1
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Donaghy F, Pepin B, Sabnani R, Hermos C. A Watchful Eye for the Acutely Unsteady Child. Clin Pediatr (Phila) 2024; 63:1005-1008. [PMID: 37694861 DOI: 10.1177/00099228231199979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Feargal Donaghy
- UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Bryce Pepin
- UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Reshma Sabnani
- UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Christina Hermos
- UMass Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
- UMass Memorial Children's Medical Center, Worcester, MA, USA
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2
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Obellianne C, Norman PD, Esteves E, Hermance ME. Interspecies co-feeding transmission of Powassan virus between a native tick, Ixodes scapularis, and the invasive East Asian tick, Haemaphysalis longicornis. Parasit Vectors 2024; 17:259. [PMID: 38879603 PMCID: PMC11180395 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-024-06335-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Powassan virus, a North American tick-borne flavivirus, can cause severe neuroinvasive disease in humans. While Ixodes scapularis are the primary vectors of Powassan virus lineage II (POWV II), also known as deer tick virus, recent laboratory vector competence studies showed that other genera of ticks can horizontally and vertically transmit POWV II. One such tick is the Haemaphysalis longicornis, an invasive species from East Asia that recently established populations in the eastern USA and already shares overlapping geographic range with native vector species such as I. scapularis. Reports of invasive H. longicornis feeding concurrently with native I. scapularis on multiple sampled hosts highlight the potential for interspecies co-feeding transmission of POWV II. Given the absence of a clearly defined vertebrate reservoir host for POWV II, it is possible that this virus is sustained in transmission foci via nonviremic transmission between ticks co-feeding on the same vertebrate host. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether uninfected H. longicornis co-feeding in close proximity to POWV II-infected I. scapularis can acquire POWV independent of host viremia. METHODS Using an in vivo tick transmission model, I. scapularis females infected with POWV II ("donors") were co-fed on mice with uninfected H. longicornis larvae and nymphs ("recipients"). The donor and recipient ticks were infested on mice in various sequences, and mouse infection status was monitored by temporal screening of blood for POWV II RNA via quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (q-RT-PCR). RESULTS The prevalence of POWV II RNA was highest in recipient H. longicornis that fed on viremic mice. However, nonviremic mice were also able to support co-feeding transmission of POWV, as demonstrated by the detection of viral RNA in multiple H. longicornis dispersed across different mice. Detection of viral RNA at the skin site of tick feeding but not at distal skin sites indicates that a localized skin infection facilitates transmission of POWV between donor and recipient ticks co-feeding in close proximity. CONCLUSIONS This is the first report examining transmission of POWV between co-feeding ticks. Against the backdrop of multiple unknowns related to POWV ecology, findings from this study provide insight on possible mechanisms by which POWV could be maintained in nature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clemence Obellianne
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Parker D Norman
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Eliane Esteves
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Meghan E Hermance
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA.
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3
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McMinn RJ, Gallichotte EN, Courtney S, Telford SR, Ebel GD. Strain-Dependent Assessment of Powassan Virus Transmission to Ixodes scapularis Ticks. Viruses 2024; 16:830. [PMID: 38932123 PMCID: PMC11209038 DOI: 10.3390/v16060830] [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: 04/26/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Powassan virus (POWV) is an emerging tick-borne encephalitic virus in Lyme disease-endemic sites in North America. Due to range expansion and local intensification of blacklegged tick vector (Ixodes scapularis) populations in the northeastern and upper midwestern U.S., human encephalitis cases are increasingly being reported. A better understanding of the transmission cycle between POWV and ticks is required in order to better predict and understand their public health burden. Recent phylogeographic analyses of POWV have identified geographical structuring, with well-defined northeastern and midwestern clades of the lineage II subtype. The extent that geographic and genetically defined sublineages differ in their ability to infect and be transmitted by blacklegged ticks is unclear. Accordingly, we determined whether there are strain-dependent differences in the transmission of POWV to ticks at multiple life stages. Five recent, low-passage POWV isolates were used to measure aspects of vector competence, using viremic and artificial infection methods. Infection rates in experimental ticks remained consistent between all five isolates tested, resulting in a 12-20% infection rate and some differences in viral load. We confirm that these differences are likely not due to differences in host viremia. Our results demonstrate that blacklegged ticks are susceptible to, and capable of transmitting, all tested strains and suggest that the tick-virus association is stable across diverse viral genotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebekah J. McMinn
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Emily N. Gallichotte
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Samantha Courtney
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Sam R. Telford
- Department of Infectious Disease and Global Health, Tufts University, North Grafton, MA 01536, USA
| | - Gregory D. Ebel
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
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4
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Lange RE, Prusinski MA, Dupuis AP, Ciota AT. Direct Evidence of Powassan Virus Vertical Transmission in Ixodes scapularis in Nature. Viruses 2024; 16:456. [PMID: 38543821 PMCID: PMC10974323 DOI: 10.3390/v16030456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Powassan virus (POWV) is a tick-borne flavivirus endemic in North America and Russia. Experimental infections with POWV have confirmed horizontal, transstadial, vertical, and cofeeding transmission routes for potential virus maintenance. In the field, vertical transmission has never been observed. During New York State tick-borne pathogen surveillance, POWV RNA and/or infectious POWV was detected in five pools of questing Ixodes scapularis larvae. Additionally, engorged female I. scapularis adults were collected from hunter-harvested white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in a region with relatively high tick infection rates of POWV and allowed to oviposit under laboratory conditions. POWV RNA was detected in three female adult husks and one pool of larvae from a positive female. Infectious virus was isolated from all three RNA-positive females and the single positive larval pool. The detection of RNA and infectious virus in unfed questing larvae from the field and larvae from replete females collected from the primary tick host implicates vertical transmission as a potential mechanism for the maintenance of POWV in I. scapularis in nature, and elucidates the potential epidemiological significance of larval ticks in the transmission of POWV to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel E. Lange
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Public Health, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12144, USA; (R.E.L.)
- The Arbovirus Laboratory, New York State Department of Health, Wadsworth Center, Slingerlands, NY 12159, USA
| | - Melissa A. Prusinski
- Vector Ecology Laboratory, New York State Department of Health, Bureau of Communicable Disease Control, Albany, NY 12237, USA;
| | - Alan P. Dupuis
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Public Health, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12144, USA; (R.E.L.)
- The Arbovirus Laboratory, New York State Department of Health, Wadsworth Center, Slingerlands, NY 12159, USA
| | - Alexander T. Ciota
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Public Health, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12144, USA; (R.E.L.)
- The Arbovirus Laboratory, New York State Department of Health, Wadsworth Center, Slingerlands, NY 12159, USA
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5
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Nguyen TL, Kim H. Immunoinformatics and computational approaches driven designing a novel vaccine candidate against Powassan virus. Sci Rep 2024; 14:5999. [PMID: 38472237 PMCID: PMC10933373 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-56554-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Powassan virus (POWV) is an arthropod-borne virus (arbovirus) capable of causing severe illness in humans for severe neurological complications, and its incidence has been on the rise in recent years due to climate change, posing a growing public health concern. Currently, no vaccines to prevent or medicines to treat POWV disease, emphasizing the urgent need for effective countermeasures. In this study, we utilize bioinformatics approaches to target proteins of POWV, including the capsid, envelope, and membrane proteins, to predict diverse B-cell and T-cell epitopes. These epitopes underwent screening for critical properties such as antigenicity, allergenicity, toxicity, and cytokine induction potential. Eight selected epitopes were then conjugated with adjuvants using various linkers, resulting in designing of a potentially stable and immunogenic vaccine candidate against POWV. Moreover, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and immune simulations revealed a stable interaction pattern with the immune receptor, suggesting the vaccine's potential to induce robust immune responses. In conclusion, our study provided a set of derived epitopes from POWV's proteins, demonstrating the potential for a novel vaccine candidate against POWV. Further in vitro and in vivo studies are warranted to advance our efforts and move closer to the goal of combatting POWV and related arbovirus infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Truc Ly Nguyen
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Heebal Kim
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology and Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea.
- Interdisciplinary Program in Bioinformatics, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea.
- eGnome, Inc., Seoul, 05836, Republic of Korea.
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6
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Antúnez MP, Marín Montesinos JC, Corduneanu A, Obregón D, Moutailler S, Cabezas-Cruz A. Tick-borne viruses and their risk to public health in the Caribbean: Spotlight on bats as reservoirs in Cuba. Heliyon 2024; 10:e26118. [PMID: 38375245 PMCID: PMC10875593 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e26118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, tick-borne diseases (TBDs) have surged and expanded globally due to factors like changes in human activities, land use patterns, and climate change, and it have been associated with the emergence of zoonotic diseases. Cuba faces the impact of ticks on human health and the economy. Although Cuba has studied TBDs extensively for the past 50 years, focus on tick-borne viral pathogens affecting humans remains scant. Despite TBDs not currently being a major health concern in Cuba, factors like inadequate clinician awareness, climate conditions, global tick emergence, and evidence of zoonotic pathogens in ticks underscore the importance of enhanced TBD surveillance in the country. Here we revised the available information on ticks as vectors of pathogenic viruses to humans, spotlighting bats as potential reservoirs of tick-borne viruses (TBVs). Ticks on bats have gained interest as potential reservoirs of pathogenic viruses to humans in Cuba and worldwide. Understanding their role in maintaining viruses and their potential transmission to humans is crucial for the implementation of surveillance and control programs to reduce the risk of tick-borne viral diseases and public health management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maritza Pupo Antúnez
- Laboratorio de Virología. Departamento de Microbiología y Virología. Facultad de Biología, Universidad de la Habana, C.P. 10400, Plaza de la Revolución, Cuba
| | - José Carlos Marín Montesinos
- Laboratorio de Virología. Departamento de Microbiología y Virología. Facultad de Biología, Universidad de la Habana, C.P. 10400, Plaza de la Revolución, Cuba
| | - Alexandra Corduneanu
- Department of Animal Breeding and Animal Production, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Department of Parasitology and Parasitic Diseases, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Cluj-Napoca-Napoca, Romania
| | - Dasiel Obregón
- School of Environmental Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - Sara Moutailler
- Anses, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, UMR BIPAR, Laboratoire de Santé Animale, Maisons-Alfort, F-94700, France
| | - Alejandro Cabezas-Cruz
- Anses, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, UMR BIPAR, Laboratoire de Santé Animale, Maisons-Alfort, F-94700, France
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7
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Lange RE, Dupuis Ii AP, Prusinski MA, Maffei JG, Koetzner CA, Ngo K, Backenson B, Oliver J, Vogels CBF, Grubaugh ND, Kramer LD, Ciota AT. Identification and characterization of novel lineage 1 Powassan virus strains in New York State. Emerg Microbes Infect 2023; 12:2155585. [PMID: 36503411 PMCID: PMC9788702 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2022.2155585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Powassan virus (POWV, family Flaviviridae) is a reemerging tick-borne virus endemic in North America and Russia. In 1997, a POWV-like agent was isolated from Ixodes scapularis in New England and determined to be genetically distinct from the original POWV isolate. This revealed the existence of two lineages: lineage 1, prototype Powassan virus (POWV-1) and lineage 2, deer tick virus (DTV). POWV-1 is thought to be primarily maintained in a cycle between I. cookei and woodchucks and I. marxi and squirrels, while DTV is primarily maintained in a cycle between I. scapularis and small mammal hosts. Recent tick, mammalian, and human isolates from New York State (NYS) have been identified as DTV, but for the first time in 45 years, we detected four POWV-1 isolates, including the first reported isolation of POWV-1 from I. scapularis. We aimed to investigate genotypic and phenotypic characteristics of recent NYS isolates through sequence analysis and evaluation of replication kinetics in vitro and in vivo. Our sequencing revealed genetic divergence between NYS POWV-1 isolates, with two distinct foci. We found that POWV-1 isolates displayed variable replication kinetics in nymphal ticks but not in cell culture. POWV-1 isolated from I. scapularis displayed increased fitness in experimentally infected I. scapularis as compared to historic and recent POWV-1 isolates from I. cookei. These data suggest the emergence of divergent POWV-1 strains in alternate tick hosts and maintenance of genetically and phenotypically discrete POWV-1 foci.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel E Lange
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York University at Albany School of Public Health, Albany, NY, USA
- New York State Department of Health, The Arbovirus Laboratory, Wadsworth Center, Slingerlands, NY, USA
| | - Alan P Dupuis Ii
- New York State Department of Health, The Arbovirus Laboratory, Wadsworth Center, Slingerlands, NY, USA
| | - Melissa A Prusinski
- New York State Department of Health, Bureau of Communicable Disease Control, Vector Ecology Laboratory, Albany, NY, USA
| | - Joseph G Maffei
- New York State Department of Health, The Arbovirus Laboratory, Wadsworth Center, Slingerlands, NY, USA
| | - Cheri A Koetzner
- New York State Department of Health, The Arbovirus Laboratory, Wadsworth Center, Slingerlands, NY, USA
| | - Kiet Ngo
- New York State Department of Health, The Arbovirus Laboratory, Wadsworth Center, Slingerlands, NY, USA
| | - Bryon Backenson
- New York State Department of Health, Bureau of Communicable Disease Control, Vector Ecology Laboratory, Albany, NY, USA
| | - JoAnne Oliver
- New York State Department of Health, Bureau of Communicable Disease Control, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Chantal B F Vogels
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Nathan D Grubaugh
- Department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Laura D Kramer
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York University at Albany School of Public Health, Albany, NY, USA
- New York State Department of Health, The Arbovirus Laboratory, Wadsworth Center, Slingerlands, NY, USA
| | - Alexander T Ciota
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York University at Albany School of Public Health, Albany, NY, USA
- New York State Department of Health, The Arbovirus Laboratory, Wadsworth Center, Slingerlands, NY, USA
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8
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Illarionova V, Rogova A, Tuchynskaya K, Volok V, Rogova Y, Baryshnikova V, Turchenko Y, Litov A, Kalyanova A, Siniugina A, Ishmukhametov A, Karganova G. Inapparent Tick-Borne Orthoflavivirus Infection in Macaca fascicularis: A Model for Antiviral Drug and Vaccine Research. Vaccines (Basel) 2023; 11:1754. [PMID: 38140159 PMCID: PMC10747564 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines11121754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) and Powassan virus (POWV) are neurotropic tick-borne orthoflaviviruses. They cause mostly asymptomatic infections in hosts, but severe forms with CNS involvement can occur. Studying the early stages of viral infections in humans is challenging, and appropriate animal models are essential for understanding the factors determining the disease severity and for developing emergency prophylaxis and treatment options. In this work, we assessed the model of the early stages of TBEV and POWV mono- and co-infections in Macaca fascicularis. Serological, biochemical, and virological parameters were investigated to describe the infection, including its impact on animal behavior. Viremia, neutralizing antibody dynamics, and viral load in organs were chosen as the main parameters distinguishing early-stage orthoflavivirus infection. Levels of IFNα, monocyte count, and cognitive test scores were proposed as additional informative indicators. An assessment of a tick-borne encephalitis vaccine using this model showed that it provided partial protection against POWV infection in Macaca fascicularis without signs of antibody-dependent enhancement of infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Illarionova
- FSASI “Chumakov FSC R&D IBP RAS” (Institute of Poliomyelitis), Laboratory of Biology of Arbovirus, Moscow 108819, Russia; (V.I.); (A.R.); (K.T.); (V.V.); (Y.R.); (A.L.); (A.K.)
- Department of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory 1 bd. 3, Moscow 119991, Russia
| | - Anastasia Rogova
- FSASI “Chumakov FSC R&D IBP RAS” (Institute of Poliomyelitis), Laboratory of Biology of Arbovirus, Moscow 108819, Russia; (V.I.); (A.R.); (K.T.); (V.V.); (Y.R.); (A.L.); (A.K.)
| | - Ksenia Tuchynskaya
- FSASI “Chumakov FSC R&D IBP RAS” (Institute of Poliomyelitis), Laboratory of Biology of Arbovirus, Moscow 108819, Russia; (V.I.); (A.R.); (K.T.); (V.V.); (Y.R.); (A.L.); (A.K.)
| | - Viktor Volok
- FSASI “Chumakov FSC R&D IBP RAS” (Institute of Poliomyelitis), Laboratory of Biology of Arbovirus, Moscow 108819, Russia; (V.I.); (A.R.); (K.T.); (V.V.); (Y.R.); (A.L.); (A.K.)
- Research Institute for Systems Biology and Medicine (RISBM), Laboratory of Infectious Immunology, Moscow 117246, Russia
| | - Yulia Rogova
- FSASI “Chumakov FSC R&D IBP RAS” (Institute of Poliomyelitis), Laboratory of Biology of Arbovirus, Moscow 108819, Russia; (V.I.); (A.R.); (K.T.); (V.V.); (Y.R.); (A.L.); (A.K.)
| | - Victoria Baryshnikova
- FSASI “Chumakov FSC R&D IBP RAS” (Institute of Poliomyelitis), Laboratory of Biochemistry, Moscow 108819, Russia; (V.B.); (Y.T.)
| | - Yuriy Turchenko
- FSASI “Chumakov FSC R&D IBP RAS” (Institute of Poliomyelitis), Laboratory of Biochemistry, Moscow 108819, Russia; (V.B.); (Y.T.)
| | - Alexander Litov
- FSASI “Chumakov FSC R&D IBP RAS” (Institute of Poliomyelitis), Laboratory of Biology of Arbovirus, Moscow 108819, Russia; (V.I.); (A.R.); (K.T.); (V.V.); (Y.R.); (A.L.); (A.K.)
- Institute of Translational Medicine and Biotechnology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia;
| | - Anna Kalyanova
- FSASI “Chumakov FSC R&D IBP RAS” (Institute of Poliomyelitis), Laboratory of Biology of Arbovirus, Moscow 108819, Russia; (V.I.); (A.R.); (K.T.); (V.V.); (Y.R.); (A.L.); (A.K.)
| | - Alexandra Siniugina
- FSASI “Chumakov FSC R&D IBP RAS” (Institute of Poliomyelitis), Moscow 108819, Russia;
| | - Aydar Ishmukhametov
- Institute of Translational Medicine and Biotechnology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia;
- FSASI “Chumakov FSC R&D IBP RAS” (Institute of Poliomyelitis), Moscow 108819, Russia;
| | - Galina Karganova
- FSASI “Chumakov FSC R&D IBP RAS” (Institute of Poliomyelitis), Laboratory of Biology of Arbovirus, Moscow 108819, Russia; (V.I.); (A.R.); (K.T.); (V.V.); (Y.R.); (A.L.); (A.K.)
- Institute of Translational Medicine and Biotechnology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow 119991, Russia;
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9
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Anis H, Basha Shaik A, Karabulut E, Uzun M, Tiwari A, Nazir A, Uwishema O, Alemayehu A. Upsurge of Powassan virus disease in northeastern United States: a public health concern-a short communication. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2023; 85:5823-5826. [PMID: 37915648 PMCID: PMC10617911 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000001313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Powassan virus (POWV) is a tick-borne Flavivirus primarily transmitted through ticks in North America which is a significant public health threat in the northeastern United States. POWV infection spans from Ontario to the Mid-Atlantic, Northeast, and Midwest regions in the USA. Climate change, ecological factors, and human-related changes, including shifts in migration and agriculture, contribute to the dissemination of POWV. Symptoms include sore throat, fatigue, headache, and severe neuroinvasive conditions. Specialized attention is required for diagnosing and managing. MRI scans detect central nervous system abnormalities, while neuromonitoring identifies metabolic distress. Severe cases may necessitate ICU hospitalisation with continuous monitoring. Prevention measures, such as awareness, controlling mammals, and protecting pets, reduce POWV infection risk. The recent outbreak of POWV in Maine, USA, highlights the importance of worldwide collaboration for prevention. With the global prevalence of POWV increasing due to climate and socioeconomic changes, implementing preventative measures and promoting awareness are crucial in reducing infection risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heeba Anis
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research, and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- Deccan College of Medical Sciences,Hyderabad, Telangana
| | - Akbar Basha Shaik
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research, and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- Deccan College of Medical Sciences,Hyderabad, Telangana
| | - Ece Karabulut
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research, and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- Faculty of Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Mert Uzun
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research, and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- Faculty of Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
| | - Angad Tiwari
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research, and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- Maharani Laxmi Bai Medical College, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Abubakar Nazir
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research, and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- Department of Medicine, King Edward Medical University, Pakistan
| | - Olivier Uwishema
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research, and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- Faculty of Medicine, Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
- Clinton Global Initiative University, NY
| | - Abel Alemayehu
- Oli Health Magazine Organization, Research, and Education, Kigali, Rwanda
- Addis Ababa University, College of Health Science, School of Medicine, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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10
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Conde JN, Himmler GE, Mladinich MC, Setoh YX, Amarilla AA, Schutt WR, Saladino N, Gorbunova EE, Salamango DJ, Benach J, Kim HK, Mackow ER. Establishment of a CPER reverse genetics system for Powassan virus defines attenuating NS1 glycosylation sites and an infectious NS1-GFP11 reporter virus. mBio 2023; 14:e0138823. [PMID: 37489888 PMCID: PMC10470542 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.01388-23] [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: 06/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Powassan virus (POWV) is an emerging tick-borne Flavivirus that causes lethal encephalitis and long-term neurologic damage. Currently, there are no POWV therapeutics, licensed vaccines, or reverse genetics systems for producing infectious POWVs from recombinant DNA. Using a circular polymerase extension reaction (CPER), we generated recombinant LI9 (recLI9) POWVs with attenuating NS1 protein mutations and a recLI9-split-eGFP reporter virus. NS1 proteins are highly conserved glycoproteins that regulate replication, spread, and neurovirulence. POWV NS1 contains three putative N-linked glycosylation sites that we modified individually in infectious recLI9 mutants (N85Q, N208Q, and N224Q). NS1 glycosylation site mutations reduced replication kinetics and were attenuated, with 1-2 log decreases in titer. Severely attenuated recLI9-N224Q exhibited a 2- to 3-day delay in focal cell-to-cell spread and reduced NS1 secretion but was lethal when intracranially inoculated into suckling mice. However, footpad inoculation of recLI9-N224Q resulted in the survival of 80% of mice and demonstrated that NS1-N224Q mutations reduce POWV neuroinvasion in vivo. To monitor NS1 trafficking, we CPER fused a split GFP11-tag to the NS1 C-terminus and generated an infectious reporter virus, recLI9-NS1-GFP11. Cells infected with recLI9-NS1-GFP11 revealed NS1 trafficking in live cells and the novel formation of large NS1-lined intracellular vesicles. An infectious recLI9-NS1-GFP11 reporter virus permits real-time analysis of NS1 functions in POWV replication, assembly, and secretion and provides a platform for evaluating antiviral compounds. Collectively, our robust POWV reverse genetics system permits analysis of viral spread and neurovirulence determinants in vitro and in vivo and enables the rational genetic design of live attenuated POWV vaccines. IMPORTANCE Our findings newly establish a mechanism for genetically modifying Powassan viruses (POWVs), systematically defining pathogenic determinants and rationally designing live attenuated POWV vaccines. This initial study demonstrates that mutating POWV NS1 glycosylation sites attenuates POWV spread and neurovirulence in vitro and in vivo. Our findings validate a robust circular polymerase extension reaction approach as a mechanism for developing, and evaluating, attenuated genetically modified POWVs. We further designed an infectious GFP-tagged reporter POWV that permits us to monitor secretory trafficking of POWV in live cells, which can be applied to screen potential POWV replication inhibitors. This robust system for modifying POWVs provides the ability to define attenuating POWV mutations and create genetically attenuated recPOWV vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas N. Conde
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Grace E. Himmler
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
- Molecular and Cell Biology Program, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - Megan C. Mladinich
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Yin Xiang Setoh
- Microbiology and Molecular Epidemiology Division, Environmental Health Institute, National Environmental Agency, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Alberto A. Amarilla
- School of Chemistry and Molecular Biosciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - William R. Schutt
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- Center for Infectious Disease, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - Nicholas Saladino
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - Elena E. Gorbunova
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- Center for Infectious Disease, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - Daniel J. Salamango
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - Jorge Benach
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- Center for Infectious Disease, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - Hwan Keun Kim
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- Molecular and Cell Biology Program, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- Center for Infectious Disease, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
| | - Erich R. Mackow
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- Molecular and Cell Biology Program, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
- Center for Infectious Disease, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, New York, USA
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11
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Bendl E, Fuchs J, Kochs G. Bourbon virus, a newly discovered zoonotic thogotovirus. J Gen Virol 2023; 104. [PMID: 37643129 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.001887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The recent discovery of Bourbon virus (BRBV) put a new focus on the genus of thogotoviruses as zoonotic, tick-transmitted pathogens within the orthomyxovirus family. Since 2014, BRBV has been linked to several human cases in the Midwest United States with severe acute febrile illness and a history of tick bites. The detection of the virus in the Lone Star tick, Amblyomma americanum, and a high sero-prevalence in wild animals suggest widespread circulation of BRBV. Phylogenetic analysis of the viral RNA genome classified BRBV into the subgroup of Dhori-like thogotoviruses. Strikingly, BRBV is apathogenic in mice, contrasting not only with the fatal disease in affected patients but also with the severe disease in mice caused by other members of the thogotovirus genus. To gain insights into this intriguing discrepancy, we will review the molecular biology and pathology of BRBV and its unique position within the thogotovirus genus. Lastly, we will discuss the zoonotic threat posed by this newly discovered pathogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elias Bendl
- Institute of Virology, Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hermann-Herder-Strasse 11, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Jonas Fuchs
- Institute of Virology, Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hermann-Herder-Strasse 11, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
| | - Georg Kochs
- Institute of Virology, Medical Center and Faculty of Medicine, University of Freiburg, Hermann-Herder-Strasse 11, 79104 Freiburg, Germany
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12
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Shah T, Li Q, Wang B, Baloch Z, Xia X. Geographical distribution and pathogenesis of ticks and tick-borne viral diseases. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1185829. [PMID: 37293222 PMCID: PMC10244671 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1185829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Ticks are obligatory hematophagous arthropods that harbor and transmit infectious pathogens to humans and animals. Tick species belonging to Amblyomma, Ixodes, Dermacentor, and Hyalomma genera may transmit certain viruses such as Bourbon virus (BRBV), Dhori virus (DHOV), Powassan virus (POWV), Omsk hemorrhagic fever virus (OHFV), Colorado tick fever virus (CTFV), Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV), Heartland virus (HRTV), Kyasanur forest disease virus (KFDV), etc. that affect humans and certain wildlife. The tick vectors may become infected through feeding on viraemic hosts before transmitting the pathogen to humans and animals. Therefore, it is vital to understand the eco-epidemiology of tick-borne viruses and their pathogenesis to optimize preventive measures. Thus this review summarizes knowledge on some medically important ticks and tick-borne viruses, including BRBV, POWV, OHFV, CTFV, CCHFV, HRTV, and KFDV. Further, we discuss these viruses' epidemiology, pathogenesis, and disease manifestations during infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taif Shah
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Provincial Center for Molecular Medicine, Kunming, China
| | - Qian Li
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Provincial Center for Molecular Medicine, Kunming, China
| | - Binghui Wang
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Provincial Center for Molecular Medicine, Kunming, China
| | - Zulqarnain Baloch
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Provincial Center for Molecular Medicine, Kunming, China
| | - Xueshan Xia
- Faculty of Life Science and Technology, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, Yunnan, China
- Provincial Center for Molecular Medicine, Kunming, China
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13
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Burtis JC, Foster E, Parise CM, Eisen RJ. Identifying suitable habitat for Ixodes scapularis (Acari: Ixodidae) infected with Anaplasma phagocytophilum (Rickettsiales: Anaplasmataceae), Babesia microti (Piroplasmida: Babesiidae), and Borrelia miyamotoi (Spirochaetales: Spirochaetaceae) to guide surveillance efforts in the eastern United States. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2023; 60:590-603. [PMID: 37052414 PMCID: PMC10588143 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjad042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the distribution of infected ticks is informative for the estimation of risk for tickborne diseases. The blacklegged tick, Ixodes scapularis (Acari: Ixodidae), is the primary vector for 7 medically significant pathogens in United States. However, knowledge of the ranges of these pathogens in host-seeking ticks is incomplete, particularly for those occurring at low prevalence. To aid in prioritizing costly field sampling efforts, we estimated ranges of suitable habitat for Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Babesia microti, and Borrelia miyamotoi in the eastern United States based on existing county-level surveillance records. The resulting suitability maps were compared against those developed previously for Bo. burgdorferi s.s., which shares similar ecology but has been detected in a greater number of counties. The overall accuracy of the habitat suitability models was high (AUC ≥ 0.92) for all 4 pathogens. The most important predictors were related to temperature and moisture. The upper midwestern and northeastern states were predicted to be highly suitable for all 4 pathogens. Based on our models, we prioritized sampling in 431, 275, and 539 counties currently lacking pathogen records that our models classified as suitable for A. phagocytophilum, Ba. microti, and Bo. miyamotoi, respectively. As a second-tier priority, we identified 311 (A. phagocytophilum), 590 (Ba. microti), and 252 (Bo. miyamotoi) counties, based on high suitability scores for Bo. burgdorferi. Our models can be used to improve cost-effectiveness of field sampling efforts aimed at improving accuracy and completeness of pathogen distribution maps.
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Affiliation(s)
- James C. Burtis
- Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Pr evention, Fort Collins, CO 80521, USA
| | - Erik Foster
- Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Pr evention, Fort Collins, CO 80521, USA
| | - Christina M. Parise
- Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Pr evention, Fort Collins, CO 80521, USA
| | - Rebecca J. Eisen
- Division of Vector-Borne Diseases, National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Pr evention, Fort Collins, CO 80521, USA
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14
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Generation of Multiple Arbovirus-like Particles Using a Rapid Recombinant Vaccinia Virus Expression Platform. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11121505. [PMID: 36558839 PMCID: PMC9785247 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11121505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
As demonstrated by the 2015 Zika virus outbreak in the Americas, emerging and re-emerging arboviruses are public health threats that warrant research investment for the development of effective prophylactics and therapeutics. Many arboviral diseases are underreported, neglected, or of low prevalence, yet they all have the potential to cause outbreaks of local and international concern. Here, we show the production of virus-like particles (VLPs) using a rapid and efficient recombinant vaccinia virus (VACV) expression system for five tick- and mosquito-borne arboviruses: Powassan virus (POWV), Heartland virus (HRTV), severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV), Bourbon virus (BRBV) and Mayaro virus (MAYV). We detected the expression of arbovirus genes of interest by Western blot and observed the expression of VLPs that resemble native virions under transmission electron microscopy. We were also able to improve the secretion of POWV VLPs by modifying the signal sequence within the capsid gene. This study describes the use of a rapid VACV platform for the production and purification of arbovirus VLPs that can be used as subunit or vectored vaccines, and provides insights into the selection of arbovirus genes for VLP formation and genetic modifications to improve VLP secretion and yield.
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15
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Dermatological manifestations of tick-borne viral infections found in the United States. Virol J 2022; 19:199. [PMID: 36443864 PMCID: PMC9702624 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-022-01924-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne diseases (TBDs) are bacterial, viral, and parasitic diseases transmitted by ticks. Viral TBDs have increased in prevalence over the last decade with many new pathogenic viruses being discovered. Doxycycline is often empirically prescribed by clinicians to treat symptomatic patients following tick bites due to suspicions of bacterial TBDs such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever, anaplasmosis, and ehrlichiosis. However, viral TBDs are included in the differential diagnosis if patients do not clinically improve following antibiotic therapy. Several viral TBDs present with dermatological manifestations. Recognizing the differences in clinical presentations of TBDs, particularly of newly emerging viral TBDs in the United States, can help physicians identify the viral TBD, and possibly rule out viral illnesses with different clinical presentations. Therefore, this review discusses clinical manifestations, with an emphasis on dermatologic manifestations of Heartland Virus, Bourbon Virus, Powassan Virus, Deer Tick Virus and Colorado Tick Fever Virus. KEY POINTS: Viral tick-borne diseases have increased in prevalence over the last decade and often have similar clinical manifestations to other tick-borne diseases, including bacterial infections. Here, we review the dermatologic manifestations of Heartland Virus (HRTV), Bourbon Virus (BRBV), Powassan Virus (POWV), Deer Tick Virus (DTV) and Colorado Tick Fever Virus (CTFV) that are important for clinicians.
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16
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Abstract
Powassan virus is an increasingly recognized cause of severe encephalitis that is transmitted by Ixodes ticks. Given the nonspecific clinical, laboratory, and imaging features of Powassan virus disease, providers should consider it in patients with compatible exposures and request appropriate testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Piantadosi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
| | - Isaac H Solomon
- Department of Pathology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis Street, AL360U.2, Boston, MA 02115, USA
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17
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Efficacy of Short-Term High Dose Pulsed Dapsone Combination Therapy in the Treatment of Chronic Lyme Disease/Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS) and Associated Co-Infections: A Report of Three Cases and Literature Review. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11070912. [PMID: 35884166 PMCID: PMC9311795 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11070912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 06/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Lyme disease and associated co-infections are increasing worldwide and approximately 20% of individuals develop chronic Lyme disease (CLD)/Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome (PTLDS) despite early antibiotics. A seven- to eight-week protocol of double dose dapsone combination therapy (DDDCT) for CLD/PTLDS results in symptom remission in approximately 50% of patients for one year or longer, with published culture studies indicating higher doses of dapsone demonstrate efficacy against resistant biofilm forms of Borrelia burgdorferi. The purpose of this study was, therefore, to evaluate higher doses of dapsone in the treatment of resistant CLD/PTLDS and associated co-infections. A total of 25 patients with a history of Lyme and associated co-infections, most of whom had ongoing symptoms despite several courses of DDDCT, took one or more courses of high dose pulsed dapsone combination therapy (200 mg dapsone × 3–4 days and/or 200 mg BID × 4 days), depending on persistent symptoms. The majority of patients noticed sustained improvement in eight major Lyme symptoms, including fatigue, pain, headaches, neuropathy, insomnia, cognition, and sweating, where dapsone dosage, not just the treatment length, positively affected outcomes. High dose pulsed dapsone combination therapy may represent a novel therapeutic approach for the treatment of resistant CLD/PTLDS, and should be confirmed in randomized, controlled clinical trials.
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18
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Raney WR, Herslebs EJ, Langohr IM, Stone MC, Hermance ME. Horizontal and Vertical Transmission of Powassan Virus by the Invasive Asian Longhorned Tick, Haemaphysalis longicornis, Under Laboratory Conditions. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:923914. [PMID: 35846754 PMCID: PMC9283711 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.923914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The Asian longhorned tick, Haemaphysalis longicornis, is an ixodid tick native to East Asia that was first detected in North America outside a port of entry in 2017. This invasive species has since been detected in 17 states. As the invasive range of the tick continues to expand, the vector competence of H. longicornis for pathogens native to North America must be assessed. Here, we evaluate the vector competence of H. longicornis for Powassan virus (POWV) under laboratory conditions. POWV is a North American tick-borne flavivirus that is typically transmitted through the bite of Ixodes species ticks. The invasive range of H. longicornis is expected to overlap heavily with the geographic range of Ixodes scapularis and POWV cases, highlighting the potential for this invasive tick species to amplify POWV transmission in natural foci should the native tick vectors and H. longicornis share similar hosts. In these studies, adult female H. longicornis ticks were infected with POWV via anal pore microinjection. Viral RNA and infectious virions were detected in tick tissues via q-RT-PCR and focus-forming assay, respectively. POWV-injected female ticks were infested on mice, and virus was transmitted to mice during tick feeding, as shown by clinical signs of disease and seroconversion in the tick-exposed mice, as well as the detection of viral RNA in various mouse tissues. A POWV-injected female tick transmitted virus to her larval progeny, indicating that H. longicornis can vertically transmit POWV. These naturally-infected larval ticks were also able to transmit POWV to the mouse on which they fed and to the nymphal stage after molting, further demonstrating that H. longicornis can transmit POWV in the horizontal and transstadial modes. Larval and nymphal ticks were also orally infected with POWV while feeding on viremic mice. Additionally, this study provides the first report of POWV neuropathology based on a natural tick transmission model of POWV. Together, our results suggest that the invasive H. longicornis tick is a competent vector of POWV. These findings underline the growing danger this tick may pose to human health in the United States. Additional scholarship on the tick's biology, ecology, and pathogen transmission dynamics in nature will be important towards understanding the full public health impact of this invasive species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wilson R. Raney
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Erik J. Herslebs
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Ingeborg M. Langohr
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, United States
| | - Madeline C. Stone
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
| | - Meghan E. Hermance
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, College of Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, United States
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19
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Malonis RJ, Georgiev GI, Haslwanter D, VanBlargan LA, Fallon G, Vergnolle O, Cahill SM, Harris R, Cowburn D, Chandran K, Diamond MS, Lai JR. A Powassan virus domain III nanoparticle immunogen elicits neutralizing and protective antibodies in mice. PLoS Pathog 2022; 18:e1010573. [PMID: 35679349 PMCID: PMC9216602 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1010573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Powassan virus (POWV) is an emerging tick borne flavivirus (TBFV) that causes severe neuroinvasive disease. Currently, there are no approved treatments or vaccines to combat POWV infection. Here, we generated and characterized a nanoparticle immunogen displaying domain III (EDIII) of the POWV E glycoprotein. Immunization with POWV EDIII presented on nanoparticles resulted in significantly higher serum neutralizing titers against POWV than immunization with monomeric POWV EDIII. Furthermore, passive transfer of EDIII-reactive sera protected against POWV challenge in vivo. We isolated and characterized a panel of EDIII-specific monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and identified several that potently inhibit POWV infection and engage distinct epitopes within the lateral ridge and C-C' loop of the EDIII. By creating a subunit-based nanoparticle immunogen with vaccine potential that elicits antibodies with protective activity against POWV infection, our findings enhance our understanding of the molecular determinants of antibody-mediated neutralization of TBFVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan J. Malonis
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - George I. Georgiev
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Denise Haslwanter
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Laura A. VanBlargan
- Department of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Georgia Fallon
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Olivia Vergnolle
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Sean M. Cahill
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Richard Harris
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - David Cowburn
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Kartik Chandran
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
| | - Michael S. Diamond
- Department of Medicine, Washington University in St. Louis, School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University in St. Louis, School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Washington University in St. Louis, School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Jonathan R. Lai
- Department of Biochemistry, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York, United States of America
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20
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Smalley R, Zafar H, Land J, Samour A, Hance D, Brennan RE. Detection of Borrelia miyamotoi and Powassan Virus Lineage II (Deer Tick Virus) from Odocoileus virginianus Harvested Ixodes scapularis in Oklahoma. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2022; 22:209-216. [PMID: 35446170 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2021.0057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Odocoileus virginianus (white-tailed deer) is the primary host of adult Ixodes scapularis (deer tick). Most of the research into I. scapularis has been geographically restricted to the northeastern United States, with limited interest in Oklahoma until recently as the I. scapularis populations spread due to climate change. Ticks serve as a vector for pathogenic bacteria, protozoans, and viruses that pose a significant human health risk. To date, there has been limited research to determine what potential tick-borne pathogens are present in I. scapularis in central Oklahoma. Using a one-step multiplex real-time reverse transcription-PCR, I. scapularis collected from white-tailed deer was screened for Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Borrelia burgdorferi, Borrelia miyamotoi, Babesia microti, and deer tick virus (DTV). Ticks (n = 394) were pooled by gender and life stage into 117 samples. Three pooled samples were positive for B. miyamotoi and five pooled samples were positive for DTV. This represents a minimum infection rate of 0.8% and 1.2%, respectively. A. phagocytophilum, B. burgdorferi, and B. microti were not detected in any samples. This is the first report of B. miyamotoi and DTV detection in Oklahoma I. scapularis ticks. This demonstrates that I. scapularis pathogens are present in Oklahoma and that further surveillance of I. scapularis is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Russell Smalley
- Department of Biology, University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Haris Zafar
- Department of Biology, University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond, Oklahoma, USA
| | - John Land
- Department of Biology, University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Asma Samour
- Department of Biology, University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Dylan Hance
- Department of Biology, University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond, Oklahoma, USA
| | - Robert E Brennan
- Department of Biology, University of Central Oklahoma, Edmond, Oklahoma, USA
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21
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Incrimination of shrews as a reservoir for Powassan virus. Commun Biol 2021; 4:1319. [PMID: 34811484 PMCID: PMC8608897 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02828-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Powassan virus lineage 2 (deer tick virus) is an emergent threat to American public health, causing severe neurologic disease. Its life cycle in nature remains poorly understood. We use a host-specific retrotransposon-targeted real time PCR assay to test the hypothesis that white-footed mice, considered the main eastern U.S. reservoir of the coinfecting agent of Lyme disease, is the reservoir for deer tick virus. Of 20 virus-infected host-seeking nymphal black-legged ticks 65% fed on shrews and none on mice. The proportion of ticks feeding on shrews at a site is positively associated with prevalence of viral infection, but not the Lyme disease agent. Viral RNA is detected in the brain of one shrew. We conclude that shrews are a likely reservoir host for deer tick virus and that host bloodmeal analysis can provide direct evidence to incriminate reservoir hosts, thereby promoting our understanding of the ecology of tick-borne infections. Goethert and colleagues use a host-specific retrotransposon targeted real time PCR assay on questing nymphal ticks to identify a reservoir for Powassan virus lineage 2 (or deer tick virus). Infected ticks were found to have preferentially fed on shrews, as opposed to white-footed mice as was expected, suggesting that they may be a reservoir host for this virus.
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Hassett EM, Thangamani S. Ecology of Powassan Virus in the United States. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9112317. [PMID: 34835443 PMCID: PMC8624383 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9112317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Zoonotic viruses threaten the lives of millions of people annually, exacerbated by climate change, human encroachment into wildlife habitats, and habitat destruction. The Powassan virus (POWV) is a rare tick-borne virus that can cause severe neurological damage and death, and the incidence of the associated disease (Powassan virus disease) is increasing in the eastern United States. The mechanisms by which POWV is maintained in nature and transmitted to humans are complex and only partly understood. This review provides an overview of what is known about the vector species, vector-host transmission dynamics, and environmental and human-driven factors that may be aiding the spread of both the vector and virus.
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Tsao JI, Hamer SA, Han S, Sidge JL, Hickling GJ. The Contribution of Wildlife Hosts to the Rise of Ticks and Tick-Borne Diseases in North America. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2021; 58:1565-1587. [PMID: 33885784 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjab047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Wildlife vertebrate hosts are integral to enzootic cycles of tick-borne pathogens, and in some cases have played key roles in the recent rise of ticks and tick-borne diseases in North America. In this forum article, we highlight roles that wildlife hosts play in the maintenance and transmission of zoonotic, companion animal, livestock, and wildlife tick-borne pathogens. We begin by illustrating how wildlife contribute directly and indirectly to the increase and geographic expansion of ticks and their associated pathogens. Wildlife provide blood meals for tick growth and reproduction; serve as pathogen reservoirs; and can disperse ticks and pathogens-either through natural movement (e.g., avian migration) or through human-facilitated movement (e.g., wildlife translocations and trade). We then discuss opportunities to manage tick-borne disease through actions directed at wildlife hosts. To conclude, we highlight key gaps in our understanding of the ecology of tick-host interactions, emphasizing that wildlife host communities are themselves a very dynamic component of tick-pathogen-host systems and therefore complicate management of tick-borne diseases, and should be taken into account when considering host-targeted approaches. Effective management of wildlife to reduce tick-borne disease risk further requires consideration of the 'human dimensions' of wildlife management. This includes understanding the public's diverse views and values about wildlife and wildlife impacts-including the perceived role of wildlife in fostering tick-borne diseases. Public health agencies should capitalize on the expertise of wildlife agencies when developing strategies to reduce tick-borne disease risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean I Tsao
- Department of Fisheries and Wildlife, Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Sarah A Hamer
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, and Schubot Center for Avian Health, Department of Veterinary Pathology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Seungeun Han
- Department of Disease Control and Epidemiology, National Veterinary Institute (SVA), Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jennifer L Sidge
- Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Graham J Hickling
- Center for Wildlife Health, Department of Forestry, Wildlife and Fisheries, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
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Cimica V, Saleem S, Matuczinski E, Adams-Fish D, McMahon C, Rashid S, Stedman TT. A Virus-Like Particle-Based Vaccine Candidate against the Tick-Borne Powassan Virus Induces Neutralizing Antibodies in a Mouse Model. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10060680. [PMID: 34072726 PMCID: PMC8229747 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10060680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Powassan virus (POWV) is a tick-borne flavivirus circulating in North America and the Russian Far East that can cause severe neuroinvasive diseases, including encephalitis, meningitis, and meningoencephalitis. The reported neuroinvasive case fatality is about 10%, and approximately 50% of the survivors from the neuroinfection exhibit long-lasting or permanent neurological sequelae. Currently, treatment of POWV infection is supportive, and no FDA-approved vaccines or specific therapeutics are available. A novel Powassan vaccine candidate was created using virus-like particle technology (POW-VLP) and assembled with the viral structural proteins pre-Membrane (prM) and Envelope (E). Western blot immunoassay demonstrated high antigenicity of POW-VLP structural proteins. Transmission electron microscopy indicated that the POW-VLP exhibited icosahedral morphology typical of flaviviruses. A dose-escalation study in a murine model was performed to test immunogenicity and safety. Serum antibody was tested by ELISA, demonstrating that POW-VLP afforded 100% seroconversion to the E protein. Reporter viral-particle neutralization assay demonstrated high levels of neutralizing antibodies in the serum of immunized mice. Hybridomas expressing monoclonal antibodies were produced following POW-VLP immunization. The POW-VLP vaccine candidate created in this study provides a strategy for inducing protective antibodies against Powassan neuroinvasive infection.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The COVID-19 pandemic has cast increased attention on emerging infections. Clinicians and public health experts should be aware of emerging infectious causes of encephalitis, mechanisms by which they are transmitted, and clinical manifestations of disease. RECENT FINDINGS A number of arthropod-borne viral infections -- transmitted chiefly by mosquitoes and ticks -- have emerged in recent years to cause outbreaks of encephalitis. Examples include Powassan virus in North America, Chikungunya virus in Central and South America, and tick-borne encephalitis virus in Europe. Many of these viruses exhibit complex life cycles and can infect multiple host animals in addition to humans. Factors thought to influence emergence of these diseases, including changes in climate and land use, are also believed to underlie the emergence of the rickettsial bacterium Orientia tsutsugamushi, now recognized as a major causative agent of acute encephalitis syndrome in South Asia. In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the role of bats as carriers of viruses. Recent studies have begun to uncover mechanisms by which the immune systems of bats are poised to allow for viral tolerance. Several bat-borne infections, including Nipah virus and Ebola virus, have resulted in recent outbreaks of encephalitis. SUMMARY Infectious causes of encephalitis continue to emerge worldwide, in part because of climate change and human impacts on the environment. Expansion of surveillance measures will be critical in rapid diagnosis and limiting of outbreaks in the future.
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