1
|
Langat BK, Ochwedo KO, Borlang J, Osiowy C, Mutai A, Okoth F, Muge E, Andonov A, Maritim ES. Genetic diversity, haplotype analysis, and prevalence of Hepatitis B virus MHR mutations among isolates from Kenyan blood donors. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0291378. [PMID: 37963165 PMCID: PMC10645356 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The rapid spread of HBV has resulted in the emergence of new variants. These viral genotypes and variants, in addition to carcinogenic risk, can be key predictors of therapy response and outcomes. As a result, a better knowledge of these emerging HBV traits will aid in the development of a treatment for HBV infection. However, many Sub-Saharan African nations, including Kenya, have insufficient molecular data on HBV strains circulating locally. This study conducted a population-genetics analysis to evaluate the genetic diversity of HBV among Kenyan blood donors. In addition, within the same cohort, the incidence and features of immune-associated escape mutations and stop-codons in Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) were determined. METHODS In September 2015 to October 2016, 194 serum samples were obtained from HBsAg-positive blood donors residing in eleven different Kenyan counties: Kisumu, Machakos, Uasin Gishu, Nairobi, Nakuru, Embu, Garissa, Kisii, Mombasa, Nyeri, and Turkana. For the HBV surface (S) gene, HBV DNA was isolated, amplified, and sequenced. The sequences obtained were utilized to investigate the genetic and haplotype diversity within the S genes. RESULTS Among the blood donors, 74.74% were male, and the overall mean age was 25.36 years. HBV genotype A1 (88.14%) was the most common, followed by genotype D (10.82%), genotype C (0.52%), and HBV genotype E (0.52%). The phylogenetic analysis revealed twelve major clades, with cluster III comprising solely of 68 blood donor isolates (68/194-35.05%). A high haplotype diversity (Hd = 0.94) and low nucleotide diversity (π = 0.02) were observed. Kisumu county had high number of haplotypes (22), but low haplotype (gene) diversity (Hd = 0.90). Generally, a total of 90 haplotypes with some consisting of more than one sequence were observed. The gene exhibited negative values for Tajima's D (-2.04, p<0.05) and Fu's Fs (-88.84). Several mutations were found in 139 isolates, either within or outside the Major Hydrophilic Area (MHR). There were 29 mutations found, with 37.9% of them situated inside the "a" determinant. The most common mutations in this research were T143M and K122R. Escape mutations linked to diagnostic failure, vaccination and immunoglobulin treatment evasion were also discovered. Also, one stop-codon, W163STP, inside the MHR, was found in one sample from genotype A. CONCLUSION In Kenya, HBV/A1 is still the most common genotype. Despite limited genetic and nucleotide diversity, haplotype network analysis revealed haplotype variance among HBV genotypes from Kenyan blood donors. The virological properties of immune escape, which may be the source of viral replication endurance, were discovered in the viral strains studied and included immune-escape mutations and stop-codon. The discovery of HBsAg mutations in MHR in all isolates highlighted the need of monitoring MHR mutations in Kenya.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kevin Omondi Ochwedo
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Carla Osiowy
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Alex Mutai
- Kenya National Blood Transfusion Services, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Fredrick Okoth
- Centre for Virus Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Edward Muge
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
2
|
Jepkemei KB, Ochwoto M, Swidinsky K, Day J, Gebrebrhan H, McKinnon LR, Andonov A, Oyugi J, Kimani J, Gachara G, Songok EM, Osiowy C. Characterization of occult hepatitis B in high-risk populations in Kenya. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0233727. [PMID: 32463824 PMCID: PMC7255601 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0233727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 05/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Occult hepatitis B infection (OBI) is defined as the presence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA in the liver or serum in the absence of detectable HBV surface antigen (HBsAg). OBI poses a risk for the development of cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The prevalence of OBI in Kenya is unknown, thus a study was undertaken to determine the prevalence and molecular characterization of OBI in Kenyan populations at high risk of HBV infection. Sera from two Nairobi cohorts, 99 male sex workers, primarily having sex with men (MSM-SW), and 13 non-MSM men having HIV-positive partners, as well as 65 HBsAg-negative patients presenting with jaundice at Kenyan medical facilities, were tested for HBV serological markers, including HBV DNA by real-time PCR. Positive DNA samples were sequenced and MSM-SW patients were further tested for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. Of the 166 HBsAg-negative samples tested, 31 (18.7%; 95% confidence interval [CI] 13.5–25.3) were HBV DNA positive (i.e., occult), the majority (20/31; 64.5%) of which were HBV core protein antibody positive. HCV infection was not observed in the MSM-SW participants, although the prevalence of HBsAg positivity was 10.1% (10/99; 95% CI 5.6–17.6). HBV genotype A was predominant among study cases, including both HBsAg-positive and OBI participants, although the data suggests a non-African network transmission source among MSM-SW. The high prevalence of HBV infection among MSM-SW in Kenya suggests that screening programmes be instituted among high-risk cohorts to facilitate preventative measures, such as vaccination, and establish entry to treatment and linkage to care.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ken Swidinsky
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Jacqueline Day
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Henok Gebrebrhan
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Lyle R. McKinnon
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa
| | - Anton Andonov
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Julius Oyugi
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Joshua Kimani
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - George Gachara
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Elijah Maritim Songok
- Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Carla Osiowy
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Andonov A, Robbins M, Borlang J, Cao J, Hatchette T, Stueck A, Deschambault Y, Murnaghan K, Varga J, Johnston L. Rat Hepatitis E Virus Linked to Severe Acute Hepatitis in an Immunocompetent Patient. J Infect Dis 2020; 220:951-955. [PMID: 30649379 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiz025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a major public health concern in developing countries where the primary transmission is via contaminated water. Zoonotic HEV cases have been increasingly described in Europe, Japan, and the United States, with pigs representing the main animal reservoir of infection. We report an unusual acute hepatitis infection in a previously healthy man caused by a rat HEV with a considerably divergent genomic sequence compared with other rat HEV strains. It is possible that rat HEV is an underrecognized cause of hepatitis infection, and further studies are necessary to elucidate its potential risk and mode of transmission.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anton Andonov
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba
| | - Mark Robbins
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Jamie Borlang
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba
| | - Jingxin Cao
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba
| | - Todd Hatchette
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Ashley Stueck
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Nova Scotia, Canada.,Department of Pathology, Dalhousie University, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Yvon Deschambault
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba
| | - Kyle Murnaghan
- Department of Medicine, Halifax, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Jessy Varga
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba
| | - Lynn Johnston
- Department of Medicine, Halifax, Nova Scotia Health Authority, Nova Scotia, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Fearon MA, O'Brien SF, Delage G, Scalia V, Bernier F, Bigham M, Weger S, Prabhu S, Andonov A. Hepatitis E in Canadian blood donors. Transfusion 2017; 57:1420-1425. [PMID: 28394029 DOI: 10.1111/trf.14089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2016] [Revised: 01/19/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a virus of emerging importance to transfusion medicine as studies on blood donors and other populations demonstrate that the prevalence of endemic cases is higher than previously recognized and the risk to vulnerable transfusion recipients is not insignificant. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS We carried out an HEV prevalence study on 13,993 Canadian blood donors with polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing on all donors and antibody testing on a subset of 4102 donors. HEV antibody-positive and age- and sex-matched antibody-negative donors were invited to participate in a scripted telephone interview about risk factors. RESULTS There were no PCR-positive samples found (95% confidence interval [CI], 0%-0.026%). The seroprevalence of HEV in our tested population was 5.9% (95% CI, 5.16%-6.59%). HEV antibody positivity was associated with male sex and increasing age. In case-control analysis history of living outside Canada (odds ratio [OR], 2.9; 95% CI, 1.56-5.32) and contact with farm animals (OR, 1.5; 95% CI, 1.01-2.28) were associated with HEV seropositivity. CONCLUSION This is the largest data set to date on HEV infection in Canada. Results suggest low lifetime exposure to HEV and that infectious donations are rare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margaret A Fearon
- Canadian Blood Services, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sheila F O'Brien
- Canadian Blood Services, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.,University of Ottawa, School of Epidemiology, Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Gilles Delage
- Microbiology, Héma-Québec, Saint-Laurent, Québec, Canada
| | - Vito Scalia
- Canadian Blood Services, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - France Bernier
- Microbiology, Héma-Québec, Saint-Laurent, Québec, Canada
| | - Mark Bigham
- Medical Department, Canadian Blood Services, BC and Yukon, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Steven Weger
- University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Sneha Prabhu
- Institute for Health Promotion Research, University of Texas Medical School at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Anton Andonov
- Molecular and Immunodiagnostics, Bloodborne Pathogens and Hepatitis, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Osiowy C, Andonov A, Fonseca K, Swidinsky K, Giles E, Mason A, Coffin CS. Transmission of hepatitis D virus between spouses: A longitudinal study of the first reported Canadian case. IDCases 2017; 8:37-41. [PMID: 28331807 PMCID: PMC5358934 DOI: 10.1016/j.idcr.2017.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2017] [Revised: 03/02/2017] [Accepted: 03/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
In chronic hepatitis B (CHB), hepatitis D virus (HDV) superinfection can lead to acute liver failure. The incidence of HDV superinfection is unknown, but is often detected in immigrants from HDV endemic countries. In this report, we characterize long-term clinical and virological outcomes in a hepatitis B virus (HBV) infected carrier before and after HDV superinfection, acquired from their spouse having HBV/HDV co-infection. A 38 year-old Mongolian male with CHB on anti-HBV therapy developed acute liver failure following HDV superinfection. Although he recovered, avoiding the need for liver transplant, HDV serological and molecular markers of infection persisted for the subsequent 16-month follow-up period, suggesting the development of CHB/HDV co-infection. The source of his HDV was from his wife of 10 years, a 34-year old Mongolian female known to have inactive CHB/HDV co-infection but who was not on anti-HBV therapy. Phylogenetic analysis of the complete HDV genome from the couple showed >99% similarity, with post-transmission longitudinal sequence revealing specific nucleotide substitutions between both spouse’s HDV genome sequences. This study highlights the ongoing risk of HDV superinfection due to long-term co-habitation or sexual transmission in CHB patients. The fact that transmission occurred after almost a decade of marriage may be due to host immune or environmental factors that created a more favorable condition for transmission.
Collapse
Key Words
- Acute liver failure
- CHB, chronic hepatitis B infection
- HBV, hepatitis B virus
- HDV, hepatitis D virus
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis D
- IFN, interferon
- IU, international units
- LSM, liver stiffness measurement
- PCR, polymerase chain reaction
- Spousal transmission
- Superinfection
- TDF, tenofovir dixoproxil fumarate
- TND, target not detected
- Tenofovir
- kPA, kilopascals
- qHBsAg, quantitative HBsAg
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carla Osiowy
- Viral Hepatitis and Bloodborne Pathogens, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, 1015 Arlington St., Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3E 3R2, Canada
- Corresponding author.
| | - Anton Andonov
- Viral Hepatitis and Bloodborne Pathogens, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, 1015 Arlington St., Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3E 3R2, Canada
| | - Kevin Fonseca
- Provincial Laboratory for Public Health, 3030 Hospital Dr. NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4W4, Canada
| | - Ken Swidinsky
- Viral Hepatitis and Bloodborne Pathogens, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, 1015 Arlington St., Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3E 3R2, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Giles
- Viral Hepatitis and Bloodborne Pathogens, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, 1015 Arlington St., Winnipeg, Manitoba, R3E 3R2, Canada
| | - Andrew Mason
- Division of Gastroenterology, Zeidler Ledcor Centre, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2X8, Canada
| | - Carla S. Coffin
- Calgary Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, 3280 Hospital Dr. NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4Z6, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Osiowy C, Coffin C, Andonov A. Review of Laboratory Tests used in Monitoring Hepatitis B Response to Pegylated Interferon and Nucleos(t)ide Analog Therapy. Curr Treat Options Infect Dis 2016; 8:177-193. [PMID: 27547127 PMCID: PMC4969325 DOI: 10.1007/s40506-016-0080-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
There are only two currently approved classes of hepatitis B virus (HBV) antiviral agents, pegylated interferon (Peg-IFN), and nucleos(t)ide analogs (NAs) for chronic HBV infection. Although Peg-IFN is used for a finite 48-week duration and offers a greater chance of sustained off-treatment virological response, it is poorly tolerated and can only be offered to selected patients. The NAs are well tolerated but require prolonged therapy due to risk of relapse with treatment cessation. There is evolving data that novel virological assays (e.g., quantitative hepatitis B surface antigen, quantitative hepatitis B core antigen, quantitative antibody to core protein) in combination with hepatitis B genotype and more sensitive HBV DNA polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays may be useful to predict response to IFN as well as off-treatment NA durability. Utilization of these clinical laboratory tests may be important given the development of novel anti-HBV therapies, hoping to achieve a cure for chronic hepatitis B infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carla Osiowy
- Bloodborne Pathogens and Hepatitis, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, 1015 Arlington St., Winnipeg, MB R3E 3R2 Canada
| | - Carla Coffin
- Liver Unit, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB Canada
| | - Anton Andonov
- Bloodborne Pathogens and Hepatitis, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, 1015 Arlington St., Winnipeg, MB R3E 3R2 Canada
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ochwoto M, Kimotho J, Oyugi J, Andonov A, Songok E, Osiowy C. Hepatitis B virus genotypes and unique recombinants circulating among outpatients in selected hospitals in Kenya. Int J Infect Dis 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2016.02.957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
|
8
|
Ochwoto M, Kimotho JH, Oyugi J, Okoth F, Kioko H, Mining S, Budambula NLM, Giles E, Andonov A, Songok E, Osiowy C. Hepatitis B infection is highly prevalent among patients presenting with jaundice in Kenya. BMC Infect Dis 2016; 16:101. [PMID: 26932656 PMCID: PMC4774020 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-016-1409-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2015] [Accepted: 02/02/2016] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Viral hepatitis is a major concern worldwide, with hepatitis A (HAV) and E (HEV) viruses showing sporadic outbreaks while hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV) viruses are associated with chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The present study determined the proportion, geographic distribution and molecular characterization of hepatitis viruses among patients seeking medical services at hospitals throughout Kenya. METHODS Patients presenting with jaundice at four selected hospitals were recruited (n = 389). Sera were tested for the presence of antibody to hepatitis viruses A through E, and HBV surface antigen (HBsAg). Nucleic acid from anti-HAV IgM antibody and HBsAg positive samples was extracted, amplified and sequenced. RESULTS Chronic HBV infection was the leading cause of morbidity among patients with symptoms of liver disease seeking medical help. Incident HCV, HEV and HDV infection were not detected among the patients in this study, while the proportion of acute HAV was low; HAV IgM positivity was observed in 6.3 % of patients and sequencing revealed that all cases belonged to genotype 1B. HCV seropositivity upon initial screening was 3.9 % but none were confirmed positive by a supplementary immunoblot assay. There was no serological evidence of HDV and acute HEV infection (anti-HEV IgM). HBsAg was found in 50.6 % of the patients and 2.3 % were positive for IgM antibody to the core protein, indicating probable acute infection. HBV genotype A was predominant (90.3 %) followed by D (9.7 %) among HBV DNA positive specimens. Full genome analysis showed HBV/D isolates having similarity to both D4 and D6 subgenotypes and D/E recombinant reference sequences. Two recombinant sequences demonstrated > 4 % nucleotide divergence from other previously known D/E recombinants. CONCLUSIONS HBV is highly prevalent among patients seeking care for symptoms consistent with hepatitis, compared to the general population. Molecular characterization of HBV isolates indicated recombinant strains that may give rise to new circulating variants. There is a need to document the prevalence, clinical manifestation and distribution of the variants observed. HAV genotype 1B, prevalent in Africa, was observed; however, the absence of HCV, HDV and acute HEV in this study does not rule out their presence in Kenya.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Julius Oyugi
- Medical Microbiology Department, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Fredrick Okoth
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Nairobi, Kenya.
| | | | - Simeon Mining
- Moi University and Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, Eldoret, Kenya.
| | - Nancy L M Budambula
- Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya. .,Present address: Embu University College, Embu, Kenya.
| | - Elizabeth Giles
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Anton Andonov
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Elijah Songok
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Carla Osiowy
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Weger S, Elkin B, Lindsay R, Bollinger T, Crichton V, Andonov A. Hepatitis E Virus Seroprevalence in Free-Ranging Deer in Canada. Transbound Emerg Dis 2016; 64:1008-1011. [PMID: 26752436 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.12462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus infection (HEV) is an important public health concern not only in traditional endemic areas, but also in some industrialized countries where both domesticated and wild animals have been recognized as potential zoonotic reservoirs implicated in HEV transmission. While the prevalence of infection in the deer population in Europe and Asia has been thoroughly investigated, it remains largely undetermined in North America. We assessed the presence of HEV in three different species of free-range deer in Canada. The seroprevalence of HEV among deer in Canada was 8.8% in white-tailed deer, 4.5% in mule deer and 3.2% in caribou. Hepatitis E virus RNA was not detected. Overall, data indicate that HEV infection occurs in deer in Canada. The absence of viraemia and the low seroprevalence especially in barren-ground caribou which is an important part of the diet in many northern communities suggests that the risk of zoonotic transmission may be less pronounced compared to other countries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Weger
- University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - B Elkin
- Wildlife Division, Wildlife Veterinarian, Government of NorthWest Territories Environment & Natural Resources, Yellowknife, NT, Canada
| | - R Lindsay
- Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - T Bollinger
- Department of Veterinary Pathology, Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative (CWHC), Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - V Crichton
- Wildlife and Ecosystem Protection Branch, Manitoba Conservation, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | - A Andonov
- Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Andonov A, Kostov M, Iliev A. Capacity assessment of concrete containment vessels subjected to aircraft impact. Nuclear Engineering and Design 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nucengdes.2015.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
11
|
Andonov A, Songok E, Ochwoto M, Osiowy C, Ball TB. HIV and hepatitis C virus co-infection in Kenya. Lancet Infect Dis 2015; 15:1377-8. [PMID: 26607120 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(15)00403-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2015] [Accepted: 10/12/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anton Andonov
- Public Health Agency of Canada, National Microbiology Laboratory, Winnipeg, MB, R3E 3R2, Canada.
| | | | | | - Carla Osiowy
- Public Health Agency of Canada, National Microbiology Laboratory, Winnipeg, MB, R3E 3R2, Canada
| | - T Blake Ball
- Public Health Agency of Canada, National Microbiology Laboratory, Winnipeg, MB, R3E 3R2, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Osiowy C, Gunning H, Giles E, Charlton C, Andonov A, Tang J. A comparison of 4 anti-hepatitis C virus antibody assays in a low prevalence general Canadian population. J Clin Virol 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2015.07.174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
|
13
|
Petrik J, Lozano M, Seed CR, Faddy HM, Keller AJ, Prado Scuracchio PS, Wendel S, Andonov A, Fearon M, Delage G, Zhang J, Shih JWK, Gallian P, Djoudi R, Tiberghien P, Izopet J, Dreier J, Vollmer T, Knabbe C, Aggarwal R, Goel A, Ciccaglione AR, Matsubayashi K, Satake M, Tadokoro K, Jeong SH, Zaaijer HL, Zhiburt E, Chay J, Teo D, Chua SS, Piron M, Sauleda S, Echevarría JM, Dalton H, Stramer SL. Hepatitis E. Vox Sang 2015. [PMID: 26198159 DOI: 10.1111/vox.12285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
14
|
Andonov A, Lin L, McGuinness L, Krajden M. Distribution of Hepatitis C virus genotypes among newly acquired HCV infections in British Columbia (2000-2013). Can Commun Dis Rep 2014; 40:437-443. [PMID: 29769875 PMCID: PMC5864462 DOI: 10.14745/ccdr.v40i19a03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Characterization of newly acquired Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections is important in order to understand the epidemiology and spread of HCV. OBJECTIVE To describe the Hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype distribution of newly acquired HCV infections in the province of British Columbia for the period 2000-2013. METHODS A descriptive cross-sectional analysis of multi-year data on HCV genotypes. Time trends for the proportion of different HCV genotypes are presented only for newly acquired (incident) HCV infections. RESULTS For acute cases, genotype 1a remains the dominant HCV type in circulation (50%), followed by genotype 3a (34%). HCV genotype 1b declined, while genotype 2 was relatively stable. Phylogenetically-related clusters of HCV strains were observed indicating a common source of infection. CONCLUSION Enhanced hepatitis surveillance provides a mechanism for monitoring different HCV strains currently circulating in the community. While HCV genotype 1a continues to be the most prevalent, changes in the relative frequency of genotypes 1 and 3 have been observed. This may have important implications for the control and prevention of the infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Andonov
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, WinnipegMB
| | - L Lin
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, WinnipegMB
| | - L McGuinness
- Public Health Microbiology and Reference Laboratory, British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC
| | - M Krajden
- Public Health Microbiology and Reference Laboratory, British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Andonov A, Rock G, Lin L, Borlang J, Hooper J, Grudeski E, Wu J. Serological and molecular evidence of a plausible transmission of hepatitis E virus through pooled plasma. Vox Sang 2014; 107:213-9. [PMID: 24830322 DOI: 10.1111/vox.12156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2014] [Revised: 03/26/2014] [Accepted: 03/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Recently, hepatitis E virus has been recognized as a new transfusion-associated risk; however, its efficiency of transmission through blood products requires further investigation. Asymptomatic viremia of short duration has been observed in blood donors from several European countries to the rate of <1:10,000 and HEV transmission in recipients of blood products has been documented in Japan and Europe. Although HEV RNA was detected in large plasma fractionation pools used for manufacturing of plasma derived products, HEV transmission has not been demonstrated so far. In this study, we investigated the possibility of HEV transmission in patients with thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura whose treatment included up to 40 l of plasma exchange. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirty-six TTP patients received either solvent-detergent-treated plasma prepared by pooling of 2500 single-donor or cryosupernatant plasma. Three samples were collected from TTP patients at time 0, 1 and 6 months post-treatment and tested for anti-HEV antibodies. Patients with HEV seroconversion were also tested for viremia by PCR. RESULTS Two of seventeen TTP patients treated with SDP showed serological evidence of HEV infection. The 1-month samples from these patients were also positive for HEV RNA. A distinct rise of anti-HEV IgG level was detected in two other TTP patients with weak pre-existing immunity to HEV; this observation is indicative of a possible immune response boost due to a breakthrough infection. CONCLUSION This work provides, for the first time, indirect evidence of HEV transmission by pooled plasma and warrants further studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Andonov
- Public Health Agency of Canada, National Microbiology Laboratory, Winnipeg, MB, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Swinkels HM, Kuo M, Embree G, Fraser Health Environmental Health Investigation Team C, Andonov A, Henry B, Buxton JA. Hepatitis A outbreak in British Columbia, Canada: the roles of established surveillance, consumer loyalty cards and collaboration, February to May 2012. Euro Surveill 2014; 19. [DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es2014.19.18.20792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-travel-related hepatitis A is rare in Canada. We describe a hepatitis A outbreak investigation in British Columbia in February to May 2012 in which exposure history was collected from nine confirmed non-travel-related cases. Suspected foods were tested for hepatitis A virus (HAV): a frozen fruit blend was identified as a common exposure for six of the nine cases using supermarket loyalty cards. Consumption of the product was confirmed in each case. Genetic analysis confirmed HAV genotype 1B in the six exposed cases. Of the three non-exposed cases, the virus could not be genotyped for two of them; the virus from the other case was found to be genotype 1A and this case was therefore not considered part of the outbreak. HAV was detected by PCR from pomegranate seeds, a component of the identified frozen fruit blend. Historically low levels of HAV infection in British Columbia triggered early recognition of the outbreak. Loyalty card histories facilitated product identification and a trace-back investigation implicated imported pomegranate seeds.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H M Swinkels
- Office of the Medical Health Officer, Public Health Fraser Health Authority, Surrey, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - M Kuo
- Communicable Disease Prevention and Control Services, British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, Canada
| | - G Embree
- Health Protection, Public Health, Fraser Health Authority, Surrey, Canada
| | | | - A Andonov
- National Medical Laboratory, Canadian Science Centre for Human and Animal Health, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - B Henry
- Communicable Disease Prevention and Control Services, British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, Canada
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - J A Buxton
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
- Communicable Disease Prevention and Control Services, British Columbia Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Kostov M, Henkel F, Andonov A. Safety assessment of A92 reactor building for large commercial aircraft crash. Nuclear Engineering and Design 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nucengdes.2013.08.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
|
18
|
Rotermann M, Langlois K, Andonov A, Trubnikov M. Seroprevalence of hepatitis B and C virus infections: Results from the 2007 to 2009 and 2009 to 2011 Canadian Health Measures Survey. Health Rep 2013; 24:3-13. [PMID: 24259199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Chronic hepatitis B (HBV) and C (HCV) virus infections can lead to liver failure, liver cancer, and death. In Canada, prevalence studies of HBV and HCV have been limited to regional and special populations. DATA AND METHODS Data are from cycles 1 (2007 to 2009) and 2 (2009 to 2011) of the Canadian Health Measures. Socio-demographic, health and lifestyle information was obtained via a household questionnaire; blood samples collected at mobile examination centres were used to identify present and resolved HBV infections, vaccine-induced HBV immunity, and HCV infections. RESULTS The seroprevalence of present HBV infection among the population aged 14 to 79 was 0.4%, representing an estimated 111,800 individuals. Another 4.2% had evidence of a previous HBV infection. Nearly 30% had vaccine-induced HBV immunity. The seroprevalence of HCV infection was 0.5%, representing an estimated 138,600. More than half of people with laboratory-confirmed HBV and 70% with laboratory-confirmed HCV were unaware of their infections. INTERPRETATION This is the first Canadian study to report laboratory-confirmed seroprevalence of HBV and HCV infections based on a nationally representative household sample. Substantial percentages of younger Canadians have vaccine-induced HBV immunity.
Collapse
|
19
|
Andonov A, Coulthart MB, Pérez-Losada M, Crandall KA, Posada D, Padmore R, Giulivi A, Oger JJ, Peters AA, Dekaban GA. Insights into origins of Human T-cell Lymphotropic Virus Type 1 based on new strains from aboriginal people of Canada. Infect Genet Evol 2012; 12:1822-30. [PMID: 22921499 DOI: 10.1016/j.meegid.2012.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2012] [Revised: 07/18/2012] [Accepted: 07/20/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The causes of the worldwide distribution of Human T-cell Lymphotropic Virus Type 1 (HTLV-1) remain incompletely understood, with competing hypotheses regarding the number and timing of events leading to intercontinental spread on historical and prehistoric timescales. Ongoing discovery of this virus in aboriginal populations of Asia and the Americas has been the main source of evidence for the latter. We conducted molecular phylogenetic and dating analyses for 13 newly reported HTLV-1 strains from Canada. We analyzed two full-length proviral genomes from aboriginal residents of Nunavut (an autonomous territory in Northern Canada including most of the Canadian Arctic), 11 long-terminal-repeat (LTR) sequences from aboriginal residents of British Columbia's Pacific coast, and 2 LTR sequences from non-aboriginal Canadians. Phylogenetic analysis demonstrated a well-supported affinity between the two Nunavut strains and two East Asian strains, suggesting the presence of an Asian-American sublineage within the widespread "transcontinental" subgroup A clade of HTLV-1 Cosmopolitan subtype a. This putative sublineage was estimated to be 5400-11,900 years in age, consistent with a long-term presence of HTLV-1 in aboriginal populations of the Canadian Arctic. Phylogenetic affinities of the other 11 Canadian HTLV-1 aboriginal strains were diverse, strengthening earlier evidence for multiple incursions of this virus into coastal aboriginal populations of British Columbia. Our results are consistent with the hypothesis of ancient presence of HTLV-1 in aboriginal populations of North America.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anton Andonov
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, 1015 Arlington Street, Winnipeg, MB, Canada R3E 3R2
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
|
21
|
Berry JD, Hay K, Rini JM, Yu M, Wang L, Plummer FA, Corbett CR, Andonov A. Neutralizing epitopes of the SARS-CoV S-protein cluster independent of repertoire, antigen structure or mAb technology. MAbs 2010; 2:53-66. [PMID: 20168090 DOI: 10.4161/mabs.2.1.10788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Neutralizing antibody responses to the surface glycoproteins of enveloped viruses play an important role in immunity. Many of these glycoproteins, including the severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus (SARS-CoV) spike (S) protein form trimeric units in the membrane of the native virion. There is substantial experimental and pre-clinical evidence showing that the S protein is a promising lead for vaccines and therapeutics. Previously we generated a panel of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) to whole inactivated SARS-CoV which neutralize the virus in vitro. Here, we define their specificity and affinity, map several of their epitopes and lastly characterise chimeric versions of them. Our data show that the neutralizing mAbs bind to the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the SARS S protein. Three of the chimeric mAbs retain their binding specificity while one conformational mAb, F26G19, lost its ability to bind the S protein despite high level expression. The affinity for recombinant S is maintained in all of the functional chimeric versions of the parental mAbs. Both parental mAb F26G18 and the chimeric version neutralize the TO R2 strain of SARS-CoV with essentially identical titres (2.07 and 2.47 nM, respectively). Lastly, a comparison with other neutralizing mAbs to SARS-CoV clearly shows that the dominance of a 33 amino acid residue loop of the SARS-CoV RBD is independent of repertoire, species, quaternary structure, and importantly, the technology used to derive the mAbs. In cases like this, the dominance of a compact RBD antigenic domain and the central role of the S protein in pathogenesis may inherently create immunoselection pressure on viruses to evolve more complex evasion strategies or die out of a host species. The apparent simplicity of the mechanism of SARS-CoV neutralization is in stark contrast to the complexity shown by other enveloped viruses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jody D Berry
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Tylor S, Andonov A, Cutts T, Cao J, Grudesky E, Van Domselaar G, Li X, He R. The SR-rich motif in SARS-CoV nucleocapsid protein is important for virus replication. Can J Microbiol 2009; 55:254-60. [PMID: 19370068 DOI: 10.1139/w08-139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The multimerization/self-interaction of viral proteins is an important step in the process of viral assembly and maturation. Our previous study indicated that the severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV) nucleocapsid protein forms self-multimers through a serine-arginine (SR)-rich motif (SSRSSSRSRGNSR) by using a mammalian two-hybrid system. To determine the biological relevance of this motif, we constructed a SARS-CoV reverse genetic construct by using a bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC)-based vector controlled by a T7 promoter; and subsequently deleted the SR-rich motif from the N gene. The mutated infectious clone showed reduced level of genome transcription and significantly reduced levels of the infectious virions. These results strongly suggest that the SR-rich motif is critical for effective virus replication.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shaun Tylor
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Health Canada, 1015 Arlington St, Winnipeg, MB R3E3R2, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Wu HX, Wu J, Wong T, Donaldson T, Dinner K, Andonov A, Ip Chan J, Moffat B, Baptiste B, Furseth J, Poliquin D, Bolesnikov G, Giulivi A, Paton S. Enhanced surveillance of newly acquired hepatitis C virus infection in Canada, 1998 to 2004. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009; 38:482-9. [PMID: 16798699 DOI: 10.1080/00365540500525161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine trends in disease incidence and recent patterns of hepatitis C virus (HCV) transmission in Canada, using the Enhanced Hepatitis Strain Surveillance System (EHSSS). Demographic, clinical, and potential risk factor information on newly acquired HCV infection, from 1998 to 2004, was collected using standardized questionnaires. During this time period, the reported incidence of newly acquired HCV infection declined by 36.4% from 3.3 cases per 100,000 in 1998, to 2.1 cases per 100,000 in 2004. The disease incidence peaked at 15 to 39 y of age, confirming injecting drug use as the most frequently reported route of transmission. The proportion of cases attributed to health care-acquired HCV infection decreased over this time period. Although the incidence of newly acquired HCV infection in the EHSSS was found to be declining, hepatitis C remains an important public health threat to Canadians. Prevention efforts for HCV should focus on injection drug use, especially for people aged 15 to 39 y.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Xing Wu
- Blood Safety Surveillance and Health Care Acquired Infection Division, Centre for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, ON.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Brooke R, Tang P, Mak A, Grebely J, Adie K, Danta M, Spinelli J, Andonov A, Krajden M. P214 Molecular epidemiology of newly acquired hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections in British Columbia. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/s0924-8579(09)70433-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
|
25
|
Panessa C, Hill WD, Giles E, Yu A, Harvard S, Butt G, Andonov A, Krajden M, Osiowy C. Genotype D amongst injection drug users with acute hepatitis B virus infection in British Columbia. J Viral Hepat 2009; 16:64-73. [PMID: 19192159 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2893.2008.01045.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The eight genotypes of hepatitis B virus (HBV) exhibit distinct geographical distributions. This study identified HBV genotypes and transmission modes associated with acute infection in British Columbia (BC), Canada, from 2001 to 2005. Seventy cases of acute HBV in BC were identified from laboratory reports using a standardized case definition. Interviews for risk factors and hepatitis history were conducted for each case. HBV genotypes were determined by BLAST comparison analysis of the surface (S) or preS gene sequence. To illustrate the distribution of genotypes identified amongst acute cases in BC, an annotated map was produced showing the global occurrence of HBV genotypes. The majority of acute HBV cases occurred in Caucasian, Canadian-born males, with 30% of cases reporting injection drug use (IDU) and 21% reporting incarceration. The most common genotype observed was genotype D (62.9%), followed by genotypes A (18.6%), C (11.4%), B (4.3%), and E (1.4%). A significant association was observed between Genotype D and IDU (P = 0.0025) and previous incarceration (P = 0.0067). Phylogenetic analysis of the S gene sequence demonstrated identical or high genetic relatedness amongst genotype D viral strains (86% sub-genotype D3), thus verifying transmission clustering amongst BC injection drug users. The association between acute HBV genotype and reported transmission modes has not been previously described in North America. Tracking of genotypes can help identify disease transmission patterns and target at-risk populations for preventive immunization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Panessa
- BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Spinelli JJ, Lai AS, Krajden M, Andonov A, Gascoyne RD, Connors JM, Brooks-Wilson AR, Gallagher RP. Hepatitis C virus and risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma in British Columbia, Canada. Int J Cancer 2008; 122:630-3. [PMID: 17935132 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.23105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
We investigated Hepatitis C virus (HCV) seropositivity and the risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in a population-based case-control study in British Columbia, Canada. Cases were aged 20-79, diagnosed between March 2000 and February 2004, and resident in greater Vancouver or Victoria. Cases with HIV or a prior transplant were excluded. Controls were chosen from the Client Registry of the British Columbia (BC) Ministry of Health, and were age/sex/region frequency matched to cases. Antibodies for HCV were measured in 795 cases and 697 control subjects. HCV seropositivity was 2.4% in cases and 0.7% in controls [odds ratio (OR) = 2.6, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.9-7.4]. A significantly elevated risk was observed for B-cell lymphoma (OR = 2.9, 95%CI = 1.0-8.6). The highest risks were associated with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (OR = 7.3, 95%CI = 2.1-25.0) and marginal zone lymphoma (OR = 6.1, 95%CI = 1.1-33.9). Our results provide further evidence that HCV infection contributes to NHL risk.
Collapse
|
27
|
Beniac DR, deVarennes SL, Andonov A, He R, Booth TF. Conformational reorganization of the SARS coronavirus spike following receptor binding: implications for membrane fusion. PLoS One 2007; 2:e1082. [PMID: 17957264 PMCID: PMC2034598 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0001082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2007] [Accepted: 10/05/2007] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The SARS coronavirus (SARS-CoV) spike is the largest known viral spike molecule, and shares a similar function with all class 1 viral fusion proteins. Previous structural studies of membrane fusion proteins have largely used crystallography of static molecular fragments, in isolation of their transmembrane domains. In this study we have produced purified, irradiated SARS-CoV virions that retain their morphology, and are fusogenic in cell culture. We used cryo-electron microscopy and image processing to investigate conformational changes that occur in the entire spike of intact virions when they bind to the viral receptor, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2). We have shown that ACE2 binding results in structural changes that appear to be the initial step in viral membrane fusion, and precisely localized the receptor-binding and fusion core domains within the entire spike. Furthermore, our results show that receptor binding and subsequent membrane fusion are distinct steps, and that each spike can bind up to three ACE2 molecules. The SARS-CoV spike provides an ideal model system to study receptor binding and membrane fusion in the native state, employing cryo-electron microscopy and single-particle image analysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel R. Beniac
- Viral Diseases Division, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Shauna L. deVarennes
- Viral Diseases Division, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Anton Andonov
- Viral Diseases Division, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Runtao He
- Viral Diseases Division, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Tim F. Booth
- Viral Diseases Division, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- * To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Wu J, Wu H, Andonov A, Dudani A, Li Q, Dinner K, Wong T. Epidemiological Profile of Newly Diagnosed Patients with Hepatitis C Infection in 6 Health Regions Across Canada Over and 8-Year Period. Ann Epidemiol 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2007.07.055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
29
|
Wu H, Wong T, Dudani A, Andonov A, Li Q, Dinner K, Wu J. Prevalence and Incidence of Hepatitis B Infection among Hepatitis C Virus-Infected Subjects in 6 Health Regions, Canada, 1998–2006. Ann Epidemiol 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annepidem.2007.07.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
|
30
|
Wu HX, Wu J, Wong T, Andonov A, Li Q, Dinner K, Donaldson T, Paton S. Incidence and risk factors for newly acquired hepatitis C virus infection among Aboriginal versus non-Aboriginal Canadians in six regions, 1999-2004. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2007; 26:167-74. [PMID: 17308895 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-007-0267-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to compare hepatitis C virus (HCV) incidence and recent patterns of transmission within Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Canadians. Cases of newly acquired HCV infection (in patients > or =15 years) reported to the Enhanced Hepatitis Strain Surveillance System from six jurisdictions in Canada were analyzed. Information on demographic and clinical characteristics as well as risk factors for HCV infection was collected using standardized questionnaires. Univariate analysis showed Aboriginal patients to be significantly more likely than non-Aboriginal patients to report injection drug use (77.1% vs. 64.0%; p < 0.05), to be female (54.6% vs. 37.6%; p < 0.05), to report high-risk sexual behaviors (48.6% vs. 34.1%, p < 0.05), and to report drug snorting (45.7% vs. 32.7%, p < 0.05). The median age of Aboriginal patients was significantly younger than that of non-Aboriginal patients (31 years [range, 15-71] vs. 34 years [range, 15-81]; p < 0.05). The overall incidence of HCV infection per 100,000 people aged 15 years and older was 18.9 (95% confidence interval [CI] 15.5-23.1) in Aboriginal people and 2.8 (95%CI 2.6-3.1) in non-Aboriginal people. Poisson regression analysis revealed that Aboriginal Canadians were more likely than non-Aboriginal Canadians to develop acute hepatitis C (adjusted rate ratio 5.8, 95%CI 4.7-7.3). An appropriate and effective public health strategy that includes planned and implemented prevention programs in partnership with the Aboriginal community is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H-X Wu
- Blood Safety Surveillance and Health Care Acquired Infection Division, Centre for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Fahim S, Prokopetz R, Jackson R, Faught C, McCarthy AE, Andonov A, Coulthart M, Daw Z, Olberg B, Giulivi A, Padmore R. Human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1-associated adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma in the Inuit people of Nunavut. CMAJ 2006; 175:579. [PMID: 16966657 PMCID: PMC1559419 DOI: 10.1503/cmaj.060242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Simone Fahim
- Division of Dermatology, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ont
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Beniac DR, Andonov A, Grudeski E, Booth TF. Architecture of the SARS coronavirus prefusion spike. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2006; 13:751-2. [PMID: 16845391 PMCID: PMC7097490 DOI: 10.1038/nsmb1123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 204] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2006] [Accepted: 06/23/2006] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The emergence in 2003 of a new coronavirus (CoV) responsible for the atypical pneumonia termed severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) was a stark reminder that hitherto unknown viruses have the potential to cross species barriers to become new human pathogens. Here we describe the SARS-CoV 'spike' structure determined by single-particle cryo-EM, along with the docked atomic structures of the receptor-binding domain and prefusion core.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel R Beniac
- Viral Diseases Division, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, 1015 Arlington Street, Winnipeg, R3E 3R2 Manitoba Canada
| | - Anton Andonov
- Viral Diseases Division, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, 1015 Arlington Street, Winnipeg, R3E 3R2 Manitoba Canada
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, R3E 0W3 Manitoba Canada
| | - Elsie Grudeski
- Viral Diseases Division, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, 1015 Arlington Street, Winnipeg, R3E 3R2 Manitoba Canada
| | - Tim F Booth
- Viral Diseases Division, National Microbiology Laboratory, Public Health Agency of Canada, 1015 Arlington Street, Winnipeg, R3E 3R2 Manitoba Canada
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, R3E 0W3 Manitoba Canada
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Lai AS, Krajden M, Andonov A, Gallagher RP, Janoo-Gilani R, Gascoyne RD, Connors JM, Spinelli JJ. The Role of Hepatitis C Virus Infection and Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in Canada. Am J Epidemiol 2006. [DOI: 10.1093/aje/163.suppl_11.s89-c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
|
34
|
Wu J, Wu H, Andonov A, Giulivi A. Enhanced Surveillance of Hepatitis B in Canada, 1999–2004: Implication for Immunization Policy. Am J Epidemiol 2006. [DOI: 10.1093/aje/163.suppl_11.s191-c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
|
35
|
Chui L, Drebot M, Andonov A, Petrich A, Glushek M, Mahony J. Comparison of 9 different PCR primers for the rapid detection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus using 2 RNA extraction methods. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis 2006; 53:47-55. [PMID: 15994050 PMCID: PMC7125917 DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2005.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2004] [Accepted: 03/25/2005] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The sensitivity and specificity of various severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) PCR primer and probe sets were evaluated through the use of commercial kits and in-house amplification formats. Conventional and real-time PCR assays were performed using a heat-block thermocycler ABI 9600, the Roche LightCycler™ version 1.2, or the ABI 7000 Sequence Detection System. The sensitivity of all primers was between 0.0004 and 0.04 PFU with viral cell lysate and between 0.004 and 0.4 PFU in spiked stool specimen per PCR assay. The primer sets for real-time PCR assays were at one least 1 log more sensitive than the primer sets used in the conventional PCR. A panel of viruses including swine gastroenteritis virus, bovine coronavirus, avian bronchitis virus (Connecticut strain), avian bronchitis virus (Massachusetts strain), human coronaviruses 229E and OC43, parainfluenza virus (type III), human metapneumovirus, adenovirus, respiratory syncytial virus, and influenza A were tested by all assays. All real-time PCR assays used probe-based detection, and no cross-reactivity was observed. With conventional PCR, analysis was performed using agarose gel electrophoresis and multiple nonspecific bands were observed. Two commercial extraction methods, magnetic particle capture and silica-based procedure were evaluated and the results were comparable. The former was less laborious with shorter time for completion and can easily be adapted to an automated system such as the MagNa Pure-LC, which can extract nucleic acid from clinical samples and load it into the sample capillaries of the LightCycler™. As exemplified by this study, the continued refinement and evaluation of PCR procedures will greatly benefit the diagnostic laboratory during an outbreak of SARS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Linda Chui
- Provincial Laboratory for Public Health (Microbiology), University of Alberta Hospital, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2J2.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
36
|
Yap Y, Zhang X, Andonov A, He R. Structural analysis of inhibition mechanisms of aurintricarboxylic acid on SARS-CoV polymerase and other proteins. Comput Biol Chem 2005; 29:212-9. [PMID: 15979041 PMCID: PMC7106521 DOI: 10.1016/j.compbiolchem.2005.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2004] [Accepted: 04/08/2005] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
We recently published experimental results that indicated Aurintricarboxylic Acid (ATA) could selectively inhibit SARS-CoV replication inside host cells by greater than 1000 times. This inhibition suggested that ATA could be developed as potent anti-viral drug. Here, to extend our experimental observation, we have incorporated protein structural studies (with positive/negative controls) to investigate the potential binding modes/sites of ATA onto RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) from SARS-CoV and other pathogenic positive-strand RNA-viruses, as well as other proteins in SARS-CoV based on the fact that ATA binds to Ca2+-activated neutral protease (m-calpain), the protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP) and HIV integrase which have existing crystal structures. Eight regions with homologous 3D-conformation were derived for 10 proteins of interest. One of the region, Rbinding (754–766 in SARS-CoV's RdRp), located in the palm sub-domain mainly constituted of anti-parallel β-strand-turn-β-strand hairpin structures that covers two of the three RdRp catalytic sites (Asp 760, Asp761), was also predicted by molecular docking method (based on free energy of binding ΔG) to be important binding motif recognized by ATA. The existence of this strictly conserved region that incorporated catalytic residues, coupled with the homologous ATA binding pockets and their consistent ΔG values, suggested strongly ATA may be involved in an analogous inhibition mechanism of SARS-COV's RdRp in concomitant to the case in m-calpain, PTP and HIV integrase.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- YeeLeng Yap
- Institute Pasteur, Unité de Génétique des Génomes Bactériens, CNRS URA 2171, 28 rue du Docteur Roux, 75724 Paris Cedex 15, France
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
37
|
He R, Leeson A, Ballantine M, Andonov A, Baker L, Dobie F, Li Y, Bastien N, Feldmann H, Strocher U, Theriault S, Cutts T, Cao J, Booth TF, Plummer FA, Tyler S, Li X. Characterization of protein-protein interactions between the nucleocapsid protein and membrane protein of the SARS coronavirus. Virus Res 2005; 105:121-5. [PMID: 15351485 PMCID: PMC7127797 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2004.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2004] [Revised: 05/07/2004] [Accepted: 05/10/2004] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The human coronavirus, associated with severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS-CoV), was identified and molecularly characterized in 2003. Sequence analysis of the virus indicates that there is only 20% amino acid (aa) identity with known coronaviruses. Previous studies indicate that protein-protein interactions amongst various coronavirus proteins are critical for viral assembly. Yet, little sequence homology between the newly identified SARS-CoV and those previously studied coronaviruses suggests that determination of protein-protein interaction and identification of amino acid sequences, responsible for such interaction in SARS-CoV, are necessary for the elucidation of the molecular mechanism of SARS-CoV replication and rationalization of anti-SARS therapeutic intervention. In this study, we employed mammalian two-hybrid system to investigate possible interactions between SARS-CoV nucleocapsid (N) and the membrane (M) proteins. We found that interaction of the N and M proteins takes place in vivo and identified that a stretch of amino acids (168-208) in the N protein may be critical for such protein-protein interactions. Importantly, the same region has been found to be required for multimerization of the N protein (He et al., 2004) suggesting this region may be crucial in maintaining correct conformation of the N protein for self-interaction and interaction with the M protein.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Runtao He
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Health Canada, 1015 Arlington St., Winnipeg, Man., Canada R3E 3R2.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
38
|
Berry JD, Jones S, Drebot MA, Andonov A, Sabara M, Yuan XY, Weingartl H, Fernando L, Marszal P, Gren J, Nicolas B, Andonova M, Ranada F, Gubbins MJ, Ball TB, Kitching P, Li Y, Kabani A, Plummer F. Development and characterisation of neutralising monoclonal antibody to the SARS-coronavirus. J Virol Methods 2005; 120:87-96. [PMID: 15234813 PMCID: PMC7119589 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2004.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2004] [Revised: 04/05/2004] [Accepted: 04/20/2004] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
There is a global need to elucidate protective antigens expressed by the SARS-coronavirus (SARS-CoV). Monoclonal antibody reagents that recognise specific antigens on SARS-CoV are needed urgently. In this report, the development and immunochemical characterisation of a panel of murine monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against the SARS-CoV is presented, based upon their specificity, binding requirements, and biological activity. Initial screening by ELISA, using highly purified virus as the coating antigen, resulted in the selection of 103 mAbs to the SARS virus. Subsequent screening steps reduced this panel to seventeen IgG mAbs. A single mAb, F26G15, is specific for the nucleoprotein as seen in Western immunoblot while five other mAbs react with the Spike protein. Two of these Spike-specific mAbs demonstrate the ability to neutralise SARS-CoV in vitro while another four Western immunoblot-negative mAbs also neutralise the virus. The utility of these mAbs for diagnostic development is demonstrated. Antibody from convalescent SARS patients, but not normal human serum, is also shown to specifically compete off binding of mAbs to whole SARS-CoV. These studies highlight the importance of using standardised assays and reagents. These mAbs will be useful for the development of diagnostic tests, studies of SARS-CoV pathogenesis and vaccine development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jody D Berry
- National Centre for Foreign Animal Disease, CFIA, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
39
|
Gubbins MJ, Plummer FA, Yuan XY, Johnstone D, Drebot M, Andonova M, Andonov A, Berry JD. Molecular characterization of a panel of murine monoclonal antibodies specific for the SARS-coronavirus. Mol Immunol 2005; 42:125-36. [PMID: 15488951 PMCID: PMC7112650 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2004.06.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2004] [Accepted: 06/09/2004] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The availability of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) specific for the SARS-coronavirus (SARS-CoV) is important for the development of both diagnostic tools and treatment of infection. A molecular characterization of nine monoclonal antibodies raised in immune mice, using highly purified, inactivated SARS-CoV as the inoculating antigen, is presented in this report. These antibodies are specific for numerous viral protein targets, and six of them are able to effectively neutralize SARS-CoV in vitro, including one with a neutralizing titre of 0.075 nM. A phylogenetic analysis of the heavy and light chain sequences reveals that the mAbs share considerable homology. The majority of the heavy chains belong to a single Ig germline V-gene family, while considerably more sequence variation is evident in the light chain sequences. These analyses demonstrate that neutralization ability can be correlated with specific murine VH-gene alleles. For instance, one evident trend is high sequence conservation in the VH chains of the neutralizing mAbs, particularly in CDR-1 and CDR-2. The results suggest that optimization of murine mAbs for neutralization of SARS-CoV infection will likely be possible, and will aid in the development of diagnostic tools and passive treatments for SARS-CoV infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Gubbins
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Health Canada, 1015 Arlington Street, Winnipeg, Man., Canada R3E 3R2
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
40
|
Wu HX, Andonov A, Giulivi A, Goedhuis NJ, Baptiste B, Furseth J, Poliquin D, Chan JIP, Bolesnikov G, Moffat B, Paton S, Wu J. Enhanced surveillance for childhood hepatitis B virus infection in Canada, 1999-2003. Int J Med Sci 2005; 2:143-6. [PMID: 16239952 PMCID: PMC1252726 DOI: 10.7150/ijms.2.143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2005] [Accepted: 09/06/2005] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Since hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection can have serious sequelae, especially if infection occurs during childhood, there is a continuing need to examine its epidemiology so as to inform control measures. We analyzed trends in disease incidence and patterns of hepatitis B virus (HBV) transmission in both Canadian-born and non-Canadian-born children from 1999 to 2003, through the Enhanced Hepatitis Strain Surveillance System. Amongst Canadian-born children, the incidence of newly identified HBV infection per 100,000 declined significantly during the study period from 1.4 in 1999, to 0.5 in 2003 (RR, 0.75 per year; 95% CI, 0.60-0.95). Amongst non-Canadian-born children, the incidence of HBV infection per 100,000 ranged from 9.4 to 16.3, during the study period (linear trend test, p=0.69). Poisson regression analysis revealed that non-Canadian-born children were more likely to have HBV infection (RR, 12.3; 95% CI, 7.6 to 19.8), than Canadian-born children. HBV infection was found to be more common among children emigrating from high endemic area, than among Canadian-born children. Current Canadian immunization policy should take into consideration the protection of all children against HBV infection, including those coming from countries where mass hepatitis B vaccination programs have still not been launched.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H X Wu
- Blood Safety Surveillance and Health Care Acquired Infection Division, Centre for Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Public Health Agency of Canada, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Weingartl H, Czub M, Czub S, Neufeld J, Marszal P, Gren J, Smith G, Jones S, Proulx R, Deschambault Y, Grudeski E, Andonov A, He R, Li Y, Copps J, Grolla A, Dick D, Berry J, Ganske S, Manning L, Cao J. Immunization with modified vaccinia virus Ankara-based recombinant vaccine against severe acute respiratory syndrome is associated with enhanced hepatitis in ferrets. J Virol 2004; 78:12672-6. [PMID: 15507655 PMCID: PMC525089 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.78.22.12672-12676.2004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 253] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) caused by a newly identified coronavirus (SARS-CoV) is a serious emerging human infectious disease. In this report, we immunized ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) with recombinant modified vaccinia virus Ankara (rMVA) expressing the SARS-CoV spike (S) protein. Immunized ferrets developed a more rapid and vigorous neutralizing antibody response than control animals after challenge with SARS-CoV; however, they also exhibited strong inflammatory responses in liver tissue. Inflammation in control animals exposed to SARS-CoV was relatively mild. Thus, our data suggest that vaccination with rMVA expressing SARS-CoV S protein is associated with enhanced hepatitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hana Weingartl
- National Centre for Foreign Animal Diseases, Canadian Science Centre for Human and Animal Health, 1015 Arlington St., Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3E 3R2
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
42
|
He R, Dobie F, Ballantine M, Leeson A, Li Y, Bastien N, Cutts T, Andonov A, Cao J, Booth TF, Plummer FA, Tyler S, Baker L, Li X. Analysis of multimerization of the SARS coronavirus nucleocapsid protein. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2004; 316:476-83. [PMID: 15020242 PMCID: PMC7111152 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2004.02.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2004] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), an emerging disease characterized by atypical pneumonia, has recently been attributed to a novel coronavirus. The genome of SARS Coronavirus (SARS-CoV) has recently been sequenced, and a number of genes identified, including that of the nucleocapsid protein (N). It is noted, however, that the N protein of SARS-CoV (SARS-CoV N) shares little homology with nucleocapsid proteins of other members of the coronavirus family [Science 300 (2003) 1399; Science 300 (2003) 1394]. N proteins of other coronavirus have been reported to be involved in forming the viral core and also in the packaging and transcription of the viral RNA. As data generated from some viral systems other than coronaviruses suggested that viral N–N self-interactions may be necessary for subsequent formation of the nucleocapsid and assembly of the viral particles, we decided to investigate SARS-CoV N–N interaction. By using mammalian two-hybrid system and sucrose gradient fractionations, a homotypic interaction of N, but not M, was detected by the two-hybrid analysis. The mammalian two-hybrid assay revealed an approximately 50-fold increase in SEAP activity (measurement of protein–protein interaction) in N–N interaction compared to that observed in either M–M or mock transfection. Furthermore, mutational analyses characterized that a serine/arginine-rich motif (SSRSSSRSRGNSR) between amino acids 184 and 196 is crucial for N protein oligomerization, since deletion of this region completely abolished the N protein self-multimerization. Finally, the full-length nucleocapsid protein expressed and purified from baculovirus system was found to form different levels of higher order structures as detected by Western blot analysis of the fractionated proteins. Collectively, these results may aid us in elucidating the mechanism pertaining to formation of viral nucleocapsid core, and designing molecular approaches to intervene SARS-CoV replication.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Runtao He
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Health Canada, 1015 Arlington St., Winnipeg, MB, Canada R3E 3R2.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
43
|
He R, Leeson A, Andonov A, Li Y, Bastien N, Cao J, Osiowy C, Dobie F, Cutts T, Ballantine M, Li X. Activation of AP-1 signal transduction pathway by SARS coronavirus nucleocapsid protein. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2004; 311:870-6. [PMID: 14623261 PMCID: PMC7111052 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2003.10.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
In March 2003, a novel coronavirus was isolated from patients exhibiting atypical pneumonia and subsequently proven to be the causative agent of the disease now referred to as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). The complete genome of the SARS coronavirus (SARS-CoV) has since been sequenced. The SARS-CoV nucleocapsid (SARS-CoV N) shares little homology with other members of the coronavirus family. To determine if the N protein is involved in the regulation of cellular signal transduction, an ELISA-based assay on transcription factors was used. We found that the amount of transcription factors binding to promoter sequences of c-Fos, ATF2, CREB-1, and FosB was increased by the expression of SARS-CoV N. Since these factors are related to AP-1 signal transduction pathway, we investigated whether the AP-1 pathway was activated by SARS-CoV N protein using the PathDetect system. The results demonstrated that the expression of N protein, not the membrane protein (M), activated AP-1 pathway. We also found that SARS-CoV N protein does not activate NF-κB pathway, demonstrating that activation of important cellular pathways by SAS-CoV N protein is selective. Thus our data for the first time indicate that SARS-CoV has encoded a strategy to regulate cellular signaling process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Runtao He
- National Microbiology Laboratory, Health Canada, 1015 Arlington Street, R3E 3R2, Winnipeg, MB, Canada.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
44
|
Marra MA, Jones SJM, Astell CR, Holt RA, Brooks-Wilson A, Butterfield YSN, Khattra J, Asano JK, Barber SA, Chan SY, Cloutier A, Coughlin SM, Freeman D, Girn N, Griffith OL, Leach SR, Mayo M, McDonald H, Montgomery SB, Pandoh PK, Petrescu AS, Robertson AG, Schein JE, Siddiqui A, Smailus DE, Stott JM, Yang GS, Plummer F, Andonov A, Artsob H, Bastien N, Bernard K, Booth TF, Bowness D, Czub M, Drebot M, Fernando L, Flick R, Garbutt M, Gray M, Grolla A, Jones S, Feldmann H, Meyers A, Kabani A, Li Y, Normand S, Stroher U, Tipples GA, Tyler S, Vogrig R, Ward D, Watson B, Brunham RC, Krajden M, Petric M, Skowronski DM, Upton C, Roper RL. The Genome sequence of the SARS-associated coronavirus. Science 2003; 300:1399-404. [PMID: 12730501 DOI: 10.1126/science.1085953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1536] [Impact Index Per Article: 73.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
We sequenced the 29,751-base genome of the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-associated coronavirus known as the Tor2 isolate. The genome sequence reveals that this coronavirus is only moderately related to other known coronaviruses, including two human coronaviruses, HCoV-OC43 and HCoV-229E. Phylogenetic analysis of the predicted viral proteins indicates that the virus does not closely resemble any of the three previously known groups of coronaviruses. The genome sequence will aid in the diagnosis of SARS virus infection in humans and potential animal hosts (using polymerase chain reaction and immunological tests), in the development of antivirals (including neutralizing antibodies), and in the identification of putative epitopes for vaccine development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marco A Marra
- British Columbia Cancer Agency (BCCA) Genome Sciences Centre, 600 West 10th Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia V5Z 4E6, Canada.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
45
|
Krokhin O, Li Y, Andonov A, Feldmann H, Flick R, Jones S, Stroeher U, Bastien N, Dasuri KVN, Cheng K, Simonsen JN, Perreault H, Wilkins J, Ens W, Plummer F, Standing KG. Mass spectrometric characterization of proteins from the SARS virus: a preliminary report. Mol Cell Proteomics 2003; 2:346-56. [PMID: 12775768 PMCID: PMC7780042 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.m300048-mcp200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 140] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
A new coronavirus has been implicated as the causative agent of severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). We have used convalescent sera from several SARS patients to detect proteins in the culture supernatants from cells exposed to lavage another SARS patient. The most prominent protein in the supernatant was identified by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) as a approximately 46-kDa species. This was found to be a novel nucleocapsid protein that matched almost exactly one predicted by an open reading frame in the recently published nucleotide sequence of the same virus isolate (>96% coverage). A second viral protein corresponding to the predicted approximately 139-kDa spike glycoprotein has also been examined by MALDI-TOF MS (42% coverage). After peptide N-glycosidase F digestion, 12 glycosylation sites in this protein were confirmed. The sugars attached to four of the sites were also identified. These results suggest that the nucleocapsid protein is a major immunogen that may be useful for early diagnostics, and that the spike glycoprotein may present a particularly attractive target for prophylactic intervention in combating SARS.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Oleg Krokhin
- Department of Physics, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg MB R3T 2N2, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
46
|
Andonov A, Sauder C, Jacobsen H, Chaudhary R. Comparison of six sets of PCR primers from two different genomic regions for amplification of GB virus C/hepatitis G virus RNA. J Clin Microbiol 1998; 36:286-9. [PMID: 9431969 PMCID: PMC124856 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.36.1.286-289.1998] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Forty-four clinical samples positive for GB virus C (GBV-C)/hepatitis G virus (HGV) were tested with six primer sets, four from the 5' untranslated region (5'-UTR) and two from the NS5a genomic region. Two of the 5'-UTR primer sets, when used in a single-round 60-cycle PCR, detected between 86.4 and 97.7% of the positive samples, while two different sets from the same area, when used in a nested PCR, amplified between 97.7 and 100% of the positive specimens. Both sets from the NS5a region, when used in a single-round PCR, detected 95.5% of the GBV-C/HGV-positive samples. Parallel testing with two PCR sets, one from the 5'-UTR and a second from NS5a, may eliminate false-negative results attributable to the genetic heterogeneity of the virus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Andonov
- Laboratory for Viral Hepatitis, Bureau of Microbiology, Health Canada, Ottawa, Ontario.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
47
|
|
48
|
Abstract
A reverse hybridization test (Inno-LiPA HCV; Innogenetics, N.V., Zwijnaarde, Belgium) was used for typing hepatitis C virus. All 38 samples, typed by PCR with primers from core and NS5 genes, were also genotyped by this test. Of the samples, 33 (87%) had the same subtypes by both assays. The correlations between PCR and Inno-LiPA for individual types were 77% for type I (1a), 90% for type II (1b), 100% for type III (2a), 100% for type IV (2b), and 100% for type V (3a). One of the type III (2a) samples also reacted with type I (1a) probes in the Inno-LiPA test.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Andonov
- Laboratory for Viral Hepatitis, Laboratory Centre for Disease Control, Health Canada, Ottawa, Ontario
| | | |
Collapse
|
49
|
Abstract
We used PCR for hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotyping with type-specific primers from the core and NS5 genes. Type I was predominant in the general population (58% in blood donors) as well as in different risk groups, such as intravenous drug abusers (58%), blood transfusion recipients (64%), hemophiliacs (62%), and patients with HCV chronic liver disease (76%). Types II, III, and IV were less prevalent in Canada, being found in 10.92, 6.72, and 5.88% of the population, respectively. The type II core primer was not type specific and reacted with the majority of our type I HCV samples, suggesting a false-positive dual infection with two different genotypes (I and II). Digestion of these amplified type I and type II products with restriction endonuclease AccI proved to be very useful in the exclusion of false-positive dual type I and type II infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Andonov
- Laboratory for Viral Hepatitis, Bureau of Microbiology, Health Canada, Ottawa, Ontario
| | | |
Collapse
|
50
|
Chaudhary RK, Andonov A, MacLean C. Detection of hepatitis C virus infection with recombinant immunoblot assay, synthetic immunoblot assay, and polymerase chain reaction. J Clin Lab Anal 1993; 7:164-7. [PMID: 7685380 DOI: 10.1002/jcla.1860070306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The newly developed immunoblot assay, RIBA SIA (recombinant and synthetic polypeptide immunoblot assay), Chiron, Calif., was compared with the commercially available second generation recombinant immunoblot assay (RIBA-2) for the detection of antibody to hepatitis C virus (anti-HCV). The two immunoblot tests were also compared with the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the detection of HCV RNA. Ninety-one percent of samples reactive by RIBA-2 were positive for anti-HCV by RIBA SIA. A total of 31% of RIBA-2 indeterminate samples became reactive by RIBA SIA, 24% became non-reactive, and 45% remained the same. Samples reactive by RIBA-2 or SIA from different risk groups, were mostly positive (67-100%) by PCR for HCV RNA. All indeterminate samples from hemophiliacs and intravenous drug users were PCR positive. RIBA SIA is more sensitive and specific than RIBA-2 and correlates well with PCR results.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R K Chaudhary
- Laboratory for Viral Hepatitis, Health and Welfare Canada, Ottawa, Ontario
| | | | | |
Collapse
|