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Ng WL, Wang LF. Translational lessons from the balanced immune system in bats. Dis Model Mech 2025; 18:dmm050763. [PMID: 39968756 PMCID: PMC11876839 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.050763] [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] [Indexed: 02/20/2025] Open
Abstract
Bats are a natural reservoir for a wide variety of notorious viruses that are deadly to humans and other mammals but cause no or minimal clinical damage in bats. The co-evolution of bats and viruses for more than sixty million years has established unique and balanced immune defenses within bats against a number of viruses. With the COVID-19 pandemic, bats have gained greater attention as a likely reservoir of the SARS-CoV-2 ancestor virus. The coupling of omics technology and bat research opens an exciting new field to understand and translate discoveries from bats to humans, in the context of infectious disease and beyond. Here, we focus on the mechanism of immunity balance in bats, the application of omics and how this might lead to improvement of human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Lun Ng
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Lin-Fa Wang
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore 169857, Singapore
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2
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Suu-Ire R, Ball S, Ziekah MY, DeMarco J, Kain M, Agyei AS, Epstein JH. Behavioral risk assessment of exposure to wild and domestic animals in response to a Marburg virus disease outbreak, Ghana 2022. One Health 2025; 20:101010. [PMID: 40225191 PMCID: PMC11987680 DOI: 10.1016/j.onehlt.2025.101010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2025] [Revised: 03/08/2025] [Accepted: 03/08/2025] [Indexed: 04/15/2025] Open
Abstract
In July 2022, Ghana reported its first outbreak of Marburg virus disease (MVD). The source of the outbreak was unknown. In August 2022 we conducted a behavioral risk assessment, surveying 715 participants in three rural communities associated with the presumptive index case: Site 1 in Ashanti Region and Sites 2 and 3 in the Western Region of Ghana. Our primary aim was to characterize exposure to wild and domestic animals, specifically Egyptian rousette bats (ERBs), the natural reservoir for Marburg virus. We focused on two primary routes of potential exposure to ERBs: 1) eating fruit bearing bite marks and 2) entering caves or mines where bats were present. Eating fruit bearing bite marks was common across all sites, but highest at Site 2 in the Western Region. Higher levels of education were negatively correlated with eating fruit bearing bite marks, while having fruit trees present on the participant's home compound increased the odds of this exposure. Residents in Site 3 were significantly more likely to be exposed to bats in caves and mines. Participants across all sites also reported high levels of exposure to bats inside buildings; while ERBs do not typically roost in buildings, this presents a potential risk of exposure to other bat-associated pathogens. One participant at Site 3 reported symptoms consistent with MVD in the previous four months, suggesting the possibility of unrecognized cases that may have been associated with the outbreak. This study identified behaviors within the outbreak regions that could increase the risk of exposure to Marburg virus and other bat-borne pathogens. Serological surveys in these communities would provide important information about the extent of the Marburg outbreak by identifying unreported cases, as well as exposure to other filoviruses.
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Elbert JA, Schuh AJ, Amman BR, Guito JC, Graziano JC, Sealy TK, Howerth EW, Towner JS. Characterization of Ravn virus viral shedding dynamics in experimentally infected Egyptian rousette bats ( Rousettus aegypticus). J Virol 2025; 99:e0004525. [PMID: 40265897 PMCID: PMC12090798 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00045-25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2025] [Accepted: 03/27/2025] [Indexed: 04/24/2025] Open
Abstract
Marburg virus (MARV) and Ravn virus (RAVV), the only two known members of the species Orthomarburgvirus marburgense (family Filoviridae), are causative agents of Marburg virus disease, a severe viral disease that typically emerges in sub-Saharan Africa and is characterized by human-to-human transmission and high case fatalities. Despite the robust characterization of MARV experimental infection in Egyptian rousette bats (ERBs; Rousettus aegyptiacus; common name: Egyptian rousettes), a natural MARV reservoir, experimental infection with RAVV in ERBs has not been completed. Here, we experimentally infect 12 ERBs with RAVV and quantify viral loads in blood, oral swabs, and rectal swabs over a 21-day timeline with serological and cumulative shedding data and baseline clinical parameters. Compared to previously described experimental MARV infection in ERBs, these bats experimentally inoculated with RAVV had significantly higher and prolonged rectal viral shedding loads, as well as significantly prolonged oral shedding and higher peak viremia. All ERBs seroconverted by 21 days post-infection. Additionally, all ERBs demonstrated marked heterogeneity in RAVV viral shedding loads consistent with the Pareto Principle and viral "supershedders." Our results introduce the possibility of variation in transmission dynamics and subsequent spillover differences between RAVV and MARV.IMPORTANCERavn virus, along with Marburg virus, causes severe viral disease in humans with high fatality but little to no clinical disease in its reservoir host, the Egyptian rousette bat. Our findings provide important insights into how Ravn virus behaves in its natural reservoir host, showing that Ravn virus infection followed a similar timeline to Marburg virus infection, with virus detected in blood, saliva, and feces. However, Ravn virus-infected bats had higher levels of viral shedding and shed the virus for a longer period, particularly in feces, compared to Marburg virus. These differences in viral shedding may impact the spread of the virus within bat populations and potentially alter the likelihood of spillover into humans, non-human primates, and other animal species. These insights are crucial for understanding Ravn virus maintenance in its bat reservoir and improving our ability to mitigate or prevent future human outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica A. Elbert
- Department of Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Amy J. Schuh
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- USA Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, Rockville, Maryland, USA
| | - Brian R. Amman
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jonathan C. Guito
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - James C. Graziano
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Tara K. Sealy
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Elizabeth W. Howerth
- Department of Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
| | - Jonathan S. Towner
- Department of Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, USA
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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4
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Paison F, Ubuzima P, Nshimiyimana E, Habumugisha J, Atukunda S, Ayebare F, Munyurangabo G, Amikoro B, Su B. Therapeutic advances in Marburg virus disease: from experimental treatments to vaccine development. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2025; 87:2784-2799. [PMID: 40337393 PMCID: PMC12055102 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000003213] [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: 01/15/2025] [Accepted: 03/14/2025] [Indexed: 05/09/2025] Open
Abstract
The Marburg virus (MARV), discovered in 1967, has led to devastating outbreaks over the world; the mortality rate of Marburg virus disease (MVD) varies according to the outbreak and viral type. The very first known filovirus hemorrhagic fever outbreaks occurred in Germany and the former Yugoslavia. MVD is a deadly illness caused by the MARV virus, part of the Filoviridae family. It progresses with early viral replication that damages immune cells, followed by destruction of organs like the spleen, liver, and lymphoid tissues. Combatting this disease requires proper health education, and strong strategies. MVD is a lethal single-stranded RNA virus transmitted by Egyptian rousette bats, with a fatality rate of approximately 90%. This work explored ongoing studies on the recent vaccine developments and experimental therapies, such as a recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV)-based vaccine and MVA-BN-Filo, aiming to combat this deadly infection. Over the previous years, MARV has also spread to non-endemic African countries, demonstrating its potential to cause epidemics. Although MARV-specific vaccines are evaluated in preclinical and clinical research, none have been approved for human use. Studies revealed that Modified Vaccinia virus Ankara, a well-established viral vector used to generate vaccines against emerging pathogens, can deliver multiple antigens and has a remarkable clinical safety and immunogenicity record. MVD has been recently reported in Rwanda in 2024, an African country, and nearly 15 outbreaks of MVD have been reported. This review describes the nature of the MVD, key outbreaks, the virus's pathogenesis, mode of transmission, clinical and laboratory diagnosis, and control and prevention measures to advance MVD treatment, drug development, vaccine creation, and prevention of MVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faida Paison
- School of Education, Kigali Independent University ULK, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Pascal Ubuzima
- Department of Preventive and Community Dentistry, School of Dentistry, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
- Department of Orthodontics, Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Eugene Nshimiyimana
- Department of Orthodontics, Affiliated Hospital of Stomatology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China
| | - Janvier Habumugisha
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Dentistry, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama, Japan
- Department of Orthodontics, Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Okayama University, Okayama, Japan
| | - Secret Atukunda
- School of Medicine, University of Global Health Equity, Butaro, Rwanda
| | - Fortunate Ayebare
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Community Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Gustave Munyurangabo
- Department of Hematology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, People’s Republic of China
- Center for Tumor and Immunology, the Precision Medical Institute, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, People’s Republic of China
| | - Betty Amikoro
- Graduate School of Medicine and Surgery, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Biyun Su
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Xi’an Shiyou University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
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5
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Saeed M, Alamri MA, Rashid MAR, Javed MR, Azeem F, Bashir Z, Alanzi AR, Muhseen ZT, Almusallam SY, Hussain K. Identification of novel inhibitors against VP40 protein of Marburg virus by integrating molecular modeling and dynamics approaches. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2025; 43:3942-3955. [PMID: 38178383 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2300134] [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: 05/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
Marburg virus (MV) is a highly etiological agent of haemorrhagic fever in humans and has spread across the world. Its outbreaks caused a 23-90% human death rate. However, there are currently no authorized preventive or curative measures yet. VP40 is the MV matrix protein, which builds protein shell underneath the viral envelope and confers hallmark filamentous. VP40 alone is able to induce assembly and budding of filamentous virus-like particles (VLPs), which resemble authentic virions. As a result, this research is credited with clarifying the function of VP40 and leading to the discovery of new therapeutic targets effective in combating MV disease (MVD). Virtual screening, molecular docking and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation were used to find the putative active chemicals based on a 3D pharmacophore model of the protein's active site cavity. Initially, andrographidine-C, a potent inhibitor was selected for the development of the pharmacophore model. Later, a library of 30,000 compounds along with the andrographidine-C was docked against VP40 protein. Three best hits including avanafil, diuvaretin and macrourone were subjected to further MD simulation analysis, as these compounds had better binding affinities as compared to andrographidine-C. Furthermore, throughout the 100 ns simulations, the back bone of VP40 protein in presence of avanafil, diuvaretin and macrourone remained stable which was further validated by MM-PBSA analysis. Additionally, all of these compounds depict maximum drug-like properties. The predicted drugs based on the ligand, avanafil, diuvaretin and macrourone could be exploited and developed as an alternative or complementary therapy for the treatment of MVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Saeed
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Mubarak A Alamri
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam Bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Muhammad Rizwan Javed
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Farrukh Azeem
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Zarmina Bashir
- Department of Bioinformatics and Biotechnology, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Abdullah R Alanzi
- Department of Pharmacogonsy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Shahad Youseff Almusallam
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khadim Hussain
- Plant Protection Department, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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6
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van Tol S, Port JR, Fischer RJ, Gallogly S, Bushmaker T, Griffin A, Schulz JE, Carmody A, Myers L, Crowley DE, Falvo CA, Riopelle JC, Wickenhagen A, Clancy C, Lovaglio J, Shaia C, Saturday G, Prado-Smith J, He Y, Lack J, Martens C, Anzick SL, Kendall LV, Schountz T, Plowright RK, Marzi A, Munster VJ. Jamaican fruit bats' competence for Ebola but not Marburg virus is driven by intrinsic differences. Nat Commun 2025; 16:2884. [PMID: 40133326 PMCID: PMC11937316 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-58305-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2025] [Indexed: 03/27/2025] Open
Abstract
Ebola virus (EBOV) and Marburg virus (MARV) are zoonotic filoviruses that cause hemorrhagic fever in humans. Correlative data implicate bats as natural EBOV hosts, but neither a full-length genome nor an EBOV isolate has been found in any bats sampled. Here, we model filovirus infection in the Jamaican fruit bat (JFB), Artibeus jamaicensis, by inoculation with either EBOV or MARV through a combination of oral, intranasal, and subcutaneous routes. Infection with EBOV results in systemic virus replication and oral shedding of infectious virus. MARV replication is transient and does not shed. In vitro, JFB cells replicate EBOV more efficiently than MARV, and MARV infection induces innate antiviral responses that EBOV efficiently suppresses. Experiments using VSV pseudoparticles or replicating VSV expressing the EBOV or MARV glycoprotein demonstrate an advantage for EBOV entry and replication early, respectively, in JFB cells. Overall, this study describes filovirus species-specific phenotypes for both JFB and their cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah van Tol
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Julia R Port
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
- Laboratory of Transmission Immunology, Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Braunschweig, Germany
| | - Robert J Fischer
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Shane Gallogly
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Trenton Bushmaker
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Amanda Griffin
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Jonathan E Schulz
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Aaron Carmody
- Research Technologies Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Lara Myers
- Research Technologies Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Daniel E Crowley
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Caylee A Falvo
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Jade C Riopelle
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Arthur Wickenhagen
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Chad Clancy
- Rocky Mountain Veterinary Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Jamie Lovaglio
- Rocky Mountain Veterinary Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Carl Shaia
- Rocky Mountain Veterinary Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Greg Saturday
- Rocky Mountain Veterinary Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Jessica Prado-Smith
- Rocky Mountain Veterinary Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Yi He
- Fermentation Facility, Biochemistry and Biophysics Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Justin Lack
- Research Technologies Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Craig Martens
- Research Technologies Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Sarah L Anzick
- Research Technologies Branch, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Lon V Kendall
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Tony Schountz
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Raina K Plowright
- Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, USA
| | - Andrea Marzi
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - Vincent J Munster
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA.
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Ndong Mebaley TG, Becquart P, Fritz M, Elguero E, Mombo IM, Garcia DC, Bohou Kombila L, Lenguiya LH, Boundenga L, Leroy EM, Maganga GD. Ebola and Marburg viruses IgG detections in small ruminants and dogs from villages within outbreak areas in Gabon. PLoS One 2025; 20:e0314801. [PMID: 40043032 PMCID: PMC11882094 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0314801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2024] [Accepted: 11/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2025] Open
Abstract
The Ebola virus (EBOV) and Marburg virus (MARV) have been in circulation in Africa for several decades and are the cause of numerous outbreaks. There has been very little research on the role of domestic animals in their transmission to humans, but studies have only been conducted in dogs and pigs where relatively high levels of IgG was detected. These levels suggest that ruminants, which have not been studied, should also be investigated. This study aims at evaluating the circulation of MARV and EBOV in dogs, sheep and goats and to assess their exposure to these two viruses. Between November 2018 and March 2023, a total of 448 domestic animal sera or plasma samples, including 128 dogs, 222 goats and 98 sheep, were analyzed by serological and molecular methods. The Luminex technique was employed for the detection of IgG antibodies against EBOV NP, GP, MARV GP and VP40, while EBOV specific and pan-filovirus polymerase chain reaction amplification was used for molecular analysis. All samples tested negative for EBOV and MARV RNA. However, our results showed that 2/128 (1.5%) dogs, 1/222 (0.4%) goats and 3/98 (3.1%) sheep displayed NP and GP anti-EBOV antibodies. In addition, 2/128 (1.5%) dogs displayed GP and VP40 anti-MARV antibodies, while no antibodies were detected in goats and sheep. Over all, these results suggest that dogs and small ruminants are naturally exposed to EBOV and MARV. In the absence of clinically sick individuals, the presence of IgG-positive animals suggests various sources of exposure, such as contaminated fruits with the urine and saliva of bats or dead bats fallen on the ground ate by dogs. These contaminated substrates are both consumed by both dogs and small ruminants. The findings provide new insights into the circulation and exposure of EBOV and MARV in domestic animals, emphasising their potential use as sentinels. Furthermore, they prompt significant considerations regarding the potential risk to humans in this region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Telstar G. Ndong Mebaley
- Département de Virologie, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF), Franceville, Gabon
| | - Pierre Becquart
- Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Ecologie, Génétique, Evolution et Contrôle (MIVEGEC), Montpellier, France
| | - Matthieu Fritz
- TransVIHMI, Université de Montpellier – IRD – Inserm, Montpellier, France
| | - Eric Elguero
- Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), Maladies Infectieuses et Vecteurs: Ecologie, Génétique, Evolution et Contrôle (MIVEGEC), Montpellier, France
| | - Illich M. Mombo
- Département de Virologie, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF), Franceville, Gabon
| | - Déborah C. Garcia
- Département de Virologie, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF), Franceville, Gabon
| | - Linda Bohou Kombila
- Département de Virologie, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF), Franceville, Gabon
| | | | - Larson Boundenga
- Département de Virologie, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF), Franceville, Gabon
| | - Eric M. Leroy
- TransVIHMI, Université de Montpellier – IRD – Inserm, Montpellier, France
| | - Gael D. Maganga
- Département de Virologie, Centre Interdisciplinaire de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (CIRMF), Franceville, Gabon
- Institut National Supérieur d’Agronomie et de Biotechnologies (INSAB), Université des Sciences et Techniques de Masuku (USTM), Franceville, Gabon
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8
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Schuh AJ, Amman BR, Guito JC, Graziano JC, Sealy TK, Towner JS. Modeling natural coinfection in a bat reservoir shows modulation of Marburg virus shedding and spillover potential. PLoS Pathog 2025; 21:e1012901. [PMID: 40096181 PMCID: PMC11978059 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1012901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2025] [Accepted: 01/12/2025] [Indexed: 03/19/2025] Open
Abstract
The Egyptian rousette bat (ERB) is a natural reservoir for Marburg virus (MARV; family Filoviridae), a putative reservoir for Sosuga virus (SOSV; family Paramyxoviridae), and a vertebrate reservoir for Kasokero virus (KASV; family Orthonairoviridae); however, the effect of naturally occurring coinfection by those viruses on MARV shedding and spillover potential is unknown. To answer this question, we experimentally infected one cohort of captive-bred ERBs with SOSV+MARV (n=12 bats) or MARV only (n=12 bats) and a second cohort with KASV+MARV (n=12 bats) or MARV only (n=12 bats), and then collected blood, oral swab, and rectal swab specimens throughout the course of infection to monitor viral shedding. Compared to the MARV-monoinfected bat group, the SOSV+MARV-coinfected bat group exhibited a significantly shortened duration of MARV oral shedding and a significantly decreased anti-MARV IgG response, which may increase the capacity for MARV reinfection. In contrast, relative to the MARV-monoinfected bat group, the KASV+MARV-coinfected bat group exhibited significantly increased peak magnitudes and durations of MARV viremia and oral shedding, as well as a significantly increased anti-MARV IgG response. Correspondingly, cumulative MARV shedding loads, a measure of infectiousness, were significantly higher in the KASV+MARV-coinfected bat group than the MARV-monoinfected bat group. Four of the KASV+MARV-coinfected bats were classified as MARV supershedders, together accounting for 72.5% of the KASV-MARV experimental cohort's total shedding. Our results demonstrate that SOSV+MARV and KASV+MARV coinfection of ERBs differentially modulates MARV shedding and anti-MARV IgG responses, thereby implicating MARV coinfection as playing a critical role in bat-to-bat MARV transmission dynamics and spillover potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy J. Schuh
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
- United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, Rockville, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Brian R. Amman
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Jonathan C. Guito
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - James C. Graziano
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Tara K. Sealy
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Jonathan S. Towner
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
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9
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Saadh MJ, Muhammad FA, Albadr RJ, Sanghvi G, Jyothi SR, Kundlas M, Joshi KK, Gulyamov S, Taher WM, Alwan M, Jawad MJ, Al-Nuaimi AMA. From protein to immunology: comprehensive insights into Marburg virus vaccines, mechanism, and application. Arch Microbiol 2025; 207:74. [PMID: 40025302 DOI: 10.1007/s00203-025-04277-4] [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: 01/02/2025] [Revised: 02/05/2025] [Accepted: 02/12/2025] [Indexed: 03/04/2025]
Abstract
The Marburg virus (MARV), a member of the Filoviridae family, is a highly lethal pathogen that causes Marburg virus disease (MVD), a severe hemorrhagic fever with high fatality rates.Despite recurrent outbreaks, no licensed vaccine is currently available. This review explores MARV's genomic architecture, structural proteins, and recent advancements in vaccine development. It highlights the crucial role of MARV's seven monocistronic genes in viral replication and pathogenesis, with a focus on structural proteins such as nucleoprotein (NP), glycoprotein (GP), and viral proteins VP35, VP40, and VP24. These proteins are essential for viral entry, immune evasion, and replication. The review further examines various vaccine platforms, including multi-epitope vaccines, DNA-based vaccines, viral vector vaccines, virus-like particles (VLPs), and mRNA vaccines. Cutting-edge immunoinformatics approaches are discussed for identifying conserved epitopes critical for broad-spectrum protection. The immunological responses induced by these vaccine candidates, particularly their efficacy in preclinical trials, are analyzed, showcasing promising results in generating both humoral and cellular immunity. Moreover, the review addresses challenges and future directions in MARV vaccine development, emphasizing the need for enhanced immunogenicity, safety, and global accessibility. The integration of omics technologies (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics) with immunoinformatics is presented as a transformative approach for next-generation vaccine design. Innovative platforms such as mRNA and VLP-based vaccines offer rapid and effective development opportunities. In this study, underscores the urgent need for a licensed MARV vaccine to prevent future outbreaks and strengthen global preparedness. By synthesizing the latest research and technological advancements, it provides a strategic roadmap for developing safe, effective, and broadly protective vaccines. The fight against MARV is a global priority, requiring coordinated efforts from researchers, policymakers, and public health organizations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed J Saadh
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Middle East University, Amman, 11831, Jordan
| | | | | | - Gaurav Sanghvi
- Marwadi University Research Center, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Marwadi University, Rajkot, Gujarat, 360003, India
| | - S Renuka Jyothi
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetics, School of Sciences, JAIN (Deemed to Be University), Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Mayank Kundlas
- Centre for Research Impact and Outcome, Chitkara University Institute of Engineering and Technology, Chitkara University, Rajpura, Punjab, 140401, India
| | - Kamal Kant Joshi
- Department of Allied Science, Graphic Era Hill University, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, 248002, India
- Graphic Era Deemed to Be University, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Surat Gulyamov
- Department of Dentistry and Pediatric Dentistry, Tashkent Pediatric Medical Institute, Bogishamol Street 223, 100140, Tashkent, Uzbekistan
| | - Waam Mohammed Taher
- College of Nursing, National University of Science and Technology, Dhi Qar, Iraq
| | - Mariem Alwan
- Pharmacy College, Al-Farahidi University, Baghdad, Iraq
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10
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Schuh AJ, Amman BR, Towner JS. Experimental Infection of Egyptian Rousette Bats (Rousettus aegyptiacus) with Marburg Virus. Methods Mol Biol 2025; 2877:259-280. [PMID: 39585627 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-4256-6_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2024]
Abstract
In this chapter, we detail the procedures used in experimental infection studies of Egyptian rousette bats (Rousettus aegyptiacus) with Marburg virus. We start by reviewing study planning and preparation considerations, personal protective equipment use, and then describe general procedures used in all experimental Egyptian rousette bat-Marburg virus infection study designs. We end by describing procedures specific to serial sampling and serial sacrifice studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy J Schuh
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, Rockville, MD, USA.
| | - Brian R Amman
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jonathan S Towner
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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11
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Gonzalez V, Hurtado-Monzón AM, O'Krafka S, Mühlberger E, Letko M, Frank HK, Laing ED, Phelps KL, Becker DJ, Munster VJ, Falzarano D, Schountz T, Seifert SN, Banerjee A. Studying bats using a One Health lens: bridging the gap between bat virology and disease ecology. J Virol 2024; 98:e0145324. [PMID: 39499009 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01453-24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Accumulating data suggest that some bat species host emerging viruses that are highly pathogenic in humans and agricultural animals. Laboratory-based studies have highlighted important adaptations in bat immune systems that allow them to better tolerate viral infections compared to humans. Simultaneously, ecological studies have discovered critical extrinsic factors, such as nutritional stress, that correlate with virus shedding in wild-caught bats. Despite some progress in independently understanding the role of bats as reservoirs of emerging viruses, there remains a significant gap in the molecular understanding of factors that drive virus spillover from bats. Driven by a collective goal of bridging the gap between the fields of bat virology, immunology, and disease ecology, we hosted a satellite symposium at the 2024 American Society for Virology meeting. Bringing together virologists, immunologists, and disease ecologists, we discussed the intrinsic and extrinsic factors such as virus receptor engagement, adaptive immunity, and virus ecology that influence spillover from bat hosts. This article summarizes the topics discussed during the symposium and emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary collaborations and resource sharing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Gonzalez
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO), University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Arianna M Hurtado-Monzón
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO), University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Sabrina O'Krafka
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO), University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Elke Mühlberger
- Department of Virology, Immunology, and Microbiology, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Chobanian and Avedisian School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Michael Letko
- Paul G. Allen School for Global Health, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Hannah K Frank
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
| | - Eric D Laing
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | | | - Daniel J Becker
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Oklahoma, Norman, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Vincent J Munster
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), Hamilton, Montana, USA
| | - Darryl Falzarano
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO), University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Tony Schountz
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
- Center for Vector-Borne Infectious Diseases, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | - Stephanie N Seifert
- Paul G. Allen School for Global Health, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Arinjay Banerjee
- Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO), University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
- Department of Biology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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12
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Muvunyi CM, Ngabonziza JCS, Bigirimana N, Ndembi N, Siddig EE, Kaseya J, Ahmed A. Evidence-Based Guidance for One Health Preparedness, Prevention, and Response Strategies to Marburg Virus Disease Outbreaks. Diseases 2024; 12:309. [PMID: 39727639 PMCID: PMC11727285 DOI: 10.3390/diseases12120309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2024] [Revised: 11/13/2024] [Accepted: 11/15/2024] [Indexed: 12/28/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Marburg virus disease (MVD) is on the WHO list for pandemic-prone pathogens. The current outbreak in Rwanda provides an opportunity to map outbreaks and generate information to inform policymaking, resource mobilization, and guide the implementation of cost-effective response strategies. METHODS We synthesized available information about MVD to build holistic, up-to-date evidence to inform policymakers, public health leaders, and healthcare and public health services providers in their development and implementation of cost-effective preparedness, prevention, and control measures. RESULTS We have identified 20 outbreaks of MVD that occurred in 14 countries between 1967 and 2024; these outbreaks led to 580 confirmed cases and 423 deaths in total. We summarize the available information about the main clinical signs, diagnostic tools, primary reservoir, transmission dynamics, and case management protocol. We also document the best practices in the prevention and control of MVD outbreaks, including the implementation of a multisectoral One Health strategy for preparedness, prevention, and response to MVD outbreaks that incorporates the strict implementation of WASH and infection prevention measures, contact tracing, and the isolation of infected and suspected humans and animals, and enhances the implementation of the International Health Regulations, particularly efficient cross-country coordination. CONCLUSIONS In the absence of a licensed treatment or vaccine for MVD, the response strategy to MVD should focus on preventive measures, including community engagement to promote the reduction in contact between humans and reservoirs, the supportive care and isolation of patients, and proper waste management. High risk populations such as frontline responders, including healthcare providers and community health workers, should be prioritized so that they can access all currently available protection measures.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jean Claude Semuto Ngabonziza
- Department of Clinical Biology, University of Rwanda, Kigali 3900, Rwanda
- Research, Innovation and Data Science Division, Rwanda Biomedical Centre, Kigali 7162, Rwanda
| | | | - Nicaise Ndembi
- The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), Ring Road, 16/17, Haile Garment Lafto Square, Addis Ababa P.O. Box 3243, Ethiopia
| | - Emmanuel Edwar Siddig
- Unit of Applied Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Laboratory Sciences, University of Khartoum, Khartoum 11111, Sudan
| | - Jean Kaseya
- The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), Ring Road, 16/17, Haile Garment Lafto Square, Addis Ababa P.O. Box 3243, Ethiopia
| | - Ayman Ahmed
- Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC), Kigali 7162, Rwanda (A.A.)
- Institute of Endemic Diseases, University of Khartoum, Khartoum 11111, Sudan
- Pan-Africa One Health Institute (PAOHI), Kigali 11KG ST203, Rwanda
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13
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Kessler S, Stegen P, Zhan S, Schwemmle M, Reuther P, Schountz T, Ciminski K. Jamaican fruit bats mount a stable and highly neutralizing antibody response after bat influenza virus infection. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2413619121. [PMID: 39382992 PMCID: PMC11494324 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2413619121] [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: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 09/05/2024] [Indexed: 10/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Antibodies are an essential component of the antiviral response in many species, but to date, there is no compelling evidence that bats are capable of eliciting a robust humoral immunity, including neutralizing antibodies. Here, we report that infection of Jamaican fruit bats with the bat influenza A virus H18N11 elicits a rapid and stable humoral immune response with a strong neutralizing capacity, associated with no detectable viral shedding after repeat challenge infection. Thus, the neutralizing antibody response of bats might play an important role in the bat immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Kessler
- Institute of Virology, Medical Center University of Freiburg, Freiburg79104, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg79104, Germany
| | - Philipp Stegen
- Institute of Virology, Medical Center University of Freiburg, Freiburg79104, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg79104, Germany
| | - Shijun Zhan
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Center for Vector-borne Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO80523
| | - Martin Schwemmle
- Institute of Virology, Medical Center University of Freiburg, Freiburg79104, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg79104, Germany
| | - Peter Reuther
- Institute of Virology, Medical Center University of Freiburg, Freiburg79104, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg79104, Germany
| | - Tony Schountz
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Center for Vector-borne Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO80523
| | - Kevin Ciminski
- Institute of Virology, Medical Center University of Freiburg, Freiburg79104, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Freiburg79104, Germany
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Center for Vector-borne Infectious Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO80523
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14
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Clancey E, Nuismer S, Seifert S. Using serosurveys to optimize surveillance for zoonotic pathogens. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.22.581274. [PMID: 38562792 PMCID: PMC10983876 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.22.581274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Zoonotic pathogens pose a significant risk to human health, with spillover into human populations contributing to chronic disease, sporadic epidemics, and occasional pandemics. Despite the widely recognized burden of zoonotic spillover, our ability to identify which animal populations serve as primary reservoirs for these pathogens remains incomplete. This challenge is compounded when prevalence reaches detectable levels only at specific times of year. In these cases, statistical models designed to predict the timing of peak prevalence could guide field sampling for active infections. Thus, we develop a general model that leverages routinely collected serosurveillance data to optimize sampling for elusive pathogens by predicting time windows of peak prevalence. Using simulated data sets, we show that our methodology reliably identifies times when pathogen prevalence is expected to peak. Then, we demonstrate an implementation of our method using publicly available data from two putative Ebolavirus reservoirs, straw-colored fruit bats (Eidolon helvum) and hammer-headed bats (Hypsignathus monstrosus). We envision our method being used to guide the planning of field sampling to maximize the probability of detecting active infections, and in cases when longitudinal data is available, our method can also yield predictions for the times of year that are most likely to produce future spillover events. The generality and simplicity of our methodology make it broadly applicable to a wide range of putative reservoir species where seasonal patterns of birth lead to predictable, but potentially short-lived, pulses of pathogen prevalence.
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Affiliation(s)
- E. Clancey
- Paul G. Allen School for Global Health, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164 USA
| | - S.L. Nuismer
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844 USA
| | - S.N. Seifert
- Paul G. Allen School for Global Health, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164 USA
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15
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Wickenhagen A, van Tol S, Munster V. Molecular determinants of cross-species transmission in emerging viral infections. Microbiol Mol Biol Rev 2024; 88:e0000123. [PMID: 38912755 PMCID: PMC11426021 DOI: 10.1128/mmbr.00001-23] [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] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
SUMMARYSeveral examples of high-impact cross-species transmission of newly emerging or re-emerging bat-borne viruses, such as Sudan virus, Nipah virus, and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, have occurred in the past decades. Recent advancements in next-generation sequencing have strengthened ongoing efforts to catalog the global virome, in particular from the multitude of different bat species. However, functional characterization of these novel viruses and virus sequences is typically limited with regard to assessment of their cross-species potential. Our understanding of the intricate interplay between virus and host underlying successful cross-species transmission has focused on the basic mechanisms of entry and replication, as well as the importance of host innate immune responses. In this review, we discuss the various roles of the respective molecular mechanisms underlying cross-species transmission using different recent bat-borne viruses as examples. To delineate the crucial cellular and molecular steps underlying cross-species transmission, we propose a framework of overall characterization to improve our capacity to characterize viruses as benign, of interest, or of concern.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur Wickenhagen
- Laboratory of Virology, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, Montana, USA
| | - Sarah van Tol
- Laboratory of Virology, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, Montana, USA
| | - Vincent Munster
- Laboratory of Virology, Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, Montana, USA
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16
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Mmbaga V, Mrema G, Ngenzi D, Magoge W, Mwakapasa E, Jacob F, Matimba H, Beyanga M, Samweli A, Kiremeji M, Kitambi M, Sylvanus E, Kyungu E, Manase G, Hokororo J, Kanyankole C, Rwabilimbo M, Kaniki I, Kauki G, Kelly ME, Mwengee W, Ayeni G, Msemwa F, Saguti G, Mgomella GS, Mukurasi K, Mponela M, Kapyolo E, Mcharo J, Mayige M, Gatei W, Conteh I, Mala P, Swaminathan M, Horumpende P, Ruggajo P, Magembe G, Yoti Z, Kwesi E, Nagu T. Epidemiological description of Marburg virus disease outbreak in Kagera region, Northwestern Tanzania. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0309762. [PMID: 39236024 PMCID: PMC11376503 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0309762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 08/17/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In March 2023, a Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) outbreak was declared in Kagera region, Northwestern Tanzania. This was the first MVD outbreak in the country. We describe the epidemiological characteristics of MVD cases and contacts. METHODS The Ministry of Health activated an outbreak response team. Outbreak investigation methods were applied to cases identified through MVD standard case definitions and confirmed through reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT PCR). All identified case contacts were added into the contact listing form and followed up in-person daily for any signs or symptoms for 21 days. Data collected from various forms was managed and analyzed using Excel and QGIS software for mapping. RESULTS A total of nine MVD cases were reported with eight laboratory-confirmed and one probable. Two of the reported cases were frontline healthcare workers and seven were family related members. Cases were children and adults between 1-59 years of age with a median age of 34 years. Six were males. Six cases died equivalent to a case fatality rate (CFR) of 66.7%. A total of 212 individuals were identified as contacts and two (2) became cases. The outbreak was localized in two geo-administrative wards (Maruku and Kanyangereko) of Bukoba District Council. CONCLUSION Transmission during this outbreak occurred among family members and healthcare workers who provided care to the cases. The delay in detection aggravated the spread and possibly the consequent fatality but once confirmed the swift response stemmed further transmission containing the disease at the epicenter wards. The outbreak lasted for 72 days but as the origin is still unknown, further research is required to explore the source of this outbreak.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vida Mmbaga
- Epidemiology and Disease Control Section, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - George Mrema
- Epidemiology and Disease Control Section, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
- Tanzania Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program, Ministry of Health, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Danstan Ngenzi
- Epidemiology and Disease Control Section, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Welema Magoge
- Epidemiology and Disease Control Section, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Emmanuel Mwakapasa
- Epidemiology and Disease Control Section, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Frank Jacob
- Epidemiology and Disease Control Section, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Hamza Matimba
- National Public Health Laboratory, Ministry of Health, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Medard Beyanga
- National Public Health Laboratory, Ministry of Health, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Angela Samweli
- Emergency Preparedness and Response Unit, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Michael Kiremeji
- Emergency Preparedness and Response Unit, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Mary Kitambi
- Emergency Preparedness and Response Unit, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Erasto Sylvanus
- Emergency Preparedness and Response Unit, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Ernest Kyungu
- President Office Regional Administrative Local Government, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Gerald Manase
- President Office Regional Administrative Local Government, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Joseph Hokororo
- Health Quality Assurance Unit, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | | | | | | | - George Kauki
- World Health Organization, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | | | | | | | - Grace Saguti
- World Health Organization, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | | | - Marcelina Mponela
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Eliakimu Kapyolo
- National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Jonathan Mcharo
- National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Mary Mayige
- National Institute for Medical Research, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Wangeci Gatei
- US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | | | - Peter Mala
- World Health Organization, HQ, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Pius Horumpende
- Directorate of Curative Services, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Paschal Ruggajo
- Directorate of Curative Services, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Grace Magembe
- Office of the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Zabulon Yoti
- World Health Organization, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Elias Kwesi
- Emergency Preparedness and Response Unit, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
| | - Tumaini Nagu
- Office of the Government Chief Medical Officer, Ministry of Health, Dodoma, Tanzania
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Hood G, Carroll M. Host-pathogen interactions of emerging zoonotic viruses: bats, humans and filoviruses. Curr Opin Virol 2024; 68-69:101436. [PMID: 39537444 DOI: 10.1016/j.coviro.2024.101436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2024] [Accepted: 10/21/2024] [Indexed: 11/16/2024]
Abstract
This paper provides an overview of the phenomena of cross-species transmission of viruses (known as spillover), focusing on the highly pathogenic filovirus family and their natural reservoir: bats. It also describes the host-pathogen relationship of viruses and their reservoirs, in addition to humans, and discusses current theories of persistent infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Hood
- Pandemic Sciences Institute & Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK.
| | - Miles Carroll
- Pandemic Sciences Institute & Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 7BN, UK.
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18
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Pei G, Balkema-Buschmann A, Dorhoi A. Disease tolerance as immune defense strategy in bats: One size fits all? PLoS Pathog 2024; 20:e1012471. [PMID: 39236038 PMCID: PMC11376593 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1012471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Bats are natural reservoirs for zoonotic pathogens, yet the determinants of microbial persistence as well as the specific functionality of their immune system remain largely enigmatic. Their propensity to harbor viruses lethal to humans and/or livestock, mostly in absence of clinical disease, makes bats stand out among mammals. Defending against pathogens relies on avoidance, resistance, and/or tolerance strategies. In bats, disease tolerance has recently gained increasing attention as a prevailing host defense paradigm. We here summarize the current knowledge on immune responses in bats in the context of infection with zoonotic agents and discuss concepts related to disease tolerance. Acknowledging the wide diversity of bats, the broad spectrum of bat-associated microbial species, and immune-related knowledge gaps, we identify research priorities necessary to provide evidence-based proofs for disease tolerance in bats. Since disease tolerance relies on networks of biological processes, we emphasize that investigations beyond the immune system, using novel technologies and computational biology, could jointly advance our knowledge about mechanisms conferring bats reservoir abilities. Although disease tolerance may not be the "one fit all" defense strategy, deciphering disease tolerance in bats could translate into novel therapies and inform prevention of spillover infections to humans and livestock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Pei
- Institute of Immunology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Anne Balkema-Buschmann
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute of Animal Health, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Anca Dorhoi
- Institute of Immunology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
- Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
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19
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Pannkuk EL, Moore MS, Bansal S, Kumar K, Suman S, Howell D, Kath JA, Kurta A, Reeder DM, Field KA. White adipose tissue remodeling in Little Brown Myotis (Myotis lucifugus) with white-nose syndrome. Metabolomics 2024; 20:100. [PMID: 39190217 DOI: 10.1007/s11306-024-02165-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
White-nose syndrome (WNS) is a fungal wildlife disease of bats that has caused precipitous declines in certain Nearctic bat species. A key driver of mortality is premature exhaustion of fat reserves, primarily white adipose tissue (WAT), that bats rely on to meet their metabolic needs during winter. However, the pathophysiological and metabolic effects of WNS have remained ill-defined. To elucidate metabolic mechanisms associated with WNS mortality, we infected a WNS susceptible species, the Little Brown Myotis (Myotis lucifugus), with Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd) and collected WAT biopsies for histology and targeted lipidomics. These results were compared to the WNS-resistant Big Brown Bat (Eptesicus fuscus). A similar distribution in broad lipid class was observed in both species, with total WAT primarily consisting of triacylglycerides. Baseline differences in WAT chemical composition between species showed that higher glycerophospholipids (GPs) levels in E. fuscus were dominated by unsaturated or monounsaturated moieties and n-6 (18:2, 20:2, 20:3, 20:4) fatty acids. Conversely, higher GP levels in M. lucifugus WAT were primarily compounds containing n-3 (20:5 and 22:5) fatty acids. Following Pd-infection, we found that perturbation to WAT reserves occurs in M. lucifugus, but not in the resistant E. fuscus. A total of 66 GPs (primarily glycerophosphocholines and glycerophosphoethanolamines) were higher in Pd-infected M. lucifugus, indicating perturbation to the WAT structural component. In addition to changes in lipid chemistry, smaller adipocyte sizes and increased extracellular matrix deposition was observed in Pd-infected M. lucifugus. This is the first study to describe WAT GP composition of bats with different susceptibilities to WNS and highlights that recovery from WNS may require repair from adipose remodeling in addition to replenishing depot fat during spring emergence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan L Pannkuk
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular & Cellular Biology, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3970 Reservoir Road, NW, New Research Building, Room E504, Washington, DC, 20057, USA.
- Center for Metabolomic Studies, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA.
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA.
| | - Marianne S Moore
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of the Virgin Islands, St. Thomas, USA
| | - Shivani Bansal
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Kamendra Kumar
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Shubhankar Suman
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Daryl Howell
- Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Des Moines, IA, USA
| | - Joseph A Kath
- Illinois Department of Natural Resources, Springfield, IL, USA
| | - Allen Kurta
- Department of Biology, Eastern Michigan University, Ypsilanti, MI, USA
| | - DeeAnn M Reeder
- Department of Biology, Bucknell University, Lewisburg, PA, USA
| | - Kenneth A Field
- Department of Biology, Bucknell University, Lewisburg, PA, USA
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20
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Mohl BP, Diederich S, Fischer K, Balkema-Buschmann A. Rousettus aegyptiacus Fruit Bats Do Not Support Productive Replication of Cedar Virus upon Experimental Challenge. Viruses 2024; 16:1359. [PMID: 39339836 PMCID: PMC11435843 DOI: 10.3390/v16091359] [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: 07/24/2024] [Revised: 08/21/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Cedar henipavirus (CedV), which was isolated from the urine of pteropodid bats in Australia, belongs to the genus Henipavirus in the family of Paramyxoviridae. It is closely related to the Hendra virus (HeV) and Nipah virus (NiV), which have been classified at the highest biosafety level (BSL4) due to their high pathogenicity for humans. Meanwhile, CedV is apathogenic for humans and animals. As such, it is often used as a model virus for the highly pathogenic henipaviruses HeV and NiV. In this study, we challenged eight Rousettus aegyptiacus fruit bats of different age groups with CedV in order to assess their age-dependent susceptibility to a CedV infection. Upon intranasal inoculation, none of the animals developed clinical signs, and only trace amounts of viral RNA were detectable at 2 days post-inoculation in the upper respiratory tract and the kidney as well as in oral and anal swab samples. Continuous monitoring of the body temperature and locomotion activity of four animals, however, indicated minor alterations in the challenged animals, which would have remained unnoticed otherwise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Björn-Patrick Mohl
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Suedufer 10, 17493 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Sandra Diederich
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Suedufer 10, 17493 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Kerstin Fischer
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Suedufer 10, 17493 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Anne Balkema-Buschmann
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Suedufer 10, 17493 Greifswald, Germany
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21
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Roffler AA, Maurer DP, Lunn TJ, Sironen T, Forbes KM, Schmidt AG. Bat humoral immunity and its role in viral pathogenesis, transmission, and zoonosis. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1269760. [PMID: 39156901 PMCID: PMC11329927 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1269760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Bats harbor viruses that can cause severe disease and death in humans including filoviruses (e.g., Ebola virus), henipaviruses (e.g., Hendra virus), and coronaviruses (e.g., SARS-CoV). Bats often tolerate these viruses without noticeable adverse immunological effects or succumbing to disease. Previous studies have largely focused on the role of the bat's innate immune response to control viral pathogenesis, but little is known about bat adaptive immunity. A key component of adaptive immunity is the humoral response, comprised of antibodies that can specifically recognize viral antigens with high affinity. The antibody genes within the 1,400 known bat species are highly diverse, and these genetic differences help shape fundamental aspects of the antibody repertoire, including starting diversity and viral antigen recognition. Whether antibodies in bats protect, mediate viral clearance, and prevent transmission within bat populations is poorly defined. Furthermore, it is unclear how neutralizing activity and Fc-mediated effector functions contribute to bat immunity. Although bats have canonical Fc genes (e.g., mu, gamma, alpha, and epsilon), the copy number and sequences of their Fc genes differ from those of humans and mice. The function of bat antibodies targeting viral antigens has been speculated based on sequencing data and polyclonal sera, but functional and biochemical data of monoclonal antibodies are lacking. In this review, we summarize current knowledge of bat humoral immunity, including variation between species, their potential protective role(s) against viral transmission and replication, and address how these antibodies may contribute to population dynamics within bats communities. A deeper understanding of bat adaptive immunity will provide insight into immune control of transmission and replication for emerging viruses with the potential for zoonotic spillover.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne A. Roffler
- Ragon Institute of Mass General, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Daniel P. Maurer
- Ragon Institute of Mass General, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Tamika J. Lunn
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, United States
| | - Tarja Sironen
- Department of Virology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Kristian M. Forbes
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, United States
| | - Aaron G. Schmidt
- Ragon Institute of Mass General, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, United States
- Department of Microbiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
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22
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Fieldman T. Evolutionary principles for modifying pathogen virulence. Crit Rev Microbiol 2024; 50:385-396. [PMID: 37146153 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2023.2203766] [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: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Current methods for combatting infectious diseases are largely limited to the prevention of infection, enhancing host immunity (via vaccination), and administration of small molecules to slow the growth of or kill pathogens (e.g. antimicrobials). Beyond efforts to deter the rise of antimicrobial resistance, little consideration is given to pathogen evolution. Natural selection will favor different levels of virulence under different circumstances. Experimental studies and a wealth of theoretical work have identified many likely evolutionary determinants of virulence. Some of these, such as transmission dynamics, are amenable to modification by clinicians and public health practitioners. In this article, we provide a conceptual overview of virulence, followed by an analysis of modifiable evolutionary determinants of virulence including vaccinations, antibiotics, and transmission dynamics. Finally, we discuss both the importance and limitations of taking an evolutionary approach to reducing pathogen virulence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom Fieldman
- Clinical Microbiology, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, UK
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23
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Pawęska JT, Storm N, Jansen van Vuren P, Markotter W, Kemp A. Attempted Transmission of Marburg Virus by Bat-Associated Fleas Thaumapsylla breviceps breviceps (Ischnopsyllidae: Thaumapsyllinae) to the Egyptian Rousette Bat ( Rousettus aegyptiacus). Viruses 2024; 16:1197. [PMID: 39205171 PMCID: PMC11360628 DOI: 10.3390/v16081197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Egyptian rousette bats (ERBs) are implicated as reservoir hosts for Marburg virus (MARV), but natural mechanisms involved in maintenance of MARV in ERB populations remain undefined. A number of hematophagous ectoparasites, including fleas, parasitize bats. Subcutaneous (SC) inoculation of ERBs with MARV consistently results in viremia, suggesting that infectious MARV could be ingested by blood-sucking ectoparasites during feeding. In our study, MARV RNA was detected in fleas that took a blood meal during feeding on viremic bats on days 3, 7, and 11 after SC inoculation. Virus concentration in individual ectoparasites was consistent with detectable levels of viremia in the blood of infected host bats. There was neither seroconversion nor viremia in control bats kept in close contact with MARV-infected bats infested with fleas for up to 40 days post-exposure. In fleas inoculated intracoelomically, MARV was detected up to 14 days after intracoelomic (IC) inoculation, but the virus concentration was lower than that delivered in the inoculum. All bats that had been infested with inoculated, viremic fleas remained virologically and serologically negative up to 38 days after infestation. Of 493 fleas collected from a wild ERB colony in Matlapitsi Cave, South Africa, where the enzootic transmission of MARV occurs, all tested negative for MARV RNA. While our findings seem to demonstrate that bat fleas lack vectorial capacity to transmit MARV biologically, their role in mechanical transmission should not be discounted. Regular blood-feeds, intra- and interhost mobility, direct feeding on blood vessels resulting in venous damage, and roosting behaviour of ERBs provide a potential physical bridge for MARV dissemination in densely populated cave-dwelling bats by fleas. The virus transfer might take place through inoculation of skin, mucosal membranes, and wounds when contaminated fleas are squashed during auto- and allogrooming, eating, biting, or fighting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janusz T. Pawęska
- Centre for Emerging Zoonotic and Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases of the National Health Laboratory Service, Sandringham 2131, South Africa; (N.S.); (P.J.v.V.); (A.K.)
- Centre for Viral Zoonoses, Department of Medical Virology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2050, South Africa
| | - Nadia Storm
- Centre for Emerging Zoonotic and Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases of the National Health Laboratory Service, Sandringham 2131, South Africa; (N.S.); (P.J.v.V.); (A.K.)
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Boston University, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Petrus Jansen van Vuren
- Centre for Emerging Zoonotic and Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases of the National Health Laboratory Service, Sandringham 2131, South Africa; (N.S.); (P.J.v.V.); (A.K.)
- CSIRO Health & Biosecurity, Australian Centre for Disease Preparedness, Geelong, VIC 3220, Australia
| | - Wanda Markotter
- Centre for Viral Zoonoses, Department of Medical Virology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0001, South Africa;
| | - Alan Kemp
- Centre for Emerging Zoonotic and Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases of the National Health Laboratory Service, Sandringham 2131, South Africa; (N.S.); (P.J.v.V.); (A.K.)
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24
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Apoorva, Singh SK. A tale of endurance: bats, viruses and immune dynamics. Future Microbiol 2024; 19:841-856. [PMID: 38648093 PMCID: PMC11382704 DOI: 10.2217/fmb-2023-0233] [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: 10/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
The emergence of highly zoonotic viral infections has propelled bat research forward. The viral outbreaks including Hendra virus, Nipah virus, Marburg virus, Ebola virus, Rabies virus, Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus, SARS-CoV and the latest SARS-CoV-2 have been epidemiologically linked to various bat species. Bats possess unique immunological characteristics that allow them to serve as a potential viral reservoir. Bats are also known to protect themselves against viruses and maintain their immunity. Therefore, there is a need for in-depth understanding into bat-virus biology to unravel the major factors contributing to the coexistence and spread of viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Apoorva
- Molecular Biology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, India
| | - Sunit Kumar Singh
- Molecular Biology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, 221005, India
- Dr. B R Ambedkar Center for Biomedical Research, University of Delhi (North Campus), New Delhi, 110007, India
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25
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Guito JC, Kirejczyk SGM, Schuh AJ, Amman BR, Sealy TK, Graziano J, Spengler JR, Harmon JR, Wozniak DM, Prescott JB, Towner JS. Coordinated inflammatory responses dictate Marburg virus control by reservoir bats. Nat Commun 2024; 15:1826. [PMID: 38418477 PMCID: PMC10902335 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46226-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Bats are increasingly recognized as reservoirs of emerging zoonotic pathogens. Egyptian rousette bats (ERBs) are the known reservoir of Marburg virus (MARV), a filovirus that causes deadly Marburg virus disease (MVD) in humans. However, ERBs harbor MARV asymptomatically, likely due to a coadapted and specific host immunity-pathogen relationship. Recently, we measured transcriptional responses in MARV-infected ERB whole tissues, showing that these bats possess a disease tolerant strategy that limits pro-inflammatory gene induction, presumably averting MVD-linked immunopathology. However, the host resistant strategy by which ERBs actively limit MARV burden remains elusive, which we hypothesize requires localized inflammatory responses unresolvable at bulk-tissue scale. Here, we use dexamethasone to attenuate ERB pro-inflammatory responses and assess MARV replication, shedding and disease. We show that MARV-infected ERBs naturally mount coordinated pro-inflammatory responses at liver foci of infection, comprised of recruited mononuclear phagocytes and T cells, the latter of which proliferate with likely MARV-specificity. When pro-inflammatory responses are diminished, ERBs display heightened MARV replication, oral/rectal shedding and severe MVD-like liver pathology, demonstrating that ERBs balance immunoprotective tolerance with discreet MARV-resistant pro-inflammatory responses. These data further suggest that natural ERB immunomodulatory stressors like food scarcity and habitat disruption may potentiate viral shedding, transmission and therefore outbreak risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan C Guito
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
| | - Shannon G M Kirejczyk
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
- Division of Pathology, Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
- StageBio, Mount Jackson, VA, 22842, USA
| | - Amy J Schuh
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
| | - Brian R Amman
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
| | - Tara K Sealy
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
| | - James Graziano
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
| | - Jessica R Spengler
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
| | - Jessica R Harmon
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA
| | - David M Wozniak
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, 13353, Berlin, Germany
- Virology Department, Bernhard-Nocht-Institute for Tropical Medicine, 20359, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Joseph B Prescott
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA.
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, 13353, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Jonathan S Towner
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, 30329, USA.
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26
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Riesle-Sbarbaro SA, Wibbelt G, Düx A, Kouakou V, Bokelmann M, Hansen-Kant K, Kirchoff N, Laue M, Kromarek N, Lander A, Vogel U, Wahlbrink A, Wozniak DM, Scott DP, Prescott JB, Schaade L, Couacy-Hymann E, Kurth A. Selective replication and vertical transmission of Ebola virus in experimentally infected Angolan free-tailed bats. Nat Commun 2024; 15:925. [PMID: 38297087 PMCID: PMC10830451 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45231-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The natural reservoir of Ebola virus (EBOV), agent of a zoonosis burdening several African countries, remains unidentified, albeit evidence points towards bats. In contrast, the ecology of the related Marburg virus is much better understood; with experimental infections of bats being instrumental for understanding reservoir-pathogen interactions. Experiments have focused on elucidating reservoir competence, infection kinetics and specifically horizontal transmission, although, vertical transmission plays a key role in many viral enzootic cycles. Herein, we investigate the permissiveness of Angolan free-tailed bats (AFBs), known to harbour Bombali virus, to other filoviruses: Ebola, Marburg, Taï Forest and Reston viruses. We demonstrate that only the bats inoculated with EBOV show high and disseminated viral replication and infectious virus shedding, without clinical disease, while the other filoviruses fail to establish productive infections. Notably, we evidence placental-specific tissue tropism and a unique ability of EBOV to traverse the placenta, infect and persist in foetal tissues of AFBs, which results in distinct genetic signatures of adaptive evolution. These findings not only demonstrate plausible routes of horizontal and vertical transmission in these bats, which are expectant of reservoir hosts, but may also reveal an ancillary transmission mechanism, potentially required for the maintenance of EBOV in small reservoir populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- S A Riesle-Sbarbaro
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - G Wibbelt
- Leibniz Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - A Düx
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
- Helmholtz Institute for One Health, Greifswald, Germany
| | - V Kouakou
- LANADA, Laboratoire National d'Appui au Développement Agricole, Bingerville, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - M Bokelmann
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - K Hansen-Kant
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - N Kirchoff
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - M Laue
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - N Kromarek
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - A Lander
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - U Vogel
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - A Wahlbrink
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - D M Wozniak
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
- Bernhard-Nocht-Institute for Tropical Medicine, Hamburg, Germany
| | - D P Scott
- Rocky Mountain Laboratories, National Institutes of Health, Hamilton, MT, USA
| | - J B Prescott
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - L Schaade
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - E Couacy-Hymann
- LANADA, Laboratoire National d'Appui au Développement Agricole, Bingerville, Côte d'Ivoire
- Centre National de Recherches Agronomiques, LIRED, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire
| | - A Kurth
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany.
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27
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Guito JC, Arnold CE, Schuh AJ, Amman BR, Sealy TK, Spengler JR, Harmon JR, Coleman-McCray JD, Sanchez-Lockhart M, Palacios GF, Towner JS, Prescott JB. Peripheral immune responses to filoviruses in a reservoir versus spillover hosts reveal transcriptional correlates of disease. Front Immunol 2024; 14:1306501. [PMID: 38259437 PMCID: PMC10800976 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1306501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Several filoviruses, including Marburg virus (MARV), cause severe disease in humans and nonhuman primates (NHPs). However, the Egyptian rousette bat (ERB, Rousettus aegyptiacus), the only known MARV reservoir, shows no overt illness upon natural or experimental infection, which, like other bat hosts of zoonoses, is due to well-adapted, likely species-specific immune features. Despite advances in understanding reservoir immune responses to filoviruses, ERB peripheral blood responses to MARV and how they compare to those of diseased filovirus-infected spillover hosts remain ill-defined. We thus conducted a longitudinal analysis of ERB blood gene responses during acute MARV infection. These data were then contrasted with a compilation of published primate blood response studies to elucidate gene correlates of filovirus protection versus disease. Our work expands on previous findings in MARV-infected ERBs by supporting both host resistance and disease tolerance mechanisms, offers insight into the peripheral immunocellular repertoire during infection, and provides the most direct known cross-examination between reservoir and spillover hosts of the most prevalently-regulated response genes, pathways and activities associated with differences in filovirus pathogenesis and pathogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan C. Guito
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Catherine E. Arnold
- Biological Defense Research Directorate, Naval Medical Research Center, Frederick, MD, United States
- RD-CBR, Research and Development Directorate, Chemical and Biological Technologies Directorate, Research Center of Excellence, Defense Threat Reduction Agency, Fort Belvoir, VA, United States
| | - Amy J. Schuh
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Brian R. Amman
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Tara K. Sealy
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Jessica R. Spengler
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Jessica R. Harmon
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Joann D. Coleman-McCray
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Mariano Sanchez-Lockhart
- Center for Genome Sciences, Molecular Biology Division, U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases, Fort Detrick, MD, United States
| | - Gustavo F. Palacios
- Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Jonathan S. Towner
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Joseph B. Prescott
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, United States
- Center for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
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28
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Vicente-Santos A, Lock LR, Allira M, Dyer KE, Dunsmore A, Tu W, Volokhov DV, Herrera C, Lei GS, Relich RF, Janech MG, Bland AM, Simmons NB, Becker DJ. Serum proteomics reveals a tolerant immune phenotype across multiple pathogen taxa in wild vampire bats. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1281732. [PMID: 38193073 PMCID: PMC10773587 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1281732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Bats carry many zoonotic pathogens without showing pronounced pathology, with a few exceptions. The underlying immune tolerance mechanisms in bats remain poorly understood, although information-rich omics tools hold promise for identifying a wide range of immune markers and their relationship with infection. To evaluate the generality of immune responses to infection, we assessed the differences and similarities in serum proteomes of wild vampire bats (Desmodus rotundus) across infection status with five taxonomically distinct pathogens: bacteria (Bartonella spp., hemoplasmas), protozoa (Trypanosoma cruzi), and DNA (herpesviruses) and RNA (alphacoronaviruses) viruses. From 19 bats sampled in 2019 in Belize, we evaluated the up- and downregulated immune responses of infected versus uninfected individuals for each pathogen. Using a high-quality genome annotation for vampire bats, we identified 586 serum proteins but found no evidence for differential abundance nor differences in composition between infected and uninfected bats. However, using receiver operating characteristic curves, we identified four to 48 candidate biomarkers of infection depending on the pathogen, including seven overlapping biomarkers (DSG2, PCBP1, MGAM, APOA4, DPEP1, GOT1, and IGFALS). Enrichment analysis of these proteins revealed that our viral pathogens, but not the bacteria or protozoa studied, were associated with upregulation of extracellular and cytoplasmatic secretory vesicles (indicative of viral replication) and downregulation of complement activation and coagulation cascades. Additionally, herpesvirus infection elicited a downregulation of leukocyte-mediated immunity and defense response but an upregulation of an inflammatory and humoral immune response. In contrast to our two viral infections, we found downregulation of lipid and cholesterol homeostasis and metabolism with Bartonella spp. infection, of platelet-dense and secretory granules with hemoplasma infection, and of blood coagulation pathways with T. cruzi infection. Despite the small sample size, our results suggest that vampire bats have a similar suite of immune mechanisms for viruses distinct from responses to the other pathogen taxa, and we identify potential biomarkers that can expand our understanding of pathogenesis of these infections in bats. By applying a proteomic approach to a multi-pathogen system in wild animals, our study provides a distinct framework that could be expanded across bat species to increase our understanding of how bats tolerate pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lauren R. Lock
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, United States
| | - Meagan Allira
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, United States
| | - Kristin E. Dyer
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, United States
| | - Annalise Dunsmore
- Department of Tropical Medicine, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
- Vector-Borne and Infectious Disease Research Center, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Weihong Tu
- Department of Tropical Medicine, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
- Vector-Borne and Infectious Disease Research Center, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Dmitriy V. Volokhov
- Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research, U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Silver Spring, MD, United States
| | - Claudia Herrera
- Department of Tropical Medicine, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
- Vector-Borne and Infectious Disease Research Center, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Guang-Sheng Lei
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Ryan F. Relich
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Michael G. Janech
- Hollings Marine Laboratory, Charleston, SC, United States
- Department of Biology, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Alison M. Bland
- Hollings Marine Laboratory, Charleston, SC, United States
- Department of Biology, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Nancy B. Simmons
- Department of Mammalogy, Division of Vertebrate Zoology, American Museum of Natural History, New York, NY, United States
| | - Daniel J. Becker
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, United States
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Dhivahar J, Parthasarathy A, Krishnan K, Kovi BS, Pandian GN. Bat-associated microbes: Opportunities and perils, an overview. Heliyon 2023; 9:e22351. [PMID: 38125540 PMCID: PMC10730444 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e22351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The potential biotechnological uses of bat-associated bacteria are discussed briefly, indicating avenues for biotechnological applications of bat-associated microbes. The uniqueness of bats in terms of their lifestyle, genomes and molecular immunology may predispose bats to act as disease reservoirs. Molecular phylogenetic analysis has shown several instances of bats harbouring the ancestral lineages of bacterial (Bartonella), protozoal (Plasmodium, Trypanosoma cruzi) and viral (SARS-CoV2) pathogens infecting humans. Along with the transmission of viruses from bats, we also discuss the potential roles of bat-associated bacteria, fungi, and protozoan parasites in emerging diseases. Current evidence suggests that environmental changes and interactions between wildlife, livestock, and humans contribute to the spill-over of infectious agents from bats to other hosts. Domestic animals including livestock may act as intermediate amplifying hosts for bat-origin pathogens to transmit to humans. An increasing number of studies investigating bat pathogen diversity and infection dynamics have been published. However, whether or how these infectious agents are transmitted both within bat populations and to other hosts, including humans, often remains unknown. Metagenomic approaches are uncovering the dynamics and distribution of potential pathogens in bat microbiomes, which might improve the understanding of disease emergence and transmission. Here, we summarize the current knowledge on bat zoonoses of public health concern and flag the gaps in the knowledge to enable further research and allocation of resources for tackling future outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. Dhivahar
- Research Department of Zoology, St. Johns College, Palayamkottai, 627002, India
- Department of Plant Biology and Biotechnology, Laboratory of Microbial Ecology, Loyola College, Chennai, 600034, India
- Department of Biotechnology, Laboratory of Virology, University of Madras, Chennai, 600025, India
| | - Anutthaman Parthasarathy
- Department of Chemistry and Biosciences, Richmond Building, University of Bradford, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD7 1DP, United Kingdom
| | - Kathiravan Krishnan
- Department of Biotechnology, Laboratory of Virology, University of Madras, Chennai, 600025, India
| | - Basavaraj S. Kovi
- Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences (WPI-iCeMS), Yoshida Ushinomiyacho, 69, Sakyo Ward, 606-8501, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Ganesh N. Pandian
- Institute for Integrated Cell-Material Sciences (WPI-iCeMS), Yoshida Ushinomiyacho, 69, Sakyo Ward, 606-8501, Kyoto, Japan
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30
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Vega-Rodriguez W, Ly H. Emergence of deadly viral haemorrhagic fever disease outbreaks in West Africa. Virulence 2023; 14:2176980. [PMID: 36748841 PMCID: PMC10732656 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2023.2176980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent viral hemorrhagic fever (VHF) disease outbreaks caused by Ebola virus (EBOV) and Marburg virus (MARV) in West Africa are unique and alarming. The intents of this editorial are to highlight what is known about these viruses and the disease outbreaks that they cause in the African continent and elsewhere and to raise awareness of a related virus called Lassa virus (LASV) that causes endemic viral hemorrhagic fever infections and frequent outbreaks in West Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Widaliz Vega-Rodriguez
- Department of Veterinary & Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, St Paul, MN, USA
| | - Hinh Ly
- Department of Veterinary & Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, St Paul, MN, USA
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31
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Amman BR, Schuh AJ, Akurut G, Kamugisha K, Namanya D, Sealy TK, Graziano JC, Enyel E, Wright EA, Balinandi S, Lutwama JJ, Kading RC, Atimnedi P, Towner JS. Micro‒Global Positioning Systems for Identifying Nightly Opportunities for Marburg Virus Spillover to Humans by Egyptian Rousette Bats. Emerg Infect Dis 2023; 29:2238-2245. [PMID: 37877537 PMCID: PMC10617345 DOI: 10.3201/eid2911.230362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Marburg virus disease, caused by Marburg and Ravn orthomarburgviruses, emerges sporadically in sub-Saharan Africa and is often fatal in humans. The natural reservoir is the Egyptian rousette bat (ERB), which sheds virus in saliva, urine, and feces. Frugivorous ERBs discard test-bitten and partially eaten fruit, potentially leaving infectious virus behind that could be consumed by other susceptible animals or humans. Historically, 8 of 17 known Marburg virus disease outbreaks have been linked to human encroachment on ERB habitats, but no linkage exists for the other 9 outbreaks, raising the question of how bats and humans might intersect, leading to virus spillover. We used micro‒global positioning systems to identify nightly ERB foraging locations. ERBs from a known Marburg virus‒infected population traveled long distances to feed in cultivated fruit trees near homes. Our results show that ERB foraging behavior represents a Marburg virus spillover risk to humans and plausibly explains the origins of some past outbreaks.
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Weber N, Nagy M, Markotter W, Schaer J, Puechmaille SJ, Sutton J, Dávalos LM, Dusabe MC, Ejotre I, Fenton MB, Knörnschild M, López-Baucells A, Medellin RA, Metz M, Mubareka S, Nsengimana O, O'Mara MT, Racey PA, Tuttle M, Twizeyimana I, Vicente-Santos A, Tschapka M, Voigt CC, Wikelski M, Dechmann DK, Reeder DM. Robust evidence for bats as reservoir hosts is lacking in most African virus studies: a review and call to optimize sampling and conserve bats. Biol Lett 2023; 19:20230358. [PMID: 37964576 PMCID: PMC10646460 DOI: 10.1098/rsbl.2023.0358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Africa experiences frequent emerging disease outbreaks among humans, with bats often proposed as zoonotic pathogen hosts. We comprehensively reviewed virus-bat findings from papers published between 1978 and 2020 to evaluate the evidence that African bats are reservoir and/or bridging hosts for viruses that cause human disease. We present data from 162 papers (of 1322) with original findings on (1) numbers and species of bats sampled across bat families and the continent, (2) how bats were selected for study inclusion, (3) if bats were terminally sampled, (4) what types of ecological data, if any, were recorded and (5) which viruses were detected and with what methodology. We propose a scheme for evaluating presumed virus-host relationships by evidence type and quality, using the contrasting available evidence for Orthoebolavirus versus Orthomarburgvirus as an example. We review the wording in abstracts and discussions of all 162 papers, identifying key framing terms, how these refer to findings, and how they might contribute to people's beliefs about bats. We discuss the impact of scientific research communication on public perception and emphasize the need for strategies that minimize human-bat conflict and support bat conservation. Finally, we make recommendations for best practices that will improve virological study metadata.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie Weber
- Department of Migration, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Radolfzell, Germany
- University of Ulm, Institute of Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation Genomics, Ulm, Germany
| | - Martina Nagy
- Museum für Naturkunde, Leibniz-Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity Science, Berlin, Germany
| | - Wanda Markotter
- Centre for Viral Zoonoses, Department of Medical Virology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Juliane Schaer
- Museum für Naturkunde, Leibniz-Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity Science, Berlin, Germany
- Institute of Biology, Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sébastien J. Puechmaille
- ISEM, University of Montpellier, Montpellier, France
- Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France
- Zoological Institute and Museum, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany
| | | | - Liliana M. Dávalos
- Department of Ecology and Evolution and Consortium for Inter-Disciplinary Environmental Research, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, USA
| | | | - Imran Ejotre
- Institute of Biology, Humboldt University, Berlin, Germany
- Muni University, Arua, Uganda
| | - M. Brock Fenton
- Department of Biology, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mirjam Knörnschild
- Museum für Naturkunde, Leibniz-Institute for Evolution and Biodiversity Science, Berlin, Germany
- Evolutionary Ethology, Institute for Biology, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Balboa, Ancón, Panama
| | | | - Rodrigo A. Medellin
- Institute of Ecology, National Autonomous University of Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Samira Mubareka
- Sunnybrook Research Institute and Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - M. Teague O'Mara
- Department of Migration, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Radolfzell, Germany
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Balboa, Ancón, Panama
- Bat Conservation International Austin, TX, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, Southeastern Louisiana University, Hammond, LA, USA
| | - Paul A. Racey
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Merlin Tuttle
- Merlin Tuttle's Bat Conservation, Austin, TX USA
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of Texas, Austin, USA
| | | | - Amanda Vicente-Santos
- Graduate Program in Population Biology, Ecology and Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
- Department of Biology, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, USA
| | - Marco Tschapka
- University of Ulm, Institute of Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation Genomics, Ulm, Germany
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Balboa, Ancón, Panama
| | | | - Martin Wikelski
- Department of Migration, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Radolfzell, Germany
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Dina K.N. Dechmann
- Department of Migration, Max Planck Institute of Animal Behavior, Radolfzell, Germany
- Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute, Balboa, Ancón, Panama
- Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
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33
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Dupuy LC, Spiropoulou CF, Towner JS, Spengler JR, Sullivan NJ, Montgomery JM. Filoviruses: Scientific Gaps and Prototype Pathogen Recommendation. J Infect Dis 2023; 228:S446-S459. [PMID: 37849404 PMCID: PMC11009505 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiad362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Viruses in the family Filoviridae, including the commonly known Ebola (EBOV) and Marburg (MARV) viruses, can cause severe hemorrhagic fever in humans and nonhuman primates. Sporadic outbreaks of filovirus disease occur in sub-Saharan Africa with reported case fatality rates ranging from 25% to 90%. The high mortality and increasing frequency and magnitude of recent outbreaks along with the increased potential for spread from rural to urban areas highlight the importance of pandemic preparedness for these viruses. Despite their designation as high-priority pathogens, numerous scientific gaps exist in critical areas. In this review, these gaps and an assessment of potential prototype pathogen candidates are presented for this important virus family.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesley C Dupuy
- Virology Branch, Division of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Christina F Spiropoulou
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jonathan S Towner
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Jessica R Spengler
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Nancy J Sullivan
- National Emerging Infectious Diseases Laboratories, Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Joel M Montgomery
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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Burke B, Rocha SM, Zhan S, Eckley M, Reasoner C, Addetia A, Lewis J, Fagre A, Charley PA, Richt JA, Weiss SR, Tjalkens RB, Veesler D, Aboellail T, Schountz T. Regulatory T cell-like response to SARS-CoV-2 in Jamaican fruit bats (Artibeus jamaicensis) transduced with human ACE2. PLoS Pathog 2023; 19:e1011728. [PMID: 37856551 PMCID: PMC10617724 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1011728] [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: 02/19/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Insectivorous Old World horseshoe bats (Rhinolophus spp.) are the likely source of the ancestral SARS-CoV-2 prior to its spillover into humans and causing the COVID-19 pandemic. Natural coronavirus infections of bats appear to be principally confined to the intestines, suggesting fecal-oral transmission; however, little is known about the biology of SARS-related coronaviruses in bats. Previous experimental challenges of Egyptian fruit bats (Rousettus aegyptiacus) resulted in limited infection restricted to the respiratory tract, whereas insectivorous North American big brown bats (Eptesicus fuscus) showed no evidence of infection. In the present study, we challenged Jamaican fruit bats (Artibeus jamaicensis) with SARS-CoV-2 to determine their susceptibility. Infection was confined to the intestine for only a few days with prominent viral nucleocapsid antigen in epithelial cells, and mononuclear cells of the lamina propria and Peyer's patches, but with no evidence of infection of other tissues; none of the bats showed visible signs of disease or seroconverted. Expression levels of ACE2 were low in the lungs, which may account for the lack of pulmonary infection. Bats were then intranasally inoculated with a replication-defective adenovirus encoding human ACE2 and 5 days later challenged with SARS-CoV-2. Viral antigen was prominent in lungs for up to 14 days, with loss of pulmonary cellularity during this time; however, the bats did not exhibit weight loss or visible signs of disease. From day 7, bats had low to moderate IgG antibody titers to spike protein by ELISA, and one bat on day 10 had low-titer neutralizing antibodies. CD4+ helper T cells became activated upon ex vivo recall stimulation with SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid peptide library and exhibited elevated mRNA expression of the regulatory T cell cytokines interleukin-10 and transforming growth factor-β, which may have limited inflammatory pathology. Collectively, these data show that Jamaican fruit bats are poorly susceptible to SARS-CoV-2 but that expression of human ACE2 in their lungs leads to robust infection and an adaptive immune response with low-titer antibodies and a regulatory T cell-like response that may explain the lack of prominent inflammation in the lungs. This model will allow for insight of how SARS-CoV-2 infects bats and how bat innate and adaptive immune responses engage the virus without overt clinical disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradly Burke
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Savannah M. Rocha
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Shijun Zhan
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Miles Eckley
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Clara Reasoner
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Amin Addetia
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Juliette Lewis
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Anna Fagre
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Phillida A. Charley
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Juergen A. Richt
- Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Susan R. Weiss
- Department of Microbiology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Ronald B. Tjalkens
- Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - David Veesler
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, United States of America
| | - Tawfik Aboellail
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
| | - Tony Schountz
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, United States of America
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Srivastava S, Sharma D, Kumar S, Sharma A, Rijal R, Asija A, Adhikari S, Rustagi S, Sah S, Al-qaim ZH, Bashyal P, Mohanty A, Barboza JJ, Rodriguez-Morales AJ, Sah R. Emergence of Marburg virus: a global perspective on fatal outbreaks and clinical challenges. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1239079. [PMID: 37771708 PMCID: PMC10526840 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1239079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The Marburg virus (MV), identified in 1967, has caused deadly outbreaks worldwide, the mortality rate of Marburg virus disease (MVD) varies depending on the outbreak and virus strain, but the average case fatality rate is around 50%. However, case fatality rates have varied from 24 to 88% in past outbreaks depending on virus strain and case management. Designated a priority pathogen by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), MV induces hemorrhagic fever, organ failure, and coagulation issues in both humans and non-human primates. This review presents an extensive exploration of MVD outbreak evolution, virus structure, and genome, as well as the sources and transmission routes of MV, including human-to-human spread and involvement of natural hosts such as the Egyptian fruit bat (Rousettus aegyptiacus) and other Chiroptera species. The disease progression involves early viral replication impacting immune cells like monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells, followed by damage to the spleen, liver, and secondary lymphoid organs. Subsequent spread occurs to hepatocytes, endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and epithelial cells. MV can evade host immune response by inhibiting interferon type I (IFN-1) synthesis. This comprehensive investigation aims to enhance understanding of pathophysiology, cellular tropism, and injury sites in the host, aiding insights into MVD causes. Clinical data and treatments are discussed, albeit current methods to halt MVD outbreaks remain elusive. By elucidating MV infection's history and mechanisms, this review seeks to advance MV disease treatment, drug development, and vaccine creation. The World Health Organization (WHO) considers MV a high-concern filovirus causing severe and fatal hemorrhagic fever, with a death rate ranging from 24 to 88%. The virus often spreads through contact with infected individuals, originating from animals. Visitors to bat habitats like caves or mines face higher risk. We tailored this search strategy for four databases: Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and PubMed. we primarily utilized search terms such as "Marburg virus," "Epidemiology," "Vaccine," "Outbreak," and "Transmission." To enhance comprehension of the virus and associated disease, this summary offers a comprehensive overview of MV outbreaks, pathophysiology, and management strategies. Continued research and learning hold promise for preventing and controlling future MVD outbreaks. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shriyansh Srivastava
- Department of Pharmacology, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University (DPSRU), New Delhi, India
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Allied Sciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Deepika Sharma
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Allied Sciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Sachin Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University (DPSRU), New Delhi, India
| | - Aditya Sharma
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medical and Allied Sciences, Galgotias University, Greater Noida, India
| | - Rishikesh Rijal
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Ankush Asija
- WVU United Hospital Center, Bridgeport, WV, United States
| | | | - Sarvesh Rustagi
- School of Applied and Life Sciences, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Sanjit Sah
- Global Consortium for Public Health and Research, Datta Meghe Institute of Higher Education and Research, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Wardha, India
- Department of Anesthesia Techniques, SR Sanjeevani Hospital, Siraha, Nepal
| | | | - Prashant Bashyal
- Lumbini Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Kathmandu University Parvas, Palpa, Nepal
| | - Aroop Mohanty
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | | | - Alfonso J. Rodriguez-Morales
- Master Program on Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Universidad Científica del Sur, Lima, Peru
- Gilbert and Rose-Marie Chagoury School of Medicine, Lebanese American University, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Ranjit Sah
- Department of Microbiology, Tribhuvan University Teaching Spital, Institute of Medicine, Kathmandu, Nepal
- Department of Microbiology, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune, Maharashtra, India
- Department of Public Health Dentistry, Dr. D. Y. Patil Dental College and Hospital, Dr. D. Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune, Maharashtra, India
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Sibomana O, Kubwimana E. First-ever Marburg virus disease outbreak in Equatorial Guinea and Tanzania: An imminent crisis in West and East Africa. Immun Inflamm Dis 2023; 11:e980. [PMID: 37647447 PMCID: PMC10461415 DOI: 10.1002/iid3.980] [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: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The Marburg virus, which is a member of the same virus family as the Ebola virus called Filoviridae, causes the severe infectious disease known as Marburg virus disease (MVD). Previously, different outbreaks of MVD have appeared in different African countries, including Ghana, Guinea, Uganda, Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kenya, and South Africa. For the first time, Equatorial Guinea and Tanzania are experiencing MVD outbreaks. A total of 17 laboratory-confirmed cases of MVD and 23 probable cases have been reported in Equatorial Guinea since the confirmation of the outbreak on February 13, 2023. The first MVD outbreak in the United Republic of Tanzania was formally confirmed by the Ministry of Health on March 21, 2023. As of 22 March, there were eight cases and five fatalities (case fatality ratio [CFR]: 62.5%). Due to the facts that Ebebiyin and Nsock Nsomo districts, the affected regions of Equatorial Guinea, borders Cameroon and Gabon, and Kagera region, the affected region of Tanzania, borders Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi, there is fear of cross-border spread of MVD due to cross-border migrations, and this can be a great crisis in West and East Africa. Although there are currently outbreaks of MVD in Equatorial Guinea and Tanzania, there is currently no proof of an epidemiological connection between the two outbreaks. The aim of this article is to describe MVD, describe its first outbreak in Equatorial Guinea and Tanzania, explain the efforts being used and the challenges being faced in MVD mitigation, and recommend different measures to be taken to cope with the outbreak of MVD in Equatorial Guinea and Tanzania.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Sibomana
- Department of General Medicine and Surgery, College of Medicine and Health SciencesUniversity of RwandaKigaliRwanda
| | - Emmanuel Kubwimana
- Department of Dental Surgery, College of Medicine and Health SciencesUniversity of RwandaKigaliRwanda
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John TJ, Kompithra RZ. Eco-epidemiology triad to explain infectious diseases. Indian J Med Res 2023; 158:107-112. [PMID: 37675687 PMCID: PMC10645024 DOI: 10.4103/ijmr.ijmr_3031_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- T. Jacob John
- Formerly Department of Clinical Virology, Christian Medical College, Vellore 632 004, Tamil Nadu, India
- Formerly Department of Clinical Microbiology, Christian Medical College, Vellore 632 004, Tamil Nadu, India
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Schuh AJ, Amman BR, Guito JC, Graziano JC, Sealy TK, Towner JS. Tick salivary gland components dampen Kasokero virus infection and shedding in its vertebrate reservoir, the Egyptian rousette bat (Rousettus aegyptiacus). Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:249. [PMID: 37488618 PMCID: PMC10367358 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05853-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The human-pathogenic Kasokero virus (KASV) circulates in an enzootic transmission cycle between Egyptian rousette bats (ERBs; Rousettus aegyptiacus) and their argasid tick ectoparasites, Ornithodoros (Reticulinasus) faini. Although tick salivary gland components have been shown to potentiate virus infection in vertebrate non-reservoirs (i.e. incidental hosts or small animal models of disease), there is a lack of information on the effect of tick salivary gland components on viral infection and shedding in vertebrate reservoirs. METHODS To determine the impact of tick salivary gland components on KASV infection and shedding in ERBs, KASV loads were quantified in blood, oral swab, rectal swab, and urine specimens collected daily through 18 days post inoculation from groups of ERBs intradermally inoculated with KASV or KASV + O. (R.) faini tick salivary gland extract (SGE). RESULTS Bats inoculated with KASV + tick SGE had significantly lower peak and cumulative KASV viremias and rectal shedding loads compared to bats inoculated with KASV only. CONCLUSIONS We report for the first time to our knowledge that tick salivary gland components dampen arbovirus infection and shedding in a vertebrate reservoir. This study advances our understanding of biological factors underlying arbovirus maintenance in nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy J Schuh
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA.
- United States Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, Rockville, MD, USA.
| | - Brian R Amman
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jonathan C Guito
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - James C Graziano
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Tara K Sealy
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Jonathan S Towner
- Viral Special Pathogens Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA, USA.
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Williams SMT, Ansumana R, Johnny J, Bakarr IA, Osborne A. Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Assessment on Bat-Borne Zoonotic Diseases Among the People of Moyamba District, Sierra Leone. Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2023; 16:1331-1342. [PMID: 37489233 PMCID: PMC10363381 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s413802] [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: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Bats are considered wildlife species of public health concern, as they are known to host various pathogenic agents, and their interactions with humans are potential routes of pathogen spillover. A high level of knowledge on Bat-borne Zoonotic Diseases (BZD), their causative agents, signs, symptoms, mode and pattern of transmission, health attitudes, and practices towards the disorders are vital parameters in handling them. This study aimed to look into BZD knowledge, public attitudes, and behaviour. Methods We surveyed the 14 chiefdoms of Moyamba district. A total of 421 participants were randomly sampled using closed-ended questionnaire. Simple linear regression analysis was used to determine the effects of gender, age, education, and livelihood opportunities on BZD knowledge (at 95% confidence interval and alpha value = 0.05). The findings were analysed and correlated with a scientific and public health perspective to assess the breadth of knowledge and awareness of BZD among the people of Moyamba district. Results The findings from the study show a low level of knowledge on BZD among the people of the Moyamba district, with only 119 (28.3%) individuals that had some knowledge about BZD. Of those that knew about BZD, 94 (79.0%) had very little knowledge, 24 (20.2%) had a fair amount, and 1 (0.8%) had a great deal of knowledge about BZD. The primary mode of knowledge dissemination was through social media platforms. Conclusion The level of knowledge about BZD is also very low. As a result of these findings, policymakers, health professionals, and environmental educators will be compelled to develop strategies to reduce the risk of BZD transmission in Sierra Leone's population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Maxwell Tom Williams
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Environmental Sciences, Njala University, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Rashid Ansumana
- Department of Public Health, School of Community Health Sciences, Njala University, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Jonathan Johnny
- Department of Wildlife Management and Conservation, School of Natural Resources Management, Njala University, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Ibrahim A Bakarr
- Department of Wildlife Management and Conservation, School of Natural Resources Management, Njala University, Freetown, Sierra Leone
| | - Augustus Osborne
- Department of Biological Sciences, School of Environmental Sciences, Njala University, Freetown, Sierra Leone
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Ahmed T, Amjad OB, Ahmed H, Ahmed S, Ansari JA, Ricketson R, Tahir MF. A cross-sectional survey on fruit bat-human interaction in Pakistan; one health perspective. ONE HEALTH OUTLOOK 2023; 5:3. [PMID: 36855213 PMCID: PMC9973238 DOI: 10.1186/s42522-023-00078-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Several factors, such as residential area topography, population density, and lack of infrastructure, were hypothesized to contribute toward respondents' knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding disease transmission. The present study was designed to investigate the knowledge, attitudes, and perception of human-fruit bat interaction by student respondents located in ten districts within the Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces in Pakistan. METHOD A cross-sectional survey was conducted by trained enumerators in academic institutions using a structured questionnaire among student respondents (n = 1466), living in two topographically distinct (Mountainous and Plain) residential regions of the Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) provinces in Pakistan regarding their history of bat encounters. RESULTS Our study revealed that 71.4% of the 1466 respondents had observed bats in their geographic region. 21% of our survey respondents reported bat bites incidents over their lifetime, but only 40% actively sought medical care for wound management despite reporting they had a close family member that had contracted rabies (27-35%). Our generalized linear models (GLMs) highlighted that a respondent residing in a residential region had a greater association with reporting a suspected bat bite over their lifetime and reported rabies victims in both near and extended family members (OR = -0,85, p-value = 0.03, 95% CI). This appeared to be due to delaying consulting a doctor or medical facility for treatment following a suspected bat bite in the topographic residential group as compared to the respondents in the provincial residential group (OR 1.12, p-value = 0.04, 95% CI). CONCLUSION Our findings indicate the necessity of a One Health comprehensive surveillance system in Pakistan for emerging and re-emerging zoonotic pathogens in Pteropodidae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Touseef Ahmed
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX USA
| | - Osama Bin Amjad
- Department of Meat Sciences and Technology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Haseeb Ahmed
- Department of Meat Sciences and Technology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
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Burke B, Rocha SM, Zhan S, Eckley M, Reasoner C, Addetia A, Lewis J, Fagre A, Charley P, Richt JA, Weiss SR, Tjalkens RB, Veesler D, Aboellail T, Schountz T. Regulatory T Cell-like Response to SARS-CoV-2 in Jamaican Fruit Bats ( Artibeus jamaicensis ) Transduced with Human ACE2. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.02.13.528205. [PMID: 36824814 PMCID: PMC9949052 DOI: 10.1101/2023.02.13.528205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Insectivorous Old World horseshoe bats ( Rhinolophus spp.) are the likely source of the ancestral SARS-CoV-2 prior to its spillover into humans and causing the COVID-19 pandemic. Natural coronavirus infections of bats appear to be principally confined to the intestines, suggesting fecal-oral transmission; however, little is known about the biology of SARS-related coronaviruses in bats. Previous experimental challenges of Egyptian fruit bats ( Rousettus aegyptiacus ) resulted in limited infection restricted to the respiratory tract, whereas insectivorous North American big brown bats ( Eptesicus fuscus ) showed no evidence of infection. In the present study, we challenged Jamaican fruit bats ( Artibeus jamaicensis ) with SARS-CoV-2 to determine their susceptibility. Infection was confined to the intestine for only a few days with prominent viral nucleocapsid antigen in epithelial cells, and mononuclear cells of the lamina propria and Peyer's patches, but with no evidence of infection of other tissues; none of the bats showed visible signs of disease or seroconverted. Expression levels of ACE2 were low in the lungs, which may account for the lack of pulmonary infection. Bats were then intranasally inoculated with a replication-defective adenovirus encoding human ACE2 and 5 days later challenged with SARS-CoV-2. Viral antigen was prominent in lungs for up to 14 days, with loss of pulmonary cellularity during this time; however, the bats did not exhibit weight loss or visible signs of disease. From day 7, bats had low to moderate IgG antibody titers to spike protein by ELISA, and one bat on day 10 had low-titer neutralizing antibodies. CD4 + helper T cells became activated upon ex vivo recall stimulation with SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid peptide library and exhibited elevated mRNA expression of the regulatory T cell cytokines interleukin-10 and transforming growth factor-β, which may have limited inflammatory pathology. Collectively, these data show that Jamaican fruit bats are poorly susceptibility to SARS-CoV-2 but that expression of human ACE2 in their lungs leads to robust infection and an adaptive immune response with low-titer antibodies and a regulatory T cell-like response that may explain the lack of prominent inflammation in the lungs. This model will allow for insight of how SARS-CoV-2 infects bats and how bat innate and adaptive immune responses engage the virus without overt clinical disease. Author Summary Bats are reservoir hosts of many viruses that infect humans, yet little is known about how they host these viruses, principally because of a lack of relevant and susceptible bat experimental infection models. Although SARS-CoV-2 originated in bats, no robust infection models of bats have been established. We determined that Jamaican fruit bats are poorly susceptible to SARS-CoV-2; however, their lungs can be transduced with human ACE2, which renders them susceptible to SARS-CoV-2. Despite robust infection of the lungs and diminishment of pulmonary cellularity, the bats showed no overt signs of disease and cleared the infection after two weeks. Despite clearance of infection, only low-titer antibody responses occurred and only a single bat made neutralizing antibody. Assessment of the CD4 + helper T cell response showed that activated cells expressed the regulatory T cell cytokines IL-10 and TGFβ that may have tempered pulmonary inflammation.
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Jayaprakash AD, Ronk AJ, Prasad AN, Covington MF, Stein KR, Schwarz TM, Hekmaty S, Fenton KA, Geisbert TW, Basler CF, Bukreyev A, Sachidanandam R. Marburg and Ebola Virus Infections Elicit a Complex, Muted Inflammatory State in Bats. Viruses 2023; 15:350. [PMID: 36851566 PMCID: PMC9958679 DOI: 10.3390/v15020350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 01/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The Marburg and Ebola filoviruses cause a severe, often fatal, disease in humans and nonhuman primates but have only subclinical effects in bats, including Egyptian rousettes, which are a natural reservoir of Marburg virus. A fundamental question is why these viruses are highly pathogenic in humans but fail to cause disease in bats. To address this question, we infected one cohort of Egyptian rousette bats with Marburg virus and another cohort with Ebola virus and harvested multiple tissues for mRNA expression analysis. While virus transcripts were found primarily in the liver, principal component analysis (PCA) revealed coordinated changes across multiple tissues. Gene signatures in kidney and liver pointed at induction of vasodilation, reduction in coagulation, and changes in the regulation of iron metabolism. Signatures of immune response detected in spleen and liver indicated a robust anti-inflammatory state signified by macrophages in the M2 state and an active T cell response. The evolutionary divergence between bats and humans of many responsive genes might provide a framework for understanding the differing outcomes upon infection by filoviruses. In this study, we outline multiple interconnected pathways that respond to infection by MARV and EBOV, providing insights into the complexity of the mechanisms that enable bats to resist the disease caused by filoviral infections. The results have the potential to aid in the development of new strategies to effectively mitigate and treat the disease caused by these viruses in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Adam J. Ronk
- Department of Pathology, the University Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
- Galveston National Laboratory, the University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Abhishek N. Prasad
- Department of Pathology, the University Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
- Galveston National Laboratory, the University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | | | - Kathryn R. Stein
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Toni M. Schwarz
- Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Saboor Hekmaty
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Karla A. Fenton
- Galveston National Laboratory, the University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
- Department Microbiology & Immunology, the University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Thomas W. Geisbert
- Galveston National Laboratory, the University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
- Department Microbiology & Immunology, the University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Christopher F. Basler
- Department of Microbiology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Alexander Bukreyev
- Department of Pathology, the University Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
- Galveston National Laboratory, the University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
- Department Microbiology & Immunology, the University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77555, USA
| | - Ravi Sachidanandam
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
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Mubareka S, Amuasi J, Banerjee A, Carabin H, Copper Jack J, Jardine C, Jaroszewicz B, Keefe G, Kotwa J, Kutz S, McGregor D, Mease A, Nicholson L, Nowak K, Pickering B, Reed MG, Saint-Charles J, Simonienko K, Smith T, Scott Weese J, Jane Parmley E. Strengthening a One Health approach to emerging zoonoses. Facets (Ott) 2023. [DOI: 10.1139/facets-2021-0190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Given the enormous global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza in Canada, and manifold other zoonotic pathogen activity, there is a pressing need for a deeper understanding of the human-animal-environment interface and the intersecting biological, ecological, and societal factors contributing to the emergence, spread, and impact of zoonotic diseases. We aim to apply a One Health approach to pressing issues related to emerging zoonoses, and propose a functional framework of interconnected but distinct groups of recommendations around strategy and governance, technical leadership (operations), equity, education and research for a One Health approach and Action Plan for Canada. Change is desperately needed, beginning by reorienting our approach to health and recalibrating our perspectives to restore balance with the natural world in a rapid and sustainable fashion. In Canada, a major paradigm shift in how we think about health is required. All of society must recognize the intrinsic value of all living species and the importance of the health of humans, other animals, and ecosystems to health for all.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - John Amuasi
- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ashanti Region, Ghana
| | | | | | - Joe Copper Jack
- Indigenous Knowledge Holder, Whitehorse, Yukon Territory, Canada
| | | | | | - Greg Keefe
- University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada
| | | | - Susan Kutz
- University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Anne Mease
- Selkirk First Nation Citizen, Selkirk First Nation, Yukon Territory, Canada
| | | | | | - Brad Pickering
- Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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Reuben RC, Abunike SA. Marburg virus disease: the paradox of Nigeria's preparedness and priority effects in co-epidemics. BULLETIN OF THE NATIONAL RESEARCH CENTRE 2023; 47:10. [PMID: 36721499 PMCID: PMC9880916 DOI: 10.1186/s42269-023-00987-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The recent outbreaks of Marburg virus disease (MVD) in Guinea and Ghana have become a major public health concern not only to the West African sub-region but a threat to global health. MAIN BODY OF THE ABSTRACT Given the poorly elucidated ecological and epidemiological dynamics of the Marburg virus, it would be imprudent to preclude the possibility of another pandemic if urgent efforts are not put in place. However, the prior emergence and impact of COVID-19 and other co-occurring epidemics may add 'noise' to the epidemiological dynamics and public health interventions that may be required in the advent of a MVD outbreak in Nigeria. SHORT CONCLUSION Paying attention to the lessons learned from previous (and current) multiple epidemics including Avian Influenza, Yellow fever, Ebola virus disease, Monkeypox, Lassa fever, and COVID-19 could help avoid a potentially devastating public health catastrophe in Nigeria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rine Christopher Reuben
- German Centre of Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Puschstraße 4, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
- Institute of Biology, Leipzig University, Puschstraße 4, 04103 Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Biological Science, Anchor University, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Sarah Adamma Abunike
- Institute for Health and Equity, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226 USA
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Cholleti H, de Jong J, Blomström AL, Berg M. Investigation of the Virome and Characterization of Issyk-Kul Virus from Swedish Myotis brandtii Bats. Pathogens 2022; 12:pathogens12010012. [PMID: 36678360 PMCID: PMC9861107 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12010012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Bats are reservoirs for many different viruses, including some that can be transmitted to and cause disease in humans and/or animals. However, less is known about the bat-borne viruses circulating in Northern European countries such as in Sweden. In this study, saliva from Myotis brandtii bats, collected from south-central Sweden, was analyzed for viruses. The metagenomic analysis identified viral sequences belonging to different viral families, including, e.g., Nairoviridae, Retroviridae, Poxviridae, Herpesviridae and Siphoviridae. Interestingly, through the data analysis, the near-complete genome of Issyk-Kul virus (ISKV), a zoonotic virus within the Nairoviridae family, was obtained, showing 95-99% protein sequence identity to previously described ISKVs. This virus is believed to infect humans via an intermediate tick host or through contact with bat excrete. ISKV has previously been found in bats in Europe, but not previously in the Nordic region. In addition, near full-length genomes of two novel viruses belonging to Picornavirales order and Tymoviridae family were characterized. Taken together, our study has not only identified novel viruses, but also the presence of a zoonotic virus not previously known to circulate in this region. Thus, the results from these types of studies can help us to better understand the diversity of viruses circulating in bat populations, as well as identify viruses with zoonotic potential that could possibly be transmitted to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harindranath Cholleti
- Section of Virology, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), P.O. Box 7028, 750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
- Correspondence:
| | - Johnny de Jong
- Swedish Biodiversity Centre (CBM), SLU, P.O. Box 7016, 750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anne-Lie Blomström
- Section of Virology, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), P.O. Box 7028, 750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mikael Berg
- Section of Virology, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), P.O. Box 7028, 750 07 Uppsala, Sweden
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Natural reservoir Rousettus aegyptiacus bat host model of orthonairovirus infection identifies potential zoonotic spillover mechanisms. Sci Rep 2022; 12:20936. [PMID: 36463252 PMCID: PMC9719536 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-24673-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
The human-pathogenic Kasokero virus (KASV; genus Orthonairovirus) has been isolated from the sera of Egyptian rousette bats (ERBs; Rousettus aegyptiacus) captured in Uganda and unengorged Ornithodoros (Reticulinasus) faini ticks collected from the rock crevices of ERB colonies in South Africa and Uganda. Although evidence suggests that KASV is maintained in an enzootic transmission cycle between O. (R.) faini ticks and ERBs with potential for incidental virus spillover to humans through the bite of an infected tick, the vertebrate reservoir status of ERBs for KASV has never been experimentally evaluated. Furthermore, the potential for bat-to-bat and bat-to-human transmission of KASV is unknown. Herein, we inoculate two groups of ERBs with KASV; one group of bats is serially sampled to assess viremia, oral, fecal, and urinary shedding and the second group of bats is serially euthanized to assess virus-tissue tropism. Throughout the study, none of the bats exhibit overt signs of clinical disease. Following the detection of high KASV loads of long duration in blood, oral, fecal, and urine specimens collected from ERBs in the serial sampling group, all bats seroconvert to KASV. ERBs from the serial euthanasia group exhibit high KASV loads indicative of virus replication in the skin at the inoculation site, spleen, and inguinal lymph node tissue, and histopathology and in situ hybridization reveal virus replication in the liver and self-limiting, KASV-induced lymphohistiocytic hepatitis. The results of this study suggest that ERBs are competent, natural vertebrate reservoir hosts for KASV that can sustain viremias of appropriate magnitude and duration to support virus maintenance through bat-tick-bat transmission cycles. Viral shedding data suggests that KASV might also be transmitted bat-to-bat and highlights the potential for KASV spillover to humans through contact with infectious oral secretions, feces, or urine.
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Sundaram M, Schmidt JP, Han BA, Drake JM, Stephens PR. Traits, phylogeny and host cell receptors predict Ebolavirus host status among African mammals. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010993. [PMID: 36542657 PMCID: PMC9815631 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
We explore how animal host traits, phylogenetic identity and cell receptor sequences relate to infection status and mortality from ebolaviruses. We gathered exhaustive databases of mortality from Ebolavirus after exposure and infection status based on PCR and antibody tests. We performed ridge regressions predicting mortality and infection as a function of traits, phylogenetic eigenvectors and separately host receptor sequences. We found that mortality from Ebolavirus had a strong association to life history characteristics and phylogeny. In contrast, infection status related not just to life history and phylogeny, but also to fruit consumption which suggests that geographic overlap of frugivorous mammals can lead to spread of virus in the wild. Niemann Pick C1 (NPC1) receptor sequences predicted infection statuses of bats included in our study with very high accuracy, suggesting that characterizing NPC1 in additional species is a promising avenue for future work. We combine the predictions from our mortality and infection status models to differentiate between species that are infected and also die from Ebolavirus versus species that are infected but tolerate the virus (possible reservoirs of Ebolavirus). We therefore present the first comprehensive estimates of Ebolavirus reservoir statuses for all known terrestrial mammals in Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mekala Sundaram
- Department of Integrative Biology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, United States of America
| | - John Paul Schmidt
- Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Barbara A. Han
- Cary Institute of Ecosystems Studies, Millbrook, New York, United States of America
| | - John M. Drake
- Odum School of Ecology, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
- Center for the Ecology of Infectious Diseases, University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Patrick R. Stephens
- Department of Integrative Biology, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma, United States of America
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48
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Abir MH, Rahman T, Das A, Etu SN, Nafiz IH, Rakib A, Mitra S, Emran TB, Dhama K, Islam A, Siyadatpanah A, Mahmud S, Kim B, Hassan MM. Pathogenicity and virulence of Marburg virus. Virulence 2022; 13:609-633. [PMID: 35363588 PMCID: PMC8986239 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2022.2054760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Revised: 03/10/2022] [Accepted: 03/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Marburg virus (MARV) has been a major concern since 1967, with two major outbreaks occurring in 1998 and 2004. Infection from MARV results in severe hemorrhagic fever, causing organ dysfunction and death. Exposure to fruit bats in caves and mines, and human-to-human transmission had major roles in the amplification of MARV outbreaks in African countries. The high fatality rate of up to 90% demands the broad study of MARV diseases (MVD) that correspond with MARV infection. Since large outbreaks are rare for MARV, clinical investigations are often inadequate for providing the substantial data necessary to determine the treatment of MARV disease. Therefore, an overall review may contribute to minimizing the limitations associated with future medical research and improve the clinical management of MVD. In this review, we sought to analyze and amalgamate significant information regarding MARV disease epidemics, pathophysiology, and management approaches to provide a better understanding of this deadly virus and the associated infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehedy Hasan Abir
- Faculty of Food Science and Technology, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Tanjilur Rahman
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Ayan Das
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Silvia Naznin Etu
- Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Iqbal Hossain Nafiz
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Ahmed Rakib
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Saikat Mitra
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Talha Bin Emran
- Department of Pharmacy, BGC Trust University Bangladesh, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Kuldeep Dhama
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, India
| | - Ariful Islam
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, NY, USA
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Science, Deakin University, Victoria, Australia
| | - Abolghasem Siyadatpanah
- Ferdows School of Paramedical and Health, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Shafi Mahmud
- Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Rajshahi, Rajshahi, Bangladesh
| | - Bonlgee Kim
- Department of Pathology, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Mohammad Mahmudul Hassan
- Queensland Alliance for One Health Sciences, School of Veterinary Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton, Australia
- Department of Physiology, Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chattogram Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Chattogram, Bangladesh
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49
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Sah R, Mohanty A, Reda A, Siddiq A, Mohapatra RK, Dhama K. Marburg virus re-emerged in 2022: recently detected in Ghana, another zoonotic pathogen coming up amid rising cases of Monkeypox and ongoing COVID-19 pandemic- global health concerns and counteracting measures. Vet Q 2022; 42:167-171. [PMID: 35993230 PMCID: PMC9448384 DOI: 10.1080/01652176.2022.2116501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Ranjit Sah
- Institute of Medicine, Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal,Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA,CONTACT Ranjit Sah Institute of Medicine, Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Aroop Mohanty
- All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Gorakhpur, India
| | - Abdullah Reda
- Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Ranjan K. Mohapatra
- Department of Chemistry, Government College of Engineering, Keonjhar, Odisha, India
| | - Kuldeep Dhama
- Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar, India,Kuldeep Dhama Division of Pathology, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI), Izatnagar243122, India
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50
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Gamage AM, Chan WOY, Zhu F, Lim YT, Long S, Ahn M, Tan CW, Hiang Foo RJ, Sia WR, Lim XF, He H, Zhai W, Anderson DE, Sobota RM, Dutertre CA, Wang LF. Single-cell transcriptome analysis of the in vivo response to viral infection in the cave nectar bat Eonycteris spelaea. Immunity 2022; 55:2187-2205.e5. [PMID: 36351376 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2022.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Bats are reservoir hosts of many zoonotic viruses with pandemic potential. We utilized single-cell transcriptome sequencing (scRNA-seq) to analyze the immune response in bat lungs upon in vivo infection with a double-stranded RNA virus, Pteropine orthoreovirus PRV3M. Bat neutrophils were distinguished by high basal IDO1 expression. NK cells and T cells were the most abundant immune cells in lung tissue. Three distinct CD8+ effector T cell populations could be delineated by differential expression of KLRB1, GFRA2, and DPP4. Select NK and T clusters increased expression of genes involved in T cell activation and effector function early after viral infection. Alveolar macrophages and classical monocytes drove antiviral interferon signaling. Infection expanded a CSF1R+ population expressing collagen-like genes, which became the predominant myeloid cell type post-infection. This work uncovers features relevant to viral disease tolerance in bats, lays a foundation for future experimental work, and serves as a resource for comparative immunology studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshamal M Gamage
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wharton O Y Chan
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Feng Zhu
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yan Ting Lim
- Functional Proteomics Laboratory, SingMass National Laboratory, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sandy Long
- Functional Proteomics Laboratory, SingMass National Laboratory, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Matae Ahn
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chee Wah Tan
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Randy Jee Hiang Foo
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Wan Rong Sia
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Xiao Fang Lim
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Haopeng He
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, P.R. China
| | - Weiwei Zhai
- Key Laboratory of Zoological Systematics and Evolution, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, P.R. China; Center for Excellence in Animal Evolution and Genetics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming 650223, P.R. China; Human Genetics, Genome Institute of Singapore, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, 138672, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Danielle E Anderson
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Melbourne at the Peter Doherty Institute for Infection and Immunity, Melbourne 3000, Victoria, Australia
| | - Radoslaw Mikolaj Sobota
- Functional Proteomics Laboratory, SingMass National Laboratory, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A∗STAR), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Charles-Antoine Dutertre
- Institut National de la Santé Et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U1015, Equipe Labellisée-Ligue Nationale contre le Cancer, Villejuif, France; Gustave Roussy Cancer Campus, Villejuif, France
| | - Lin-Fa Wang
- Programme in Emerging Infectious Diseases, Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore, Singapore; Singhealth Duke-NUS Global Health Institute, Singapore, Singapore.
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