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Cook N, D’Agostino M, Wood A, Scobie L. Real-Time PCR-Based Methods for Detection of Hepatitis E Virus in Pork Products: A Critical Review. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10020428. [PMID: 35208881 PMCID: PMC8877315 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10020428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/18/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Standard methods for detection of hepatitis A virus and norovirus in at-risk foodstuffs are available, but currently there is no standard method for detection of hepatitis E virus (HEV) in pork products or other foods that can be contaminated with the virus. Detection assays for HEV are mainly based on nucleic acid amplification, particularly the reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RTPCR) in real-time format. RTPCR-based methods can be sensitive and specific, but they require a suite of controls to verify that they have performed correctly. There have been several RTPCR methods developed to detect HEV in pork products, varying in details of sample preparation and RTPCR target sequences. This review critically discusses published HEV detection methods, with emphasis on those that have been successfully used in subsequent studies and surveys. RTPCR assays have been used both qualitatively and quantitatively, although in the latter case the data acquired are only reliable if appropriate assay calibration has been performed. One particular RTPCR assay appears to be ideal for incorporation in a standard method, as it has been demonstrated to be highly specific and sensitive, and an appropriate control and calibration standard is available. The review focuses on the detection of HEV in pork products and similar foodstuffs (e.g., boar). The information may be useful to inform standardisation activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nigel Cook
- Jorvik Food Safety Services, York YO32 2GN, UK
- Correspondence: (N.C.); (L.S.)
| | | | - Ann Wood
- Campden BRI, Chipping Campden GL55 6LD, UK; (M.D.); (A.W.)
| | - Linda Scobie
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow G4 0BA, UK
- Correspondence: (N.C.); (L.S.)
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Broadly Reactive Real-Time RT-PCR Assay for the Detection of Hepatitis E Virus and Simultaneous Genotyping by Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Analysis. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0191221. [PMID: 35138152 PMCID: PMC8826742 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01912-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is a global public health concern. Although HEV infection is usually asymptomatic and self-limiting, extrahepatic manifestations and chronic infections in immunocompromised patients have been described. HEV strains infecting humans have been classified into four main genotypes. In this study we have developed and validated a novel sensitive real-time RT-PCR assay for the detection of all four HEV genotypes. Simultaneous discrimination of genotypes 1, 2, and 4 from genotype 3 by single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis was possible. In all, 201 serum samples from cases and carriers previously tested for HEV by nested RT-PCR were analyzed. Twenty-seven HEV-positive samples could not be typed by the nested RT-PCR and nucleotide sequencing, but were newly typed by SNP analysis. As polymorphisms were present at the primer or probe binding site, we adopted a degenerate primer and mixed probes. When a mixed probe was added, the fluorescence intensity increased, facilitating genotype determination. IMPORTANCE The distribution of HEV-3 and HEV-4 has been changing. HEV-4, which had been predominantly found in Asia, is now being detected in other parts of the world, and there are now reports of chronic infections. Additionally, neurological disorders have frequently been reported in patients with acute or chronic HEV infections. HEV-4 has also been shown to lead to a higher severity in terms of acute hepatitis than does HEV-3. Early typing can provide useful information regarding the route of infection and for tailoring treatment to the expected course of the disease. The present method afforded a good detection rate even when polymorphisms were present within the target region for viral gene detection. We believe that this method can be applied to the analysis of mutation-prone viral genes in the future.
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Bigoraj E, Paszkiewicz W, Rzeżutka A. Porcine Blood and Liver as Sporadic Sources of Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) in the Production Chain of Offal-Derived Foodstuffs in Poland. FOOD AND ENVIRONMENTAL VIROLOGY 2021; 13:347-356. [PMID: 33891305 PMCID: PMC8379118 DOI: 10.1007/s12560-021-09475-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/09/2021] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Pig's blood and liver are valuable edible slaughter by-products which are also the major ingredients of offal-derived foodstuffs. The aim of the study was an evaluation of the occurrence of hepatitis E virus (HEV) and porcine adenovirus (pAdV) as an index virus of faecal contamination in pig's blood and liver for human consumption. In total, 246 samples of retail liver (n = 100) and pooled pig's blood (n = 146) were analysed for the presence of HEV and pAdV. Blood samples were individually collected from 1432 pigs at slaughter age. Viral genomic material, including RNA of a sample process control virus was isolated from food samples using a QIAamp® Viral RNA Mini Kit. Virus-specific IAC-controlled real-time PCR methods were used for detection of target viruses. HEV RNA was found in 6 (2.4%; 95% CI: 0.9-5.2) out of 246 samples of tested foodstuffs. The virus was detected in pig's blood (3.4%; 95% CI: 1.1-7.8) and liver (1.0%; 95% CI: 0.0-5.0) with no significant differences observed in the frequency of its occurrence between the two by-products (t = 1.33; p = 0.182 > 0.05); however PAdV was detected more frequently in pig's blood than in liver (t = 4.65; p = 0.000 < 0.05). The HEV strains belonged to the 3f and 3e subtype groups and the pAdV strains were assigned to serotype 5. PAdV was detected in pigs regardless of the farm size from which they originated. The number of animals raised on the farm (the farm size) had no influence on the occurrence of HEV or pAdV infections in pigs (F = 0.81, p = 0.447 > 0.05 for HEV; F = 0.42, p = 0.655 > 0.05 for pAdV). Although HEV was detected in pig's offal only sporadically, consumers cannot treat its occurrence with disregard as it demonstrates that HEV-contaminated pig tissues can enter the food chain.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Bigoraj
- Department of Food and Environmental Virology, National Veterinary Research Institute, Al. Partyzantów 57, 24-100, Puławy, Poland
| | - W Paszkiewicz
- Department of Food Hygiene of Animal Origin, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, ul. Akademicka 12, 20-950, Lublin, Poland
| | - A Rzeżutka
- Department of Food and Environmental Virology, National Veterinary Research Institute, Al. Partyzantów 57, 24-100, Puławy, Poland.
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4
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Bukasov R, Dossym D, Filchakova O. Detection of RNA viruses from influenza and HIV to Ebola and SARS-CoV-2: a review. ANALYTICAL METHODS : ADVANCING METHODS AND APPLICATIONS 2021; 13:34-55. [PMID: 33283798 DOI: 10.1039/d0ay01886d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
RNA-based viruses likely make up the highest pandemic threat among all known pathogens in about the last 100 years, since the Spanish Flu of 1918 with 50 M deaths up to COVID-19. Nowadays, an efficient and affordable testing strategy for such viruses have become the paramount target for the fields of virology and bioanalytical chemistry. The detection of the viruses (influenza, hepatitis, HIV, Zika, SARS, Ebola, SARS-CoV-2, etc.) and human antibodies to these viruses is described and tabulated in terms of the reported methods of detection, time to results, accuracy and specificity, if they are reported. The review is focused, but not limited to publications in the last decade. Finally, the limits of detection for each representative publication are tabulated by detection methods and discussed. These methods include PCR, lateral flow immunoassays, LAMP-based methods, ELISA, electrochemical methods (e.g., amperometry, voltammetry), fluorescence spectroscopy, AFM, SPR and SERS spectroscopy, silver staining and CRISPR-Cas based methods, bio-barcode detection, and resonance light scattering. The review is likely to be interesting for various scientists, and particularly helpful with information for establishing interdisciplinary research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rostislav Bukasov
- Chemistry Department, SSH, Nazarbayev University, Nur-Sultan, 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Dina Dossym
- Chemistry Department, SSH, Nazarbayev University, Nur-Sultan, 010000, Kazakhstan
| | - Olena Filchakova
- Biology Department, SSH, Nazarbayev University, Nur-Sultan, 010000, Kazakhstan.
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5
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Detection of hepatitis E virus (rabbit genotype) in farmed rabbits entering the food chain. Int J Food Microbiol 2020; 319:108507. [PMID: 31981930 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2020.108507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Revised: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infects humans and many animal species. The rabbit HEV has been found in farmed, wild and pet rabbits as well as in human patients suggesting zoonotic transmission. Although the routes of human infection with rabbit strains are unclear a foodborne transmission is suggested especially when asymptomatically infected animals could enter the food chain. The aims of the study were an evaluation of the prevalence of HEV infections in slaughtered rabbits, identification of the virus genotype(s) and assessment of their genetic relatedness to other zoonotic HEV strains. A pair of blood and liver samples (n = 482) were collected from meat rabbits of different breeds slaughtered at the age of 2.8 to 6 months. The animals originated from 20 small-scale and 4 large-scale commercial farms operating in Poland. The presence of anti-HEV antibodies in animals was detected by the use of a recomWell HEV IgG (human) ELISA kit (Mikrogen Diagnostik) adapted to rabbit sera. The isolation of HEV and sample process control virus (feline calicivirus) RNA from homogenates of liver destined for food and virus-positive sera was performed using a QIAamp® Viral RNA Mini Kit (Qiagen). A one-step real-time reverse transcription PCR method containing a target-specific internal amplification control was used for detection of HEV. The (sub)genotype of detected rabbit HEV strains was identified based on sequence analysis of the ORF2 and ORF2/3 virus genome fragments. Anti-HEV antibodies were detected in 29 (6%) out of 482 rabbit sera samples collected from animals raised only on the small-scale rabbit farms. Four sera were also positive for HEV RNA. Viral RNA was detected in 72 (14.9%) animal livers. Analysing ELISA and PCR results using Student's t-test, there were significant differences observed in the frequency of HEV infections between rabbits from small-scale and commercial farms (t = 2.675, p = 0.015 < 0.05 for ELISA and t = 2.705, p = 0.014 < 0.05 for PCR). All detected virus strains were identified as HEV gt3 ra subtype. The results of this study provide data on the occurrence of HEV infections in rabbits entering the food chain, suggesting that a risk of foodborne HEV infection due to consumption of contaminated meat and liver exists. In this light, the presence of rabbit HEV in food animals is pertinent as an issue of food safety and the surveillance of these animals for emerging or re-emerging viruses.
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Infection Dynamics of Hepatitis E Virus in Wild-Type and Immunoglobulin Heavy Chain Knockout J H -/- Gnotobiotic Piglets. J Virol 2018; 92:JVI.01208-18. [PMID: 30111571 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01208-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2018] [Accepted: 08/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV), the causative agent of hepatitis E, is an important but incompletely understood pathogen causing high mortality during pregnancy and leading to chronic hepatitis in immunocompromised individuals. The underlying mechanisms leading to hepatic damage remain unknown; however, the humoral immune response is implicated. In this study, immunoglobulin (Ig) heavy chain JH -/- knockout gnotobiotic pigs were generated using CRISPR/Cas9 technology to deplete the B-lymphocyte population, resulting in an inability to generate a humoral immune response to genotype 3 HEV infection. Compared to wild-type gnotobiotic piglets, the frequencies of B lymphocytes in the Ig heavy chain JH -/- knockouts were significantly lower, despite similar levels of other innate and adaptive T-lymphocyte cell populations. The dynamic of acute HEV infection was subsequently determined in heavy chain JH -/- knockout and wild-type gnotobiotic pigs. The data showed that wild-type piglets had higher viral RNA loads in feces and sera compared to the JH -/- knockout pigs, suggesting that the Ig heavy chain JH -/- knockout in pigs actually decreased the level of HEV replication. Both HEV-infected wild-type and JH -/- knockout gnotobiotic piglets developed more pronounced lymphoplasmacytic hepatitis and hepatocellular necrosis lesions than other studies with conventional pigs. The HEV-infected JH -/- knockout pigs also had significantly enlarged livers both grossly and as a ratio of liver/body weight compared to phosphate-buffered saline-inoculated groups. This novel gnotobiotic pig model will aid in future studies into HEV pathogenicity, an aspect which has thus far been difficult to reproduce in the available animal model systems.IMPORTANCE According to the World Health Organization, approximately 20 million HEV infections occur annually, resulting in 3.3 million cases of hepatitis E and >44,000 deaths. The lack of an efficient animal model that can mimic the full-spectrum of infection outcomes hinders our ability to delineate the mechanism of HEV pathogenesis. Here, we successfully generated immunoglobulin heavy chain JH -/- knockout gnotobiotic pigs using CRISPR/Cas9 technology, established a novel JH -/- knockout and wild-type gnotobiotic pig model for HEV, and systematically determined the dynamic of acute HEV infection in gnotobiotic pigs. It was demonstrated that knockout of the Ig heavy chain in pigs decreased the level of HEV replication. Infected wild-type and JH -/- knockout gnotobiotic piglets developed more pronounced HEV-specific lesions than other studies using conventional pigs, and the infected JH -/- knockout pigs had significantly enlarged livers. The availability of this novel model will facilitate future studies of HEV pathogenicity.
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Mesquita JR, Istrate C, Santos-Ferreira NL, Ferreira AS, Abreu-Silva J, Veiga J, van der Poel WHM, Nascimento MSJ. Short communication: detection and molecular characterization of hepatitis E virus in domestic animals of São Tomé and Príncipe. Trop Anim Health Prod 2018; 51:481-485. [PMID: 30178438 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-018-1700-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Accepted: 08/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
As in most of the African continent, the status of hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection in domestic animals in São Tomé and Príncipe, an archipelago off the western equatorial coast of Central Africa, is also completely unknown. In the present study, we investigated the presence of HEV among domestic animals in São Tomé and Príncipe. A total of 93 stool samples from different animal species (goat, cow, pig, chicken, duck, and monkey) were tested for HEV RNA using two real-time RT-PCR assays, followed by a nested RT-PCR assay for sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. A total of six samples (1 cow stool and 5 pig stools) were found to be positive for HEV RNA of which one pig stool was positive by broad spectrum nested RT-PCR. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the retrieved sequence clustered within HEV subgenotype 3f, similar to zoonotic strains of European countries and posing interesting questions on past introduction of European HEV into São Tomé and Príncipe archipelago. This is the first report describing the presence and molecular characterization of HEV in São Tomé and Príncipe.
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Affiliation(s)
- João Rodrigo Mesquita
- Escola Superior Agrária de Viseu (ESAV), Centro de Estudos em Educação, Tecnologias e Saúde (CI&DETS), Instituto Politécnico de Viseu, Quinta da Alagoa, Estrada de Nelas, Ranhados, 3500-606, Viseu, Portugal. .,Epidemiology Research Unit (EPIUnit), Institute of Public Health, University of Porto, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Claudia Istrate
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine (GHTM), Unidade de Microbiologia Médica, Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical (IHMT), Universidade NOVA de Lisboa (UNL), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Nânci L Santos-Ferreira
- Laboratório de Microbiologia, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana S Ferreira
- Laboratório de Microbiologia, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Joana Abreu-Silva
- Laboratório de Microbiologia, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - José Veiga
- Instituto Marquês de Valle Flor, São Tomé, São Tomé and Príncipe.,Ministério da Saúde, São Tomé, São Tomé and Príncipe
| | - Wim H M van der Poel
- Wageningen Bioveterinary Research, Edelhertweg 15, 8219 PH, Lelystad, The Netherlands
| | - Maria S J Nascimento
- Epidemiology Research Unit (EPIUnit), Institute of Public Health, University of Porto, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal.,Laboratório de Microbiologia, Faculdade de Farmácia da Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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8
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Cao D, Sooryanarain H, Yugo DM, Tian D, Rogers AJ, Heffron CL, Thimmasandra Narayanappa A, LeRoith T, Overend C, Matzinger SR, Elankumaran S, Hermann JR, Patterson AR, Meng XJ. Evaluation of the pathogenicity of mammalian orthoreovirus type 3 (MRV3) in germ-free gnotobiotic pigs and of the efficacy of an inactivated vaccine against MRV3 infection in neonatal conventional piglets. Vet Microbiol 2018; 224:23-30. [PMID: 30269786 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2018.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 08/10/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
A novel U.S. strain of mammalian orthoreovirus type 3 (MRV3) isolated from diarrheic pigs in 2015 was reportedly highly pathogenic in pigs. In this study, we first developed an inactivated MRV3 vaccine and determined its protective efficacy against MRV3 infection in conventional neonatal piglets. A pathogenicity study was also conducted in gnotobiotic pigs to further assess the pathogenicity of MRV3. To evaluate if piglets could be protected against MRV3 infection after immunization of pregnant sows with an inactivated MRV3 vaccine, pregnant sows were vaccinated with 2 or 3 doses of the vaccine or with PBS buffer. Four-day-old piglets born to vaccinated and unvaccinated sows were subsequently challenged with MRV3. The results showed that piglets born from vaccinated sows had lower levels of fecal viral RNA shedding at 1, 3, and 4 days post-challenge, suggesting that the inactivated MRV3 vaccine can reduce MRV3 replication. Surprisingly, although the conventional piglets were infected, they did not develop severe enteric disease as reported previously. Therefore, in an effort to further definitively assess the pathogenicity of MRV3, we experimentally infected gnotobiotic pigs, a more sensitive model for pathogenicity study, with the wild-type MRV3 virus. The infected gnotobiotic piglets all survived and exhibited only very mild diarrhea in some pigs. Taken together, the results indicate that the novel strain of MRV3 recently isolated in the United States infected but caused only very mild diarrhea in pigs, and that maternal immunity acquired from sows vaccinated with an inactivated vaccine can reduce MRV3 replication in neonatal pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dianjun Cao
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Harini Sooryanarain
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Danielle M Yugo
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Debin Tian
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Adam J Rogers
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - C Lynn Heffron
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Athmaram Thimmasandra Narayanappa
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Tanya LeRoith
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Christopher Overend
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Shannon R Matzinger
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | - Subbiah Elankumaran
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States
| | | | | | - Xiang-Jin Meng
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, United States.
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Salvio AL, Lopes AO, Almeida AJ, Gardinali NR, Lima LRP, de Oliveira JM, Sion FS, Ribeiro LCP, Pinto MA, de Paula VS. Detection and quantification of hepatitis E virus in the absence of IgG and IgM anti-HEV in HIV-positive patients. J Appl Microbiol 2018; 125:1208-1215. [PMID: 29920871 DOI: 10.1111/jam.14024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2018] [Revised: 05/28/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To improve RT-qPCR with an internal control and a synthetic standard curve to detect HEV in HIV co-infected patients. METHODS AND RESULTS A single-stranded RNA (ssRNA) and a double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) synthetic curve were designed, compared to the international reference panel for HEV genotypes, and tested to quantify and detect a reference panel for HEV genotypes. The detection limit of the RNA synthetic curve (50 copies per ml) was better than the DNA synthetic curve (100 copies per ml) and the WHO standard curve (250 copies per ml). Then, 280 serum samples from HIV-positive patients were tested for HEV RNA, which was detected in 3·6% of serum samples. The viral load ranged from 2 × 102 copies per ml to 4·78 × 108 copies per ml. HEV IgM/IgG antibodies were not detected in the RNA-positive patients. Sequencing analysis of HEV showed that the virus belongs to genotype 3 (HEV GT3). CONCLUSIONS Real-time PCR was a useful tool to estimate co-infection with HEV/HIV, even in patients with low viral loads and undetectable anti-HEV IgG and IgM antibodies. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY Hepatitis E virus genotype 3 (HEV GT3) has been associated with silent chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis in HIV-positive subjects worldwide, but there is a lack of data on this co-infection in Brazil.
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Affiliation(s)
- A L Salvio
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute/Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - A O Lopes
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute/Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - A J Almeida
- Hematology Department, Gaffrée & Guinle Universitary Hospital, Rio de Janeiro State Federal University/UniRio, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - N R Gardinali
- Laboratory of Technological Development in Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute/Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - L R P Lima
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute/Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - J M de Oliveira
- Laboratory of Technological Development in Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute/Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - F S Sion
- Hematology Department, Gaffrée & Guinle Universitary Hospital, Rio de Janeiro State Federal University/UniRio, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - L C P Ribeiro
- Hematology Department, Gaffrée & Guinle Universitary Hospital, Rio de Janeiro State Federal University/UniRio, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - M A Pinto
- Laboratory of Technological Development in Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute/Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - V S de Paula
- Laboratory of Molecular Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute/Fiocruz, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a well-known cause of acute hepatitis. Immunocompromised subjects, including liver transplant recipients, are considered to be at risk for HEV infection, which occasionally follows a chronic course. The diagnosis of HEV infection in these patients must be based on HEV RNA testing, as serology has variable performance. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of HEV infection in liver transplant recipients in Greece by means of HEV RNA testing. Liver transplant recipients followed in the sole transplant centre in Greece were prospectively included. HEV RNA was detected by real-time RT-PCR. Positive samples were further analysed using a nested reverse transcription RT-PCR kit, which amplifies a 137-nucleotide sequence within the ORF2/ORF3 overlapping region to detect the HEV genotype and perform phylogenetic analysis. The mean age of the included patients (n = 76) was 54 years. The most common indication for liver transplantation was viral hepatitis (57%). The majority of the patients (75%) received a calcineurin inhibitor as part of their immunosuppressive regimen and had normal liver enzymes. HEV RNA was found positive in only 1/76 (1.3%) patient. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the sequence clustered into the HEV genotype 3 clade. This patient experienced an acute hepatitis flare, which nonetheless did not become chronic. The prevalence of HEV infection in liver transplant recipients in Greece is similar (1.3%) to that reported previously in other countries. Transplant physicians should be aware of this condition and its associated consequences.
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11
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O'Hara Z, Crossan C, Craft J, Scobie L. First Report of the Presence of Hepatitis E Virus in Scottish-Harvested Shellfish Purchased at Retail Level. FOOD AND ENVIRONMENTAL VIROLOGY 2018; 10:217-221. [PMID: 29442296 PMCID: PMC5951870 DOI: 10.1007/s12560-018-9337-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/19/2018] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Shellfish samples (n = 310) purchased from local supermarkets were analysed for the presence of hepatitis E virus (HEV) by nested RT-PCR and real-time qRT-PCR. Overall, 2.9% of samples tested positive for the presence of HEV. Phylogenetic analysis of HEV sequences revealed all as being genotype 3 HEV. This is the first report of the detection of HEV in commercially sold shellfish in Scotland. These findings may encourage further research that will help address the gaps in the knowledge in respect to foodborne transmission of HEV in Scotland and the rest of the United Kingdom.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoe O'Hara
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, Scotland, UK.
| | - Claire Crossan
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - John Craft
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
| | - Linda Scobie
- School of Health and Life Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, Scotland, UK
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12
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Gonçalves D, Pereira-Vaz J, Duque V, Bandeira V, Fonseca C, Donato A, Luxo C, Matos AM. First Serological Evidence on Endemicity of HEV Infection in Wild Boar (Sus scrofa) Populations from Portugal. Virol Sin 2018; 33:197-200. [PMID: 29569145 DOI: 10.1007/s12250-018-0008-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2017] [Accepted: 01/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Gonçalves
- Laboratory of Virology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - João Pereira-Vaz
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Clinical Pathology Unit, Hospital and University Centre of Coimbra, 3000-602, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Vitor Duque
- Infectious Diseases Department, Hospital and University Centre of Coimbra, 3000-075, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Victor Bandeira
- Biology Department and CESAM, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Carlos Fonseca
- Biology Department and CESAM, University of Aveiro, 3810-193, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ana Donato
- Clinical Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Cristina Luxo
- Research Centre on Chemical Processes Engineering and Forest Products (CIEPQF), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3030-790, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Miguel Matos
- Research Centre on Chemical Processes Engineering and Forest Products (CIEPQF), Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3030-790, Coimbra, Portugal.
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Spancerniene U, Grigas J, Buitkuviene J, Zymantiene J, Juozaitiene V, Stankeviciute M, Razukevicius D, Zienius D, Stankevicius A. Prevalence and phylogenetic analysis of hepatitis E virus in pigs, wild boars, roe deer, red deer and moose in Lithuania. Acta Vet Scand 2018; 60:13. [PMID: 29471843 PMCID: PMC5824565 DOI: 10.1186/s13028-018-0367-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is one of the major causes of acute viral hepatitis worldwide. In Europe, food-borne zoonotic transmission of HEV genotype 3 has been associated with domestic pigs and wild boar. Controversial data are available on the circulation of the virus in animals that are used for human consumption, and to date, no gold standard has yet been defined for the diagnosis of HEV-associated hepatitis. To investigate the current HEV infection status in Lithuanian pigs and wild ungulates, the presence of viral RNA was analyzed by nested reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-nPCR) in randomly selected samples, and the viral RNA was subsequently genotyped. Results In total, 32.98 and 22.55% of the domestic pig samples were HEV-positive using RT-nPCR targeting the ORF1 and ORF2 fragments, respectively. Among ungulates, 25.94% of the wild boar samples, 22.58% of the roe deer samples, 6.67% of the red deer samples and 7.69% of the moose samples were positive for HEV RNA using primers targeting the ORF1 fragment. Using primers targeting the ORF2 fragment of the HEV genome, viral RNA was only detected in 17.03% of the wild boar samples and 12.90% of the roe deer samples. Phylogenetic analysis based on a 348-nucleotide-long region of the HEV ORF2 showed that all obtained sequences detected in Lithuanian domestic pigs and wildlife belonged to genotype 3. In this study, the sequences identified from pigs, wild boars and roe deer clustered within the 3i subtype reference sequences from the GenBank database. The sequences obtained from pig farms located in two different counties of Lithuania were of the HEV 3f subtype. The wild boar sequences clustered within subtypes 3i and 3h, clearly indicating that wild boars can harbor additional subtypes of HEV. For the first time, the ORF2 nucleotide sequences obtained from roe deer proved that HEV subtype 3i can be found in a novel host. Conclusion The results of the viral prevalence and phylogenetic analyses clearly demonstrated viral infection in Lithuanian pigs and wild ungulates, thus highlighting a significant concern for zoonotic virus transmission through both the food chain and direct contact with animals. Unexpected HEV genotype 3 subtype diversity in Lithuania and neighboring countries revealed that further studies are necessary to understand the mode of HEV transmission between animals and humans in the Baltic States region.
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Ricci A, Allende A, Bolton D, Chemaly M, Davies R, Fernandez Escamez PS, Herman L, Koutsoumanis K, Lindqvist R, Nørrung B, Robertson L, Ru G, Sanaa M, Simmons M, Skandamis P, Snary E, Speybroeck N, Ter Kuile B, Threlfall J, Wahlström H, Di Bartolo I, Johne R, Pavio N, Rutjes S, van der Poel W, Vasickova P, Hempen M, Messens W, Rizzi V, Latronico F, Girones R. Public health risks associated with hepatitis E virus (HEV) as a food-borne pathogen. EFSA J 2017; 15:e04886. [PMID: 32625551 PMCID: PMC7010180 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2017.4886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an important infection in humans in EU/EEA countries, and over the last 10 years more than 21,000 acute clinical cases with 28 fatalities have been notified with an overall 10-fold increase in reported HEV cases; the majority (80%) of cases were reported from France, Germany and the UK. However, as infection in humans is not notifiable in all Member States, and surveillance differs between countries, the number of reported cases is not comparable and the true number of cases would probably be higher. Food-borne transmission of HEV appears to be a major route in Europe; pigs and wild boars are the main source of HEV. Outbreaks and sporadic cases have been identified in immune-competent persons as well as in recognised risk groups such as those with pre-existing liver damage, immunosuppressive illness or receiving immunosuppressive treatments. The opinion reviews current methods for the detection, identification, characterisation and tracing of HEV in food-producing animals and foods, reviews literature on HEV reservoirs and food-borne pathways, examines information on the epidemiology of HEV and its occurrence and persistence in foods, and investigates possible control measures along the food chain. Presently, the only efficient control option for HEV infection from consumption of meat, liver and products derived from animal reservoirs is sufficient heat treatment. The development of validated quantitative and qualitative detection methods, including infectivity assays and consensus molecular typing protocols, is required for the development of quantitative microbial risk assessments and efficient control measures. More research on the epidemiology and control of HEV in pig herds is required in order to minimise the proportion of pigs that remain viraemic or carry high levels of virus in intestinal contents at the time of slaughter. Consumption of raw pig, wild boar and deer meat products should be avoided.
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Pig model mimicking chronic hepatitis E virus infection in immunocompromised patients to assess immune correlates during chronicity. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2017. [PMID: 28630341 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1705446114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is a significant clinical problem in immunocompromised individuals such as organ transplant recipients, although the mechanism remains unknown because of the lack of an animal model. We successfully developed a pig model of chronic HEV infection and examined immune correlates leading to chronicity. The conditions of immunocompromised patients were mimicked by treating pigs with an immunosuppressive regimen including cyclosporine, azathioprine, and prednisolone. Immunocompromised pigs infected with HEV progressed to chronicity, because 8/10 drug-treated HEV-infected pigs continued fecal virus shedding beyond the acute phase of infection, whereas the majority (7/10) of mock-treated HEV-infected pigs cleared fecal viral shedding at 8 wk postinfection. During chronic infection, serum levels of the liver enzyme γ-glutamyl transferase and fecal virus shedding were significantly higher in immunocompromised HEV-infected pigs. To identify potential immune correlates of chronic infection, we determined serum levels of cytokines and cell-mediated immune responses in pigs. Results showed that HEV infection of immunocompromised pigs reduced the serum levels of Th1 cytokines IL-2 and IL-12, and Th2 cytokines IL-4 and IL-10, particularly during the acute phase of infection. Furthermore IFN-γ-specific CD4+ T-cell responses were reduced in immunocompromised pigs during the acute phase of infection, but TNF-α-specific CD8+ T-cell responses increased during the chronic phase of infection. Thus, active suppression of cell-mediated immune responses under immunocompromised conditions may facilitate the establishment of chronic HEV infection. This pig model will aid in delineating the mechanisms of chronic HEV infection and in developing effective therapeutics against chronic hepatitis E.
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16
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Song MS, Sekhon SS, Shin WR, Kim HC, Min J, Ahn JY, Kim YH. Detecting and Discriminating Shigella sonnei Using an Aptamer-Based Fluorescent Biosensor Platform. Molecules 2017; 22:molecules22050825. [PMID: 28513559 PMCID: PMC6154610 DOI: 10.3390/molecules22050825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Revised: 05/11/2017] [Accepted: 05/14/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In this paper, a Whole-Bacteria SELEX (WB-SELEX) strategy was adopted to isolate specific aptamers against Shigella sonnei. Real-time PCR amplification and post-SELEX experiment revealed that the selected aptmers possessed a high binding affinity and specificity for S. sonnei. Of the 21 aptamers tested, the C(t) values of the SS-3 and SS-4 aptamers (Ct = 13.89 and Ct = 12.23, respectively) had the lowest value compared to other aptamer candidates. The SS-3 and SS-4 aptamers also displayed a binding affinity (KD) of 39.32 ± 5.02 nM and 15.89 ± 1.77 nM, respectively. An aptamer-based fluorescent biosensor assay was designed to detect and discriminate S. sonnei cells using a sandwich complex pair of SS-3 and SS-4. The detection of S. sonnei by the aptamer based fluorescent biosensor platform consisted of three elements: (1) 5’amine-SS-4 modification in a 96-well type microtiter plate surface (N-oxysuccinimide, NOS) as capture probes; (2) the incubation with S. sonnei and test microbes in functionalized 96 assay wells in parallel; (3) the readout of fluorescent activity using a Cy5-labeled SS-3 aptamer as the detector. Our platform showed a significant ability to detect and discriminate S. sonnei from other enteric species such as E. coli, Salmonella typhimurium and other Shigella species (S. flexneri, S. boydii). In this study, we demonstrated the feasibility of an aptamer sensor platform to detect S. sonnei in a variety of foods and pave the way for its use in diagnosing shigellosis through multiple, portable designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myeong-Sub Song
- School of Biological Sciences, Chungbuk National University, 1 Chungdae-Ro, Seowon-Gu, Cheongju 28644, Korea.
| | - Simranjeet Singh Sekhon
- School of Biological Sciences, Chungbuk National University, 1 Chungdae-Ro, Seowon-Gu, Cheongju 28644, Korea.
| | - Woo-Ri Shin
- School of Biological Sciences, Chungbuk National University, 1 Chungdae-Ro, Seowon-Gu, Cheongju 28644, Korea.
| | - Hyung Cheol Kim
- Technology Transfer Center, Korea Research Institute of Bioscience & Biotechnology, 125 Gwahak-Ro, Yuseong-Gu, Daejeon 34141, Korea.
| | - Jiho Min
- Department of Bioprocess Engineering, Chonbuk National University, 567 Baekje-daero, Deokjin-Gu Jeonju, Jeonbuk 54896, Korea.
| | - Ji-Young Ahn
- School of Biological Sciences, Chungbuk National University, 1 Chungdae-Ro, Seowon-Gu, Cheongju 28644, Korea.
| | - Yang-Hoon Kim
- School of Biological Sciences, Chungbuk National University, 1 Chungdae-Ro, Seowon-Gu, Cheongju 28644, Korea.
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Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) Detection and Quantification by a Real-Time Reverse Transcription-PCR Assay Calibrated to the World Health Organization Standard for HEV RNA. J Clin Microbiol 2017; 55:1478-1487. [PMID: 28228493 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.02334-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2016] [Accepted: 02/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) has emerged as a cause of chronic hepatitis among immunocompromised patients. Molecular assays have become important tools for the diagnosis and management of these chronically infected patients. A real-time reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) assay utilizing Pleiades probe chemistry and an RNA internal control for the simultaneous detection and quantification of HEV RNA in human serum was developed based on an adaptation of a previously described and broadly reactive primer set targeting the overlapping open reading frame 2/3 (ORF2/3) nucleotide sequence of HEV. A chimeric bovine viral diarrhea virus construct containing an HEV RNA insert (SynTura HEV) was developed, value assigned with the first World Health Organization (WHO) international standard for HEV RNA (code 6329/10), and used to prepare working assay calibrators and controls, which supported an assay quantification range of 100 to 5,000,000 IU/ml. The analytical sensitivity (95% detection rate) of this assay was 25.2 IU/ml (95% confidence interval [CI], 19.2 to 44.1 IU/ml). The assay successfully amplified 16 different HEV sequences with significant nucleotide mismatching in primer/probe binding regions, while evaluation of a WHO international reference panel for HEV genotypes (code 8578/13) showed viral load results falling within the result ranges generated by WHO collaborative study participants for all panel members (genotypes 1 to 4). Broadly reactive RT-qPCR primers targeting HEV ORF2/3 were successfully adapted for use in an assay based on Pleiades probe chemistry. The availability of secondary standards calibrated to the WHO HEV international standard can improve the standardization and performance of assays for the detection and quantification of HEV RNA.
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18
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Müller A, Collineau L, Stephan R, Müller A, Stärk KD. Assessment of the risk of foodborne transmission and burden of hepatitis E in Switzerland. Int J Food Microbiol 2017; 242:107-115. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2016.11.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2016] [Revised: 10/11/2016] [Accepted: 11/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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19
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Nicot F, Cazabat M, Lhomme S, Marion O, Sauné K, Chiabrando J, Dubois M, Kamar N, Abravanel F, Izopet J. Quantification of HEV RNA by Droplet Digital PCR. Viruses 2016; 8:v8080233. [PMID: 27548205 PMCID: PMC4997595 DOI: 10.3390/v8080233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2016] [Revised: 08/13/2016] [Accepted: 08/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The sensitivity of real-time PCR for hepatitis E virus (HEV) RNA quantification differs greatly among techniques. Standardized tools that measure the real quantity of virus are needed. We assessed the performance of a reverse transcription droplet digital PCR (RT-ddPCR) assay that gives absolute quantities of HEV RNA. Analytical and clinical validation was done on HEV genotypes 1, 3 and 4, and was based on open reading frame (ORF)3 amplification. The within-run and between-run reproducibilities were very good, the analytical sensitivity was 80 HEV RNA international units (IU)/mL and linearities of HEV genotype 1, 3 and 4 were very similar. Clinical validation based on 45 samples of genotype 1, 3 or 4 gave results that correlated well with a validated reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) assay (Spearman rs = 0.89, p < 0.0001). The RT-ddPCR assay is a sensitive method and could be a promising tool for standardizing HEV RNA quantification in various sample types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence Nicot
- CHU Toulouse, Hôpital Purpan, Laboratoire de virologie, Institut fédératif de biologie, Toulouse F-31300, France.
| | - Michelle Cazabat
- CHU Toulouse, Hôpital Purpan, Laboratoire de virologie, Institut fédératif de biologie, Toulouse F-31300, France.
- INSERM, U1043, Centre de Physiopathologie de Toulouse Purpan, Toulouse F-31300, France.
| | - Sébastien Lhomme
- CHU Toulouse, Hôpital Purpan, Laboratoire de virologie, Institut fédératif de biologie, Toulouse F-31300, France.
- INSERM, U1043, Centre de Physiopathologie de Toulouse Purpan, Toulouse F-31300, France.
- Université Toulouse III Paul-Sabatier, Faculté de Médecine Toulouse, Toulouse F-31300, France.
| | - Olivier Marion
- INSERM, U1043, Centre de Physiopathologie de Toulouse Purpan, Toulouse F-31300, France.
- CHU Toulouse, Hôpital Rangueil, Département de Néphrologie, Dialyse et Transplantation multi-organe, Toulouse F-31300, France.
| | - Karine Sauné
- CHU Toulouse, Hôpital Purpan, Laboratoire de virologie, Institut fédératif de biologie, Toulouse F-31300, France.
- INSERM, U1043, Centre de Physiopathologie de Toulouse Purpan, Toulouse F-31300, France.
- Université Toulouse III Paul-Sabatier, Faculté de Médecine Toulouse, Toulouse F-31300, France.
| | - Julie Chiabrando
- CHU Toulouse, Hôpital Purpan, Laboratoire de virologie, Institut fédératif de biologie, Toulouse F-31300, France.
| | - Martine Dubois
- CHU Toulouse, Hôpital Purpan, Laboratoire de virologie, Institut fédératif de biologie, Toulouse F-31300, France.
- INSERM, U1043, Centre de Physiopathologie de Toulouse Purpan, Toulouse F-31300, France.
| | - Nassim Kamar
- INSERM, U1043, Centre de Physiopathologie de Toulouse Purpan, Toulouse F-31300, France.
- CHU Toulouse, Hôpital Rangueil, Département de Néphrologie, Dialyse et Transplantation multi-organe, Toulouse F-31300, France.
| | - Florence Abravanel
- CHU Toulouse, Hôpital Purpan, Laboratoire de virologie, Institut fédératif de biologie, Toulouse F-31300, France.
- INSERM, U1043, Centre de Physiopathologie de Toulouse Purpan, Toulouse F-31300, France.
- Université Toulouse III Paul-Sabatier, Faculté de Médecine Toulouse, Toulouse F-31300, France.
| | - Jacques Izopet
- CHU Toulouse, Hôpital Purpan, Laboratoire de virologie, Institut fédératif de biologie, Toulouse F-31300, France.
- INSERM, U1043, Centre de Physiopathologie de Toulouse Purpan, Toulouse F-31300, France.
- Université Toulouse III Paul-Sabatier, Faculté de Médecine Toulouse, Toulouse F-31300, France.
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Chingwaru W, Vidmar J. A novel porcine cell culture based protocol for the propagation of hepatitis E virus. ASIAN PACIFIC JOURNAL OF TROPICAL DISEASE 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/s2222-1808(16)61092-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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21
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Borg BB, Feng Z, Earl TM, Anderson CD. Hepatitis E in post-liver transplantation: is it time to routinely consider it? Clin Transplant 2016; 30:975-9. [DOI: 10.1111/ctr.12777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Brian B. Borg
- Division of Digestive Diseases; Department of Medicine; University of Mississippi Medical Center; Jackson MS USA
| | - Zongdi Feng
- Center for Vaccines and Immunity; The Research Institute at Nationwide Children's Hospital; Columbus OH USA
- Department of Pediatrics; The Ohio State University College of Medicine; Columbus OH USA
| | - Truman M. Earl
- Division of Transplant and Hepatobiliary Surgery; Department of Surgery; University of Mississippi Medical Center; Jackson MS USA
| | - Christopher D. Anderson
- Division of Transplant and Hepatobiliary Surgery; Department of Surgery; University of Mississippi Medical Center; Jackson MS USA
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22
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[Hepatitis E virus: opinions of the Working Group of the Federal Ministry of Health Blood]. Bundesgesundheitsblatt Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz 2015; 58:198-218. [PMID: 25608627 DOI: 10.1007/s00103-014-2103-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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23
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van der Eijk AA, Pas SD, Cornelissen JJ, de Man RA. Hepatitis E virus infection in hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients. Curr Opin Infect Dis 2015; 27:309-15. [PMID: 24977683 DOI: 10.1097/qco.0000000000000076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Recipients of allogeneic stem cell transplantations are at risk of acquiring acute hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection, leading to chronicity. We review the incidence, sequela, extrahepatic manifestations, and treatment of hepatitis due to HEV infection in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (alloHSCT) recipients. RECENT FINDINGS HEV infection and progression to chronic HEV in alloHSCT recipients are recently described. Misdiagnosis of HEV in alloHSCT recipients occurs, with liver enzyme abnormalities often attributed to hepatic graft-versus-host disease or drug-induced liver injury. HEV infection may occur in HSCT donors and emphasizes the need for HEV screening not only after HSCT, but also in donors presenting with liver function disturbances. The discussion about HEV screening of blood products will continue. Extrahepatic manifestations of hepatitis E are described. SUMMARY HEV RNA screening in alloHSCT recipients with elevated liver enzymes is advised. Intervention strategies should be considered in cases of acute or chronic HEV infection. The first-line approach includes reduction of immunosuppressive medication. Oral ribavirin is in experienced hands a reasonable well tolerated treatment option, although the optimal dose, duration, and quantitative goals of ribavirin treatment are still unknown. Further studies are needed to improve our understanding of HEV, including extrahepatic manifestations and evaluation of therapeutic options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annemiek A van der Eijk
- aDepartment of Viroscience bDepartment of Hematology cDepartment of Hepatogastroenterology, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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Blasco-Perrin H, Madden RG, Stanley A, Crossan C, Hunter JG, Vine L, Lane K, Devooght-Johnson N, Mclaughlin C, Petrik J, Stableforth B, Hussaini H, Phillips M, Mansuy JM, Forrest E, Izopet J, Blatchford O, Scobie L, Peron JM, Dalton HR. Hepatitis E virus in patients with decompensated chronic liver disease: a prospective UK/French study. Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2015; 42:574-81. [PMID: 26174470 DOI: 10.1111/apt.13309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2015] [Revised: 06/05/2015] [Accepted: 06/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In developed countries, hepatitis E is a porcine zoonosis caused by hepatitis E virus (HEV) genotype 3. In developing countries, hepatitis E is mainly caused by genotype 1, and causes increased mortality in patients with pre-existing chronic liver disease (CLD). AIM To determine the role of HEV in patients with decompensated CLD. METHODS Prospective HEV testing of 343 patients with decompensated CLD at three UK centres and Toulouse France, with follow-up for 6 months or death. IgG seroprevalence was compared with 911 controls. RESULTS 11/343 patients (3.2%) had acute hepatitis E infection, and three died. There were no differences in mortality (27% vs. 26%, OR 1.1, 95% CI 0.28-4.1), age (P = 0.9), bilirubin (P = 0.5), alanine aminotransferase (P = 0.06) albumin (P = 0.5) or international normalised ratio (P = 0.6) in patients with and without hepatitis E infection. Five cases were polymerase chain reaction (PCR) positive (genotype 3). Hepatitis E was more common in Toulouse (7.9%) compared to the UK cohort (1.2%, P = 0.003). HEV IgG seroprevalence was higher in Toulouse (OR 17, 95% CI 9.2-30) and Truro (OR 2.5, 95% CI 1.4-4.6) than in Glasgow, but lower in cases, compared to controls (OR 0.59, 95% CI 0.41-0.86). CONCLUSIONS Hepatitis E occurs in a minority of patients with decompensated chronic liver disease. The mortality is no different to the mortality in patients without hepatitis E infection. The diagnosis can only be established by a combination of serology and PCR, the yield and utility of which vary by geographical location.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Blasco-Perrin
- Service d'Hépato-Gastro-Entérologie, Hôpital Purpan, Université Paul Sabatier III, Toulouse, France
| | - R G Madden
- Royal Cornwall Hospital Trust, Truro, UK
| | - A Stanley
- Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, UK
| | - C Crossan
- Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | - J G Hunter
- Royal Cornwall Hospital Trust, Truro, UK
| | - L Vine
- Royal Cornwall Hospital Trust, Truro, UK
| | - K Lane
- Royal Cornwall Hospital Trust, Truro, UK
| | | | | | - J Petrik
- Scottish National Blood Transfusion Service, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - H Hussaini
- Royal Cornwall Hospital Trust, Truro, UK
| | - M Phillips
- Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Norwich, UK
| | - J M Mansuy
- Laboratoire de virologie, Hôpital Purpan, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - E Forrest
- Glasgow Royal Infirmary, Glasgow, UK
| | - J Izopet
- Laboratoire de virologie, Hôpital Purpan, CHU de Toulouse, Toulouse, France.,INSERM, U1043, Toulouse, France.,Université Toulouse III Paul Sabatier, Toulouse, France
| | | | - L Scobie
- Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
| | - J M Peron
- Service d'Hépato-Gastro-Entérologie, Hôpital Purpan, Université Paul Sabatier III, Toulouse, France
| | - H R Dalton
- Royal Cornwall Hospital Trust, Truro, UK
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Pauli G, Aepfelbacher M, Bauerfeind U, Blümel J, Burger R, Gärtner B, Gröner A, Gürtler L, Heiden M, Hildebrandt M, Jansen B, Offergeld R, Schlenkrich U, Schottstedt V, Seitz R, Strobel J, Willkommen H, Baylis SA. Hepatitis E Virus. Transfus Med Hemother 2015; 42:247-65. [PMID: 26557817 DOI: 10.1159/000431191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2015] [Accepted: 02/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
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Sue PK, Pisanic N, Heaney CD, Mixson-Hayden T, Kamili S, Nelson K, Schwarz KB, Forman M, Valsamakis A, Ticehurst J, Karnsakul W. Variability of hepatitis E serologic assays in a pediatric liver transplant recipient: challenges to diagnosing hepatitis E virus infection in the United States. Transpl Infect Dis 2015; 17:284-8. [PMID: 25648626 PMCID: PMC4428568 DOI: 10.1111/tid.12366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2014] [Revised: 11/27/2014] [Accepted: 01/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is an emerging cause of viral hepatitis among immunocompromised individuals in developed countries. Yet the diagnosis of HEV infection in the United States remains challenging, because of the variable sensitivity and specificity of currently available tests, and the lack of a US Food and Drug Administration-approved test. We report a case of multiple discordant HEV serology results in a pediatric liver transplant recipient with idiopathic hepatitis, and review the challenges to diagnosis of HEV infection in the United States.
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Affiliation(s)
- P K Sue
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Disease, Department of Pediatrics, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Izopet J, Lhomme S, Abravanel F, Roque AM, Kamar N. Le virus de l’hépatite E. Presse Med 2015; 44:328-32. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lpm.2014.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2014] [Revised: 10/15/2014] [Accepted: 11/13/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
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Detection of hepatitis E virus in pork liver sausages. Int J Food Microbiol 2015; 193:29-33. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijfoodmicro.2014.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2014] [Revised: 09/30/2014] [Accepted: 10/04/2014] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
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Girón-Callejas A, Clark G, Irving WL, McClure CP. In silico and in vitro interrogation of a widely used HEV RT-qPCR assay for detection of the species Orthohepevirus A. J Virol Methods 2014; 214:25-8. [PMID: 25528997 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2014.11.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2014] [Revised: 11/16/2014] [Accepted: 11/25/2014] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is a public health concern worldwide, associated with waterborne outbreaks in developing countries and reported as an emerging zoonotic infection in high-income countries. A recent consensus proposal classified the isolates from human, swine, wild boar, deer, mongoose, rabbit and camel in seven genotypes within the species Orthohepevirus A. In this report a popular HEV RT-qPCR assay was assessed for the detection of the species Orthohepevirus A. In silico analysis of 189 complete genome sequences showed that the assay targets a highly conserved region in the Orthohepevirus A genome. Additionally, plasmid standards were constructed to test the effect of probe- and primer-binding site mutations in the assay performance. The assay proved robust enough to detect strains with mutations in the probe-binding site and in the 3' end primer-binding site regions. A degenerate version of the reverse primer improves the performance of the assay particularly in the detection of HEV-5 and 6. The addition and detection of MS2 RNA in each RT-qPCR reaction monitored for amplification inhibition and did not affect the performance of the assay in the detection of the HEV RNA international standard. Therefore, the RT-qPCR assay can be confidently used for the RNA detection of the seven genotypes within the species Orthohepevirus A.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gemma Clark
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK.
| | - William L Irving
- School of Life Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK; Department of Clinical Microbiology, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, UK.
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Behrendt P, Steinmann E, Manns MP, Wedemeyer H. The impact of hepatitis E in the liver transplant setting. J Hepatol 2014; 61:1418-29. [PMID: 25195557 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhep.2014.08.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2014] [Revised: 08/25/2014] [Accepted: 08/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection has been identified as a cause of graft hepatitis in liver transplant recipients. The true frequency and clinical importance of HEV infections after liver transplantations is a matter of debate. It is proposed that consumption of HEV-contaminated undercooked meat is a main source for HEV infections in developed countries--which might also account for some hepatitis E cases after organ transplantation. However, HEV is also transmitted by transfusion of blood products, likely representing a previously underestimated risk particularly for patients in the transplant setting. HEV infection can take chronic courses in immunocompromised individuals, associated in some cases with rapid progression to cirrhosis within 1-2 years of infection. Diagnosis in transplanted patients is based on HEV RNA testing as antibody assays are not sensitive enough. Selection of immunosuppressive drugs is important as different compounds may influence viral replication and the course of liver disease. Ribavirin has antiviral activity against HEV and should be administered for at least three months in chronically infected individuals; however, treatment failure may occur. HEV infections have also been linked to a variety of extrahepatic manifestations both during and after resolution of infection. In this review we summarize the emerging data on hepatitis E with a particular focus on the importance of HEV infections for liver transplant recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Behrendt
- Department for Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; German Center for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany; Twincore, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, A Joint Venture Between Medical School Hannover and Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany
| | - Eike Steinmann
- Twincore, Centre for Experimental and Clinical Infection Research, A Joint Venture Between Medical School Hannover and Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany
| | - Michael P Manns
- Department for Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; German Center for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany
| | - Heiner Wedemeyer
- Department for Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Endocrinology, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany; German Center for Infection Research, Hannover, Germany.
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Abstract
The prevalence of anti-HEV isotype-specific antibodies and viraemia were investigated in serum samples collected from slaughter-age pigs (aged 22-24 weeks) from 23 farms in Scotland. Of 176 serum samples tested, 29·0% (n = 51) were anti-HEV IgG positive, 36·9% (n = 65) anti-HEV IgA positive and 29·0% (n = 51) anti-HEV IgM positive. Overall seroprevalence (anti-HEV IgG+ and/or IgA+ and/or IgM+) was 61·4% (n = 108). HEV RNA was detected in 72/162 serum samples (44·4%). Partial sequence of ORF2 (98 nt) was obtained from eight HEV RNA-positive samples and phylogenetic analysis confirmed that they were all of genotype 3. This is the first report on the prevalence of HEV in pigs in Scotland. Given the increasing incidence of locally acquired HEV infection in the UK, evidence that HEV is a foodborne zoonosis emphasizes the need for surveillance in pigs.
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Sebode M, Pischke S, Lütgehetmann M, Polywka S, Quaas A, Lohse AW, Wege H. New foe treated with old guns - supportive role of steroids in the treatment of acute severe hepatitis E. BMC Gastroenterol 2014; 14:191. [PMID: 25398314 PMCID: PMC4236436 DOI: 10.1186/s12876-014-0191-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2014] [Accepted: 10/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Autochthonous hepatitis E has been observed with growing incidence in industrialized countries. Hepatitis E virus infection causes an acute hepatitis with spontaneous resolution in the majority of cases. However, in individual cases, hepatitis E may lead to life-threatening acute liver failure. In this report, we describe a case of acute liver injury caused by an autochthonous hepatitis E that resolved under steroid treatment. To our knowledge, this is the first case report describing supportive steroid monotherapy for acute liver injury due to hepatitis E. Case presentation A 63-year-old Caucasian male presented with acute liver injury of unknown origin. After excluding the most prevalent causes of acute liver injury, liver histology revealed signs of immune-mediated toxic or drug-induced liver injury. Therefore, immunosuppressive treatment with prednisolone was started. After initialization of steroid treatment, polymerase chain reaction analyses of peripheral blood and liver tissue revealed an acute hepatitis E virus infection (genotype 3). Under sustained steroid treatment, acute liver injury improved and hepatitis E infection resolved. Conclusion Steroid treatment might be an option to prevent progress of life-threatening liver failure and liver transplantation in patients with hepatitis E-induced acute liver injury and high-grade inflammation.
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Li LJ, Shen YY, Ai ZQ, Guo L, Geng CR. Seroepidemiology and genetic characterization of hepatitis E virus in western Yunnan Province. ASIAN PAC J TROP MED 2014; 7:909-12. [DOI: 10.1016/s1995-7645(14)60160-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2014] [Revised: 09/10/2014] [Accepted: 10/15/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
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Qiu F, Cao J, Su Q, Yi Y, Bi S. Multiplex hydrolysis probe real-time PCR for simultaneous detection of hepatitis A virus and hepatitis E virus. Int J Mol Sci 2014; 15:9780-8. [PMID: 24886818 PMCID: PMC4100120 DOI: 10.3390/ijms15069780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2014] [Revised: 03/31/2014] [Accepted: 04/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Detection of hepatitis viral infections has traditionally relied on the circulating antibody test using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. However, multiplex real-time PCR has been increasingly used for a variety of viral nucleic acid detections and has proven to be superior to traditional methods. Hepatitis A virus (HAV) and hepatitis E virus (HEV) are the major causes of acute hepatitis worldwide; both HAV and HEV infection are a main public health problem. In the present study, a one-step multiplex reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay using hydrolysis probes was developed for simultaneously detecting HAV and HEV. This novel detection system proved specific to the target viruses, to be highly sensitive and to be applicable to clinical sera samples, making it useful for rapid, accurate and feasible identification of HAV and HEV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Qiu
- Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, No. 155 Changbai Road, Beijing 102206, China.
| | - Jingyuan Cao
- Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, No. 155 Changbai Road, Beijing 102206, China.
| | - Qiudong Su
- Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, No. 155 Changbai Road, Beijing 102206, China.
| | - Yao Yi
- Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, No. 155 Changbai Road, Beijing 102206, China.
| | - Shengli Bi
- Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, No. 155 Changbai Road, Beijing 102206, China.
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La Rosa G, Fratini M, Muscillo M, Iaconelli M, Taffon S, Equestre M, Chionne P, Madonna E, Pisani G, Bruni R, Ciccaglione AR. Molecular characterisation of human hepatitis E virus from Italy: comparative analysis of five reverse transcription-PCR assays. Virol J 2014; 11:72. [PMID: 24755361 PMCID: PMC4002560 DOI: 10.1186/1743-422x-11-72] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2013] [Accepted: 04/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Hepatitis E (HEV) is an important public-health concern as a major cause of enterically transmitted hepatitis worldwide. In industrialised countries it is considered rare, and largely confined to travellers returning from endemic areas. However, autochthonous (locally acquired) HEV infection is also emerging in these regions. The infection is caused by different genotypes, depending on whether it is travel-related or autochthonous. Conventional RT-PCR followed by sequencing of PCR products can identify HEV genotype and, depending on the region, the subtype, thus helping in defining the origin of infection and tracing the source of contamination. Methods We re-analysed a collection of serum samples previously confirmed as hepatitis E positive by anti-HEV IgM and IgG assays as well as by Real-Time PCR, with the aim to compare the performances of five different broad range RT-PCR assays that could be provided for molecular characterisation of HEV. This approach is certainly valuable to investigate the molecular epidemiology of acute hepatitis E in countries where co-circulation of different genotypes occurs, like Italy. Results Samples were analyzed by five assays targeting the ORF1, ORF2, and ORF2/3 regions. The sensitivity of these assays varied significantly, depending on the target region. Only 46% of samples tested positive by nested PCR; moreover, no single method was able to detect all positive samples. Most sequences originated from patients who had travelled to endemic areas (genotype 1), while the minority originated from Italian patients with no travel history (genotype 3). Conclusion Broad range methods for molecular characterization of HEV still need to be improved to detect all circulating strains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina La Rosa
- Department of Environment and Primary Prevention, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy.
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Abstract
For many years, hepatitis E was considered a disease found only in certain developing countries. In these geographical settings, hepatitis E virus (HEV) causes a self-limiting hepatitis in young adults, except in pregnant females, in whom the mortality is 25 %. Our understanding of HEV has changed radically in the past decade. It is now evident that HEV is a threat to global health. This review article considers the current concepts and future perspectives of HEV and its effects on human health, with particular reference to developed countries.
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Comparison of real-time reverse transcriptase PCR assays for detection of swine hepatitis E virus in fecal samples. J Clin Microbiol 2014; 52:1045-51. [PMID: 24430450 DOI: 10.1128/jcm.03118-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a major cause of acute viral hepatitis in people in many developing countries and is also endemic in many industrialized countries. Mammalian HEV (mHEV) isolates can be divided into at least four recognized major genotypes. Several nucleic acid amplification techniques have been developed for mHEV detection, with great differences in sensitivity. The aim of this study was to compare the performances of two singleplex real-time reverse transcriptase (RT) PCR assays for broad detection of all four mHEV genotypes (assays A and B) and two duplex real-time RT-PCR assays for detection and differentiation of mHEV genotypes 3 and 4 (assays C and D). RNAs extracted from 28 fecal samples from pigs experimentally inoculated with HEV genotype 3 and 186 fecal samples from commercial pigs with unknown HEV exposure were tested by all four assays. In experimental samples, HEV RNA was detected in 96.4% (assay A), 39.2% (assay B), 14.2% (assay C), and 0% (assay D) of the samples. In field samples with unknown HEV exposure, HEV RNA was detected in 67.2% (assay A), 36.4% (assay B), 1.1% (assay C), and 0.5% (assay D) of the samples. The assays showed overall poor agreement (κ = 0.19 to 0.03), with differences in detection rates between assays (P < 0.01). Assays A and B, which broadly detect HEV genotypes 1 to 4, had significantly higher detection rates for HEV RNA than the duplex assays C and D, which were both designed to detect and differentiate between HEV genotypes 3 and 4.
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