exacerbate the probability of zoonotic spillover of pathogens from their natural reservoir hosts to humans, both by increasing viral load (and shedding) and the interface between wildlife with livestock, pets and humans. Given their known role as reservoir hosts, bats continue to be investigated for their possible role as the origins of many viral outbreaks. However, the participation of bat-associated ectoparasites in the spread of potential pathogens requires further work to establish. Here, we conducted a comprehensive review of viruses, viral genes and other viral sequences obtained from bat ectoparasites from studies over the last four decades. This review summarizes research findings of the seven virus families in which these studies have been performed, including Paramyxoviridae, Reoviridae, Flaviviridae, Peribunyaviridae, Nairoviridae, Rhabdoviridae and Filoviridae. We highlight that bat ectoparasites, including dipterans and ticks, are often found to have medically important viruses and may have a role in the maintenance of these pathogens within bat populations.
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Wang J, Lin Z, Liu Q, Fu F, Wang Z, Ma J, Wang H, Yan Y, Cheng Y, Sun J. Bat Employs a Conserved MDA5 Gene to Trigger Antiviral Innate Immune Responses. Front Immunol 2022; 13:904481. [PMID: 35677039 PMCID: PMC9168228 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.904481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Bats are important hosts for various zoonotic viral diseases. However, they rarely show signs of disease infection with such viruses. As the first line for virus control, the innate immune system of bats attracted our full attention. In this study, the Tadarida brasiliensis MDA5 gene (batMDA5), a major sensor for anti-RNA viral infection, was first cloned, and its biological functions in antiviral innate immunity were identified. Bioinformatics analysis shows that the amino acid sequence of batMDA5 is poorly conserved among species, and it is evolutionarily closer to humans. The mRNA of batMDA5 was significantly upregulated in Newcastle disease virus (NDV), avian influenza virus (AIV), and vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV)-infected bat TB 1 Lu cells. Overexpression of batMDA5 could activate IFNβ and inhibit vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV-GFP) replication in TB 1 Lu cells, while knockdown of batMDA5 yielded the opposite result. In addition, we found that the CARD domain was essential for MDA5 to activate IFNβ by constructing MDA5 domain mutant plasmids. These results indicated that bat employs a conserved MDA5 gene to trigger anti-RNA virus innate immune response. This study helps understand the biological role of MDA5 in innate immunity during evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jianhe Sun
- *Correspondence: Jianhe Sun, ; Yuqiang Cheng,
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Friant S, Bonwitt J, Ayambem WA, Ifebueme NM, Alobi AO, Otukpa OM, Bennett AJ, Shea C, Rothman JM, Goldberg TL, Jacka JK. Zootherapy as a potential pathway for zoonotic spillover: a mixed-methods study of the use of animal products in medicinal and cultural practices in Nigeria. ONE HEALTH OUTLOOK 2022; 4:5. [PMID: 35216623 PMCID: PMC8881094 DOI: 10.1186/s42522-022-00060-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Understanding how and why people interact with animals is important for the prevention and control of zoonoses. To date, studies have primarily focused on the most visible forms of human-animal contact (e.g., hunting and consumption), thereby blinding One Health researchers and practitioners to the broader range of human-animal interactions that can serve as cryptic sources of zoonotic diseases. Zootherapy, the use of animal products for traditional medicine and cultural practices, is widespread and can generate opportunities for human exposure to zoonoses. Existing research examining zootherapies omits details necessary to adequately assess potential zoonotic risks. METHODS We used a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data from questionnaires, key informant interviews, and field notes to examine the use of zootherapy in nine villages engaged in wildlife hunting, consumption, and trade in Cross River State, Nigeria. We analyzed medicinal and cultural practices involving animals from a zoonotic disease perspective, by including details of animal use that may generate pathways for zoonotic transmission. We also examined the sociodemographic, cultural, and environmental contexts of zootherapeutic practices that can further shape the nature and frequency of human-animal interactions. RESULTS Within our study population, people reported using 44 different animal species for zootherapeutic practices, including taxonomic groups considered to be "high risk" for zoonoses and threatened with extinction. Variation in use of animal parts, preparation norms, and administration practices generated a highly diverse set of zootherapeutic practices (n = 292) and potential zoonotic exposure risks. Use of zootherapy was patterned by demographic and environmental contexts, with zootherapy more commonly practiced by hunting households (OR = 2.47, p < 0.01), and prescriptions that were gender and age specific (e.g., maternal and pediatric care) or highly seasonal (e.g., associated with annual festivals and seasonal illnesses). Specific practices were informed by species availability and theories of healing (i.e., "like cures like" and sympathetic healing and magic) that further shaped the nature of human-animal interactions via zootherapy. CONCLUSIONS Epidemiological investigations of zoonoses and public health interventions that aim to reduce zoonotic exposures should explicitly consider zootherapy as a potential pathway for disease transmission and consider the sociocultural and environmental contexts of their use in health messaging and interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sagan Friant
- Department of Anthropology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA USA
- Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA USA
| | - Jesse Bonwitt
- Poxvirus and Rabies Branch, Division of High Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30329 USA
- Department of Anthropology, Durham University, Durham, UK
| | - Wilfred A. Ayambem
- Department of Forestry and Wildlife Resources Management, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - Nzube M. Ifebueme
- Department of Forestry and Wildlife Resources Management, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - Alobi O. Alobi
- Department of Forestry and Wildlife Resources Management, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - Oshama M. Otukpa
- Department of Forestry and Wildlife Resources Management, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - Andrew J. Bennett
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, University of Wisconsin – Madison, Madison, WI USA
- Genomics and Bioinformatics Department, Biological Defense Research Directorate, Naval Medical Research Center–Frederick, Fort Detrick, Frederick, MD USA
| | - Corrigan Shea
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, University of Wisconsin – Madison, Madison, WI USA
| | - Jessica M. Rothman
- Department of Anthropology, Hunter College of the City University of New York, New York, NY USA
| | - Tony L. Goldberg
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, University of Wisconsin – Madison, Madison, WI USA
| | - Jerry K. Jacka
- Department of Anthropology, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309 USA
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Marburg Virus Persistence on Fruit as a Plausible Route of Bat to Primate Filovirus Transmission. Viruses 2021; 13:v13122394. [PMID: 34960663 PMCID: PMC8708721 DOI: 10.3390/v13122394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 11/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Marburg virus (MARV), the causative agent of Marburg virus disease, emerges sporadically in sub-Saharan Africa and is often fatal in humas. The natural reservoir for this zoonotic virus is the frugivorous Egyptian rousette bat (Rousettus aegyptiacus) that when infected, sheds virus in the highest amounts in oral secretions and urine. Being fruit bats, these animals forage nightly for ripened fruit throughout the year, including those types often preferred by humans. During feeding, they continually discard partially eaten fruit on the ground that could then be consumed by other Marburg virus susceptible animals or humans. In this study, using qRT-PCR and virus isolation, we tested fruit discarded by Egyptian rousette bats experimentally infected with a natural bat isolate of Marburg virus. We then separately tested viral persistence on fruit varieties commonly cultivated in sub-Saharan Africa using a recombinant Marburg virus expressing the fluorescent ZsGreen1. Marburg virus RNA was repeatedly detected on fruit in the food bowls of the infected bats and viable MARV was recovered from inoculated fruit for up to 6 h.
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41
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Bondet V, Le Baut M, Le Poder S, Lécu A, Petit T, Wedlarski R, Duffy D, Le Roux D. Constitutive IFNα Protein Production in Bats. Front Immunol 2021; 12:735866. [PMID: 34790193 PMCID: PMC8591296 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.735866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Bats are the only mammals with self-powered flight and account for 20% of all extant mammalian diversity. In addition, they harbor many emerging and reemerging viruses, including multiple coronaviruses, several of which are highly pathogenic in other mammals, but cause no disease in bats. How this symbiotic relationship between bats and viruses exists is not yet fully understood. Existing evidence supports a specific role for the innate immune system, in particular type I interferon (IFN) responses, a major component of antiviral immunity. Previous studies in bats have shown that components of the IFN pathway are constitutively activated at the transcriptional level. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that the type I IFN response in bats is also constitutively activated at the protein level. For this, we utilized highly sensitive Single Molecule (Simoa) digital ELISA assays, previously developed for humans that we adapted to bat samples. We prospectively sampled four non-native chiroptera species from French zoos. We identified a constitutive expression of IFNα protein in the circulation of healthy bats, and concentrations that are physiologically active in humans. Expression levels differed according to the species examined, but were not associated with age, sex, or health status suggesting constitutive IFNα protein expression independent of disease. These results confirm a unique IFN response in bat species that may explain their ability to coexist with multiple viruses in the absence of pathology. These results may help to manage potential zoonotic viral reservoirs and potentially identify new anti-viral strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vincent Bondet
- Translational Immunology Lab, Institut Pasteur, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Maxime Le Baut
- BioPôle Alfort, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Sophie Le Poder
- BioPôle Alfort, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Maisons-Alfort, France.,Anses, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, UMR VIROLOGIE, Laboratoire de Santé Animale, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Alexis Lécu
- Parc Zoologique de Paris, Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Paris, France
| | | | - Rudy Wedlarski
- Bioparc Zoo de Doué La Fontaine, Doué-la-Fontaine, France
| | - Darragh Duffy
- Translational Immunology Lab, Institut Pasteur, Université de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Delphine Le Roux
- BioPôle Alfort, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, Maisons-Alfort, France.,Anses, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, UMR BIPAR, Laboratoire de Santé Animale, Maisons-Alfort, France
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42
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Pawęska JT, Jansen van Vuren P, Storm N, Markotter W, Kemp A. Vector Competence of Eucampsipoda africana (Diptera: Nycteribiidae) for Marburg Virus Transmission in Rousettus aegyptiacus (Chiroptera: Pteropodidae). Viruses 2021; 13:2226. [PMID: 34835032 PMCID: PMC8624361 DOI: 10.3390/v13112226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aimed to determine the vector competence of bat-associated nycteribiid flies (Eucamsipoda africana) for Marburg virus (MARV) in the Egyptian Rousette Bat (ERB), Rousettus aegyptiacus. In flies fed on subcutaneously infected ERBs and tested from 3 to 43 days post infection (dpi), MARV was detected only in those that took blood during the peak of viremia, 5-7 dpi. Seroconversion did not occur in control bats in contact with MARV-infected bats infested with bat flies up to 43 days post exposure. In flies inoculated intra-coelomically with MARV and tested on days 0-29 post inoculation, only those assayed on day 0 and day 7 after inoculation were positive by q-RT-PCR, but the virus concentration was consistent with that of the inoculum. Bats remained MARV-seronegative up to 38 days after infestation and exposure to inoculated flies. The first filial generation pupae and flies collected at different times during the experiments were all negative by q-RT-PCR. Of 1693 nycteribiid flies collected from a wild ERB colony in Mahune Cave, South Africa where the enzootic transmission of MARV occurs, only one (0.06%) tested positive for the presence of MARV RNA. Our findings seem to demonstrate that bat flies do not play a significant role in the transmission and enzootic maintenance of MARV. However, ERBs eat nycteribiid flies; thus, the mechanical transmission of the virus through the exposure of damaged mucous membranes and/or skin to flies engorged with contaminated blood cannot be ruled out.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janusz T. Pawęska
- Centre for Emerging Zoonotic and Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases of the National Health Laboratory Service, Sandringham 2131, South Africa; (P.J.v.V.); (N.S.); (A.K.)
- Centre for Viral Zoonoses, Department of Medical Virology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
- School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2050, South Africa
| | - Petrus Jansen van Vuren
- Centre for Emerging Zoonotic and Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases of the National Health Laboratory Service, Sandringham 2131, South Africa; (P.J.v.V.); (N.S.); (A.K.)
- Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, CSIRO Health & Biosecurity, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
| | - Nadia Storm
- Centre for Emerging Zoonotic and Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases of the National Health Laboratory Service, Sandringham 2131, South Africa; (P.J.v.V.); (N.S.); (A.K.)
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Wanda Markotter
- Centre for Viral Zoonoses, Department of Medical Virology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
| | - Alan Kemp
- Centre for Emerging Zoonotic and Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases of the National Health Laboratory Service, Sandringham 2131, South Africa; (P.J.v.V.); (N.S.); (A.K.)
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Common Themes in Zoonotic Spillover and Disease Emergence: Lessons Learned from Bat- and Rodent-Borne RNA Viruses. Viruses 2021; 13:v13081509. [PMID: 34452374 PMCID: PMC8402684 DOI: 10.3390/v13081509] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Rodents (order Rodentia), followed by bats (order Chiroptera), comprise the largest percentage of living mammals on earth. Thus, it is not surprising that these two orders account for many of the reservoirs of the zoonotic RNA viruses discovered to date. The spillover of these viruses from wildlife to human do not typically result in pandemics but rather geographically confined outbreaks of human infection and disease. While limited geographically, these viruses cause thousands of cases of human disease each year. In this review, we focus on three questions regarding zoonotic viruses that originate in bats and rodents. First, what biological strategies have evolved that allow RNA viruses to reside in bats and rodents? Second, what are the environmental and ecological causes that drive viral spillover? Third, how does virus spillover occur from bats and rodents to humans?
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44
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Tan CW, Yang X, Anderson DE, Wang LF. Bat virome research: the past, the present and the future. Curr Opin Virol 2021; 49:68-80. [PMID: 34052731 DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2021.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Bats have been increasingly recognised as an exceptional reservoir for emerging zoonotic viruses for the past few decades. Recent studies indicate that the unique bat immune system may be partially responsible for their ability to co-exist with viruses with minimal or no clinical diseases. In this review, we discuss the history and importance of bat virome studies and contrast the vast difference between such studies before and after the introduction of next generation sequencing (NGS) in this area of research. We also discuss the role of discovery serology and high-throughput single cell RNA-seq in future bat virome research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chee Wah Tan
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, 169857, Singapore
| | - Xinglou Yang
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, 169857, Singapore; Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Danielle E Anderson
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, 169857, Singapore
| | - Lin-Fa Wang
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, 169857, Singapore; SingHealth Duke-NUS Global Health Institute, 169857, Singapore.
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Lacroix A, Mbala Kingebeni P, Ndimbo Kumugo SP, Lempu G, Butel C, Serrano L, Vidal N, Thaurignac G, Esteban A, Mukadi Bamuleka D, Likofata J, Delaporte E, Muyembe Tamfum JJ, Ayouba A, Peeters M, Ahuka Mundeke S. Investigating the Circulation of Ebola Viruses in Bats during the Ebola Virus Disease Outbreaks in the Equateur and North Kivu Provinces of the Democratic Republic of Congo from 2018. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10050557. [PMID: 34064424 PMCID: PMC8147758 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10050557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
With 12 of the 31 outbreaks, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is highly affected by Ebolavirus disease (EVD). To better understand the role of bats in the ecology of Ebola viruses, we conducted surveys in bats during two recent EVD outbreaks and in two areas with previous outbreaks. Dried blood spots were tested for antibodies to ebolaviruses and oral and rectal swabs were screened for the presence of filovirus using a broadly reactive semi-nested RT-PCR. Between 2018 and 2020, 892 (88.6%) frugivorous and 115 (11.4%) insectivorous bats were collected. Overall, 11/925 (1.2%) to 100/925 (10.8%) bats showed antibodies to at least one Ebolavirus antigen depending on the positivity criteria. Antibodies were detected in fruit bats from the four sites and from species previously documented to harbor Ebola antibodies or RNA. We tested for the first time a large number of bats during ongoing EVD outbreaks in DRC, but no viral RNA was detected in the 676 sampled bats. Our study illustrates the difficulty to document the role of bats as a source of Ebolaviruses as they might clear quickly the virus. Given the increasing frequency of EVD outbreaks, more studies on the animal reservoir are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Lacroix
- TransVIHMI (Recherches Translationnelles sur VIH et Maladies Infectieuses), Université de Montpellier, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, INSERM, 34394 Montpellier, France; (A.L.); (C.B.); (L.S.); (N.V.); (G.T.); (A.E.); (E.D.); (A.A.)
| | - Placide Mbala Kingebeni
- Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale (INRB), 1197 Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo; (P.M.K.); (S.P.N.K.); (G.L.); (J.-J.M.T.)
- Service de Microbiologie, Cliniques Universitaires de Kinshasa, 1197 Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo;
| | - Simon Pierre Ndimbo Kumugo
- Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale (INRB), 1197 Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo; (P.M.K.); (S.P.N.K.); (G.L.); (J.-J.M.T.)
| | - Guy Lempu
- Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale (INRB), 1197 Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo; (P.M.K.); (S.P.N.K.); (G.L.); (J.-J.M.T.)
| | - Christelle Butel
- TransVIHMI (Recherches Translationnelles sur VIH et Maladies Infectieuses), Université de Montpellier, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, INSERM, 34394 Montpellier, France; (A.L.); (C.B.); (L.S.); (N.V.); (G.T.); (A.E.); (E.D.); (A.A.)
| | - Laetitia Serrano
- TransVIHMI (Recherches Translationnelles sur VIH et Maladies Infectieuses), Université de Montpellier, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, INSERM, 34394 Montpellier, France; (A.L.); (C.B.); (L.S.); (N.V.); (G.T.); (A.E.); (E.D.); (A.A.)
| | - Nicole Vidal
- TransVIHMI (Recherches Translationnelles sur VIH et Maladies Infectieuses), Université de Montpellier, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, INSERM, 34394 Montpellier, France; (A.L.); (C.B.); (L.S.); (N.V.); (G.T.); (A.E.); (E.D.); (A.A.)
| | - Guillaume Thaurignac
- TransVIHMI (Recherches Translationnelles sur VIH et Maladies Infectieuses), Université de Montpellier, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, INSERM, 34394 Montpellier, France; (A.L.); (C.B.); (L.S.); (N.V.); (G.T.); (A.E.); (E.D.); (A.A.)
| | - Amandine Esteban
- TransVIHMI (Recherches Translationnelles sur VIH et Maladies Infectieuses), Université de Montpellier, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, INSERM, 34394 Montpellier, France; (A.L.); (C.B.); (L.S.); (N.V.); (G.T.); (A.E.); (E.D.); (A.A.)
| | - Daniel Mukadi Bamuleka
- Service de Microbiologie, Cliniques Universitaires de Kinshasa, 1197 Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo;
- Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale (INRB), Goma, Democratic Republic of the Congo
| | - Jacques Likofata
- Laboratoire Provincial de Mbandaka, Equateur, Democratic Republic of the Congo;
| | - Eric Delaporte
- TransVIHMI (Recherches Translationnelles sur VIH et Maladies Infectieuses), Université de Montpellier, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, INSERM, 34394 Montpellier, France; (A.L.); (C.B.); (L.S.); (N.V.); (G.T.); (A.E.); (E.D.); (A.A.)
| | - Jean-Jacques Muyembe Tamfum
- Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale (INRB), 1197 Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo; (P.M.K.); (S.P.N.K.); (G.L.); (J.-J.M.T.)
- Service de Microbiologie, Cliniques Universitaires de Kinshasa, 1197 Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo;
| | - Ahidjo Ayouba
- TransVIHMI (Recherches Translationnelles sur VIH et Maladies Infectieuses), Université de Montpellier, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, INSERM, 34394 Montpellier, France; (A.L.); (C.B.); (L.S.); (N.V.); (G.T.); (A.E.); (E.D.); (A.A.)
| | - Martine Peeters
- TransVIHMI (Recherches Translationnelles sur VIH et Maladies Infectieuses), Université de Montpellier, Institut de Recherche pour le Développement, INSERM, 34394 Montpellier, France; (A.L.); (C.B.); (L.S.); (N.V.); (G.T.); (A.E.); (E.D.); (A.A.)
- Correspondence: (M.P.); (S.A.M.)
| | - Steve Ahuka Mundeke
- Institut National de Recherche Biomédicale (INRB), 1197 Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo; (P.M.K.); (S.P.N.K.); (G.L.); (J.-J.M.T.)
- Service de Microbiologie, Cliniques Universitaires de Kinshasa, 1197 Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo;
- Correspondence: (M.P.); (S.A.M.)
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Cross RW, Bornholdt ZA, Prasad AN, Borisevich V, Agans KN, Deer DJ, Abelson DM, Kim DH, Shestowsky WS, Campbell LA, Bunyan E, Geisbert JB, Fenton KA, Zeitlin L, Porter DP, Geisbert TW. Combination therapy protects macaques against advanced Marburg virus disease. Nat Commun 2021; 12:1891. [PMID: 33767178 PMCID: PMC7994808 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-22132-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and remdesivir, a small-molecule antiviral, are promising monotherapies for many viruses, including members of the genera Marburgvirus and Ebolavirus (family Filoviridae), and more recently, SARS-CoV-2. One of the major challenges of acute viral infections is the treatment of advanced disease. Thus, extending the window of therapeutic intervention is critical. Here, we explore the benefit of combination therapy with a mAb and remdesivir in a non-human primate model of Marburg virus (MARV) disease. While rhesus monkeys are protected against lethal infection when treatment with either a human mAb (MR186-YTE; 100%), or remdesivir (80%), is initiated 5 days post-inoculation (dpi) with MARV, no animals survive when either treatment is initiated alone beginning 6 dpi. However, by combining MR186-YTE with remdesivir beginning 6 dpi, significant protection (80%) is achieved, thereby extending the therapeutic window. These results suggest value in exploring combination therapy in patients presenting with advanced filovirus disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert W Cross
- Galveston National Laboratory, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, USA
| | | | - Abhishek N Prasad
- Galveston National Laboratory, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Viktoriya Borisevich
- Galveston National Laboratory, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Krystle N Agans
- Galveston National Laboratory, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Daniel J Deer
- Galveston National Laboratory, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Dafna M Abelson
- Mapp Biopharmaceutical, Inc., 6160 Lusk Blvd Ste C200, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Do H Kim
- Mapp Biopharmaceutical, Inc., 6160 Lusk Blvd Ste C200, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Elaine Bunyan
- Gilead Sciences, Inc., 333 Lakeside Dr, Foster City, CA, USA
| | - Joan B Geisbert
- Galveston National Laboratory, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Karla A Fenton
- Galveston National Laboratory, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Larry Zeitlin
- Mapp Biopharmaceutical, Inc., 6160 Lusk Blvd Ste C200, San Diego, CA, USA.
| | | | - Thomas W Geisbert
- Galveston National Laboratory, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, USA.
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, USA.
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Schuh AJ, Amman BR, Patel K, Sealy TK, Swanepoel R, Towner JS. Human-Pathogenic Kasokero Virus in Field-Collected Ticks. Emerg Infect Dis 2020; 26:2944-2950. [PMID: 33219649 PMCID: PMC7706932 DOI: 10.3201/eid2612.202411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Kasokero virus (KASV; genus Orthonairovirus) was first isolated in 1977 at Uganda Virus Research Institute from serum collected from Rousettus aegyptiacus bats captured at Kasokero Cave, Uganda. During virus characterization studies at the institute, 4 laboratory-associated infections resulted in mild to severe disease. Although orthonairoviruses are typically associated with vertebrate and tick hosts, a tick vector of KASV never has been reported. We tested 786 Ornithodoros (Reticulinasus) faini tick pools (3,930 ticks) for KASV. The ticks were collected from a large R. aegyptiacus bat roosting site in western Uganda. We detected KASV RNA in 43 tick pools and recovered 2 infectious isolates, 1 of which was derived from host blood–depleted ticks. Our findings suggest that KASV is maintained in an enzootic transmission cycle involving O. (R.) faini ticks and R. aegyptiacus bats and has the potential for incidental virus spillover to humans.
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Irving AT, Zhang Q, Kong PS, Luko K, Rozario P, Wen M, Zhu F, Zhou P, Ng JHJ, Sobota RM, Wang LF. Interferon Regulatory Factors IRF1 and IRF7 Directly Regulate Gene Expression in Bats in Response to Viral Infection. Cell Rep 2020; 33:108345. [PMID: 33147460 PMCID: PMC8755441 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2020.108345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Revised: 08/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Bat cells and tissue have elevated basal expression levels of antiviral genes commonly associated with interferon alpha (IFNα) signaling. Here, we show Interferon Regulatory Factor 1 (IRF1), 3, and 7 levels are elevated in most bat tissues and that, basally, IRFs contribute to the expression of type I IFN ligands and high expression of interferon regulated genes (IRGs). CRISPR knockout (KO) of IRF 1/3/7 in cells reveals distinct subsets of genes affected by each IRF in an IFN-ligand signaling-dependent and largely independent manner. As the master regulators of innate immunity, the IRFs control the kinetics and maintenance of the IRG response and play essential roles in response to influenza A virus (IAV), herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1), Melaka virus/Pteropine orthoreovirus 3 Melaka (PRV3M), and Middle East respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus (MERS-CoV) infection. With its differential expression in bats compared to that in humans, this highlights a critical role for basal IRF expression in viral responses and potentially immune cell development in bats with relevance for IRF function in human biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron T Irving
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore; Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Zhejiang University International Campus, Haining, China; Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Qian Zhang
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; Key Laboratory of Special Pathogens, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Pui-San Kong
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Katarina Luko
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Pritisha Rozario
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Ming Wen
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Feng Zhu
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Peng Zhou
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore; Key Laboratory of Special Pathogens, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, China
| | - Justin H J Ng
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Radoslaw M Sobota
- Functional Proteomics Laboratory, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (A(∗)STAR), Singapore, Singapore; Institute of Medical Biology (IMB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A(∗)STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Lin-Fa Wang
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore.
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Di Paola N, Sanchez-Lockhart M, Zeng X, Kuhn JH, Palacios G. Viral genomics in Ebola virus research. Nat Rev Microbiol 2020; 18:365-378. [PMID: 32367066 PMCID: PMC7223634 DOI: 10.1038/s41579-020-0354-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Filoviruses such as Ebola virus continue to pose a substantial health risk to humans. Advances in the sequencing and functional characterization of both pathogen and host genomes have provided a wealth of knowledge to clinicians, epidemiologists and public health responders during outbreaks of high-consequence viral disease. Here, we describe how genomics has been historically used to investigate Ebola virus disease outbreaks and how new technologies allow for rapid, large-scale data generation at the point of care. We highlight how genomics extends beyond consensus-level sequencing of the virus to include intra-host viral transcriptomics and the characterization of host responses in acute and persistently infected patients. Similar genomics techniques can also be applied to the characterization of non-human primate animal models and to known natural reservoirs of filoviruses, and metagenomic sequencing can be the key to the discovery of novel filoviruses. Finally, we outline the importance of reverse genetics systems that can swiftly characterize filoviruses as soon as their genome sequences are available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas Di Paola
- United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fort Detrick, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Mariano Sanchez-Lockhart
- United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fort Detrick, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Xiankun Zeng
- United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fort Detrick, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Jens H Kuhn
- Integrated Research Facility at Fort Detrick, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD, USA
| | - Gustavo Palacios
- United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fort Detrick, Frederick, MD, USA.
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Markotter W, Coertse J, De Vries L, Geldenhuys M, Mortlock M. Bat-borne viruses in Africa: a critical review. J Zool (1987) 2020; 311:77-98. [PMID: 32427175 PMCID: PMC7228346 DOI: 10.1111/jzo.12769] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 12/27/2019] [Accepted: 01/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
In Africa, bat-borne zoonoses emerged in the past few decades resulting in large outbreaks or just sporadic spillovers. In addition, hundreds of more viruses are described without any information on zoonotic potential. We discuss important characteristics of bats including bat biology, evolution, distribution and ecology that not only make them unique among most mammals but also contribute to their potential as viral reservoirs. The detection of a virus in bats does not imply that spillover will occur and several biological, ecological and anthropogenic factors play a role in such an event. We summarize and critically analyse the current knowledge on African bats as reservoirs for corona-, filo-, paramyxo- and lyssaviruses. We highlight that important information on epidemiology, bat biology and ecology is often not available to make informed decisions on zoonotic spillover potential. Even if knowledge gaps exist, it is still important to recognize the role of bats in zoonotic disease outbreaks and implement mitigation strategies to prevent exposure to infectious agents including working safely with bats. Equally important is the crucial role of bats in various ecosystem services. This necessitates a multidisciplinary One Health approach to close knowledge gaps and ensure the development of responsible mitigation strategies to not only minimize risk of infection but also ensure conservation of the species.
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Affiliation(s)
- W. Markotter
- Department of Medical VirologyCentre for Viral ZoonosesFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of PretoriaPretoriaSouth Africa
| | - J. Coertse
- Department of Medical VirologyCentre for Viral ZoonosesFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of PretoriaPretoriaSouth Africa
| | - L. De Vries
- Department of Medical VirologyCentre for Viral ZoonosesFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of PretoriaPretoriaSouth Africa
| | - M. Geldenhuys
- Department of Medical VirologyCentre for Viral ZoonosesFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of PretoriaPretoriaSouth Africa
| | - M. Mortlock
- Department of Medical VirologyCentre for Viral ZoonosesFaculty of Health SciencesUniversity of PretoriaPretoriaSouth Africa
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