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Mbala-Kingebeni P, Aziza A, Di Paola N, Wiley MR, Makiala-Mandanda S, Caviness K, Pratt CB, Ladner JT, Kugelman JR, Prieto K, Chitty JA, Larson PA, Beitzel B, Ayouba A, Vidal N, Karhemere S, Diop M, Diagne MM, Faye M, Faye O, Aruna A, Nsio J, Mulangu F, Mukadi D, Mukadi P, Kombe J, Mulumba A, Villabona-Arenas CJ, Pukuta E, Gonzalez J, Bartlett ML, Sozhamannan S, Gross SM, Schroth GP, Tim R, Zhao JJ, Kuhn JH, Diallo B, Yao M, Fall IS, Ndjoloko B, Mossoko M, Lacroix A, Delaporte E, Sanchez-Lockhart M, Sall AA, Muyembe-Tamfum JJ, Peeters M, Palacios G, Ahuka-Mundeke S. Medical countermeasures during the 2018 Ebola virus disease outbreak in the North Kivu and Ituri Provinces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo: a rapid genomic assessment. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2019; 19:648-657. [PMID: 31000464 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(19)30118-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Revised: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The real-time generation of information about pathogen genomes has become a vital goal for transmission analysis and characterisation in rapid outbreak responses. In response to the recently established genomic capacity in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, we explored the real-time generation of genomic information at the start of the 2018 Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak in North Kivu Province. METHODS We used targeted-enrichment sequencing to produce two coding-complete Ebola virus genomes 5 days after declaration of the EVD outbreak in North Kivu. Subsequent sequencing efforts yielded an additional 46 genomes. Genomic information was used to assess early transmission, medical countermeasures, and evolution of Ebola virus. FINDINGS The genomic information demonstrated that the EVD outbreak in the North Kivu and Ituri Provinces was distinct from the 2018 EVD outbreak in Équateur Province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Primer and probe mismatches to Ebola virus were identified in silico for all deployed diagnostic PCR assays, with the exception of the Cepheid GeneXpert GP assay. INTERPRETATION The first two coding-complete genomes provided actionable information in real-time for the deployment of the rVSVΔG-ZEBOV-GP Ebola virus envelope glycoprotein vaccine, available therapeutics, and sequence-based diagnostic assays. Based on the mutations identified in the Ebola virus surface glycoprotein (GP12) observed in all 48 genomes, deployed monoclonal antibody therapeutics (mAb114 and ZMapp) should be efficacious against the circulating Ebola virus variant. Rapid Ebola virus genomic characterisation should be included in routine EVD outbreak response procedures to ascertain efficacy of medical countermeasures. FUNDING Defense Biological Product Assurance Office.
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Shea AA, Bernhards RC, Cote CK, Chase CJ, Koehler JW, Klimko CP, Ladner JT, Rozak DA, Wolcott MJ, Fetterer DP, Kern SJ, Koroleva GI, Lovett SP, Palacios GF, Toothman RG, Bozue JA, Worsham PL, Welkos SL. Correction: Two stable variants of Burkholderia pseudomallei strain MSHR5848 express broadly divergent in vitro phenotypes associated with their virulence differences. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0215200. [PMID: 30947319 PMCID: PMC6448864 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0215200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Ladner JT, Grubaugh ND, Pybus OG, Andersen KG. Precision epidemiology for infectious disease control. Nat Med 2019; 25:206-211. [PMID: 30728537 PMCID: PMC7095960 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-019-0345-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 01/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Advances in genomics and computing are transforming the capacity for the characterization of biological systems, and researchers are now poised for a precision-focused transformation in the way they prepare for, and respond to, infectious diseases. This includes the use of genome-based approaches to inform molecular diagnosis and individual-level treatment regimens. In addition, advances in the speed and granularity of pathogen genome generation have improved the capability to track and understand pathogen transmission, leading to potential improvements in the design and implementation of population-level public health interventions. In this Perspective, we outline several trends that are driving the development of precision epidemiology of infectious disease and their implications for scientists' ability to respond to outbreaks.
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Oliveira DBL, Durigon GS, Mendes ÉA, Ladner JT, Andreata-Santos R, Araujo DB, Botosso VF, Paola ND, Neto DFL, Cunha MP, Braconi CT, Alves RPS, Jesus MR, Pereira LR, Melo SR, Mesquita FS, Silveira VB, Thomazelli LM, Favoretto SR, Almonfrey FB, Abdulkader RCRM, Gabrili JM, Tambourgi DV, Oliveira SF, Prieto K, Wiley MR, Ferreira LCS, Silva MV, Palacios GF, Zanotto PMA, Durigon EL. Persistence and Intra-Host Genetic Evolution of Zika Virus Infection in Symptomatic Adults: A Special View in the Male Reproductive System. Viruses 2018; 10:v10110615. [PMID: 30405055 PMCID: PMC6267439 DOI: 10.3390/v10110615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Revised: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 10/20/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
We followed the presence of Zika virus (ZIKV) in four healthy adults (two men and two women), for periods ranging from 78 to 298 days post symptom onset. The patients were evaluated regarding the presence of the virus in different body fluids (blood, saliva, urine and semen), development of immune responses (including antibodies, cytokines and chemokines), and virus genetic variation within samples collected from semen and urine during the infection course. The analysis was focused primarily on the two male patients who shed the virus for up to 158 days after the initial symptoms. ZIKV particles were detected in the spermatozoa cytoplasm and flagella, in immature sperm cells and could also be isolated from semen in cell culture, confirming that the virus is able to preserve integrity and infectivity during replication in the male reproductive system (MRS). Despite the damage caused by ZIKV infection within the MRS, our data showed that ZIKV infection did not result in infertility at least in one of the male patients. This patient was able to conceive a child after the infection. We also detected alterations in the male genital cytokine milieu, which could play an important role in the replication and transmission of the virus which could considerably increase the risk of ZIKV sexual spread. In addition, full genome ZIKV sequences were obtained from several samples (mainly semen), which allowed us to monitor the evolution of the virus within a patient during the infection course. We observed genetic changes over time in consensus sequences and lower frequency intra-host single nucleotide variants (iSNV), that suggested independent compartmentalization of ZIKV populations in the reproductive and urinary systems. Altogether, the present observations confirm the risks associated with the long-term replication and shedding of ZIKV in the MRS and help to elucidate patterns of intra-host genetic evolution during long term replication of the virus.
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Dokubo EK, Wendland A, Mate SE, Ladner JT, Hamblion EL, Raftery P, Blackley DJ, Laney AS, Mahmoud N, Wayne-Davies G, Hensley L, Stavale E, Fakoli L, Gregory C, Chen TH, Koryon A, Roth Allen D, Mann J, Hickey A, Saindon J, Badini M, Baller A, Clement P, Bolay F, Wapoe Y, Wiley MR, Logue J, Dighero-Kemp B, Higgs E, Gasasira A, Williams DE, Dahn B, Kateh F, Nyenswah T, Palacios G, Fallah MP. Persistence of Ebola virus after the end of widespread transmission in Liberia: an outbreak report. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2018; 18:1015-1024. [PMID: 30049622 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(18)30417-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2018] [Revised: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Outbreak response efforts for the 2014-15 Ebola virus disease epidemic in west Africa brought widespread transmission to an end. However, subsequent clusters of infection have occurred in the region. An Ebola virus disease cluster in Liberia in November, 2015, that was identified after a 15-year-old boy tested positive for Ebola virus infection in Monrovia, raised the possibility of transmission from a persistently infected individual. METHODS Case investigations were done to ascertain previous contact with cases of Ebola virus disease or infection with Ebola virus. Molecular investigations on blood samples explored a potential linkage between Ebola virus isolated from cases in this November, 2015, cluster and epidemiologically linked cases from the 2014-15 west African outbreak, according to the national case database. FINDINGS The cluster investigated was the family of the index case (mother, father, three siblings). Ebola virus genomes assembled from two cases in the November, 2015, cluster, and an epidemiologically linked Ebola virus disease case in July, 2014, were phylogenetically related within the LB5 sublineage that circulated in Liberia starting around August, 2014. Partial genomes from two additional individuals, one from each cluster, were also consistent with placement in the LB5 sublineage. Sequencing data indicate infection with a lineage of the virus from a former transmission chain in the country. Based on serology and epidemiological and genomic data, the most plausible scenario is that a female case in the November, 2015, cluster survived Ebola virus disease in 2014, had viral persistence or recurrent disease, and transmitted the virus to three family members a year later. INTERPRETATION Investigation of the source of infection for the November, 2015, cluster provides evidence of Ebola virus persistence and highlights the risk for outbreaks after interruption of active transmission. These findings underscore the need for focused prevention efforts among survivors and sustained capacity to rapidly detect and respond to new Ebola virus disease cases to prevent recurrence of a widespread outbreak. FUNDING US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Defense Threat Reduction Agency, and WHO.
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Lowen RG, Bocan TM, Kane CD, Cazares LH, Kota KP, Ladner JT, Nasar F, Pitt L, Smith DR, Soloveva V, Sun MG, Zeng X, Bavari S. Countering Zika Virus: The USAMRIID Response. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2018; 1062:303-318. [PMID: 29845541 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-10-8727-1_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID) possesses an array of expertise in diverse capabilities for the characterization of emerging infectious diseases from the pathogen itself to human or animal infection models. The recent Zika virus (ZIKV) outbreak was a challenge and an opportunity to put these capabilities to work as a cohesive unit to quickly respond to a rapidly developing threat. Next-generation sequencing was used to characterize virus stocks and to understand the introduction and spread of ZIKV in the United States. High Content Imaging was used to establish a High Content Screening process to evaluate antiviral therapies. Functional genomics was used to identify critical host factors for ZIKV infection. An animal model using the temporal blockade of IFN-I in immunocompetent laboratory mice was investigated in conjunction with Positron Emission Tomography to study ZIKV. Correlative light and electron microscopy was used to examine ZIKV interaction with host cells in culture and infected animals. A quantitative mass spectrometry approach was used to examine the protein and metabolite type or concentration changes that occur during ZIKV infection in blood, cells, and tissues. Multiplex fluorescence in situ hybridization was used to confirm ZIKV replication in mouse and NHP tissues. The integrated rapid response approach developed at USAMRIID presented in this review was successfully applied and provides a new template pathway to follow if a new biological threat emerges. This streamlined approach will increase the likelihood that novel medical countermeasures could be rapidly developed, evaluated, and translated into the clinic.
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Ruedas JB, Ladner JT, Ettinger CR, Gummuluru S, Palacios G, Connor JH. Spontaneous Mutation at Amino Acid 544 of the Ebola Virus Glycoprotein Potentiates Virus Entry and Selection in Tissue Culture. J Virol 2017; 91:e00392-17. [PMID: 28539437 PMCID: PMC5651722 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00392-17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Accepted: 05/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Ebolaviruses have a surface glycoprotein (GP1,2) that is required for virus attachment and entry into cells. Mutations affecting GP1,2 functions can alter virus growth properties. We generated a recombinant vesicular stomatitis virus encoding Ebola virus Makona variant GP1,2 (rVSV-MAK-GP) and observed emergence of a T544I mutation in the Makona GP1,2 gene during tissue culture passage in certain cell lines. The T544I mutation emerged within two passages when VSV-MAK-GP was grown on Vero E6, Vero, and BS-C-1 cells but not when it was passaged on Huh7 and HepG2 cells. The mutation led to a marked increase in virus growth kinetics and conferred a robust growth advantage over wild-type rVSV-MAK-GP on Vero E6 cells. Analysis of complete viral genomes collected from patients in western Africa indicated that this mutation was not found in Ebola virus clinical samples. However, we observed the emergence of T544I during serial passage of various Ebola Makona isolates on Vero E6 cells. Three independent isolates showed emergence of T544I from undetectable levels in nonpassaged virus or virus passaged once to frequencies of greater than 60% within a single passage, consistent with it being a tissue culture adaptation. Intriguingly, T544I is not found in any Sudan, Bundibugyo, or Tai Forest ebolavirus sequences. Furthermore, T544I did not emerge when we serially passaged recombinant VSV encoding GP1,2 from these ebolaviruses. This report provides experimental evidence that the spontaneous mutation T544I is a tissue culture adaptation in certain cell lines and that it may be unique for the species Zaire ebolavirusIMPORTANCE The Ebola virus (Zaire) species is the most lethal species of all ebolaviruses in terms of mortality rate and number of deaths. Understanding how the Ebola virus surface glycoprotein functions to facilitate entry in cells is an area of intense research. Recently, three groups independently identified a polymorphism in the Ebola glycoprotein (I544) that enhanced virus entry, but they did not agree in their conclusions regarding its impact on pathogenesis. Our findings here address the origins of this polymorphism and provide experimental evidence showing that it is the result of a spontaneous mutation (T544I) specific to tissue culture conditions, suggesting that it has no role in pathogenesis. We further show that this mutation may be unique to the species Zaire ebolavirus, as it does not occur in Sudan, Bundibugyo, and Tai Forest ebolaviruses. Understanding the mechanism behind this mutation can provide insight into functional differences that exist in culture conditions and among ebolavirus glycoproteins.
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Golden JW, Beitzel B, Ladner JT, Mucker EM, Kwilas SA, Palacios G, Hooper JW. An attenuated Machupo virus with a disrupted L-segment intergenic region protects guinea pigs against lethal Guanarito virus infection. Sci Rep 2017; 7:4679. [PMID: 28680057 PMCID: PMC5498534 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-04889-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Accepted: 05/22/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Machupo virus (MACV) is a New World (NW) arenavirus and causative agent of Bolivian hemorrhagic fever (HF). Here, we identified a variant of MACV strain Carvallo termed Car91 that was attenuated in guinea pigs. Infection of guinea pigs with an earlier passage of Carvallo, termed Car68, resulted in a lethal disease with a 63% mortality rate. Sequencing analysis revealed that compared to Car68, Car91 had a 35 nucleotide (nt) deletion and a point mutation within the L-segment intergenic region (IGR), and three silent changes in the polymerase gene that did not impact amino acid coding. No changes were found on the S-segment. Because it was apathogenic, we determined if Car91 could protect guinea pigs against Guanarito virus (GTOV), a distantly related NW arenavirus. While naïve animals succumbed to GTOV infection, 88% of the Car91-exposed guinea pigs were protected. These findings indicate that attenuated MACV vaccines can provide heterologous protection against NW arenaviruses. The disruption in the L-segment IGR, including a single point mutant and 35 nt partial deletion, were the only major variance detected between virulent and avirulent isolates, implicating its role in attenuation. Overall, our data support the development of live-attenuated arenaviruses as broadly protective pan-arenavirus vaccines.
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Grubaugh ND, Ladner JT, Kraemer MUG, Dudas G, Tan AL, Gangavarapu K, Wiley MR, White S, Thézé J, Magnani DM, Prieto K, Reyes D, Bingham AM, Paul LM, Robles-Sikisaka R, Oliveira G, Pronty D, Barcellona CM, Metsky HC, Baniecki ML, Barnes KG, Chak B, Freije CA, Gladden-Young A, Gnirke A, Luo C, MacInnis B, Matranga CB, Park DJ, Qu J, Schaffner SF, Tomkins-Tinch C, West KL, Winnicki SM, Wohl S, Yozwiak NL, Quick J, Fauver JR, Khan K, Brent SE, Reiner RC, Lichtenberger PN, Ricciardi MJ, Bailey VK, Watkins DI, Cone MR, Kopp EW, Hogan KN, Cannons AC, Jean R, Monaghan AJ, Garry RF, Loman NJ, Faria NR, Porcelli MC, Vasquez C, Nagle ER, Cummings DAT, Stanek D, Rambaut A, Sanchez-Lockhart M, Sabeti PC, Gillis LD, Michael SF, Bedford T, Pybus OG, Isern S, Palacios G, Andersen KG. Genomic epidemiology reveals multiple introductions of Zika virus into the United States. Nature 2017; 546:401-405. [PMID: 28538723 PMCID: PMC5536180 DOI: 10.1038/nature22400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 234] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Accepted: 04/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) is causing an unprecedented epidemic linked to severe congenital abnormalities. In July 2016, mosquito-borne ZIKV transmission was reported in the continental United States; since then, hundreds of locally acquired infections have been reported in Florida. To gain insights into the timing, source, and likely route(s) of ZIKV introduction, we tracked the virus from its first detection in Florida by sequencing ZIKV genomes from infected patients and Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. We show that at least 4 introductions, but potentially as many as 40, contributed to the outbreak in Florida and that local transmission is likely to have started in the spring of 2016-several months before its initial detection. By analysing surveillance and genetic data, we show that ZIKV moved among transmission zones in Miami. Our analyses show that most introductions were linked to the Caribbean, a finding corroborated by the high incidence rates and traffic volumes from the region into the Miami area. Our study provides an understanding of how ZIKV initiates transmission in new regions.
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Costa-da-Silva AL, Ioshino RS, Petersen V, Lima AF, Cunha MDP, Wiley MR, Ladner JT, Prieto K, Palacios G, Costa DD, Suesdek L, Zanotto PMDA, Capurro ML. First report of naturally infected Aedes aegypti with chikungunya virus genotype ECSA in the Americas. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2017; 11:e0005630. [PMID: 28614394 PMCID: PMC5470658 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2016] [Accepted: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The worldwide expansion of new emergent arboviruses such as Chikungunya and Zika reinforces the importance in understanding the role of mosquito species in spreading these pathogens in affected regions. This knowledge is essential for developing effective programs based on species specificity to avoid the establishment of endemic transmission cycles sustained by the identified local vectors. Although the first autochthonous transmission of Chikungunya virus was described in 2014 in the north of Brazil, the main outbreaks were reported in 2015 and 2016 in the northeast of Brazil. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS During 5 days of February 2016, we collected mosquitoes in homes of 6 neighborhoods of Aracaju city, the capital of Sergipe state. Four mosquito species were identified but Culex quinquefasciatus and Aedes aegypti were the most abundant. Field-caught mosquitoes were tested for Chikungunya (CHIKV), Zika (ZIKV) and Dengue viruses (DENV) by qRT-PCR and one CHIKV-infected Ae. aegypti female was detected. The complete sequence of CHIKV genome was obtained from this sample and phylogenetic analysis revealed that this isolate belongs to the East-Central-South-African (ECSA) genotype. CONCLUSIONS Our study describes the first identification of a naturally CHIKV-infected Ae. aegypti in Brazil and the first report of a CHIKV from ECSA genotype identified in this species in the Americas. These findings support the notion of Ae. aegypti being a vector involved in CHIKV outbreaks in northeast of Brazil.
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Pespeni MH, Ladner JT, Moczek AP. Signals of selection in conditionally expressed genes in the diversification of three horned beetle species. J Evol Biol 2017; 30:1644-1657. [PMID: 28379613 DOI: 10.1111/jeb.13079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2016] [Accepted: 03/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Species radiations may be facilitated by phenotypic differences already present within populations, such as those arising through sex-specific development or developmental processes biased towards particular reproductive or trophic morphs. We sought to test this hypothesis by utilizing a comparative transcriptomic approach to contrast among- and within-species differentiation using three horned beetle species in the genus Onthophagus. These three species exhibit differences along three phenotypic axes reflective of much of the interspecific diversity present within the genus: horn location, polarity of sexual dimorphism and degree of nutritional sensitivity. Our approach combined de novo transcript assembly, assessment of amino acid substitutions (dN/dS) across orthologous gene pairs and integration of gene function and conditional gene expression data. We identified 17 genes across the three species pairs related to axis patterning, development and metabolism with dN/dS > 1 and detected elevated dN/dS in genes related to metabolism and biosynthesis in the most closely related species pair, which is characterized by a loss of nutritional polyphenism and a reversal of sexual dimorphism. Further, we found that genes that are conditionally expressed (i.e. as a function of sex, nutrition or body region) within one of our focal species also showed significantly stronger signals of positive or relaxed purifying selection between species divergent along the same morphological axis (i.e. polarity of sexual dimorphism, degree of nutritional sensitivity or location of horns). Our findings thus reveal a positive relationship between intraspecific differentiation due to condition-specific development and genetic divergences among species.
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Dudas G, Carvalho LM, Bedford T, Tatem AJ, Baele G, Faria NR, Park DJ, Ladner JT, Arias A, Asogun D, Bielejec F, Caddy SL, Cotten M, D’Ambrozio J, Dellicour S, Di Caro A, Diclaro J, Duraffour S, Elmore MJ, Fakoli LS, Faye O, Gilbert ML, Gevao SM, Gire S, Gladden-Young A, Gnirke A, Goba A, Grant DS, Haagmans BL, Hiscox JA, Jah U, Kargbo B, Kugelman JR, Liu D, Lu J, Malboeuf CM, Mate S, Matthews DA, Matranga CB, Meredith LW, Qu J, Quick J, Pas SD, Phan MVT, Pollakis G, Reusken CB, Sanchez-Lockhart M, Schaffner SF, Schieffelin JS, Sealfon RS, Simon-Loriere E, Smits SL, Stoecker K, Thorne L, Tobin EA, Vandi MA, Watson SJ, West K, Whitmer S, Wiley MR, Winnicki SM, Wohl S, Wölfel R, Yozwiak NL, Andersen KG, Blyden SO, Bolay F, Carroll M, Dahn B, Diallo B, Formenty P, Fraser C, Gao GF, Garry RF, Goodfellow I, Günther S, Happi CT, Holmes EC, Kargbo B, Keïta S, Kellam P, Koopmans MPG, Kuhn JH, Loman NJ, Magassouba N, Naidoo D, Nichol ST, Nyenswah T, Palacios G, Pybus OG, Sabeti PC, Sall A, Ströher U, Wurie I, Suchard MA, Lemey P, Rambaut A. Virus genomes reveal factors that spread and sustained the Ebola epidemic. Nature 2017; 544:309-315. [PMID: 28405027 PMCID: PMC5712493 DOI: 10.1038/nature22040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 242] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2016] [Accepted: 03/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The 2013-2016 West African epidemic caused by the Ebola virus was of unprecedented magnitude, duration and impact. Here we reconstruct the dispersal, proliferation and decline of Ebola virus throughout the region by analysing 1,610 Ebola virus genomes, which represent over 5% of the known cases. We test the association of geography, climate and demography with viral movement among administrative regions, inferring a classic 'gravity' model, with intense dispersal between larger and closer populations. Despite attenuation of international dispersal after border closures, cross-border transmission had already sown the seeds for an international epidemic, rendering these measures ineffective at curbing the epidemic. We address why the epidemic did not spread into neighbouring countries, showing that these countries were susceptible to substantial outbreaks but at lower risk of introductions. Finally, we reveal that this large epidemic was a heterogeneous and spatially dissociated collection of transmission clusters of varying size, duration and connectivity. These insights will help to inform interventions in future epidemics.
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Tuanyok A, Mayo M, Scholz H, Hall CM, Allender CJ, Kaestli M, Ginther J, Spring-Pearson S, Bollig MC, Stone JK, Settles EW, Busch JD, Sidak-Loftis L, Sahl JW, Thomas A, Kreutzer L, Georgi E, Gee JE, Bowen RA, Ladner JT, Lovett S, Koroleva G, Palacios G, Wagner DM, Currie BJ, Keim P. Burkholderia humptydooensis sp. nov., a New Species Related to Burkholderia thailandensis and the Fifth Member of the Burkholderia pseudomallei Complex. Appl Environ Microbiol 2017; 83:e02802-16. [PMID: 27986727 PMCID: PMC5311406 DOI: 10.1128/aem.02802-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2016] [Accepted: 12/02/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
During routine screening for Burkholderia pseudomallei from water wells in northern Australia in areas where it is endemic, Gram-negative bacteria (strains MSMB43T, MSMB121, and MSMB122) with a similar morphology and biochemical pattern to B. pseudomallei and B. thailandensis were coisolated with B. pseudomallei on Ashdown's selective agar. To determine the exact taxonomic position of these strains and to distinguish them from B. pseudomallei and B. thailandensis, they were subjected to a series of phenotypic and molecular analyses. Biochemical and fatty acid methyl ester analysis was unable to distinguish B. humptydooensis sp. nov. from closely related species. With matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight analysis, all isolates grouped together in a cluster separate from other Burkholderia spp. 16S rRNA and recA sequence analyses demonstrated phylogenetic placement for B. humptydooensis sp. nov. in a novel clade within the B. pseudomallei group. Multilocus sequence typing (MLST) analysis of the three isolates in comparison with MLST data from 3,340 B. pseudomallei strains and related taxa revealed a new sequence type (ST318). Genome-to-genome distance calculations and the average nucleotide identity of all isolates to both B. thailandensis and B. pseudomallei, based on whole-genome sequences, also confirmed B. humptydooensis sp. nov. as a novel Burkholderia species within the B. pseudomallei complex. Molecular analyses clearly demonstrated that strains MSMB43T, MSMB121, and MSMB122 belong to a novel Burkholderia species for which the name Burkholderia humptydooensis sp. nov. is proposed, with the type strain MSMB43T (American Type Culture Collection BAA-2767; Belgian Co-ordinated Collections of Microorganisms LMG 29471; DDBJ accession numbers CP013380 to CP013382).IMPORTANCEBurkholderia pseudomallei is a soil-dwelling bacterium and the causative agent of melioidosis. The genus Burkholderia consists of a diverse group of species, with the closest relatives of B. pseudomallei referred to as the B. pseudomallei complex. A proposed novel species, B. humptydooensis sp. nov., was isolated from a bore water sample from the Northern Territory in Australia. B. humptydooensis sp. nov. is phylogenetically distinct from B. pseudomallei and other members of the B. pseudomallei complex, making it the fifth member of this important group of bacteria.
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Ladner JT, Wiley MR, Beitzel B, Auguste AJ, Dupuis AP, Lindquist ME, Sibley SD, Kota KP, Fetterer D, Eastwood G, Kimmel D, Prieto K, Guzman H, Aliota MT, Reyes D, Brueggemann EE, St John L, Hyeroba D, Lauck M, Friedrich TC, O'Connor DH, Gestole MC, Cazares LH, Popov VL, Castro-Llanos F, Kochel TJ, Kenny T, White B, Ward MD, Loaiza JR, Goldberg TL, Weaver SC, Kramer LD, Tesh RB, Palacios G. A Multicomponent Animal Virus Isolated from Mosquitoes. Cell Host Microbe 2016; 20:357-367. [PMID: 27569558 DOI: 10.1016/j.chom.2016.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2016] [Revised: 06/09/2016] [Accepted: 07/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
RNA viruses exhibit a variety of genome organization strategies, including multicomponent genomes in which each segment is packaged separately. Although multicomponent genomes are common among viruses infecting plants and fungi, their prevalence among those infecting animals remains unclear. We characterize a multicomponent RNA virus isolated from mosquitoes, designated Guaico Culex virus (GCXV). GCXV belongs to a diverse clade of segmented viruses (Jingmenvirus) related to the prototypically unsegmented Flaviviridae. The GCXV genome comprises five segments, each of which appears to be separately packaged. The smallest segment is not required for replication, and its presence is variable in natural infections. We also describe a variant of Jingmen tick virus, another Jingmenvirus, sequenced from a Ugandan red colobus monkey, thus expanding the host range of this segmented and likely multicomponent virus group. Collectively, this study provides evidence for the existence of multicomponent animal viruses and their potential relevance for animal and human health.
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Ladner JT, Kuhn JH, Palacios G. Standard finishing categories for high-throughput sequencing of viral genomes. REV SCI TECH OIE 2016; 35:43-52. [PMID: 27217167 DOI: 10.20506/rst.35.1.2416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Viral genome sequencing has become the cornerstone of almost all aspects of virology. In particular, high-throughput, next-generation viral genome sequencing has become an integral part of molecular epidemiological investigations into outbreaks of viral disease, such as the recent outbreaks of Middle Eastern respiratory syndrome, Ebola virus disease and Zika virus infection. Multiple institutes have acquired the expertise and necessary infrastructure to perform such investigations, as evidenced by the accumulation of thousands of novel viral sequences over progressively shorter time periods. The authors recently proposed a nomenclature comprised of five high-throughput sequencing standard categories to describe the quality of determined viral genome sequences. These five categories (standard draft, high quality, coding complete, complete and finished) cover all levels of viral genome finishing and can be applied to sequences determined by any technology platform or assembly technique.
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Folarin OA, Ehichioya D, Schaffner SF, Winnicki SM, Wohl S, Eromon P, West KL, Gladden-Young A, Oyejide NE, Matranga CB, Deme AB, James A, Tomkins-Tinch C, Onyewurunwa K, Ladner JT, Palacios G, Nosamiefan I, Andersen KG, Omilabu S, Park DJ, Yozwiak NL, Nasidi A, Garry RF, Tomori O, Sabeti PC, Happi CT. Ebola Virus Epidemiology and Evolution in Nigeria. J Infect Dis 2016; 214:S102-S109. [PMID: 27377746 PMCID: PMC5050462 DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jiw190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Containment limited the 2014 Nigerian Ebola virus (EBOV) disease outbreak to 20 reported cases and 8 fatalities. We present here clinical data and contact information for at least 19 case patients, and full-length EBOV genome sequences for 12 of the 20. The detailed contact data permits nearly complete reconstruction of the transmission tree for the outbreak. The EBOV genomic data are consistent with that tree. It confirms that there was a single source for the Nigerian infections, shows that the Nigerian EBOV lineage nests within a lineage previously seen in Liberia but is genetically distinct from it, and supports the conclusion that transmission from Nigeria to elsewhere did not occur.
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Kuhn JH, Wiley MR, Rodriguez SE, Bào Y, Prieto K, Travassos da Rosa APA, Guzman H, Savji N, Ladner JT, Tesh RB, Wada J, Jahrling PB, Bente DA, Palacios G. Genomic Characterization of the Genus Nairovirus (Family Bunyaviridae). Viruses 2016; 8:E164. [PMID: 27294949 PMCID: PMC4926184 DOI: 10.3390/v8060164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2016] [Revised: 05/25/2016] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Nairovirus, one of five bunyaviral genera, includes seven species. Genomic sequence information is limited for members of the Dera Ghazi Khan, Hughes, Qalyub, Sakhalin, and Thiafora nairovirus species. We used next-generation sequencing and historical virus-culture samples to determine 14 complete and nine coding-complete nairoviral genome sequences to further characterize these species. Previously unsequenced viruses include Abu Mina, Clo Mor, Great Saltee, Hughes, Raza, Sakhalin, Soldado, and Tillamook viruses. In addition, we present genomic sequence information on additional isolates of previously sequenced Avalon, Dugbe, Sapphire II, and Zirqa viruses. Finally, we identify Tunis virus, previously thought to be a phlebovirus, as an isolate of Abu Hammad virus. Phylogenetic analyses indicate the need for reassignment of Sapphire II virus to Dera Ghazi Khan nairovirus and reassignment of Hazara, Tofla, and Nairobi sheep disease viruses to novel species. We also propose new species for the Kasokero group (Kasokero, Leopards Hill, Yogue viruses), the Ketarah group (Gossas, Issyk-kul, Keterah/soft tick viruses) and the Burana group (Wēnzhōu tick virus, Huángpí tick virus 1, Tǎchéng tick virus 1). Our analyses emphasize the sister relationship of nairoviruses and arenaviruses, and indicate that several nairo-like viruses (Shāyáng spider virus 1, Xīnzhōu spider virus, Sānxiá water strider virus 1, South Bay virus, Wǔhàn millipede virus 2) require establishment of novel genera in a larger nairovirus-arenavirus supergroup.
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Blackley DJ, Wiley MR, Ladner JT, Fallah M, Lo T, Gilbert ML, Gregory C, D’ambrozio J, Coulter S, Mate S, Balogun Z, Kugelman J, Nwachukwu W, Prieto K, Yeiah A, Amegashie F, Kearney B, Wisniewski M, Saindon J, Schroth G, Fakoli L, Diclaro JW, Kuhn JH, Hensley LE, Jahrling PB, Ströher U, Nichol ST, Massaquoi M, Kateh F, Clement P, Gasasira A, Bolay F, Monroe SS, Rambaut A, Sanchez-Lockhart M, Scott Laney A, Nyenswah T, Christie A, Palacios G. Reduced evolutionary rate in reemerged Ebola virus transmission chains. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2016; 2:e1600378. [PMID: 27386513 PMCID: PMC4928956 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.1600378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
On 29 June 2015, Liberia's respite from Ebola virus disease (EVD) was interrupted for the second time by a renewed outbreak ("flare-up") of seven confirmed cases. We demonstrate that, similar to the March 2015 flare-up associated with sexual transmission, this new flare-up was a reemergence of a Liberian transmission chain originating from a persistently infected source rather than a reintroduction from a reservoir or a neighboring country with active transmission. Although distinct, Ebola virus (EBOV) genomes from both flare-ups exhibit significantly low genetic divergence, indicating a reduced rate of EBOV evolution during persistent infection. Using this rate of change as a signature, we identified two additional EVD clusters that possibly arose from persistently infected sources. These findings highlight the risk of EVD flare-ups even after an outbreak is declared over.
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Kugelman JR, Rossi CA, Wiley MR, Ladner JT, Nagle ER, Pfeffer BP, Garcia K, Prieto K, Wada J, Kuhn JH, Palacios G. Informing the Historical Record of Experimental Nonhuman Primate Infections with Ebola Virus: Genomic Characterization of USAMRIID Ebola Virus/H.sapiens-tc/COD/1995/Kikwit-9510621 Challenge Stock "R4368" and Its Replacement "R4415". PLoS One 2016; 11:e0150919. [PMID: 27002733 PMCID: PMC4803331 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0150919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2015] [Accepted: 02/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The creation of licensed medical countermeasures against Select Agents such as Ebola virus (EBOV) is critically dependent on the use of standardized reagents, assays, and animal models. We performed full genome reconstruction, population genomics, contaminant analysis, and characterization of the glycoprotein gene editing site of historical United States Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases (USAMRIID) nonhuman-primate challenge stock Ebola virus Kikwit "R4368" and its 2014 replacement "R4415." We also provide characterization of the master stock used to create "R4415." The obtained data are essential to understanding the quality of the seed stock reagents used in pivotal animal studies that have been used to inform medical countermeasure development. Furthermore, these data might add to the understanding of the influence of EBOV variant populations on pathogenesis and disease outcome and inform attempts to avoid the evolution of EBOV escape mutants in response to current therapeutics. Finally, as the primary challenge stocks have changed over time, these data will provide a baseline for understanding and correlating past and future animal study results.
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Kilianski A, Carcel P, Yao S, Roth P, Schulte J, Donarum GB, Fochler ET, Hill JM, Liem AT, Wiley MR, Ladner JT, Pfeffer BP, Elliot O, Petrosov A, Jima DD, Vallard TG, Melendrez MC, Skowronski E, Quan PL, Lipkin WI, Gibbons HS, Hirschberg DL, Palacios GF, Rosenzweig CN. Pathosphere.org: pathogen detection and characterization through a web-based, open source informatics platform. BMC Bioinformatics 2015; 16:416. [PMID: 26714571 PMCID: PMC4696252 DOI: 10.1186/s12859-015-0840-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2015] [Accepted: 12/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The detection of pathogens in complex sample backgrounds has been revolutionized by wide access to next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms. However, analytical methods to support NGS platforms are not as uniformly available. Pathosphere (found at Pathosphere.org) is a cloud - based open - sourced community tool that allows for communication, collaboration and sharing of NGS analytical tools and data amongst scientists working in academia, industry and government. The architecture allows for users to upload data and run available bioinformatics pipelines without the need for onsite processing hardware or technical support. RESULTS The pathogen detection capabilities hosted on Pathosphere were tested by analyzing pathogen-containing samples sequenced by NGS with both spiked human samples as well as human and zoonotic host backgrounds. Pathosphere analytical pipelines developed by Edgewood Chemical Biological Center (ECBC) identified spiked pathogens within a common sample analyzed by 454, Ion Torrent, and Illumina sequencing platforms. ECBC pipelines also correctly identified pathogens in human samples containing arenavirus in addition to animal samples containing flavivirus and coronavirus. These analytical methods were limited in the detection of sequences with limited homology to previous annotations within NCBI databases, such as parvovirus. Utilizing the pipeline-hosting adaptability of Pathosphere, the analytical suite was supplemented by analytical pipelines designed by the United States Army Medical Research Insititute of Infectious Diseases and Walter Reed Army Institute of Research (USAMRIID-WRAIR). These pipelines were implemented and detected parvovirus sequence in the sample that the ECBC iterative analysis previously failed to identify. CONCLUSIONS By accurately detecting pathogens in a variety of samples, this work demonstrates the utility of Pathosphere and provides a platform for utilizing, modifying and creating pipelines for a variety of NGS technologies developed to detect pathogens in complex sample backgrounds. These results serve as an exhibition for the existing pipelines and web-based interface of Pathosphere as well as the plug-in adaptability that allows for integration of newer NGS analytical software as it becomes available.
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Trefry JC, Wollen SE, Nasar F, Shamblin JD, Kern SJ, Bearss JJ, Jefferson MA, Chance TB, Kugelman JR, Ladner JT, Honko AN, Kobs DJ, Wending MQS, Sabourin CL, Pratt WD, Palacios GF, Pitt MLM. Ebola Virus Infections in Nonhuman Primates Are Temporally Influenced by Glycoprotein Poly-U Editing Site Populations in the Exposure Material. Viruses 2015; 7:6739-54. [PMID: 26703716 PMCID: PMC4690892 DOI: 10.3390/v7122969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2015] [Revised: 12/03/2015] [Accepted: 12/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent experimentation with the variants of the Ebola virus that differ in the glycoprotein's poly-uridine site, which dictates the form of glycoprotein produced through a transcriptional stutter, has resulted in questions regarding the pathogenicity and lethality of the stocks used to develop products currently undergoing human clinical trials to combat the disease. In order to address these concerns and prevent the delay of these critical research programs, we designed an experiment that permitted us to intramuscularly challenge statistically significant numbers of naïve and vaccinated cynomolgus macaques with either a 7U or 8U variant of the Ebola virus, Kikwit isolate. In naïve animals, no difference in survivorship was observed; however, there was a significant delay in the disease course between the two groups. Significant differences were also observed in time-of-fever, serum chemistry, and hematology. In vaccinated animals, there was no statistical difference in survivorship between either challenge groups, with two succumbing in the 7U group compared to 1 in the 8U challenge group. In summary, survivorship was not affected, but the Ebola virus disease course in nonhuman primates is temporally influenced by glycoprotein poly-U editing site populations.
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Mate SE, Kugelman JR, Nyenswah TG, Ladner JT, Wiley MR, Cordier-Lassalle T, Christie A, Schroth GP, Gross SM, Davies-Wayne GJ, Shinde SA, Murugan R, Sieh SB, Badio M, Fakoli L, Taweh F, de Wit E, van Doremalen N, Munster VJ, Pettitt J, Prieto K, Humrighouse BW, Ströher U, DiClaro JW, Hensley LE, Schoepp RJ, Safronetz D, Fair J, Kuhn JH, Blackley DJ, Laney AS, Williams DE, Lo T, Gasasira A, Nichol ST, Formenty P, Kateh FN, De Cock KM, Bolay F, Sanchez-Lockhart M, Palacios G. Molecular Evidence of Sexual Transmission of Ebola Virus. N Engl J Med 2015; 373:2448-54. [PMID: 26465384 PMCID: PMC4711355 DOI: 10.1056/nejmoa1509773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 307] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
A suspected case of sexual transmission from a male survivor of Ebola virus disease (EVD) to his female partner (the patient in this report) occurred in Liberia in March 2015. Ebola virus (EBOV) genomes assembled from blood samples from the patient and a semen sample from the survivor were consistent with direct transmission. The genomes shared three substitutions that were absent from all other Western African EBOV sequences and that were distinct from the last documented transmission chain in Liberia before this case. Combined with epidemiologic data, the genomic analysis provides evidence of sexual transmission of EBOV and evidence of the persistence of infective EBOV in semen for 179 days or more after the onset of EVD. (Funded by the Defense Threat Reduction Agency and others.).
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Ladner JT, Wiley MR, Mate S, Dudas G, Prieto K, Lovett S, Nagle ER, Beitzel B, Gilbert ML, Fakoli L, Diclaro JW, Schoepp RJ, Fair J, Kuhn JH, Hensley LE, Park DJ, Sabeti PC, Rambaut A, Sanchez-Lockhart M, Bolay FK, Kugelman JR, Palacios G. Evolution and Spread of Ebola Virus in Liberia, 2014-2015. Cell Host Microbe 2015; 18:659-69. [PMID: 26651942 PMCID: PMC4711363 DOI: 10.1016/j.chom.2015.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Revised: 11/11/2015] [Accepted: 11/19/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
The 2013-present Western African Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak is the largest ever recorded with >28,000 reported cases. Ebola virus (EBOV) genome sequencing has played an important role throughout this outbreak; however, relatively few sequences have been determined from patients in Liberia, the second worst-affected country. Here, we report 140 EBOV genome sequences from the second wave of the Liberian outbreak and analyze them in combination with 782 previously published sequences from throughout the Western African outbreak. While multiple early introductions of EBOV to Liberia are evident, the majority of Liberian EVD cases are consistent with a single introduction, followed by spread and diversification within the country. Movement of the virus within Liberia was widespread, and reintroductions from Liberia served as an important source for the continuation of the already ongoing EVD outbreak in Guinea. Overall, little evidence was found for incremental adaptation of EBOV to the human host.
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Chiang CY, Ulrich RL, Ulrich MP, Eaton B, Ojeda JF, Lane DJ, Kota KP, Kenny TA, Ladner JT, Dickson SP, Kuehl K, Raychaudhuri R, Sun M, Bavari S, Wolcott MJ, Covell D, Panchal RG. Characterization of the murine macrophage response to infection with virulent and avirulent Burkholderia species. BMC Microbiol 2015; 15:259. [PMID: 26545875 PMCID: PMC4636792 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-015-0593-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2015] [Accepted: 10/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Burkholderia pseudomallei (Bp) and Burkholderia mallei (Bm) are Gram-negative facultative intracellular pathogens, which are the causative agents of melioidosis and glanders, respectively. Depending on the route of exposure, aerosol or transcutaneous, infection by Bp or Bm can result in an extensive range of disease - from acute to chronic, relapsing illness to fatal septicemia. Both diseases are associated with difficult diagnosis and high fatality rates. About ninety five percent of patients succumb to untreated septicemic infections and the fatality rate is 50 % even when standard antibiotic treatments are administered. RESULTS The goal of this study is to profile murine macrophage-mediated phenotypic and molecular responses that are characteristic to a collection of Bp, Bm, Burkholderia thailandensis (Bt) and Burkholderia oklahomensis (Bo) strains obtained from humans, animals, environment and geographically diverse locations. Burkholderia spp. (N = 21) were able to invade and replicate in macrophages, albeit to varying degrees. All Bp (N = 9) and four Bm strains were able to induce actin polymerization on the bacterial surface following infection. Several Bp and Bm strains showed reduced ability to induce multinucleated giant cell (MNGC) formation, while Bo and Bp 776 were unable to induce this phenotype. Measurement of host cytokine responses revealed a statistically significant Bm mediated IL-6 and IL-10 production compared to Bp strains. Hierarchical clustering of transcriptional data from 84 mouse cytokines, chemokines and their corresponding receptors identified 29 host genes as indicators of differential responses between the Burkholderia spp. Further validation confirmed Bm mediated Il-1b, Il-10, Tnfrsf1b and Il-36a mRNA expressions were significantly higher when compared to Bp and Bt. CONCLUSIONS These results characterize the phenotypic and immunological differences in the host innate response to pathogenic and avirulent Burkholderia strains and provide insight into the phenotypic alterations and molecular targets underlying host-Burkholderia interactions.
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Kugelman JR, Kugelman-Tonos J, Ladner JT, Pettit J, Keeton CM, Nagle ER, Garcia KY, Froude JW, Kuehne AI, Kuhn JH, Bavari S, Zeitlin L, Dye JM, Olinger GG, Sanchez-Lockhart M, Palacios GF. Emergence of Ebola Virus Escape Variants in Infected Nonhuman Primates Treated with the MB-003 Antibody Cocktail. Cell Rep 2015; 12:2111-20. [PMID: 26365189 DOI: 10.1016/j.celrep.2015.08.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2015] [Revised: 07/24/2015] [Accepted: 08/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
MB-003, a plant-derived monoclonal antibody cocktail used effectively in treatment of Ebola virus infection in non-human primates, was unable to protect two of six animals when initiated 1 or 2 days post-infection. We characterized a mechanism of viral escape in one of the animals, after observation of two clusters of genomic mutations that resulted in five nonsynonymous mutations in the monoclonal antibody target sites. These mutations were linked to a reduction in antibody binding and later confirmed to be present in a viral isolate that was not neutralized in vitro. Retrospective evaluation of a second independent study allowed the identification of a similar case. Four SNPs in previously identified positions were found in this second fatality, suggesting that genetic drift could be a potential cause for treatment failure. These findings highlight the importance selecting different target domains for each component of the cocktail to minimize the potential for viral escape.
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MESH Headings
- Amino Acid Sequence
- Animals
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/administration & dosage
- Antibodies, Monoclonal/biosynthesis
- Antibodies, Neutralizing/administration & dosage
- Antibodies, Neutralizing/biosynthesis
- Antibodies, Viral/administration & dosage
- Antibodies, Viral/biosynthesis
- Base Sequence
- Ebolavirus/genetics
- Ebolavirus/immunology
- Ebolavirus/pathogenicity
- Epitopes/chemistry
- Epitopes/immunology
- Hemorrhagic Fever, Ebola/immunology
- Hemorrhagic Fever, Ebola/mortality
- Hemorrhagic Fever, Ebola/prevention & control
- Hemorrhagic Fever, Ebola/virology
- Humans
- Immune Evasion/genetics
- Immunization, Passive
- Macaca mulatta
- Molecular Sequence Data
- Mutation
- Protein Binding
- Recombinant Proteins/administration & dosage
- Recombinant Proteins/biosynthesis
- Retrospective Studies
- Survival Analysis
- Nicotiana/genetics
- Virus Replication
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