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Morecchiato F, Coppi M, Niccolai C, Antonelli A, Di Gloria L, Calà P, Mancuso F, Ramazzotti M, Lotti T, Lubello C, Rossolini GM. Evaluation of different molecular systems for detection and quantification of SARS-CoV-2 RNA from wastewater samples. J Virol Methods 2024; 328:114956. [PMID: 38796134 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2024.114956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024]
Abstract
Wastewater-based epidemiology has proved to be a suitable approach for tracking the spread of epidemic agents including SARS-CoV-2 RNA. Different protocols have been developed for quantitative detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA from wastewater samples, but little is known on their performance. In this study we compared three protocols based on Reverse Transcription Real Time-PCR (RT-PCR) and one based on Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR) for SARS-CoV-2 RNA detection from 35 wastewater samples. Overall, SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected by at least one method in 85.7 % of samples, while 51.4 %, 22.8 % and 8.6 % resulted positive with two, three or all four methods, respectively. Protocols based on commercial RT-PCR assays and on Droplet Digital PCR showed an overall higher sensitivity vs. an in-house assay. The use of more than one system, targeting different genes, could be helpful to increase detection sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Morecchiato
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine (DMSC), University of Florence, Largo Brambilla, 3, Firenze (FI) 50134, Italy
| | - Marco Coppi
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine (DMSC), University of Florence, Largo Brambilla, 3, Firenze (FI) 50134, Italy; Microbiology and Virology Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Largo Brambilla, 3, Firenze (FI) 50134, Italy
| | - Claudia Niccolai
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine (DMSC), University of Florence, Largo Brambilla, 3, Firenze (FI) 50134, Italy; Microbiology and Virology Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Largo Brambilla, 3, Firenze (FI) 50134, Italy
| | - Alberto Antonelli
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine (DMSC), University of Florence, Largo Brambilla, 3, Firenze (FI) 50134, Italy; Microbiology and Virology Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Largo Brambilla, 3, Firenze (FI) 50134, Italy
| | - Leandro Di Gloria
- Department of Experimental Biomedical and Clinical Sciences "Mario Serio" (SBSC), University of Florence, Viale Morgagni, 50, Firenze (FI) 50134, Italy
| | - Piergiuseppe Calà
- Tuscany Region, Department of Prevention Local Health Authority Tuscany Center, Via S. Salvi, 12, Firenze (FI) 50135, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Mancuso
- Ingegnerie Toscane - Area R&D, Via Bellatalla, 1, Pisa (PI) 56121, Italy
| | - Matteo Ramazzotti
- Department of Experimental Biomedical and Clinical Sciences "Mario Serio" (SBSC), University of Florence, Viale Morgagni, 50, Firenze (FI) 50134, Italy
| | - Tommaso Lotti
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (DICEA), University of Florence, Via di S. Marta, 3, Firenze (FI) 50139, Italy
| | - Claudio Lubello
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (DICEA), University of Florence, Via di S. Marta, 3, Firenze (FI) 50139, Italy
| | - Gian Maria Rossolini
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine (DMSC), University of Florence, Largo Brambilla, 3, Firenze (FI) 50134, Italy; Microbiology and Virology Unit, Careggi University Hospital, Largo Brambilla, 3, Firenze (FI) 50134, Italy.
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Mancusi A, Proroga YTR, Maiolino P, Marrone R, D’Emilio C, Girardi S, Egidio M, Boni A, Vicenza T, Suffredini E, Power K. Droplet Digital RT-PCR (dd RT-PCR) Detection of SARS-CoV-2 in Honey Bees and Honey Collected in Apiaries across the Campania Region. Viruses 2024; 16:729. [PMID: 38793611 PMCID: PMC11126096 DOI: 10.3390/v16050729] [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: 02/29/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Coronaviruses (CoVs), a subfamily of Orthocoronavirinae, are viruses that sometimes present a zoonotic character. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is responsible for the recent outbreak of COVID-19, which, since its outbreak in 2019, has caused about 774,593,066 confirmed cases and 7,028,881 deaths. Aereosols are the main route of transmission among people; however, viral droplets can contaminate surfaces and fomites as well as particulate matter (PM) in suspensions of natural and human origin. Honey bees are well known bioindicators of the presence of pollutants and PMs in the environment as they can collect a great variety of substances during their foraging activities. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible role of honey bees as bioindicators of the prevalence SARS-CoV-2. In this regard, 91 samples of honey bees and 6 of honey were collected from different apiaries of Campania region (Southern Italy) in four time periods from September 2020 to June 2022 and were analyzed with Droplet Digital RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2 target genes Orf1b and N. The screening revealed the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in 12/91 in honey bee samples and in 2/6 honey samples. These results suggest that honey bees could also be used as indicators of outbreaks of airborne pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Mancusi
- Department of Food Security Coordination, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute No. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (A.M.); (Y.T.R.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Yolande Thérèse Rose Proroga
- Department of Food Security Coordination, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute No. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (A.M.); (Y.T.R.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Paola Maiolino
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, 80137 Naples, Italy; (P.M.); (R.M.); (C.D.)
| | - Raffaele Marrone
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, 80137 Naples, Italy; (P.M.); (R.M.); (C.D.)
| | - Claudia D’Emilio
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, 80137 Naples, Italy; (P.M.); (R.M.); (C.D.)
| | - Santa Girardi
- Department of Food Security Coordination, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute No. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (A.M.); (Y.T.R.P.); (S.G.)
| | - Marica Egidio
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, 80137 Naples, Italy; (P.M.); (R.M.); (C.D.)
| | - Arianna Boni
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.B.); (T.V.); (E.S.)
| | - Teresa Vicenza
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.B.); (T.V.); (E.S.)
| | - Elisabetta Suffredini
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy; (A.B.); (T.V.); (E.S.)
| | - Karen Power
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, 80126 Naples, Italy;
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3
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Li J, Lyu C, An R, Wang D. Interaction Between SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein S1 Subunit and Oyster Heat Shock Protein 70. FOOD AND ENVIRONMENTAL VIROLOGY 2024:10.1007/s12560-024-09599-y. [PMID: 38635140 DOI: 10.1007/s12560-024-09599-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
There is growing evidence that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) contaminates the marine environment and is bioaccumulated in filter-feeding shellfish. Previous study shows the Pacific oyster tissues can bioaccumulate the SARS-CoV-2, and the oyster heat shock protein 70 (oHSP70) may play as the primary attachment receptor to bind SARS-CoV-2's recombinant spike protein S1 subunit (rS1). However, detailed information about the interaction between rS1 and oHSP70 is still unknown. In this study, we confirmed that the affinity of recombinant oHSP70 (roHSP70) for rS1 (KD = 20.4 nM) is comparable to the receptor-binding affinity of rACE2 for rS1 (KD = 16.7 nM) by surface plasmon resonance (SPR)-based Biacore and further validated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Three truncated proteins (roHSP70-N/C/M) and five mutated proteins (p.I229del, p.D457del, p.V491_K495del, p.K556I, and p.ΣroHSP70) were constructed according to the molecular docking results. All three truncated proteins have significantly lower affinity for rS1 than the full-length roHSP70, indicating that all three segments of roHSP70 are involved in binding to rS1. Further, the results of SPR and ELISA showed that all five mutant proteins had significantly lower affinity for rS1 than roHSP70, suggesting that amino acids at these sites are involved in binding to rS1. This study provides a preliminary theoretical basis for the bioaccumulation of SARS-CoV-2 in oyster tissues or using roHSP70 as the capture unit to selectively enrich virus particles for detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingwen Li
- Department of Food Science and Technology, School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chenang Lyu
- Department of Food Science and Technology, School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ran An
- Department of Food Science and Technology, School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Dapeng Wang
- Department of Food Science and Technology, School of Agriculture and Biology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China.
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Fehrenbach GW, Murphy E, Pogue R, Carter F, Clifford E, Major I. Comprehensive analysis and assessment of exposure to enteric viruses and bacteria in shellfish. MARINE ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 196:106404. [PMID: 38341981 DOI: 10.1016/j.marenvres.2024.106404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
Shellfish species, including oysters, clams, and mussels, are extensively cultured in coastal waters. Its location is determined by factors such as nutrient availability, water temperature, tidal cycle, and the presence of contaminants such as Escherichia coli and enteric viruses. With the expansion and intensification of human activities at vicinities, the presence of anthropogenic contaminants has increased, threatening shellfish farms and consumer safety give the prevalent consumption of raw shellfish. This literature review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the dietary exposure and assess the risk associated with enteric viruses and bacteria detected in shellfish. The predominant bacteria and viruses detected in shellfish are reported, and the potential interrelation is discussed. The main characteristics of each contaminant and shellfish were reviewed for a more comprehensive understanding. To facilitate a direct estimation of exposure, the estimated daily intake (EDI) of bacteria was calculated based on the average levels of E. coli in shellfish, as reported in the literature. The mean daily ingestion of seafood in each of the five continents was considered. Asia exhibited the highest intake of contaminants, with an average of ±5.6 E. coli units/day.kg body weight in cockles. Simulations were conducted using recommended shellfish consumption levels established by state agencies, revealing significantly lower (p < 0.01) EDI for all continents compared to estimations based on recommended levels. This indicates a higher risk associated with healthy shellfish ingestion, potentially leading to increased intoxication incidents with a change in dietary habits. To promote a healthier lifestyle through increased shellfish consumptions, it is imperative to reduce the exposure of shellfish species to bacteria and enteric viruses. The conventional use of E. coli as the sole indicator for consumption safety and water quality in shellfish farms has been deemed insufficient. Instances where shellfish met E. coli limits established by state agencies were often found to be contaminated with human enteric viruses. Therefore, a holistic approach considering the entire production chain is necessary to support the shellfish industry and ensure food safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo Waltzer Fehrenbach
- Materials Research Institute, Technological University of the Shannon, Midlands Campus, N37 HD68, Athlone, Ireland.
| | - Emma Murphy
- Materials Research Institute, Technological University of the Shannon, Midlands Campus, N37 HD68, Athlone, Ireland; LIFE - Health and Biosciences Research Institute, Technological University of the Shannon, Midwest Campus, V94 EC5T, Limerick, Ireland
| | - Robert Pogue
- Post-Graduate Program in Genomic Sciences and Biotechnology, Catholic University of Brasilia, 71966-700, Brasilia, Brazil
| | - Frank Carter
- Coney Island Shellfish Ltd., F91 YH56, Sligo, Ireland
| | - Eoghan Clifford
- School of Engineering, National University of Ireland Galway, H91 HX31, Galway, Ireland; Ryan Institute, National University of Ireland Galway, H91 HX31, Galway, Ireland
| | - Ian Major
- Materials Research Institute, Technological University of the Shannon, Midlands Campus, N37 HD68, Athlone, Ireland
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5
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Rishan ST, Kline RJ, Rahman MS. New prospects of environmental RNA metabarcoding research in biological diversity, ecotoxicological monitoring, and detection of COVID-19: a critical review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:11406-11427. [PMID: 38183542 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-31776-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
Ecosystems are multifaceted and complex systems and understanding their composition is crucial for the implementation of efficient conservation and management. Conventional approaches to biodiversity surveys can have limitations in detecting the complete range of species present. In contrast, the study of environmental RNA (eRNA) offers a non-invasive and comprehensive method for monitoring and evaluating biodiversity across different ecosystems. Similar to eDNA, the examination of genetic material found in environmental samples can identify and measure many species, including ones that pose challenges to traditional methods. However, eRNA is degraded quickly and therefore shows promise in detection of living organisms closer to their actual location than eDNA methods. This method provides a comprehensive perspective on the well-being of ecosystems, facilitating the development of focused conservation approaches to save at-risk species and uphold ecological equilibrium. Furthermore, eRNA has been recognized as a valuable method for the identification of COVID-19 in the environment, besides its established uses in biodiversity protection. The SARS-CoV-2 virus, which is accountable for the worldwide epidemic, releases RNA particles into the surrounding environment via human waste, providing insights into the feasibility of detecting it in wastewater and other samples taken from the environment. In this article, we critically reviewed the recent research activities that use the eRNA method, including its utilization in biodiversity conservation, ecological surveillance, and ecotoxicological monitoring as well as its innovative potential in identifying COVID-19. Through this review, the reader can understand the recent developments, prospects, and challenges of eRNA research in ecosystem management and biodiversity conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakib Tahmid Rishan
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Program, School of Integrative Biological and Chemical Sciences, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Brownsville, TX, USA
| | - Richard J Kline
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Program, School of Integrative Biological and Chemical Sciences, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Brownsville, TX, USA
- School of Earth, Environmental, and Marine Sciences, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Brownsville, TX, USA
| | - Md Saydur Rahman
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Program, School of Integrative Biological and Chemical Sciences, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Brownsville, TX, USA.
- School of Earth, Environmental, and Marine Sciences, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, Brownsville, TX, USA.
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La Rosa G, Mancini P, Iaconelli M, Veneri C, Bonanno Ferraro G, Del Giudice C, Suffredini E, Muratore A, Ferrara F, Lucentini L, Martuzzi M, Piccioli A. Tracing the footprints of SARS-CoV-2 in oceanic waters. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 906:167343. [PMID: 37751837 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
The detection of SARS-CoV-2 in water environments has predominantly focused on wastewater, neglecting its presence in oceanic waters. This study aimed to fill this knowledge gap by investigating the occurrence of SARS-CoV-2 in remote sea and oceanic waters, at large distances from the coastline. Forty-three 500-liter samples were collected between May 2022 and January 2023 from the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea, the Arctic region, the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea. Using molecular detection methods including real-time RT-qPCR and nested PCR followed by sequencing, we successfully detected SARS-CoV-2 RNA in 7 of the 43 marine water samples (16.3 %), and specifically in samples taken from the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. The estimated concentrations of SARS-CoV-2 genome copies in the positive samples ranged from 6 to 470 per 100 l. The presence of mutations characteristic of the Omicron variant was identified in these samples by amplicon sequencing. These findings provide evidence of the unforeseen presence of SARS-CoV-2 in marine waters even at distances of miles from the coastline and in open ocean waters. It is important to consider that these findings only display the occurrence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA, and further investigations are required to assess if infectious virus can be present in the marine environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina La Rosa
- National Center for Water Safety (CeNSia), Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy.
| | - P Mancini
- National Center for Water Safety (CeNSia), Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - M Iaconelli
- National Center for Water Safety (CeNSia), Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - C Veneri
- National Center for Water Safety (CeNSia), Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - G Bonanno Ferraro
- National Center for Water Safety (CeNSia), Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - C Del Giudice
- National Center for Water Safety (CeNSia), Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - E Suffredini
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - A Muratore
- National Center for Water Safety (CeNSia), Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - F Ferrara
- National Center for Water Safety (CeNSia), Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - L Lucentini
- National Center for Water Safety (CeNSia), Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - M Martuzzi
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
| | - A Piccioli
- Office of the Director General, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Rome, Italy
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7
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Kononova Y, Adamenko L, Kazachkova E, Solomatina M, Romanenko S, Proskuryakova A, Utkin Y, Gulyaeva M, Spirina A, Kazachinskaia E, Palyanova N, Mishchenko O, Chepurnov A, Shestopalov A. Features of SARS-CoV-2 Replication in Various Types of Reptilian and Fish Cell Cultures. Viruses 2023; 15:2350. [PMID: 38140591 PMCID: PMC10748073 DOI: 10.3390/v15122350] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND SARS-CoV-2 can enter the environment from the feces of COVID-19 patients and virus carriers through untreated sewage. The virus has shown the ability to adapt to a wide range of hosts, so the question of the possible involvement of aquafauna and animals of coastal ecosystems in maintaining its circulation remains open. METHODS the aim of this work was to study the tropism of SARS-CoV-2 for cells of freshwater fish and reptiles, including those associated with aquatic and coastal ecosystems, and the effect of ambient temperature on this process. In a continuous cell culture FHM (fathead minnow) and diploid fibroblasts CGIB (silver carp), SARS-CoV-2 replication was not maintained at either 25 °C or 29 °C. At 29 °C, the continuous cell culture TH-1 (eastern box turtle) showed high susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2, comparable to Vero E6 (development of virus-induced cytopathic effect (CPE) and an infectious titer of 7.5 ± 0.17 log10 TCID50/mL on day 3 after infection), and primary fibroblasts CNI (Nile crocodile embryo) showed moderate susceptibility (no CPE, infectious titer 4.52 ± 0.14 log10 TCID50/mL on day 5 after infection). At 25 °C, SARS-CoV-2 infection did not develop in TH-1 and CNI. CONCLUSIONS our results show the ability of SARS-CoV-2 to effectively replicate without adaptation in the cells of certain reptile species when the ambient temperature rises.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yulia Kononova
- Federal Research Center of Fundamental and Translational Medicine, The Federal State Budget Scientific Institution, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 2, Timakova St., Novosibirsk 630117, Russia; (Y.K.); (L.A.); (E.K.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (E.K.); (N.P.); (A.C.); (A.S.)
| | - Lyubov Adamenko
- Federal Research Center of Fundamental and Translational Medicine, The Federal State Budget Scientific Institution, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 2, Timakova St., Novosibirsk 630117, Russia; (Y.K.); (L.A.); (E.K.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (E.K.); (N.P.); (A.C.); (A.S.)
| | - Evgeniya Kazachkova
- Federal Research Center of Fundamental and Translational Medicine, The Federal State Budget Scientific Institution, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 2, Timakova St., Novosibirsk 630117, Russia; (Y.K.); (L.A.); (E.K.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (E.K.); (N.P.); (A.C.); (A.S.)
| | - Mariya Solomatina
- Federal Research Center of Fundamental and Translational Medicine, The Federal State Budget Scientific Institution, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 2, Timakova St., Novosibirsk 630117, Russia; (Y.K.); (L.A.); (E.K.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (E.K.); (N.P.); (A.C.); (A.S.)
| | - Svetlana Romanenko
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Siberian Branch, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia; (S.R.); (A.P.); (Y.U.)
| | - Anastasia Proskuryakova
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Siberian Branch, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia; (S.R.); (A.P.); (Y.U.)
| | - Yaroslav Utkin
- Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Siberian Branch, Novosibirsk 630090, Russia; (S.R.); (A.P.); (Y.U.)
| | - Marina Gulyaeva
- Federal Research Center of Fundamental and Translational Medicine, The Federal State Budget Scientific Institution, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 2, Timakova St., Novosibirsk 630117, Russia; (Y.K.); (L.A.); (E.K.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (E.K.); (N.P.); (A.C.); (A.S.)
- The Department of Natural Science, Novosibirsk State University, 2, Pirogova St., Novosibirsk 630090, Russia
| | - Anastasia Spirina
- Federal Research Center of Fundamental and Translational Medicine, The Federal State Budget Scientific Institution, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 2, Timakova St., Novosibirsk 630117, Russia; (Y.K.); (L.A.); (E.K.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (E.K.); (N.P.); (A.C.); (A.S.)
| | - Elena Kazachinskaia
- Federal Research Center of Fundamental and Translational Medicine, The Federal State Budget Scientific Institution, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 2, Timakova St., Novosibirsk 630117, Russia; (Y.K.); (L.A.); (E.K.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (E.K.); (N.P.); (A.C.); (A.S.)
| | - Natalia Palyanova
- Federal Research Center of Fundamental and Translational Medicine, The Federal State Budget Scientific Institution, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 2, Timakova St., Novosibirsk 630117, Russia; (Y.K.); (L.A.); (E.K.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (E.K.); (N.P.); (A.C.); (A.S.)
| | - Oksana Mishchenko
- 48 Central Research Institute of the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation, Moscow 141306, Russia;
| | - Alexander Chepurnov
- Federal Research Center of Fundamental and Translational Medicine, The Federal State Budget Scientific Institution, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 2, Timakova St., Novosibirsk 630117, Russia; (Y.K.); (L.A.); (E.K.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (E.K.); (N.P.); (A.C.); (A.S.)
| | - Alexander Shestopalov
- Federal Research Center of Fundamental and Translational Medicine, The Federal State Budget Scientific Institution, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 2, Timakova St., Novosibirsk 630117, Russia; (Y.K.); (L.A.); (E.K.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (E.K.); (N.P.); (A.C.); (A.S.)
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8
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Lombardi A, Voli A, Mancusi A, Girardi S, Proroga YTR, Pierri B, Olivares R, Cossentino L, Suffredini E, La Rosa G, Fusco G, Pizzolante A, Porta A, Campiglia P, Torre I, Pennino F, Tosco A. SARS-CoV-2 RNA in Wastewater and Bivalve Mollusk Samples of Campania, Southern Italy. Viruses 2023; 15:1777. [PMID: 37632119 PMCID: PMC10459311 DOI: 10.3390/v15081777] [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: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 can be detected in the feces of infected people, consequently in wastewater, and in bivalve mollusks, that are able to accumulate viruses due to their ability to filter large amounts of water. This study aimed to monitor SARS-CoV-2 RNA presence in 168 raw wastewater samples collected from six wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and 57 mollusk samples obtained from eight harvesting sites in Campania, Italy. The monitoring period spanned from October 2021 to April 2022, and the results were compared and correlated with the epidemiological situation. In sewage, the ORF1b region of SARS-CoV-2 was detected using RT-qPCR, while in mollusks, three targets-RdRp, ORF1b, and E-were identified via RT-dPCR. Results showed a 92.3% rate of positive wastewater samples with increased genomic copies (g.c.)/(day*inhabitant) in December-January and March-April 2022. In the entire observation period, 54.4% of mollusks tested positive for at least one SARS-CoV-2 target, and the rate of positive samples showed a trend similar to that of the wastewater samples. The lower SARS-CoV-2 positivity rate in bivalve mollusks compared to sewages is a direct consequence of the seawater dilution effect. Our data confirm that both sample types can be used as sentinels to detect SARS-CoV-2 in the environment and suggest their potential use in obtaining complementary information on SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annalisa Lombardi
- Department of Public Health, University “Federico II”, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.L.)
| | - Antonia Voli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084 Fisciano, Italy; (A.V.); (A.P.); (P.C.)
| | - Andrea Mancusi
- Department of Food Security Coordination, Zooprophylactic Institute of Southern Italy, Via Salute 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (A.M.); (S.G.); (Y.T.R.P.); (B.P.)
| | - Santa Girardi
- Department of Food Security Coordination, Zooprophylactic Institute of Southern Italy, Via Salute 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (A.M.); (S.G.); (Y.T.R.P.); (B.P.)
| | - Yolande Thérèse Rose Proroga
- Department of Food Security Coordination, Zooprophylactic Institute of Southern Italy, Via Salute 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (A.M.); (S.G.); (Y.T.R.P.); (B.P.)
| | - Biancamaria Pierri
- Department of Food Security Coordination, Zooprophylactic Institute of Southern Italy, Via Salute 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (A.M.); (S.G.); (Y.T.R.P.); (B.P.)
| | - Renato Olivares
- Campania Regional Environmental Protection Agency (ARPAC), Via Vicinale Santa Maria del Pianto, 80143 Naples, Italy; (R.O.); (L.C.)
| | - Luigi Cossentino
- Campania Regional Environmental Protection Agency (ARPAC), Via Vicinale Santa Maria del Pianto, 80143 Naples, Italy; (R.O.); (L.C.)
| | - Elisabetta Suffredini
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Giuseppina La Rosa
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Giovanna Fusco
- Zooprophylactic Institute of Southern Italy, Via Salute 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (G.F.); (A.P.)
| | - Antonio Pizzolante
- Zooprophylactic Institute of Southern Italy, Via Salute 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (G.F.); (A.P.)
| | - Amalia Porta
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084 Fisciano, Italy; (A.V.); (A.P.); (P.C.)
| | - Pietro Campiglia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084 Fisciano, Italy; (A.V.); (A.P.); (P.C.)
| | - Ida Torre
- Department of Public Health, University “Federico II”, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.L.)
| | - Francesca Pennino
- Department of Public Health, University “Federico II”, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131 Naples, Italy; (A.L.)
| | - Alessandra Tosco
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II 132, 84084 Fisciano, Italy; (A.V.); (A.P.); (P.C.)
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9
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Atoui A, Cordevant C, Chesnot T, Gassilloud B. SARS-CoV-2 in the environment: Contamination routes, detection methods, persistence and removal in wastewater treatment plants. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 881:163453. [PMID: 37059142 PMCID: PMC10091716 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The present study reviewed the occurrence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA and the evaluation of virus infectivity in feces and environmental matrices. The detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in feces and wastewater samples, reported in several studies, has generated interest and concern regarding the possible fecal-oral route of SARS-CoV-2 transmission. To date, the presence of viable SARS-CoV-2 in feces of COVID-19 infected people is not clearly confirmed although its isolation from feces of six different patients. Further, there is no documented evidence on the infectivity of SARS-CoV-2 in wastewater, sludge and environmental water samples, although the viral genome has been detected in these matrices. Decay data revealed that SARS-CoV-2 RNA persisted longer than infectious particle in all aquatic environment, indicating that genome quantification of SARS-CoV-2 does not imply the presence of infective viral particles. In addition, this review also outlined the fate of SARS-CoV-2 RNA during the different steps in the wastewater treatment plant and focusing on the virus elimination along the sludge treatment line. Studies showed complete removal of SARS-CoV-2 during the tertiary treatment. Moreover, thermophilic sludge treatments present high efficiency in SARS-CoV-2 inactivation. Further studies are required to provide more evidence with respect to the inactivation behavior of infectious SARS-CoV-2 in different environmental matrices and to examine factors affecting SARS-CoV-2 persistence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Atoui
- ANSES, Nancy Laboratory for Hydrology, Water Microbiology Unit, 40, rue Lionnois, 54 000 Nancy, France.
| | - Christophe Cordevant
- ANSES, Strategy and Programs Department, Research and Reference Division, Maisons-Alfort F-94 700, France
| | - Thierry Chesnot
- ANSES, Nancy Laboratory for Hydrology, Water Microbiology Unit, 40, rue Lionnois, 54 000 Nancy, France
| | - Benoît Gassilloud
- ANSES, Nancy Laboratory for Hydrology, Water Microbiology Unit, 40, rue Lionnois, 54 000 Nancy, France
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10
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Bioaccumulation Pattern of the SARS-CoV-2 Spike Proteins in Pacific Oyster Tissues. Appl Environ Microbiol 2023; 89:e0210622. [PMID: 36815797 PMCID: PMC10057954 DOI: 10.1128/aem.02106-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2023] Open
Abstract
There is mounting evidence of the contamination of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in the sewage, surface water, and even marine environment. Various studies have confirmed that bivalve mollusks can bioaccumulate SARS-CoV-2 RNA to detectable levels. However, these results do not provide sufficient evidence for the presence of infectious viral particles. To verify whether oysters can bind the viral capsid and bioaccumulate the viral particles, Pacific oysters were artificially contaminated with the recombinant SARS-CoV-2 spike protein S1 subunit (rS1). The bioaccumulation pattern of the rS1 in different tissues was investigated by immunohistological assays. The results revealed that the rS1 was bioaccumulated predominately in the digestive diverticula. The rS1 was also present in the epithelium of the nondigestive tract tissues, including the gills, mantle, and heart. In addition, three potential binding ligands, including angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE 2)-like substances, A-type histo-blood group antigen (HBGA)-like substances, and oyster heat shock protein 70 (oHSP 70), were confirmed to bind rS1 and were distributed in tissues with various patterns. The colocalization analysis of rS1 and those potential ligands indicated that the distributions of rS1 are highly consistent with those of ACE 2-like substances and oHSP 70. Both ligands are distributed predominantly in the secretory absorptive cells of the digestive diverticula and may serve as the primary ligands to bind rS1. Therefore, oysters are capable of bioaccumulating the SARS-CoV-2 capsid readily by filter-feeding behavior assisted by specific binding ligands, especially in digestive diverticula. IMPORTANCE This is the first article to investigate the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein bioaccumulation pattern and mechanism in Pacific oysters by the histochemical method. Oysters can bioaccumulate SARS-CoV-2 capsid readily by filter-feeding behavior assisted by specific binding ligands. The new possible foodborne transmission route may change the epidemic prevention strategies and reveal some outbreaks that current conventional epidemic transmission routes cannot explain. This original and interdisciplinary paper advances a mechanistic understanding of the bioaccumulation of SARS-CoV-2 in oysters inhabiting contaminated surface water.
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11
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do Nascimento LG, Sarmento SK, Leonardo R, Gutierrez MB, Malta FC, de Oliveira JM, Guerra CR, Coutinho R, Miagostovich MP, Fumian TM. Detection and Molecular Characterization of Enteric Viruses in Bivalve Mollusks Collected in Arraial do Cabo, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Viruses 2022; 14:v14112359. [PMID: 36366459 PMCID: PMC9695388 DOI: 10.3390/v14112359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Viral bivalve contamination is a recognized food safety hazard. Therefore, this study investigated the detection rates, seasonality, quantification, and genetic diversity of enteric viruses in bivalve samples (mussels and oysters). We collected 97 shellfish samples between March 2018 and February 2020. The screening of samples by qPCR or RT-qPCR revealed the detection of norovirus (42.3%), rotavirus A (RVA; 16.5%), human adenovirus (HAdV; 24.7%), and human bocavirus (HBoV; 13.4%). There was no detection of hepatitis A virus. In total, 58.8% of shellfish samples tested positive for one or more viruses, with 42.1% of positive samples contaminated with two or more viruses. Norovirus showed the highest median viral load (3.3 × 106 GC/g), followed by HAdV (median of 3.5 × 104 GC/g), RVA (median of 1.5 × 103 GC/g), and HBoV (median of 1.3 × 103 GC/g). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that norovirus strains belonged to genotype GII.12[P16], RVA to genotype I2, HAdV to types -C2, -C5, and -F40, and HBoV to genotypes -1 and -2. Our results demonstrate the viral contamination of bivalves, emphasizing the need for virological monitoring programs to ensure the quality and safety of shellfish for human consumption and as a valuable surveillance tool to monitor emerging viruses and novel variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lilian Gonçalves do Nascimento
- Laboratory of Comparative and Environmental Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil
| | - Sylvia Kahwage Sarmento
- Laboratory of Comparative and Environmental Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil
| | - Raphael Leonardo
- Laboratory of Viral Morphology and Morphogenesis, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil
| | - Meylin Bautista Gutierrez
- Laboratory of Comparative and Environmental Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil
| | - Fábio Correia Malta
- Laboratory of Comparative and Environmental Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil
| | - Jaqueline Mendes de Oliveira
- Laboratory of Technological Development in Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil
| | - Caroline Rezende Guerra
- Laboratory of Marine Genetics, Department of Marine Biotechnology, Sea Studies Institute Admiral Paulo Moreira (IEAPM), Arraial do Cabo 28930-000, RJ, Brazil
| | - Ricardo Coutinho
- Laboratory of Marine Genetics, Department of Marine Biotechnology, Sea Studies Institute Admiral Paulo Moreira (IEAPM), Arraial do Cabo 28930-000, RJ, Brazil
| | - Marize Pereira Miagostovich
- Laboratory of Comparative and Environmental Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil
| | - Tulio Machado Fumian
- Laboratory of Comparative and Environmental Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro 21040-360, RJ, Brazil
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +55-21-2562-1817
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12
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Yamazaki Y, Thongchankaew-Seo U, Yamazaki W. Very low likelihood that cultivated oysters are a vehicle for SARS-CoV-2: 2021-2022 seasonal survey at supermarkets in Kyoto, Japan. Heliyon 2022; 8:e10864. [PMID: 36217407 PMCID: PMC9535880 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e10864] [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: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The pandemic caused by novel coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) is a global threat. Wastewater surveillance in Japan and abroad has led to the detection of SARS-CoV-2, causing concern that SARS-CoV-2 in the feces of infected persons may contaminate the aquatic environment. Bivalves such as oysters cultivated in coastal areas are known to filter and concentrate viruses such as norovirus present in seawater in their bodies; however, whether they do so with SARS-CoV-2 is unknown. Therefore, we examined cultivated oysters sold in Japan for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 between October 2021 and April 2022 to clarify the extent of viral contamination and evaluate the risk of food-borne transmission of SARS-CoV-2. Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV), known as pig coronavirus, was used to spike midgut-gland samples as a whole process control. The presence of SARS-CoV-2 and PEDV was investigated using a modified polyethylene glycol precipitation method and RT-qPCR. While all samples spiked with the whole process control were positive, no SARS-CoV-2 was detected in any of the 145 raw oyster samples surveyed, despite a marked increase in infections caused by the Omicron variant from January to April 2022 in Japan. Therefore, our results suggest that with well-developed sewage treatment facilities, consumption of oysters cultivated in coastal areas may not be a risk factor for SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuko Yamazaki
- Center for Southeast Asian Studies, Kyoto University, 46 Shimoadachicho, Yoshida, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Uraiwan Thongchankaew-Seo
- Center for Southeast Asian Studies, Kyoto University, 46 Shimoadachicho, Yoshida, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Wataru Yamazaki
- Center for Southeast Asian Studies, Kyoto University, 46 Shimoadachicho, Yoshida, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan,Kyoto University School of Public Health, Konoe-cho, Yoshida, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8303, Japan,Corresponding author.
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13
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Pivato A, Formenton G, Di Maria F, Baldovin T, Amoruso I, Bonato T, Mancini P, Bonanno Ferraro G, Veneri C, Iaconelli M, Bonadonna L, Vicenza T, La Rosa G, Suffredini E. SARS-CoV-2 in Atmospheric Particulate Matter: An Experimental Survey in the Province of Venice in Northern Italy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19159462. [PMID: 35954818 PMCID: PMC9367860 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19159462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Analysis of atmospheric particulate matter (PM) has been proposed for the environmental surveillance of SARS-CoV-2. The aim of this study was to increase the current knowledge about the occurrence of SARS-CoV-2 in atmospheric PM, introduce a dedicated sampling method, and perform a simultaneous assessment of human seasonal coronavirus 229E. Thirty-two PM samples were collected on quartz fiber filters and six on Teflon using a low- and high-volumetric rate sampler, respectively, adopting a novel procedure for optimized virus detection. Sampling was performed at different sites in the Venice area (Italy) between 21 February and 8 March 2020 (n = 16) and between 27 October and 25 November 2020 (n = 22). A total of 14 samples were positive for Coronavirus 229E, 11 of which were collected in October–November 2020 (11/22; positivity rate 50%) and 3 in February–March 2020 (3/16 samples, 19%). A total of 24 samples (63%) were positive for SARS-CoV-2. Most of the positive filters were collected in October–November 2020 (19/22; positivity rate, 86%), whereas the remaining five were collected in February–March 2020 at two distinct sites (5/16, 31%). These findings suggest that outdoor PM analysis could be a promising tool for environmental surveillance. The results report a low concentration of SARS-CoV-2 in outdoor air, supporting a scarce contribution to the spread of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Pivato
- Department of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering (ICEA), University of Padua, 35131 Padova, Italy;
| | - Gianni Formenton
- Environmental Agency of Veneto Region (ARPAV), 30171 Mestre, Italy;
| | - Francesco Di Maria
- LAR Laboratory, Dipartimento di Ingegneria, University of Perugia, 06125 Perugia, Italy;
| | - Tatjana Baldovin
- Hygiene and Public Health Unit, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35131 Padova, Italy;
- Correspondence:
| | - Irene Amoruso
- Hygiene and Public Health Unit, Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, Vascular Sciences and Public Health, University of Padua, 35131 Padova, Italy;
| | - Tiziano Bonato
- Società Estense Servizi Ambientali (S.E.S.A. S.p.A.), 35042 Este, Italy;
| | - Pamela Mancini
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (P.M.); (G.B.F.); (C.V.); (M.I.); (L.B.); (G.L.R.)
| | - Giusy Bonanno Ferraro
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (P.M.); (G.B.F.); (C.V.); (M.I.); (L.B.); (G.L.R.)
| | - Carolina Veneri
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (P.M.); (G.B.F.); (C.V.); (M.I.); (L.B.); (G.L.R.)
| | - Marcello Iaconelli
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (P.M.); (G.B.F.); (C.V.); (M.I.); (L.B.); (G.L.R.)
| | - Lucia Bonadonna
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (P.M.); (G.B.F.); (C.V.); (M.I.); (L.B.); (G.L.R.)
| | - Teresa Vicenza
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (T.V.); (E.S.)
| | - Giuseppina La Rosa
- Department of Environment and Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (P.M.); (G.B.F.); (C.V.); (M.I.); (L.B.); (G.L.R.)
| | - Elisabetta Suffredini
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, 00161 Rome, Italy; (T.V.); (E.S.)
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14
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Cardinale D, Tafuro M, Mancusi A, Girardi S, Capuano F, Proroga YTR, Corrado F, D’Auria JL, Coppola A, Rofrano G, Volzone P, Galdi P, De Vita S, Gallo A, Suffredini E, Pierri B, Cerino P, Morgante M. Sponge Whirl-Pak Sampling Method and Droplet Digital RT-PCR Assay for Monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 on Surfaces in Public and Working Environments. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19105861. [PMID: 35627397 PMCID: PMC9141805 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19105861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 can spread directly via saliva, respiratory aerosols and droplets, and indirectly by contact through contaminated objects and/or surfaces and by air. In the context of COVID-19 fomites can be an important vehicle of virus transmission and contribute to infection risk in public environments. The aim of the study was to analyze through surface sampling (sponge method) the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in public and working environments, in order to evaluate the risk for virus transmission. Seventy-seven environmental samples were taken using sterile sponges in 17 animal farms, 4 public transport buses, 1 supermarket and 1 hotel receptive structure. Furthermore, 246 and 93 swab samples were taken in the farms from animals and from workers, respectively. SARS-CoV-2 detection was conducted by real-time RT-PCR and by digital droplet RT-PCR (dd RT-PCR) using RdRp, gene E and gene N as targets. None of the human and animal swab samples were positive for SARS-CoV-2, while detection was achieved in 20 of the 77 sponge samples (26%) using dd RT-PCR. Traces of the RdRp gene, gene E and gene N were found in 17/77 samples (22%, average concentration 31.2 g.c./cm2, range 5.6 to 132 g.c./cm2), 8/77 samples (10%, average concentration 15.1 g.c./cm2, range 6 to 36 g.c./cm2), and in 1/77 (1%, concentration 7.2 g.c./cm2). Higher detection rates were associated with sampling in animal farms and on public transport buses (32% and 30%) compared to the supermarket (21%) and the hotel (no detection). The result of the study suggests that the risk of contamination of surfaces with SARS-CoV-2 increases in environments in which sanitation strategies are not suitable and/or in highly frequented locations, such as public transportation. Considering the analytical methods, the dd RT-PCR was the only approach achieving detection of SARS-CoV-2 traces in environmental samples. Thus, dd RT-PCR emerges as a reliable tool for sensitive SARS-CoV-2 detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Cardinale
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l’Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (D.C.); (M.T.); (F.C.); (J.L.D.); (A.C.); (G.R.); (P.V.); (P.G.); (S.D.V.); (A.G.); (P.C.)
| | - Maria Tafuro
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l’Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (D.C.); (M.T.); (F.C.); (J.L.D.); (A.C.); (G.R.); (P.V.); (P.G.); (S.D.V.); (A.G.); (P.C.)
| | - Andrea Mancusi
- Department of Food Security Coordination, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (A.M.); (S.G.); (F.C.); (Y.T.R.P.)
| | - Santa Girardi
- Department of Food Security Coordination, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (A.M.); (S.G.); (F.C.); (Y.T.R.P.)
| | - Federico Capuano
- Department of Food Security Coordination, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (A.M.); (S.G.); (F.C.); (Y.T.R.P.)
| | - Yolande Thérèse Rose Proroga
- Department of Food Security Coordination, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (A.M.); (S.G.); (F.C.); (Y.T.R.P.)
| | - Federica Corrado
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l’Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (D.C.); (M.T.); (F.C.); (J.L.D.); (A.C.); (G.R.); (P.V.); (P.G.); (S.D.V.); (A.G.); (P.C.)
| | - Jacopo Luigi D’Auria
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l’Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (D.C.); (M.T.); (F.C.); (J.L.D.); (A.C.); (G.R.); (P.V.); (P.G.); (S.D.V.); (A.G.); (P.C.)
| | - Annachiara Coppola
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l’Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (D.C.); (M.T.); (F.C.); (J.L.D.); (A.C.); (G.R.); (P.V.); (P.G.); (S.D.V.); (A.G.); (P.C.)
| | - Giuseppe Rofrano
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l’Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (D.C.); (M.T.); (F.C.); (J.L.D.); (A.C.); (G.R.); (P.V.); (P.G.); (S.D.V.); (A.G.); (P.C.)
| | - Palmiero Volzone
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l’Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (D.C.); (M.T.); (F.C.); (J.L.D.); (A.C.); (G.R.); (P.V.); (P.G.); (S.D.V.); (A.G.); (P.C.)
| | - Pio Galdi
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l’Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (D.C.); (M.T.); (F.C.); (J.L.D.); (A.C.); (G.R.); (P.V.); (P.G.); (S.D.V.); (A.G.); (P.C.)
| | - Sabato De Vita
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l’Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (D.C.); (M.T.); (F.C.); (J.L.D.); (A.C.); (G.R.); (P.V.); (P.G.); (S.D.V.); (A.G.); (P.C.)
| | - Alfonso Gallo
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l’Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (D.C.); (M.T.); (F.C.); (J.L.D.); (A.C.); (G.R.); (P.V.); (P.G.); (S.D.V.); (A.G.); (P.C.)
| | - Elisabetta Suffredini
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Biancamaria Pierri
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l’Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (D.C.); (M.T.); (F.C.); (J.L.D.); (A.C.); (G.R.); (P.V.); (P.G.); (S.D.V.); (A.G.); (P.C.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Pellegrino Cerino
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l’Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (D.C.); (M.T.); (F.C.); (J.L.D.); (A.C.); (G.R.); (P.V.); (P.G.); (S.D.V.); (A.G.); (P.C.)
| | - Maria Morgante
- Azienda Sanitaria Locale Avellino, 83100 Avellino, Italy;
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