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Zorec TM, Skubic L, Poljak M. A novel digital PCR assay for detection and comprehensive characterization of Molluscum contagiosum virus genotypes MOCV1, MOCV2, and MOCV3 and recombinant lineages. J Virol Methods 2024; 329:114993. [PMID: 38960327 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2024.114993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 06/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024]
Abstract
Molluscum contagiosum virus (MOCV) is an important human pathogen causing a high disease burden worldwide. It is the last exclusively human-infecting poxvirus still circulating in its natural reservoir-a valuable model of poxviral evolution. Unfortunately, MOCV remains neglected, and little is known about its evolutionary history and circulating genomic variants, especially in non-privileged countries. The design weaknesses of available MOCV detection/genotyping assays surfaced with recent accumulation of abundant sequence information: all existing MOCV assays fail at accurate genotyping and capturing sub-genotype level diversity. Because complete MOCV genome characterization is an expensive and labor-intensive task, it makes sense to prioritize samples for whole-genome sequencing by diversity triage screening. To meet this demand, we developed a novel assay for accurate MOCV detection and genotyping, and comprehensive sub-genotype qualification to the level of phylogenetic groups (PGs). The assay included a novel set of oligonucleotide primers and probes, and it was implemented using digital polymerase chain reaction (dPCR). It offers sensitive, specific, and accurate detection, genotyping (MOCV1-MOCV3), and PG qualification (PG1-6) of MOCV DNA from clinical samples. The novel dPCR assay is suitable for MOCV diversity triage screening and prioritization of samples for complete MOCV genome characterization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomaž M Zorec
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ljubljana, Zaloška 4, Ljubljana, Slovenia; Celica Biomedical, Tehnološki park 24, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Lucijan Skubic
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ljubljana, Zaloška 4, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Mario Poljak
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Ljubljana, Zaloška 4, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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Zorec TM, Alm E, Lind Karlberg M, Advani R, Hošnjak L, Poljak M. Comprehensive analysis of 66 complete molluscum contagiosum virus (MOCV) genomes: characterization and functional annotation of 47 novel complete MOCV genomes, including the first genome of MOCV genotype 3, and a proposal for harmonized MOCV genotyping indexing. mBio 2023; 14:e0222423. [PMID: 37947415 PMCID: PMC10746250 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.02224-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Four molluscum contagiosum virus (MOCV) genotypes (MOCV1-4) and four subtype variants were partially characterized using restriction enzyme profiling in the 1980s/1990s, but complete genome sequences of only MOCV1 and MOCV2 are available. The evolutionary pathways whereby genotypes/subtype variants with unavailable sequences emerged and whether all MOCVs can be detected using current diagnostic approaches remain unclear. We fully characterized 47 novel complete MOCV genomes, including the first complete MOCV3 genome, expanding the number of fully characterized genomes to 66. For reliably classifying the novel non-MOCV1/2 genomes, we developed and validated a framework for matching sequence-derived restriction maps with those defining MOCV subtypes in pioneering studies. Six phylogenetic subgroups (PG1-6) were identified, PG5 representing a novel MOCV2 subtype. The phylogenetic subgroups diverged from the prototype lineages following large-scale recombination events and hinted at partial sequence content of MOCV4 and direction of recombinant transfer in the events spawning PG5 and yet undetected MOCV1vb variant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomaž Mark Zorec
- Laboratory for Molecular Microbiology and Slovenian HIV/AIDS Reference Center, Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Erik Alm
- Department of Microbiology, Public Health Agency of Sweden, Solna, Sweden
| | | | - Reza Advani
- Department of Microbiology, Public Health Agency of Sweden, Solna, Sweden
| | - Lea Hošnjak
- Laboratory for Molecular Microbiology and Slovenian HIV/AIDS Reference Center, Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Mario Poljak
- Laboratory for Molecular Microbiology and Slovenian HIV/AIDS Reference Center, Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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New Diagnostic Approaches to Viral Sexually Transmitted Infections. Sex Transm Infect 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-02200-6_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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Trčko K, Hošnjak L, Kušar B, Zorec TM, Kocjan BJ, Križmarić M, Seme K, Miljković J, Luzar B, Poljak M. Clinical, Histopathological, and Virological Evaluation of 203 Patients With a Clinical Diagnosis of Molluscum Contagiosum. Open Forum Infect Dis 2018; 5:ofy298. [PMID: 30539041 PMCID: PMC6284465 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofy298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Accepted: 11/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Molluscum contagiosum (MC) manifests as small, umbilicated papules caused by the molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV). The extent of clinical misdiagnosis of MC is unknown. Combined clinical, histopathological, and virological evaluation of 203 consecutive patients with clinical diagnosis of MC treated at a university hospital during a 5-year period showed the correct clinical diagnosis in 188 of 203 (92.6%) patients. All 15 clinically misdiagnosed MC lesions were histopathologically and virologically confirmed as either common or anogenital warts caused by different human papillomaviruses. The MCV1/MCV2 subtypes ratio was 1.54:1, and the distribution of MCV subtypes differed across patients’ age and anatomical location of lesions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarina Trčko
- Department of Dermatovenereology, University Medical Centre Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Lea Hošnjak
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Blanka Kušar
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Tomaž Mark Zorec
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Boštjan J Kocjan
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Miljenko Križmarić
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Slovenia.,Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Katja Seme
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - Boštjan Luzar
- Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Mario Poljak
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Zorec TM, Kutnjak D, Hošnjak L, Kušar B, Trčko K, Kocjan BJ, Li Y, Križmarić M, Miljković J, Ravnikar M, Poljak M. New Insights into the Evolutionary and Genomic Landscape of Molluscum Contagiosum Virus (MCV) based on Nine MCV1 and Six MCV2 Complete Genome Sequences. Viruses 2018; 10:v10110586. [PMID: 30373153 PMCID: PMC6266040 DOI: 10.3390/v10110586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2018] [Revised: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV) is the sole member of the Molluscipoxvirus genus and the causative agent of molluscum contagiosum (MC), a common skin disease. Although it is an important and frequent human pathogen, its genetic landscape and evolutionary history remain largely unknown. In this study, ten novel complete MCV genome sequences of the two most common MCV genotypes were determined (five MCV1 and five MCV2 sequences) and analyzed together with all MCV complete genomes previously deposited in freely accessible sequence repositories (four MCV1 and a single MCV2). In comparison to MCV1, a higher degree of nucleotide sequence conservation was observed among MCV2 genomes. Large-scale recombination events were identified in two newly assembled MCV1 genomes and one MCV2 genome. One recombination event was located in a newly identified recombinant region of the viral genome, and all previously described recombinant regions were re-identified in at least one novel MCV genome. MCV genes comprising the identified recombinant segments have been previously associated with viral interference with host T-cell and NK-cell immune responses. In conclusion, the two most common MCV genotypes emerged along divergent evolutionary pathways from a common ancestor, and the differences in the heterogeneity of MCV1 and MCV2 populations may be attributed to the strictness of the constraints imposed by the host immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomaž M Zorec
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Zaloška 4, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Denis Kutnjak
- Department of Biotechnology and Systems Biology, National Institute of Biology, Večna pot 111, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Lea Hošnjak
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Zaloška 4, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Blanka Kušar
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Zaloška 4, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Katarina Trčko
- Department of Dermatovenereology, University Medical Centre Maribor, Ljubljanska ulica 5, SI-2000 Maribor, Slovenia.
| | - Boštjan J Kocjan
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Zaloška 4, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Yu Li
- Poxvirus and Rabies Branch, Division of High-Consequence Pathogens and Pathology, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA.
| | - Miljenko Križmarić
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Taborska Ulica 6b, SI-2000 Maribor, Slovenia.
| | - Jovan Miljković
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Maribor, Taborska Ulica 6b, SI-2000 Maribor, Slovenia.
| | - Maja Ravnikar
- Department of Biotechnology and Systems Biology, National Institute of Biology, Večna pot 111, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Mario Poljak
- Institute of Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Zaloška 4, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
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Ilyas M, Maganty N, Sharma A. Cutaneous infections from viral sources in solid organ transplant recipients. J Clin Virol 2017; 97:33-37. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcv.2017.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2017] [Revised: 06/10/2017] [Accepted: 08/10/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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López-Bueno A, Parras-Moltó M, López-Barrantes O, Belda S, Alejo A. Recombination events and variability among full-length genomes of co-circulating molluscum contagiosum virus subtypes 1 and 2. J Gen Virol 2017; 98:1073-1079. [PMID: 28555548 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.000759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV) is the sole member of the Molluscipoxvirus genus and causes a highly prevalent human disease of the skin characterized by the formation of a variable number of lesions that can persist for prolonged periods of time. Two major genotypes, subtype 1 and subtype 2, are recognized, although currently only a single complete genomic sequence corresponding to MCV subtype 1 is available. Using next-generation sequencing techniques, we report the complete genomic sequence of four new MCV isolates, including the first one derived from a subtype 2. Comparisons suggest a relatively distant evolutionary split between both MCV subtypes. Further, our data illustrate concurrent circulation of distinct viruses within a population and reveal the existence of recombination events among them. These results help identify a set of MCV genes with potentially relevant roles in molluscum contagiosum epidemiology and pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto López-Bueno
- Centro de Biología Molecular 'Severo Ochoa' (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas and Universidad Autónoma de Madrid), Cantoblanco, Madrid 28049, Spain
| | - Marcos Parras-Moltó
- Centro de Biología Molecular 'Severo Ochoa' (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas and Universidad Autónoma de Madrid), Cantoblanco, Madrid 28049, Spain
| | | | - Sylvia Belda
- Unidad de cuidados intensivos pediátricos, Hospital 12 de Octubre, Madrid 28041, Spain
| | - Alí Alejo
- Centro de Investigación en Sanidad Animal; Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Valdeolmos, Madrid 28130, Spain
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Nath-Chowdhury M, Sangaralingam M, Bastien P, Ravel C, Pratlong F, Mendez J, Libman M, Ndao M. Real-time PCR using FRET technology for Old World cutaneous leishmaniasis species differentiation. Parasit Vectors 2016; 9:255. [PMID: 27141967 PMCID: PMC4855858 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-016-1531-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2015] [Accepted: 04/24/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Recently, there has been a re-emergence of cutaneous leishmaniasis in endemic countries and an increase in imported cases in non-endemic countries by travelers, workers, expatriates, immigrants, and military force personnel. Old World cutaneous leishmaniasis is caused primarily by Leishmania major, L. tropica and L. aethiopica. Despite their low sensitivity, diagnosis traditionally includes microscopic and histopathological examinations, and in vitro cultivation. Several conventional PCR techniques have been developed for species identification, which are time-consuming and labour-intensive. Real-time PCR using SYBR green dye, although provides rapid detection, may generate false positive signals. Therefore, a rapid and easy method such as a FRET-based real-time PCR would improve not only the turn-around time of diagnosing Old World cutaneous Leishmania species but will also increase its specificity and sensitivity. Methods A FRET-based real-time PCR assay which amplifies the cathepsin L-like cysteine protease B gene encoding a major Leishmania antigen was developed to differentiate L. major, L. tropica, and L. aethiopica in one single step using one set of primers and probes. Assay performance was tested on cutaneous and visceral strains of Leishmania parasite cultures and isolates of other protozoan parasites as well as human biopsy specimen. Results The assay readily differentiates between the three Old World cutaneous leishmaniasis species based on their melting curve characteristics. A single Tm at 55.2 ± 0.5 °C for L. aethiopica strains was distinguished from a single Tm at 57.4 ± 0.2 °C for L. major strains. A double curve with melting peaks at 66.6 ± 0.1 °C and 48.1 ± 0.5 °C or 55.8 ± 0.6 °C was observed for all L. tropica strains. The assay was further tested on biopsy specimens, which showed 100 % agreement with results obtained from isoenzyme electrophoresis and Sanger sequencing. Conclusion Currently, there are no published data on real-time PCR using FRET technology to differentiate between Old World cutaneous Leishmania species. In summary, our assay based on specific hybridization addresses the limitations of previous PCR technology and provides a single step, reliable method of species identification and rapid diagnostic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milli Nath-Chowdhury
- National Reference Centre for Parasitology, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Mugundhine Sangaralingam
- National Reference Centre for Parasitology, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Patrick Bastien
- Department of Parasitology-Mycology, Centre National de Référence des Leishmanioses, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire of Montpellier and University Montpellier I (Faculty of Medicine), UMR CNRS 5290-IRD 224- UM1 et 2 "MIVEGEC", Montpellier, France
| | - Christophe Ravel
- Department of Parasitology-Mycology, Centre National de Référence des Leishmanioses, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire of Montpellier and University Montpellier I (Faculty of Medicine), UMR CNRS 5290-IRD 224- UM1 et 2 "MIVEGEC", Montpellier, France
| | - Francine Pratlong
- Department of Parasitology-Mycology, Centre National de Référence des Leishmanioses, Centre Hospitalier Régional Universitaire of Montpellier and University Montpellier I (Faculty of Medicine), UMR CNRS 5290-IRD 224- UM1 et 2 "MIVEGEC", Montpellier, France
| | - Juan Mendez
- Division of Experimental Therapeutics, Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Michael Libman
- National Reference Centre for Parasitology, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada.,J.D. MacLean Centre for Tropical Diseases at McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Momar Ndao
- National Reference Centre for Parasitology, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada. .,J.D. MacLean Centre for Tropical Diseases at McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
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Abstract
Molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV) is the causative agent of molluscum contagiosum (MC), the third most common viral skin infection in children, and one of the five most prevalent skin diseases worldwide. No FDA-approved treatments, vaccines, or commercially available rapid diagnostics for MCV are available. This review discusses several aspects of this medically important virus including: physical properties of MCV, MCV pathogenesis, MCV replication, and immune responses to MCV infection. Sequencing of the MCV genome revealed novel immune evasion molecules which are highlighted here. Special attention is given to the MCV MC159 and MC160 proteins. These proteins are FLIPs with homologs in gamma herpesviruses and in the cell. They are of great interest because each protein regulates apoptosis, NF-κB, and IRF3. However, the mechanism that each protein uses to impart its effects is different. It is important to elucidate how MCV inhibits immune responses; this knowledge contributes to our understanding of viral pathogenesis and also provides new insights into how the immune system neutralizes virus infections.
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Basta-Juzbašić A, Čeović R. Chancroid, lymphogranuloma venereum, granuloma inguinale, genital herpes simplex infection, and molluscum contagiosum. Clin Dermatol 2014; 32:290-8. [PMID: 24559566 DOI: 10.1016/j.clindermatol.2013.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Chancroid, lymphogranuloma venereum, and granuloma inguinale may be considered as tropical venereal diseases. These diseases were a major diagnostic and therapeutic challenge in past centuries. Currently, patients with these bacterial infections that are endemic to the tropics occasionally consult with dermatologists in temperate climates. Due to the increasing frequency of travel to the tropics for tourism and work, as well as the increasing number of immigrants from these areas, it is important for dermatologists practicing in temperate climates to be familiar with the dermatologic manifestations of such infections, to be prepared to diagnose these diseases, and to treat these patients. All three "tropical" infections respond well to prompt and appropriate antimicrobial treatment, although herpes progenitalis still cannot be cured, and the number of people infected keeps growing; moreover, genital herpes can be transmitted by viral shedding before and after the visual signs or symptoms. Acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir can shorten outbreaks and make them less severe or even stop them from happening. There is currently no etiologic treatment for molluscum contagiosum, and the majority of treatment options are mechanical, causing a certain degree of discomfort. The molluscum contagiosum virus, unlike the other infectious agents mentioned, does not invade the skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Basta-Juzbašić
- University Hospital Center Zagreb, Department of Dermatology and Venereology, School of Medicine University of Zagreb, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Romana Čeović
- University Hospital Center Zagreb, Department of Dermatology and Venereology, School of Medicine University of Zagreb, HR-10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
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