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ZHANG W, DOAN YH, LI TC. Detection and isolation of genotype 3 subtype b hepatitis E viruses from wild boars in Japan. J Vet Med Sci 2024; 86:524-528. [PMID: 38556348 PMCID: PMC11144545 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.23-0478] [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: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
To conduct an epidemiological study of hepatitis E virus (HEV) in Japanese wild boars, we collected 179 serum and 162 fecal specimens from wild boars in eight Japanese prefectures; 39 of the serum samples (21.8%) were positive for anti-HEV IgG antibodies. RT-qPCR revealed HEV RNA in 11 serum samples (6.1%) and 5 fecal samples (3.1%). We obtained 412 bp of the viral genome sequences of ORF2 from five pairs of serum and fecal samples. All strains were subtype b in genotype 3 (HEV-3b) but separated into different clusters. We determined the entire genome sequence of HEV-3b strain WB0567 using a fecal specimen and isolated this strain by cell culture using PLC/PRF/5 cells. Eleven nucleotide mutations had occurred during virus replication. These results suggest that HEV-3b circulated uniformly among wild boars in Japan. Direct sequencing using a suspected animal's samples is indispensable for predicting original HEV nucleotide sequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenjing ZHANG
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yen Hai DOAN
- Center for Emergency Preparedness and Response, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tian-Cheng LI
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan
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2
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Xu L, Bie M, Li J, Zhou H, Hu T, Carr MJ, Lu L, Shi W. Isolation and characterization of a novel rodent hepevirus in long-tailed dwarf hamsters ( Cricetulus longicaudatus) in China. J Gen Virol 2024; 105. [PMID: 38767609 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.001989] [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: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Hepeviruses have been identified in a broad range of animal hosts, including mammals, birds, and fish. In this study, rodents (n=91) from seven different species and ten pikas (Ochotona curzoniae) were collected in Qinghai Province, China. Using transcriptomic sequencing and confirmatory molecular testing, hepeviruses were detected in 27 of 45 (60 %) long-tailed dwarf hamsters (Cricetulus longicaudatus) and were undetected in other rodents and pika. The complete genome sequences from 14 representative strains were subsequently obtained, and phylogenetic analyses suggested that they represent a novel species within the genus Rocahepevirus, which we tentatively designated as Cl-2018QH. The virus was successfully isolated in human hepatoma (Huh-7) and murine fibroblast (17 Cl-1) cell lines, though both exhibited limited replication as assayed by detection of negative-sense RNA intermediates. A129 immunodeficient mice were inoculated with Cl-2018QH and the virus was consistently detected in multiple organs, despite relatively low viral loads. In summary, this study has described a novel rodent hepevirus, which enhances our knowledge of the genetic diversity of rodent hepeviruses and highlights its potential for cross-species transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Xu
- School of Public Health, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Ji'nan 250117, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases in Universities of Shandong, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian 271000, PR China
| | - Mengyu Bie
- School of Public Health, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Ji'nan 250117, PR China
- Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases in Universities of Shandong, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian 271000, PR China
| | - Juan Li
- Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases in Universities of Shandong, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian 271000, PR China
| | - Hong Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases in Universities of Shandong, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian 271000, PR China
| | - Tao Hu
- Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases in Universities of Shandong, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian 271000, PR China
| | - Michael J Carr
- National Virus Reference Laboratory, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, D04 E1W1, Ireland
- International Collaboration Unit, International Institute for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 001-0020, Japan
| | - Liang Lu
- National Key Laboratory of Intelligent Tracking and Forecasting for Infectious Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing 102206, PR China
| | - Weifeng Shi
- Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, PR China
- Shanghai Institute of Virology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, PR China
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Xu LD, Zhang F, Xu P, Huang YW. Cross-species transmission and animal infection model of hepatitis E virus. Microbes Infect 2024:105338. [PMID: 38636821 DOI: 10.1016/j.micinf.2024.105338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 04/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Zoonotic hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is an emerging global public health concern, and understanding the dynamics of HEV transmission between animals and humans is crucial for public health. Animal models are critical to advancing the understanding of HEV pathogenesis, drug screening, vaccine development, and other related areas. Here, we provide an overview of recent studies investigating the cross-species transmission of HEV, and also delve into the current research and application of animal HEV infection models including non-human primates, rodents, pigs, and chickens, offering a comprehensive assessment of the advantages and disadvantages of each model. This review highlights the findings related to viral replication, shedding patterns, and immune response in these animal models, and discusses the implications for our understanding of HEV transmission to humans. These advancements in the field enhance our understanding of the biological traits and pathogenic mechanisms of HEV, offering robust support for the development of highly effective and targeted prevention and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Dong Xu
- Laboratory Animal Center, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China; Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China.
| | - Fei Zhang
- Institute of Intelligent Medicine, ZJU-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Hangzhou, 311200, China; MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
| | - Pinglong Xu
- MOE Laboratory of Biosystems Homeostasis & Protection, Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Cancer Molecular Cell Biology, Life Sciences Institute, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
| | - Yao-Wei Huang
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China; State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, China; Department of Veterinary Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.
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Liu T, He Q, Yang X, Li Y, Yuan D, Lu Q, Tang T, Guan G, Zheng L, Zhang H, Xia C, Yin X, Wei G, Chen X, Lu F, Wang L. An Immunocompetent Mongolian Gerbil Model for Hepatitis E Virus Genotype 1 Infection. Gastroenterology 2024:S0016-5085(24)00364-0. [PMID: 38582270 DOI: 10.1053/j.gastro.2024.03.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Hepatitis E virus (HEV), primarily genotype 1 (HEV-1), causes approximately 20.1 million infections, 44,000 deaths, and 3000 stillbirths annually. Current evidence indicates that HEV-1 is only transmitted in humans. Here, we evaluated whether Mongolian gerbils can serve as animal models for HEV-1 infection. METHODS Mongolian gerbils were used for HEV-1 and hepatitis E virus genotype 3 infection experiments. HEV infection parameters, including detection of HEV RNA and HEV antigen, liver function assessment, and histopathology, were evaluated. RESULTS We adapted a clinical isolate of HEV-1 for Mongolian gerbils by serial passaging in feces of aged male gerbils. The gerbil-adapted strain obtained at passage 3 induced a robust, acute HEV infection, characterized by stable fecal virus shedding, elevated liver enzymes, histopathologic changes in the liver, and seroconversion to anti-HEV. An infectious complementary DNA clone of the adapted virus was generated. HEV-1-infected pregnant gerbils showed a high rate of maternal mortality and vertical transmission. HEV RNA or antigens were detected in the liver, kidney, intestine, placenta, testis, and fetus liver. Liver and placental transcriptomic analyses indicated activation of host immunity. Tacrolimus prolonged HEV-1 infection, whereas ribavirin cleared infection. The protective efficacy of a licensed HEV vaccine was validated using this model. CONCLUSIONS HEV-1 efficiently infected Mongolian gerbils. This HEV-1 infection model will be valuable for investigating hepatitis E immunopathogenesis and evaluating vaccines and antivirals against HEV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianxu Liu
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Qiyu He
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Xinyue Yang
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Yuebao Li
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Disen Yuan
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Qinghui Lu
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Tianyu Tang
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Guiwe Guan
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Liwei Zheng
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - He Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Changyou Xia
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Xin Yin
- State Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Prevention, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin, China
| | - Guochao Wei
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Xiangmei Chen
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Fengmin Lu
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.
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Xiang Z, He XL, Zhu CW, Yang JJ, Huang L, Jiang C, Wu J. Animal models of hepatitis E infection: Advances and challenges. Hepatobiliary Pancreat Dis Int 2024; 23:171-180. [PMID: 37852916 DOI: 10.1016/j.hbpd.2023.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is one of the leading causes of acute viral hepatitis worldwide. Although most of HEV infections are asymptomatic, some patients will develop the symptoms, especially pregnant women, the elderly, and patients with preexisting liver diseases, who often experience anorexia, nausea, vomiting, malaise, abdominal pain, and jaundice. HEV infection may become chronic in immunosuppressed individuals. In addition, HEV infection can also cause several extrahepatic manifestations. HEV exists in a wide range of hosts in nature and can be transmitted across species. Hence, animals susceptible to HEV can be used as models. The establishment of animal models is of great significance for studying HEV transmission, clinical symptoms, extrahepatic manifestations, and therapeutic strategies, which will help us understand the pathogenesis, prevention, and treatment of hepatitis E. This review summarized the animal models of HEV, including pigs, monkeys, rabbits, mice, rats, and other animals. For each animal species, we provided a concise summary of the HEV genotypes that they can be infected with, the cross-species transmission pathways, as well as their role in studying extrahepatic manifestations, prevention, and treatment of HEV infection. The advantages and disadvantages of these animal models were also emphasized. This review offers new perspectives to enhance the current understanding of the research landscape surrounding HEV animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ze Xiang
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310030, China
| | - Xiang-Lin He
- Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310030, China
| | - Chuan-Wu Zhu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The Fifth People's Hospital of Suzhou, Suzhou 215007, China
| | - Jia-Jia Yang
- Department of Infection Management, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215008, China
| | - Lan Huang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215008, China
| | - Chun Jiang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215008, China
| | - Jian Wu
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou 215008, China.
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Zhou H, Tian RR, Wang XR, Yang JX, Wang YX, Zhao ML, Zhang XD, Ma YH, Lv LB, Holmes EC, Zheng YT, Shi WF. Identification of novel mammalian viruses in tree shrews ( Tupaia belangeri chinensis). Zool Res 2024; 45:429-438. [PMID: 38485510 PMCID: PMC11017089 DOI: 10.24272/j.issn.2095-8137.2023.306] [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: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The Chinese tree shrew ( Tupaia belangeri chinensis), a member of the mammalian order Scandentia, exhibits considerable similarities with primates, including humans, in aspects of its nervous, immune, and metabolic systems. These similarities have established the tree shrew as a promising experimental model for biomedical research on cancer, infectious diseases, metabolic disorders, and mental health conditions. Herein, we used meta-transcriptomic sequencing to analyze plasma, as well as oral and anal swab samples, from 105 healthy asymptomatic tree shrews to identify the presence of potential zoonotic viruses. In total, eight mammalian viruses with complete genomes were identified, belonging to six viral families, including Flaviviridae, Hepeviridae, Parvovirinae, Picornaviridae, Sedoreoviridae, and Spinareoviridae. Notably, the presence of rotavirus was recorded in tree shrews for the first time. Three viruses - hepacivirus 1, parvovirus, and picornavirus - exhibited low genetic similarity (<70%) with previously reported viruses at the whole-genome scale, indicating novelty. Conversely, three other viruses - hepacivirus 2, hepatovirus A and hepevirus - exhibited high similarity (>94%) to known viral strains. Phylogenetic analyses also revealed that the rotavirus and mammalian orthoreovirus identified in this study may be novel reassortants. These findings provide insights into the diverse viral spectrum present in captive Chinese tree shrews, highlighting the necessity for further research into their potential for cross-species transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Zhou
- School of Clinical and Basic Medical Sciences, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Ji'nan, Shandong 250117, China
- Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases in Universities of Shandong, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian, Shandong 271000, China
| | - Ren-Rong Tian
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences/Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, China
| | - Xiu-Rong Wang
- School of Public Health, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Ji'nan, Shandong 250117, China
| | - Jin-Xuan Yang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences/Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, China
| | - Yun-Xiao Wang
- School of Public Health, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Ji'nan, Shandong 250117, China
| | - Ming-Liang Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences/Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, China
| | - Xu-Dong Zhang
- School of Public Health, Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Ji'nan, Shandong 250117, China
| | - Yu-Hua Ma
- National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Primate Research Center, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650107, China
| | - Long-Bao Lv
- National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Primate Research Center, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650107, China
| | - Edward C Holmes
- Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia
| | - Yong-Tang Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of the Chinese Academy of Sciences/Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650223, China
- National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Primate Research Center, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, Yunnan 650107, China. E-mail:
| | - Wei-Feng Shi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
- Shanghai Institute of Virology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China. E-mail:
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Subramaniam S, Fares-Gusmao R, Sato S, Cullen JM, Takeda K, Farci P, McGivern DR. Distinct disease features of acute and persistent genotype 3 hepatitis E virus infection in immunocompetent and immunosuppressed Mongolian gerbils. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011664. [PMID: 37703304 PMCID: PMC10519604 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011664] [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: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) causes self-limited acute hepatitis in immunocompetent individuals and can establish chronic infection in solid organ transplant recipients taking immunosuppressive drugs. A well characterized small animal model is needed to understand HEV pathogenesis. In this study, we established a robust model to study acute and persistent HEV infection using Mongolian gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus) with or without immunosuppression. Gerbils were implanted subcutaneously with continuous release tacrolimus pellet to induce immunosuppression. Gerbils with or without tacrolimus treatment were inoculated with HEV intraperitoneally. Viremia, fecal virus shedding, serum antibody and ALT levels, liver histopathological lesions, hepatocyte apoptosis, and liver macrophage distribution were assessed. Mild to moderate self-limited hepatitis and IgM and IgG antibody responses against HEV ORF2 were observed in immunocompetent gerbils. Levels of HEV-specific IgM responses were higher and lasted longer in immunocompetent gerbils with higher peak viremia. Persistent viremia and fecal virus shedding with either weak, or absent HEV antibody levels were seen in immunosuppressed gerbils. Following HEV infection, serum ALT levels were increased, with lower and delayed peaks observed in immunosuppressed compared to immunocompetent gerbils. In immunocompetent gerbils, foci of apoptotic hepatocytes were detected that were distributed with inflammatory infiltrates containing CD68+ macrophages. However, these foci were absent in immunosuppressed gerbils. The immunosuppressed gerbils showed no inflammation with no increase in CD68+ macrophages despite high virus replication in liver. Our findings suggest adaptive immune responses are necessary for inducing hepatocyte apoptosis, CD68+ macrophage recruitment, and inflammatory cell infiltration in response to HEV infection. Our studies show that Mongolian gerbils provide a promising model to study pathogenesis during acute and persistent HEV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakthivel Subramaniam
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, Division of Emerging and Transfusion Transmitted Diseases, Office of Blood Research and Review, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Rafaelle Fares-Gusmao
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, Division of Emerging and Transfusion Transmitted Diseases, Office of Blood Research and Review, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Shinya Sato
- Hepatic Pathogenesis Section, Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - John M. Cullen
- Department of Population Health and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Kazuyo Takeda
- Microscopy and Imaging Core Facility, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Patrizia Farci
- Hepatic Pathogenesis Section, Laboratory of Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
| | - David R. McGivern
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, Division of Emerging and Transfusion Transmitted Diseases, Office of Blood Research and Review, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, Maryland, United States of America
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Bai H, Ami Y, Suzaki Y, Doan YH, Muramatsu M, Li TC. Open Reading Frame 4 Is Not Essential in the Replication and Infection of Genotype 1 Hepatitis E Virus. Viruses 2023; 15:v15030784. [PMID: 36992492 PMCID: PMC10052008 DOI: 10.3390/v15030784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Genotype 1 hepatitis E virus (HEV-1), unlike other genotypes of HEV, has a unique small open reading frame known as ORF4 whose function is not yet known. ORF4 is located in an out-framed manner in the middle of ORF1, which encodes putative 90 to 158 amino acids depending on the strains. To explore the role of ORF4 in HEV-1 replication and infection, we cloned the complete genome of wild-type HEV-1 downstream of a T7 RNA polymerase promoter, and the following ORF4 mutant constructs were prepared: the first construct had TTG instead of the initiation codon ATG (A2836T), introducing an M→L mutation in ORF4 and a D→V mutation in ORF1. The second construct had ACG instead of the ATG codon (T2837C), introducing an M→T mutation in ORF4. The third construct had ACG instead of the second in-frame ATG codon (T2885C), introducing an M→T mutation in ORF4. The fourth construct contained two mutations (T2837C and T2885C) accompanying two M→T mutations in ORF4. For the latter three constructs, the accompanied mutations introduced in ORF1 were all synonymous changes. The capped entire genomic RNAs were generated by in vitro transcription and used to transfect PLC/PRF/5 cells. Three mRNAs containing synonymous mutations in ORF1, i.e., T2837CRNA, T2885CRNA, and T2837C/T2885CRNA, replicated normally in PLC/PRF/5 cells and generated infectious viruses that successfully infected Mongolian gerbils as the wild-type HEV-1 did. In contrast, the mutant RNA, i.e., A2836TRNA, accompanying an amino acid change (D937V) in ORF1 generated infectious viruses upon transfection, but they replicated slower than the wild-type HEV-1 and failed to infect Mongolian gerbils. No putative viral protein(s) derived from ORF4 were detected in the wild-type HEV-1- as well as the mutant virus-infected PLC/PRF/5 cells by Western blot analysis using a high-titer anti-HEV-1 IgG antibody. These results demonstrated that the ORF4-defective HEV-1s had the ability to replicate in the cultured cells, and that these defective viruses had the ability to infect Mongolian gerbils unless the overlapping ORF1 was accompanied by non-synonymous mutation(s), confirming that ORF4 is not essential in the replication and infection of HEV-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimin Bai
- Department of Basic Medicine and Forensic Medicine, Baotou Medical College, Baotou 014060, China
| | - Yasushi Ami
- Division of Experimental Animals Research, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan
| | - Yuriko Suzaki
- Division of Experimental Animals Research, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan
| | - Yen Hai Doan
- Center for Emergency Preparedness and Response, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan
| | - Masamichi Muramatsu
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan
| | - Tian-Cheng Li
- Department of Virology II, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo 208-0011, Japan
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Liu T, Wang L, Wang L. Animal Models for Hepatitis E Virus. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1417:171-184. [PMID: 37223866 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-99-1304-6_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Animal models are one of the most important tools in the study of human hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection. They are particularly important in light of the major limitations of the cell culture system for HEV. Besides nonhuman primates, which are extremely valuable because of their susceptibility to HEV genotypes 1-4, animals like swine, rabbit, and humanized mice are also potential models for studies of pathogenesis, cross-species infection, and the molecular biology of HEV. Identification of a useful animal model for human HEV infection studies is crucial to further investigations into this ubiquitous yet poorly understood virus and facilitate the development of antiviral therapeutics and vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianxu Liu
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China
| | - Lin Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.
| | - Ling Wang
- Department of Microbiology and Infectious Disease Center, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing, China.
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10
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Wu JY, Meng XX, Wei YR, Bolati H, Lau EHY, Yang XY. Prevalence of Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) in Feral and Farmed Wild Boars in Xinjiang, Northwest China. Viruses 2022; 15:78. [PMID: 36680118 PMCID: PMC9867238 DOI: 10.3390/v15010078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) causes infections in humans and a wide range of animal hosts. Wild boar is an important natural reservoir of HEV genotypes 3−6 (HEV-3−HEV-6), but comparative analysis of HEV infections in both feral and farmed wild boars remains limited. In this study, samples from 599 wild boars were collected during 2017−2020, including 121 feral wild boars (collected 121 fecal, 121 serum, and 89 liver samples) and 478 farmed wild boars (collected 478 fecal and 478 serum samples). The presence of anti-HEV IgG antibodies were detected by the HEV-IgG enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. HEV RNA was detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), targeting the partial ORF1 genes from fecal and liver samples, and the obtained genes were further genotyped by phylogenetic analysis. The results showed that 76.2% (95% CI 72.1−79.9) of farmed wild boars tested anti-HEV IgG seropositive, higher than that in feral wild boars (42.1%, 95% CI 33.2−51.5, p < 0.001). HEV seropositivity increased with age. Wild boar HEV infection presented a significant geographical difference (p < 0.001), but not between sex (p = 0.656) and age (p = 0.347). HEV RNA in fecal samples was detected in 13 (2.2%, 95% CI 1.2−3.7) out of 599 wild boars: 0.8% (95% CI 0.0−4.5, 1/121) of feral wild boars and 2.5% (95% CI 1.3−4.3, 12/478) of farmed wild boars. Phylogenetic analysis showed that all these viruses belonged to genotype HEV-4, and further grouped into sub-genotypes HEV-4a, HEV-4d, and HEV-4h, of which HEV-4a was first discovered in the wild boar populations in China. Our results suggested that farms could be a setting for amplification of HEV. The risk of HEV zoonotic transmission via rearing and consumption of farmed wild boars should be further assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Yong Wu
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Animal Infectious Diseases, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Academy of Animal Science, Urumqi 830013, China
- School of Public Health, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi 830016, China
| | - Xiao-Xiao Meng
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Animal Infectious Diseases, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Academy of Animal Science, Urumqi 830013, China
| | - Yu-Rong Wei
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Animal Infectious Diseases, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Academy of Animal Science, Urumqi 830013, China
| | - Hongduzi Bolati
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Animal Infectious Diseases, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Academy of Animal Science, Urumqi 830013, China
| | - Eric H. Y. Lau
- School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D24H), Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xue-Yun Yang
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Animal Infectious Diseases, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Xinjiang Academy of Animal Science, Urumqi 830013, China
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Sridhar S, Wu S, Situ J, Shun EHK, Li Z, Zhang AJX, Hui K, Fong CHY, Poon VKM, Chew NFS, Yip CCY, Chan WM, Cai JP, Yuen KY. A small animal model of chronic hepatitis E infection using immunocompromised rats. JHEP Rep 2022; 4:100546. [PMID: 36052220 PMCID: PMC9424580 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhepr.2022.100546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background & Aims HEV variants such as swine genotypes within Paslahepevirus species balayani (HEV-A) and rat HEV (Rocahepevirus ratti; HEV-C1) cause chronic hepatitis E in immunocompromised individuals. There are few reliable and accessible small animal models that accurately reflect chronic HEV infection. We aimed to develop an immunocompromised rat model of chronic hepatitis E infection. Methods In this animal model infection study, rats were immunosuppressed with a drug combination (prednisolone, tacrolimus, and mycophenolate mofetil) commonly taken by transplant recipients. Rats were challenged with human- and rat-derived HEV-C1 strains or a human-derived HEV-A strain. Viral load, liver function, liver histology, humoural, and cellular immune responses were monitored. Results A high-dose (HD) immunosuppressive regimen consistently prolonged human- and rat-derived HEV-C1 infection in rats (up to 12 weeks post infection) compared with transient infections in low-dose (LD) immunosuppressant-treated and immunocompetent (IC) rats. Mean HEV-C1 viral loads in stool, serum, and liver tissue were higher in HD regimen-treated rats than in LD or IC rats (p <0.05). Alanine aminotransferase elevation was observed in chronically infected rats, which was consistent with histological hepatitis and HEV-C1 antigen expression in liver tissue. None (0/6) of the HD regimen-treated, 5/6 LD regimen-treated, and 6/6 IC rats developed antibodies to HEV-C1 in species-specific immunoblots. Reversal of immunosuppression was associated with clearance of viraemia and restoration of HEV-C1-specific humoural and cellular immune responses in HD regimen-treated rats, mimicking patterns in treated patients with chronic hepatitis E. Viral load suppression was observed with i.p. ribavirin treatment. HD regimen-treated rats remained unsusceptible to HEV-A infection. Conclusions We developed a scalable immunosuppressed rat model of chronic hepatitis E that closely mimics this infection phenotype in transplant recipients. Lay summary Convenient small animal models are required for the study of chronic hepatitis E in humans. We developed an animal model of chronic hepatitis E by suppressing immune responses of rats with drugs commonly taken by humans as organ transplant rejection prophylaxis. This model closely mimicked features of chronic hepatitis E in humans. Chronic HEV infection is challenging to model with small animals. Rats can be immunocompromised by transplant rejection drugs taken by patients. This model supports chronic rat HEV infection robustly and consistently. Immunosuppression in this model is scalable, reversible, and responsive to ribavirin.
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Key Words
- ALT, alanine aminotransferase
- HD, high dose
- HEV
- HEV, hepatitis E virus
- HEV-A, Paslahepevirus balayani
- HEV-C1
- HEV-C1, Rocahepevirus ratti genotype 1
- IC, immunocompetent
- IFN-γ, interferon-γ
- Immunosuppression
- LD, low dose
- MMF, mycophenolate mofetil
- Orthohepevirus C
- PBS, phosphate buffered saline
- Rat hepatitis E
- Ribavirin
- Rocahepevirus ratti
- VTM, virus transport medium
- dpi, days post infection
- rRT-PCR, real-time reverse-transcription PCR
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Affiliation(s)
- Siddharth Sridhar
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,State Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Carol Yu Centre for Infection, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Shusheng Wu
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jianwen Situ
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Estie Hon-Kiu Shun
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zhiyu Li
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Anna Jin-Xia Zhang
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kyle Hui
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Carol Ho-Yan Fong
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Vincent Kwok-Man Poon
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Nicholas Foo-Siong Chew
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Cyril Chik-Yan Yip
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Wan-Mui Chan
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jian-Piao Cai
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Kwok-Yung Yuen
- Department of Microbiology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,State Key Laboratory of Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,Carol Yu Centre for Infection, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,The Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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Hepatitis E Virus; An Underestimated Threat for the Viral Hepatitis Elimination Program. HEPATITIS MONTHLY 2022. [DOI: 10.5812/hepatmon-129678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/13/2023]
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