Experimental infection of an African dormouse (Graphiurus kelleni) with monkeypox virus

Understanding the biology of monkeypox virus to prevent future outbreaks

Historically, monkeypox (mpox) was a zoonotic disease endemic in Africa. However, in 2022, a global outbreak occurred following a substantial increase in cases in Africa, coupled with spread by international travellers to other continents. Between January 2022 and October 2023, about 91,000 confirmed cases from 115 countries were reported, leading the World Health Organization to declare a public health emergency. The basic biology of monkeypox virus (MPXV) can be inferred from other poxviruses, such as vaccinia virus, and confirmed by genome sequencing. Here the biology of MPXV is reviewed, together with a discussion of adaptive changes during MPXV evolution and implications for transmission. Studying MPXV biology is important to inform specific host interactions, to aid in ongoing outbreaks and to predict those in the future.

Infection with mpox virus via the genital mucosae increases shedding and transmission in the multimammate rat (Mastomys natalensis)

The 2022 mpox virus (MPXV) outbreak was sustained by human-to-human transmission; however, it is currently unclear which factors lead to sustained transmission of MPXV. Here we present Mastomys natalensis as a model for MPXV transmission after intraperitoneal, rectal, vaginal, aerosol and transdermal inoculation with an early 2022 human outbreak isolate (Clade IIb). Virus shedding and tissue replication were route dependent and occurred in the presence of self-resolving localized skin, lung, reproductive tract or rectal lesions. Mucosal inoculation via the rectal, vaginal and aerosol routes led to increased shedding, replication and a pro-inflammatory T cell profile compared with skin inoculation. Contact transmission was higher from rectally inoculated animals. This suggests that transmission might be sustained by increased susceptibility of the anal and genital mucosae for infection and subsequent virus release.

Mpox vaccination and treatment: a systematic review

The Human monkeypox virus (mpox) belongs to the Poxviridae family, characterized by double-stranded DNA. A 2022 outbreak, notably prevalent among men who have sex with men, was confirmed by the World Health Organization. To understand shifting prevalence patterns and clinical manifestations, we conducted a systematic review of recent animal and human studies. We comprehensively searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Clinicaltrials.gov, reviewing 69 relevant articles from 4,342 screened records. Our analysis highlights Modified Vaccinia Ankara - Bavarian Nordic (MVA-BN)'s potential, though efficacy concerns exist. Tecovirimat emerged as a prominent antiviral in the recent outbreak. However, limited evidence underscores the imperative for further clinical trials in understanding and managing monkeypox.

Zoonotic and Zooanthroponotic Potential of Monkeypox

The current multicounty outbreak of monkeypox virus (MPXV) posed an emerging and continued challenge to already strained public healthcare sector, around the globe. Since its first identification, monkeypox disease (mpox) remained enzootic in Central and West African countries where reports of human cases are sporadically described. Recent trends in mpox spread outside the Africa have highlighted increased incidence of spillover of the MPXV from animal to humans. While nature of established animal reservoirs remained undefined, several small mammals including rodents, carnivores, lagomorphs, insectivores, non-human primates, domestic/farm animals, and several species of wildlife are proposed to be carrier of the MPXV infection. There are established records of animal-to-human (zoonotic) spread of MPXV through close interaction of humans with animals by eating bushmeat, contracting bodily fluids or trading possibly infected animals. In contrast, there are reports and increasing possibilities of human-to-animal (zooanthroponotic) spread of the MPXV through petting and close interaction with pet owners and animal care workers. We describe here the rationales and molecular factors which predispose the spread of MPXV not only amongst humans but also from animals to humans. A range of continuing opportunities for the spread and evolution of MPXV are discussed to consider risks beyond the currently identified groups. With the possibility of MPXV establishing itself in animal reservoirs, continued and broad surveillance, investigation into unconventional transmissions, and exploration of spillover events are warranted.

Poxviridae Pneumonia

Poxviridae family includes several viruses that infecting humans usually causes skin lesions only, but in some cases their clinical course is complicated by viral pneumonia (with or without bacterial superinfections). Historically variola virus has been the poxviridae most frequently associated with the development of pneumonia with many large outbreaks worldwide before its eradication in 1980. It is still considered a biological threat for its potential in biological warfare and bioterrorism. Smallpox pneumonia can be severe with the onset of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and death. Vaccinia virus, used for vaccination against smallpox exceptionally, in immunocompromised patients, can induce generalized (with also lung involvement) severe disease after vaccination. MPXV virus occasionally can cause pneumonia particularly in immunocompromised patients. The pathophysiology of poxviridae pneumonia is still an area of active research; however, in animal models these viruses can cause both direct damage to the lower airways epithelium and a hyperinflammatory syndrome, like a cytokine storm. Multiple mechanisms of immune evasion have also been described. The treatment of poxviridae pneumonia is mainly based on careful supportive care. Despite the absence of randomized clinical trials in patients with poxviridae pneumonia there are antiviral drugs, such as tecovirimat, cidofovir and brincidofovir, FDA-approved for use in smallpox and also available under an expanded access protocol for treatment of MPXV. There are 2 (replication-deficient modified vaccinia Ankara and replication-competent vaccinia virus) smallpox vaccines FDA-approved with the first one also approved for prevention of MPXV in adults that are at high risk of infection.

Mapping the Landscape of Health Research Priorities for Effective Pandemic Preparedness in Human Mpox Virus Disease

The global re-emergence of monkeypox (Mpox) in non-endemic regions in 2022 has highlighted the critical importance of timely virus detection and robust public health surveillance in assessing outbreaks and their impact. Despite significant Mpox research being conducted worldwide, there is an urgent need to identify knowledge gaps and prioritize key research areas in order to create a roadmap that maximizes the utilization of available resources. The present research article provides a comprehensive mapping of health research priorities aimed at advancing our understanding of Mpox and developing effective interventions for managing its outbreaks, and, as evidenced by the fact that achieving this objective requires close interdisciplinary collaboration. The key research priorities observed were identifying variants responsible for outbreaks; discovering novel biomarkers for diagnostics; establishing suitable animal models; investigating reservoirs and transmission routes; promoting the One Health approach; identifying targets for vaccination; gaining insight into the attitudes, experiences, and practices of key communities, including stigma; and ensuring equity during public health emergencies. The findings of this study hold significant implications for decision making by multilateral partners, including research funders, public health practitioners, policy makers, clinicians, and civil society, which will facilitate the development of a comprehensive plan not only for Mpox but also for other similar life-threatening viral infections.

The Biosafety Research Road Map: The Search for Evidence to Support Practices in the Laboratory-Mpox/Monkeypox Virus

Introduction

The virus formerly known as monkeypox virus, now called mpoxv, belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus and can cause mpox disease through both animal-to-human and human-to-human transmission. The unexpected spread of mpoxv among humans has prompted the World Health Organization (WHO) to declare a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC).

Methods

We conducted a literature search to identify the gaps in biosafety, focusing on five main areas: how the infection enters the body and spreads, how much of the virus is needed to cause infection, infections acquired in the lab, accidental release of the virus, and strategies for disinfecting and decontaminating the area.

Discussion

The recent PHEIC has shown that there are gaps in our knowledge of biosafety when it comes to mpoxv. We need to better understand where this virus might be found, how much of it can spread from person-to-person, what are the effective control measures, and how to safely clean up contaminated areas. By gathering more biosafety evidence, we can make better decisions to protect people from this zoonotic agent, which has recently become more common in the human population.

Human Monkeypox: A Comprehensive Overview of Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention Strategies

Monkeypox virus (MPXV) is an emerging zoonotic virus that belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus and presents clinical symptoms similar to those of smallpox, such as fever and vesicular-pustular skin lesions. However, the differential diagnosis between smallpox and monkeypox is that smallpox does not cause lymphadenopathy but monkeypox generates swelling in the lymph nodes. Since the eradication of smallpox, MPXV has been identified as the most common Orthopoxvirus to cause human disease. Despite MPXV being endemic to certain regions of Africa, the current MPXV outbreak, which began in early 2022, has spread to numerous countries worldwide, raising global concern. As of the end of May 2023, over 87,545 cases and 141 deaths have been reported, with most cases identified in non-endemic countries, primarily due to human-to-human transmission. To better understand this emerging threat, this review presents an overview of key aspects of MPXV infection, including its animal reservoirs, modes of transmission, animal models, epidemiology, clinical and immunological features, diagnosis, treatments, vaccines, and prevention strategies. The material presented here provides a comprehensive understanding of MPXV as a disease, while emphasizing the significance and unique characteristics of the 2022 outbreak. This offers valuable information that can inform future research and aid in the development of effective interventions.

Recombinant proteins A29L, M1R, A35R, and B6R vaccination protects mice from mpox virus challenge

Since May 2022, mutant strains of mpox (formerly monkeypox) virus (MPXV) have been rapidly spreading among individuals who have not traveled to endemic areas in multiple locations, including Europe and the United States. Both intracellular and extracellular forms of mpox virus have multiple outer membrane proteins that can stimulate immune response. Here, we investigated the immunogenicity of MPXV structural proteins such as A29L, M1R, A35R, and B6R as a combination vaccine, and the protective effect against the 2022 mpox mutant strain was also evaluated in BALB/c mice. After mixed 15 μg QS-21 adjuvant, all four virus structural proteins were administered subcutaneously to mice. Antibody titers in mouse sera rose sharply after the initial boost, along with an increased capacity of immune cells to produce IFN-γ alongside an elevated level of cellular immunity mediated by Th1 cells. The vaccine-induced neutralizing antibodies significantly inhibited the replication of MPXV in mice and reduced the pathological damage of organs. This study demonstrates the feasibility of a multiple recombinant vaccine for MPXV variant strains.

Monkeypox Virus in Animals: Current Knowledge of Viral Transmission and Pathogenesis in Wild Animal Reservoirs and Captive Animal Models

Mpox, formerly called monkeypox, is now the most serious orthopoxvirus (OPXV) infection in humans. This zoonotic disease has been gradually re-emerging in humans with an increasing frequency of cases found in endemic areas, as well as an escalating frequency and size of epidemics outside of endemic areas in Africa. Currently, the largest known mpox epidemic is spreading throughout the world, with over 85,650 cases to date, mostly in Europe and North America. These increased endemic cases and epidemics are likely driven primarily by decreasing global immunity to OPXVs, along with other possible causes. The current unprecedented global outbreak of mpox has demonstrated higher numbers of human cases and greater human-to-human transmission than previously documented, necessitating an urgent need to better understand this disease in humans and animals. Monkeypox virus (MPXV) infections in animals, both naturally occurring and experimental, have provided critical information about the routes of transmission; the viral pathogenicity factors; the methods of control, such as vaccination and antivirals; the disease ecology in reservoir host species; and the conservation impacts on wildlife species. This review briefly described the epidemiology and transmission of MPXV between animals and humans and summarizes past studies on the ecology of MPXV in wild animals and experimental studies in captive animal models, with a focus on how animal infections have informed knowledge concerning various aspects of this pathogen. Knowledge gaps were highlighted in areas where future research, both in captive and free-ranging animals, could inform efforts to understand and control this disease in both humans and animals.

Virulence differences of mpox (monkeypox) virus clades I, IIa, and IIb.1 in a small animal model

Human mpox (monkeypox), a disease with similarities to smallpox, is endemic in Africa where it has persisted as a zoonosis with limited human-to-human spread. Unexpectedly, the disease expanded globally in 2022 driven by human-to-human transmission outside of Africa. It is not yet known whether the latter is due solely to behavioral and environmental factors or whether the mpox virus is adapting to a new host. Genome sequencing has revealed differences between the current outbreak strains, classified as clade IIb, and the prior clade IIa and clade I viruses, but whether these differences contribute to virulence or transmission has not been determined. We demonstrate that the wild-derived inbred castaneous mouse provides an exceptional animal model for investigating clade differences in mpox virus virulence and show that the order is clade I > clade IIa > clade IIb.1. The greatly reduced replication of the clade IIb.1 major outbreak strain in mice and absence of lethality at 100 times the lethal dose of a closely related clade IIa virus, despite similar multiplication in cell culture, suggest that clade IIb is evolving diminished virulence or adapting to other species.

Animal host range of mpox virus

Mpox is caused by the mpox virus, which belongs to the Orthopoxvirus genus and Poxviridae family. Animal hosts, such as African rodents, mice, prairie dogs, and non-human primates, play important roles in the development and transmission of outbreaks. Laboratory animal infection experiments have demonstrated that some animals are susceptible to mpox virus. This review summarizes the current progress on the animal hosts for mpox virus. The surveillance of mpox virus in animal hosts will provide important insights into virus tracing, analysis of mutation evolutionary patterns, transmission mechanisms, and development of control measures.

What Do We Know About the Smallpox Virus? A Journey Between Clinic and Therapy

PURPOSE

Modern research is increasingly focusing on the study of new viruses and the re-emergence of past microbes, such as Coronaviruses, particularly Sars-Cov2 that was responsible for the very recent pandemic.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This infection manifested itself and still continues to manifest as a severe respiratory syndrome. The main discriminator of whether or not one succeeds in overcoming this infection may depend on a great many factors, but the main one is definitely determined by vaccination, which has minimized hospitalizations and more severe syndromes.

CONCLUSION

Recently, a new virus, the monkeypox virus, which was previously confined to Central and West Africa but is now gradually spreading to more than 30 countries including the United States of America, where such an infection is not endemic, is coming forward again.

Pharmacological Agents with Antiviral Activity against Monkeypox Infection

Monkeypox infection is caused by a virus of the genus Orthopoxvirus, a member of the Poxviridae family. Monkeypox virus is transmitted from individual to individual through contact with lesions, body fluids, and respiratory droplets. The infection caused by monkeypox is usually a self-limited disease with mild symptoms lasting 2 to 4 weeks. Monkeypox typically presents with fever, rash, and enlarged lymph nodes. New vaccines have recently been authorized for the prevention of monkeypox infection, whereas there are no specific pharmacological antiviral treatments for monkeypox infection. However, because the viruses which cause adult smallpox and monkeypox are similar, antiviral drugs developed in the past have also shown efficacy against monkeypox. In this review, we highlight the in vitro and clinical evidence found in the literature on the efficacy and safety of pharmacological agents with antiviral activity against monkeypox infection and the different regulatory aspects of countries.

Animal Models Used in Monkeypox Research

Monkeypox is an emerging zoonotic disease with a growing prevalence outside of its endemic area, posing a significant threat to public health. Despite the epidemiological and field investigations of monkeypox, little is known about its maintenance in natural reservoirs, biological implications or disease management. African rodents are considered possible reservoirs, although many mammalian species have been naturally infected with the monkeypox virus (MPXV). The involvement of domestic livestock and pets in spillover events cannot be ruled out, which may facilitate secondary virus transmission to humans. Investigation of MPXV infection in putative reservoir species and non-human primates experimentally uncovered novel findings relevant to the course of pathogenesis, virulence factors and transmission of MPXV that provided valuable information for designing appropriate prevention measures and effective vaccines.

Epidemiology, Clinical Features, Diagnosis and Management of Monkeypox Virus: A Clinical Review Article

The start of 2022 was marked by the sudden surge in the detection of the viral disease - monkeypox. The recent and ongoing COVID-19 epidemic makes the re-emerging of viral zoonosis particularly worrisome. The rapid spread of the monkeypox virus has sparked concerns about the start of a new epidemic. In this review, I summarize the epidemiology, clinical signs, and symptoms, transmission, diagnosis, management, and prevention of the monkeypox virus. Clinicians need to have a high index of suspicion for monkeypox in patients with high-risk factors presenting with new onset progressive rash. Patients with confirmed or suspected monkeypox infections need to be isolated until all the lesions have resolved.

Monkeypox: An international epidemic

Human monkeypox (MPX) is a viral zoonosis caused by the Monkeypox virus. For decades outbreaks exclusively occurred in the tropical rainforests of Africa, with a few imported cases and very limited human-to-human transmission outside Africa. Nevertheless, in the last years sustained outbreaks have emerged, peaking at 4600 cases in 2020 in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Since May 2022, an international epidemic originated at 2 events in Spain and Belgium led to sustained human-to-human transmission across multiple continents, mostly in males having sex with males subjects. We review here clinical presentation, epidemiology, viral evolution, vaccines, and therapeutics against human MPX.

Monkeypox: Some Keys to Understand This Emerging Disease

In 1958, several monkeys in a Copenhagen laboratory developed a skin rash from which an orthopoxvirus could be isolated, which was named monkeypox virus (MPXV). However, the natural animal reservoir for MPXV is thought to be a rodent. The first human case occurred in 1970, and the incidence has increased progressively throughout the years. Starting May 2022, the number of cases outside Africa has soared, especially in Western Europe. There are two clades of MPXV, Congo Basin, with higher virulence and mortality, and Western Africa (WA). MPXV from the present outbreak has been proposed to be classified as Clade 3, distinct from the WA clade by at least 50 substitutions, which may increase human-to-human transmissibility. Most cases correspond to men in their 30s who have sex with men, and the possibility of sexual transmission is under investigation. Though there is no evidence of human-to-animal transmission, pets of positive human cases may be classified as low risk, including dogs, cats, and birds, who can be quarantined at home, and high risk, such as pet rabbits or mice, who should be isolated in official laboratories for observation. The current epidemiological data do not support the risk of a pandemic.

Comparative Pathology of Zoonotic Orthopoxviruses

This review provides a brief history of the impacts that a human-specific Orthopoxvirus (OPXV), Variola virus, had on mankind, recalls how critical vaccination was for the eradication of this disease, and discusses the consequences of discontinuing vaccination against OPXV. One of these consequences is the emergence of zoonotic OPXV diseases, including Monkeypox virus (MPXV). The focus of this manuscript is to compare pathology associated with zoonotic OPXV infection in veterinary species and in humans. Efficient recognition of poxvirus lesions and other, more subtle signs of disease in multiple species is critical to prevent further spread of poxvirus infections. Additionally included are a synopsis of the pathology observed in animal models of MPXV infection, the recent spread of MPXV among humans, and a discussion of the potential for this virus to persist in Europe and the Americas.

Monkeypox Virus in Nigeria: Infection Biology, Epidemiology, and Evolution

Monkeypox is a zoonotic disease caused by monkeypox virus (MPXV), which is a member of orthopoxvirus genus. The reemergence of MPXV in 2017 (at Bayelsa state) after 39 years of no reported case in Nigeria, and the export of travelers' monkeypox (MPX) from Nigeria to other parts of the world, in 2018 and 2019, respectively, have raised concern that MPXV may have emerged to occupy the ecological and immunological niche vacated by smallpox virus. This review X-rays the current state of knowledge pertaining the infection biology, epidemiology, and evolution of MPXV in Nigeria and worldwide, especially with regard to the human, cellular, and viral factors that modulate the virus transmission dynamics, infection, and its maintenance in nature. This paper also elucidates the role of recombination, gene loss and gene gain in MPXV evolution, chronicles the role of signaling in MPXV infection, and reviews the current therapeutic options available for the treatment and prevention of MPX. Additionally, genome-wide phylogenetic analysis was undertaken, and we show that MPXV isolates from recent 2017 outbreak in Nigeria were monophyletic with the isolate exported to Israel from Nigeria but do not share the most recent common ancestor with isolates obtained from earlier outbreaks, in 1971 and 1978, respectively. Finally, the review highlighted gaps in knowledge particularly the non-identification of a definitive reservoir host animal for MPXV and proposed future research endeavors to address the unresolved questions.

Natural killer cells expanded in vivo or ex vivo with IL-15 overcomes the inherent susceptibility of CAST mice to lethal infection with orthopoxviruses

The wild-derived inbred CAST/EiJ mouse, one of eight founder strains in the Collaborative Cross panel, is an exceptional model for studying monkeypox virus (MPXV), an emerging human pathogen, and other orthopoxviruses including vaccinia virus (VACV). Previous studies suggested that the extreme susceptibility of the CAST mouse to orthopoxviruses is due to an insufficient innate immune response. Here, we focused on the low number of natural killer (NK) cells in the naïve CAST mouse as a contributing factor to this condition. Administration of IL-15 to CAST mice transiently increased NK and CD8⁺ T cells that could express IFN-γ, indicating that the progenitor cells were capable of responding to cytokines. However, the number of NK cells rapidly declined indicating a defect in their homeostasis. Furthermore, IL-15-treated mice were protected from an otherwise lethal challenge with VACV or MPXV. IL-15 decreased virus spread and delayed death even when CD4⁺/CD8⁺ T cells were depleted with antibody, supporting an early protective role of the expanded NK cells. Purified splenic NK cells from CAST mice proliferated in vitro in response to IL-15 and could be activated with IL-12/IL-18 to secrete interferon-γ. Passive transfer of non-activated or activated CAST NK cells reduced VACV spread but only the latter completely prevented death at the virus dose used. Moreover, antibodies to interferon-γ abrogated the protection by activated NK cells. Thus, the inherent susceptibility of CAST mice to orthopoxviruses can be explained by a low level of NK cells and this vulnerability can be overcome either by expanding their NK cells in vivo with IL-15 or by passive transfer of purified NK cells that were expanded and activated in vitro.

With the eradication of smallpox, monkeypox virus (MPXV) remains the only poxvirus causing significant mortality in humans. Although endemic in parts of Africa, human infections have occurred in the United States, the United Kingdom and Israel due to travelers or imported animals. Contrary to its name, MPXV primarily infects rodents and secondarily infects humans and other primates. The wild-derived CAST mouse is an excellent small animal model for studying the pathogenicity of MPXV and related orthopoxviruses including vaccinia virus (VACV) and for evaluating therapeutics. We previously found that the susceptibility of CAST mice is correlated with low numbers of natural killer (NK) cells and a delayed interferon-γ response. Here we showed that in vivo administration of the cytokine IL-15 transiently raised NK cell numbers and protected CAST mice from systemic infections with VACV and MPXV. CAST mouse NK cells that were purified and expanded in vitro with IL-15 also provided protection, further demonstrating the important role of NK cells. The rapid decline in NK cell numbers following cessation of IL-15 administration or NK cell transfer suggests that a low level of NK cell homeostasis contributes to the susceptibility of CAST mice to virus infection.

Monkeypox re-emergence in Africa: a call to expand the concept and practice of One Health

INTRODUCTION

Monkeypox is a re-emerging viral zoonosis that occurs naturally in heavily forested regions of West and Central Africa. Inter-human transmission of monkeypox virus, although limited, drives outbreaks, particularly in household and health-care settings. But the available evidence suggests that without repeated zoonotic introductions, human infections would eventually cease to occur. Therefore, interrupting virus transmission from animals to humans is key to combating this disease. Areas covered: Herein we review laboratory and field studies examining the susceptibility of various animal taxa to monkeypox virus infection, and note the competence of various species to serve as reservoirs or transmission hosts. In addition, we discuss early socio-ecologic theories of monkeypox virus transmission in rural settings and review current modes of ecologic investigation - including ecologic niche modeling, and ecologic sampling - in light of their potential to identify specific animal species and features of the environment that are associated with heightened risk for human disease. Expert opinion: The role of disease ecology and scientific research in ongoing disease prevention efforts should be reinforced, particularly for wildlife-associated zoonoses such as monkeypox. Such efforts alongside those aimed at nurturing 'One Health' collaborations may ultimately hold the greatest promise for reducing human infections with this pathogen.

Challenges and Achievements in Prevention and Treatment of Smallpox

Declaration of smallpox eradication by the WHO in 1980 led to discontinuation of the worldwide vaccination campaign. The increasing percentage of unvaccinated individuals, the existence of its causative infectious agent variola virus (VARV), and the recent synthetic achievements increase the threat of intentional or accidental release and reemergence of smallpox. Control of smallpox would require an emergency vaccination campaign, as no other protective measure has been approved to achieve eradication and ensure worldwide protection. Experimental data in surrogate animal models support the assumption, based on anecdotal, uncontrolled historical data, that vaccination up to 4 days postexposure confers effective protection. The long incubation period, and the uncertainty of the exposure status in the surrounding population, call for the development and evaluation of safe and effective methods enabling extension of the therapeutic window, and to reduce the disease manifestations and vaccine adverse reactions. To achieve these goals, we need to evaluate the efficacy of novel and already licensed vaccines as a sole treatment, or in conjunction with immune modulators and antiviral drugs. In this review, we address the available data, recent achievements, and open questions.

Evaluation of Taterapox Virus in Small Animals

Taterapox virus (TATV), which was isolated from an African gerbil (Tatera kempi) in 1975, is the most closely related virus to variola; however, only the original report has examined its virology. We have evaluated the tropism of TATV in vivo in small animals. We found that TATV does not infect Graphiurus kelleni, a species of African dormouse, but does induce seroconversion in the Mongolian gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus) and in mice; however, in wild-type mice and gerbils, the virus produces an unapparent infection. Following intranasal and footpad inoculations with 1 × 10⁶ plaque forming units (PFU) of TATV, immunocompromised stat1^−/− mice showed signs of disease but did not die; however, SCID mice were susceptible to intranasal and footpad infections with 100% mortality observed by Day 35 and Day 54, respectively. We show that death is unlikely to be a result of the virus mutating to have increased virulence and that SCID mice are capable of transmitting TATV to C57BL/6 and C57BL/6 stat1^−/− animals; however, transmission did not occur from TATV inoculated wild-type or stat1^−/− mice. Comparisons with ectromelia (the etiological agent of mousepox) suggest that TATV behaves differently both at the site of inoculation and in the immune response that it triggers.

The Possibility of Using the ICR Mouse as an Animal Model to Assess Antimonkeypox Drug Efficacy

As a result of the conducted experimental studies on intranasal challenge of ICR mice, rabbits and miniature pigs (even in the maximum variant) with the doses of 4.0-5.5 lg PFU of monkeypox virus (MPXV), some clinical signs such as purulent conjunctivitis, blepharitis and ruffled fur were found only in mice. The 50% infective dose (C ID50 ) of MPXV for these animals estimated by the presence of external clinical signs was 4.8 lg PFU, and L ID50 estimated by the virus presence in the lungs of mice 7 days post-infection taking into account its 10% application in the animal respiratory tract was 1.4 lg PFU. When studying the dynamics of MPXV propagation in mice challenged intranasally with 25 L ID50 of MPXV, the maximum pathogen accumulation was revealed in nasal cavity, lungs and brain: 5.7 ± 0.1, 5.5 ± 0.1 and 5.3 ± 0.3 lg PFU/ml, respectively. The pathomorphological examination of these animals revealed the presence and replication of the pathogen in the traditional primary target cells for MPXV (mononuclear phagocyte system cells and respiratory tract epitheliocytes) as well as in some other types of cells (endothelial cells, reticular cells, connective tissue cells). Our use of these animals to assess the antiviral efficacy of some drugs demonstrated the agreement of the results (a significant positive effect of NIOCH-14 and ST-246) with those described in scientific literature, which opens up the prospects of using ICR mice as animal models for monkeypox to develop preventive antismallpox drugs.

Laboratory Investigations of African Pouched Rats (Cricetomys gambianus) as a Potential Reservoir Host Species for Monkeypox Virus

Monkeypox is a zoonotic disease endemic to central and western Africa, where it is a major public health concern. Although Monkeypox virus (MPXV) and monkeypox disease in humans have been well characterized, little is known about its natural history, or its maintenance in animal populations of sylvatic reservoir(s). In 2003, several species of rodents imported from Ghana were involved in a monkeypox outbreak in the United States with individuals of three African rodent genera (Cricetomys, Graphiurus, Funisciurus) shown to be infected with MPXV. Here, we examine the course of MPXV infection in Cricetomys gambianus (pouched Gambian rats) and this rodent species' competence as a host for the virus. We obtained ten Gambian rats from an introduced colony in Grassy Key, Florida and infected eight of these via scarification with a challenge dose of 4X104 plaque forming units (pfu) from either of the two primary clades of MPXV: Congo Basin (C-MPXV: n = 4) or West African (W-MPXV: n = 4); an additional 2 animals served as PBS controls. Viral shedding and the effect of infection on activity and physiological aspects of the animals were measured. MPXV challenged animals had significantly higher core body temperatures, reduced activity and increased weight loss than PBS controls. Viable virus was found in samples taken from animals in both experimental groups (C-MPXV and W-MPXV) between 3 and 27 days post infection (p.i.) (up to 1X108 pfu/ml), with viral DNA found until day 56 p.i. The results from this work show that Cricetomys gambianus (and by inference, probably the closely related species, Cricetomys emini) can be infected with MPXV and shed viable virus particles; thus suggesting that these animals may be involved in the maintenance of MPXV in wildlife mammalian populations. More research is needed to elucidate the epidemiology of MPXV and the role of Gambian rats and other species.

Pox-like lesions and haemorrhagic fever in two concurrent cases in the Central African Republic: case investigation and management in difficult circumstances

Cases of monkeypox in humans are frequently reported from the Democratic Republic of Congo. The few reports from the Central African Republic have been limited to cases in the far South closely bordering the Congos. Team members of an international medical organisation have suspected clinically two human cases of MPX, associated with clinical signs of coagulopathy and haemorrhage in the North of the country. Key findings were history of a squirrel, fever and vesicular dermal eruptions. Subsequently patients developed profuse epistaxis and hematemesis, associated with clinical signs of shock. Both patients were isolated and treated symptomatically. Samples were sent to a regional reference laboratory, who initially issued a confirmation of the suspected diagnosis of MPX in both cases. The result was later revised, and additional analyses of samples could not confirm the diagnosis.

Comparative live bioluminescence imaging of monkeypox virus dissemination in a wild-derived inbred mouse (Mus musculus castaneus) and outbred African dormouse (Graphiurus kelleni)

Monkeypox virus belongs to the orthopoxvirus genus, infects rodents and monkeys in Africa, produces a smallpox-like zoonotic disease in humans, and has the potential for global spread and exploitation for bioterrorism. Several small animal models for studying monkeypox virus pathogenesis have been investigated. The African dormouse is a candidate natural host but is outbred and no immunological reagents exist. Although not a natural host, the CAST/EiJ mouse is inbred and animals and reagents are commercially available. We compared the dissemination of monkeypox virus by bioluminescence imaging in CAST/EiJ mice and dormice. In CAST/EiJ mice, intense replication occurred at the intranasal site of inoculation and virus spread rapidly to lungs and abdominal organs, which had a lower virus burden. Compared to CAST/EiJ mice, dormice exhibited a greater variation of virus spread, a slower time course, less replication in the head and chest, and more replication in abdominal organs prior to death.

Evaluation of monkeypox virus infection of black-tailed prairie dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus) using in vivo bioluminescent imaging

Monkeypox (MPX) is a re-emerging zoonotic disease that is endemic in Central and West Africa, where it can cause a smallpox-like disease in humans. Despite many epidemiologic and field investigations of MPX, no definitive reservoir species has been identified. Using recombinant viruses expressing the firefly luciferase (luc) gene, we previously demonstrated the suitability of in vivo bioluminescent imaging (BLI) to study the pathogenesis of MPX in animal models. Here, we evaluated BLI as a novel approach for tracking MPX virus infection in black-tailed prairie dogs (Cynomys ludovicianus). Prairie dogs were affected during a multistate outbreak of MPX in the US in 2003 and have since been used as an animal model of this disease. Our BLI results were compared with PCR and virus isolation from tissues collected postmortem. Virus was easily detected and quantified in skin and superficial tissues by BLI before and during clinical phases, as well as in subclinical secondary cases, but was not reliably detected in deep tissues such as the lung. Although there are limitations to viral detection in larger wild rodent species, BLI can enhance the use of prairie dogs as an animal model of MPX and can be used for the study of infection, disease progression, and transmission in potential wild rodent reservoirs.

Orthopoxvirus inhibitors that are active in animal models: an update from 2008 to 2012

Antiviral agents are being sought as countermeasures for the potential deliberate release of smallpox (variola) and monkeypox viruses, for the treatment of naturally acquired monkeypox virus infections, and as therapy for complications due to smallpox (live-attenuated vaccinia virus) vaccination or accidental infection after exposure to vaccinated persons. Reviews of the scientific literature spanning 1950-2008 have documented the progress made in developing small-animal models of poxvirus infection and identifying novel antiviral agents. Compounds of considerable interest include cidofovir, CMX001 and ST-246® (tecovirimat; SIGA Technologies, NY, USA). New inhibitors have been identified since 2008, most of which do not exhibit the kind of potency and selectivity required for drug development. Two promising agents include 4'-thioidoxuridine (a nucleoside analog) and mDEF201 (an adenovirus-vectored interferon). Compounds that have been effectively used in combination studies include vaccinia immune globulin, cidofovir, ST-246 and CMX001. In the future there may be an increase in experimental work using active compounds in combination.

A review of experimental and natural infections of animals with monkeypox virus between 1958 and 2012

Monkeypox virus (MPXV) was discovered in 1958 during an outbreak in an animal facility in Copenhagen, Denmark. Since its discovery, MPXV has revealed a propensity to infect and induce disease in a large number of animals within the mammalia class from pan-geographical locations. This finding has impeded the elucidation of the natural host, although the strongest candidates are African squirrels and/or other rodents. Experimentally, MPXV can infect animals via a variety of multiple different inoculation routes; however, the natural route of transmission is unknown and is likely to be somewhat species specific. In this review we have attempted to compile and discuss all published articles that describe experimental or natural infections with MPXV, dating from the initial discovery of the virus through to the year 2012. We further discuss the comparative disease courses and pathologies of the host species.

Animal Models of Human Viral Diseases

As the threat of exposure to emerging and reemerging viruses within a naive population increases, it is vital that the basic mechanisms of pathogenesis and immune response be thoroughly investigated. By using animal models in this endeavor, the response to viruses can be studied in a more natural context to identify novel drug targets, and assess the efficacy and safety of new products. This is especially true in the advent of the Food and Drug Administration's animal rule. Although no one animal model is able to recapitulate all the aspects of human disease, understanding the current limitations allows for a more targeted experimental design. Important facets to be considered before an animal study are the route of challenge, species of animals, biomarkers of disease, and a humane endpoint. This chapter covers the current animal models for medically important human viruses, and demonstrates where the gaps in knowledge exist.

Lethal monkeypox virus infection of CAST/EiJ mice is associated with a deficient gamma interferon response

Monkeypox virus (MPXV) is endemic in Africa, where it causes disease in humans resembling smallpox. A recent importation of MPXV-infected animals into the United States raises the possibility of global spread. Rodents comprise the major reservoir of MPXV, and a variety of such animals, even those native to North America, are susceptible. In contrast, common inbred strains of mice, including BALB/c and C57BL/6, are greatly resistant to MPXV. However, several inbred strains of mice derived from wild mice, including CAST/EiJ, exhibit morbidity and mortality at relatively low inoculums of MPXV. Elucidating the basis for the susceptibility of CAST/EiJ mice could contribute to an understanding of MPXV pathogenicity and host defense mechanisms and enhance the value of this mouse strain as a model system for evaluation of therapeutics and vaccines. Here we compared virus dissemination and induced cytokine production in CAST/EiJ mice to those in the resistant BALB/c strain. Following intranasal infection, robust virus replication occurred in the lungs of both strains, although a relatively higher inoculum was required for BALB/c. However, while spread to other internal organs was rapid and efficient in CAST/EiJ mice, the virus was largely restricted to the lungs in BALB/c mice. Gamma interferon (IFN-γ) and CCL5 were induced in lungs of BALB/c mice concomitant with virus replication but not in CAST/EiJ mice. The importance of IFN-γ in protection against MPXV disease was demonstrated by the intranasal administration of the mouse cytokine to CAST/EiJ mice and the resulting protection against MPXV. Furthermore, C57BL/6 mice with inactivation of the IFN-γ gene or the IFN-γ receptor gene exhibited enhanced sensitivity to MPXV.

Factors affecting the likelihood of monkeypox's emergence and spread in the post-smallpox era

In 1980, the World Health Assembly announced that smallpox had been successfully eradicated as a disease of humans. The disease clinically and immunologically most similar to smallpox is monkeypox, a zoonosis endemic to moist forested regions in West and Central Africa. Smallpox vaccine provided protection against both infections. Monkeypox virus is a less efficient human pathogen than the agent of smallpox, but absent smallpox and the population-wide immunity engendered during eradication efforts, could monkeypox now gain a foothold in human communities? We discuss possible ecologic and epidemiologic limitations that could impede monkeypox's emergence as a significant pathogen of humans, and evaluate whether genetic constrains are sufficient to diminish monkeypox virus' capacity for enhanced specificity as a parasite of humans.

Evaluation of disease and viral biomarkers as triggers for therapeutic intervention in respiratory mousepox - an animal model of smallpox

The human population is currently faced with the potential use of natural or recombinant variola and monkeypox viruses as biological weapons. Furthermore, the emergence of human monkeypox in Africa and its expanding environs poses a significant natural threat. Such occurrences would require therapeutic and prophylactic intervention with antivirals to minimize morbidity and mortality of exposed populations. Two orally-bioavailable antivirals are currently in clinical trials; namely CMX001, an ether-lipid analog of cidofovir with activity at the DNA replication stage and ST-246, a novel viral egress inhibitor. Both of these drugs have previously been evaluated in the ectromelia/mousepox system; however, the trigger for intervention was not linked to a disease biomarker or a specific marker of virus replication. In this study we used lethal, intranasal, ectromelia virus infections of C57BL/6 and hairless SKH1 mice to model human disease and evaluate exanthematous rash (rash) as an indicator to initiate antiviral treatment. We show that significant protection can be provided to C57BL/6 mice by CMX001 or ST-246 when therapy is initiated on day 6 post infection or earlier. We also show that significant protection can be provided to SKH1 mice treated with CMX001 at day 3 post infection or earlier, but this is four or more days before detection of rash (ST-246 not tested). Although in this model rash could not be used as a treatment trigger, viral DNA was detected in blood by day 4 post infection and in the oropharyngeal secretions (saliva) by day 2–3 post infection – thus providing robust and specific markers of virus replication for therapy initiation. These findings are discussed in the context of current respiratory challenge animal models in use for the evaluation of poxvirus antivirals.

Zoonotic Poxviruses Associated with Companion Animals

Simple Summary

Contemporary enthusiasm for the ownership of exotic animals and hobby livestock has created an opportunity for the movement of poxviruses—such as monkeypox, cowpox, and orf—outside their traditional geographic range bringing them into contact with atypical animal hosts and groups of people not normally considered at risk. It is important that pet owners and practitioners of human and animal medicine develop a heightened awareness for poxvirus infections and understand the risks that can be associated with companion animals and livestock. This article reviews the epidemiology and clinical features of zoonotic poxviruses that are most likely to affect companion animals.

Abstract

Understanding the zoonotic risk posed by poxviruses in companion animals is important for protecting both human and animal health. The outbreak of monkeypox in the United States, as well as current reports of cowpox in Europe, point to the fact that companion animals are increasingly serving as sources of poxvirus transmission to people. In addition, the trend among hobbyists to keep livestock (such as goats) in urban and semi-urban areas has contributed to increased parapoxvirus exposures among people not traditionally considered at high risk. Despite the historic notoriety of poxviruses and the diseases they cause, poxvirus infections are often missed. Delays in diagnosing poxvirus-associated infections in companion animals can lead to inadvertent human exposures. Delays in confirming human infections can result in inappropriate treatment or prolonged recovery. Early recognition of poxvirus-associated infections and application of appropriate preventive measures can reduce the spread of virus between companion animals and their owners. This review will discuss the epidemiology and clinical features associated with the zoonotic poxvirus infections most commonly associated with companion animals.

Establishment of the black-tailed prairie dog (Cynomys ludovicianus) as a novel animal model for comparing smallpox vaccines administered preexposure in both high- and low-dose monkeypox virus challenges

The 2003 monkeypox virus (MPXV) outbreak and subsequent laboratory studies demonstrated that the black-tailed prairie dog is susceptible to MPXV infection and that the ensuing rash illness is similar to human systemic orthopoxvirus (OPXV) infection, including a 7- to 9-day incubation period and, likely, in some cases a respiratory route of infection; these features distinguish this model from others. The need for safe and efficacious vaccines for OPVX in areas where it is endemic or epidemic is important to protect an increasingly OPXV-naïve population. In this study, we tested current and investigational smallpox vaccines for safety, induction of anti-OPXV antibodies, and protection against mortality and morbidity in two MPXV challenges. None of the smallpox vaccines caused illness in this model, and all vaccinated animals showed anti-OPXV antibody responses and neutralizing antibody. We tested vaccine efficacy by challenging the animals with 10(5) or 10(6) PFU Congo Basin MPXV 30 days postvaccination and evaluating morbidity and mortality. Our results demonstrated that vaccination with either Dryvax or Acambis2000 protected the animals from death with no rash illness. Vaccination with IMVAMUNE also protected the animals from death, albeit with (modified) rash illness. Based on the results of this study, we believe prairie dogs offer a novel and potentially useful small animal model for the safety and efficacy testing of smallpox vaccines in pre- and postexposure vaccine testing, which is important for public health planning.

Smallpox vaccines: targets of protective immunity

The eradication of smallpox, one of the great triumphs of medicine, was accomplished through the prophylactic administration of live vaccinia virus, a comparatively benign relative of variola virus, the causative agent of smallpox. Nevertheless, recent fears that variola virus may be used as a biological weapon together with the present susceptibility of unimmunized populations have spurred the development of new-generation vaccines that are safer than the original and can be produced by modern methods. Predicting the efficacy of such vaccines in the absence of human smallpox, however, depends on understanding the correlates of protection. This review outlines the biology of poxviruses with particular relevance to vaccine development, describes protein targets of humoral and cellular immunity, compares animal models of orthopoxvirus disease with human smallpox, and considers the status of second- and third-generation smallpox vaccines.

Monkeypox virus infections in small animal models for evaluation of anti-poxvirus agents

An ideal animal model for the study of a human disease is one which utilizes a route of infection that mimics the natural transmission of the pathogen; the ability to obtain disease with an infectious dose equivalent to that causing disease in humans; as well having a disease course, morbidity and mortality similar to that seen with human disease. Additionally, the animal model should have a mode(s) of transmission that mimics human cases. The development of small animal models for the study of monkeypox virus (MPXV) has been quite extensive for the relatively short period of time this pathogen has been known, although only a few of these models have been used to study anti-poxvirus agents. We will review those MPXV small animal models that have been developed thus far for the study of therapeutic agents.

Rabbitpox: a model of airborne transmission of smallpox

Smallpox is a human disease caused by infection with variola virus, a member of the genus Orthopoxvirus. Although smallpox has been eradicated, concern that it might be reintroduced through bioterrorism has therefore led to intensive efforts to develop new vaccines and antiviral drugs against this disease. Because these vaccines and therapeutics cannot be tested in human trials, it is necessary to test such medical countermeasures in different animal models. Although several orthopoxviruses cause disease in laboratory animals, only rabbitpox virus (RPXV) infection of rabbits shows patterns of natural airborne transmission similar to smallpox. Studies have shown that a smallpox-like disease can be produced in rabbits in a controlled fashion through exposure to a small-particle RPXV aerosol, and rabbitpox spreads from animal to animal by the airborne route in a laboratory setting. This model can therefore be utilized to test drugs and vaccines against variola virus and other aerosolized orthopoxviruses.

Yet another ten stories on antiviral drug discovery (part D): paradigms, paradoxes, and paraductions

This review article presents the fourth part (part D) in the series of stories on antiviral drug discovery. The stories told in part D focus on: (i) the cyclotriazadisulfonamide compounds; (ii) the {5-[(4-bromophenylmethyl]-2-phenyl-5H-imidazo[4,5-c]pyridine} compounds; (iii) (1H,3H-thiazolo[3,4-a]benzimidazole) derivatives; (iv) T-705 (6-fluoro-3-hydroxy-2-pyrazinecarboxamide) and (v) its structurally closely related analogue pyrazine 2-carboxamide (pyrazinamide); (vi) new strategies for the treatment of hemorrhagic fever virus infections, including, as the most imminent, (vii) dengue fever, (viii) the veterinary use of acyclic nucleoside phosphonates; (ix) the potential (off-label) use of cidofovir in the treatment of papillomatosis, particularly RRP (recurrent respiratory papillomatosis); and (x) finally, the prophylactic use of tenofovir to prevent HIV infections.

Third-generation smallpox vaccines: challenges in the absence of clinical smallpox

Smallpox, a disease caused by variola virus, is estimated to have killed hundreds of millions to billions of people before it was certified as eradicated in 1980. However, there has been renewed interest in smallpox vaccine development due in part to zoonotic poxvirus infections and the possibility of a re-emergence of smallpox, as well as the fact that first-generation smallpox vaccines are associated with relatively rare, but severe, adverse reactions in some vaccinees. An understanding of the immune mechanisms of vaccine protection and the use of suitable animal models for vaccine efficacy assessment are paramount to the development of safer and effective smallpox vaccines. This article focuses on studies aimed at understanding the immune responses elicited by vaccinia virus and the various animal models that can be used to evaluate smallpox vaccine efficacy. Harnessing this information is necessary to assess the effectiveness and potential usefulness of new-generation smallpox vaccines.

Animal models of orthopoxvirus infection

Smallpox was one of the most devastating diseases known to humanity. Although smallpox was eradicated through a historically successful vaccination campaign, there is concern in the global community that either Variola virus (VARV), the causative agent of smallpox, or another species of Orthopoxvirus could be used as agents of bioterrorism. Therefore, development of countermeasures to Orthopoxvirus infection is a crucial focus in biodefense research, and these efforts rely on the use of various animal models. Smallpox typically presented as a generalized pustular rash with 30 to 40% mortality, and although smallpox-like syndromes can be induced in cynomolgus macaques with VARV, research with this virus is highly restricted; therefore, animal models with other orthopoxviruses have been investigated. Monkeypox virus causes a generalized vesiculopustular rash in rhesus and cynomolgus macaques and induces fatal systemic disease in several rodent species. Ectromelia virus has been extensively studied in mice as a model of orthopoxviral infection in its natural host. Intranasal inoculation of mice with some strains of vaccinia virus produces fatal bronchopneumonia, as does aerosol or intranasal inoculation of mice with cowpox virus. Rabbitpox virus causes pneumonia and fatal systemic infections in rabbits and can be naturally transmitted between rabbits by an aerosol route similar to that of VARV in humans. No single animal model recapitulates all known aspects of human Orthopoxvirus infections, and each model has its advantages and disadvantages. This article provides a brief review of the Orthopoxvirus diseases of humans and the key pathologic features of animal models of Orthopoxvirus infections.

Identification of wild-derived inbred mouse strains highly susceptible to monkeypox virus infection for use as small animal models

Infection with monkeypox virus (MPXV) causes disease manifestations in humans that are similar, although usually less severe, than those of smallpox. Since routine vaccination for smallpox ceased more than 30 years ago, there is concern that MPXV could be used for bioterrorism. Thus, there is a need to develop animal models to study MPXV infection. Accordingly, we screened 38 inbred mouse strains for susceptibility to MPXV. Three highly susceptible wild-derived inbred strains were identified, of which CAST/EiJ was further developed as a model. Using an intranasal route of infection with an isolate of the Congo Basin clade of MPXV, CAST/EiJ mice exhibited weight loss, morbidity, and death in a dose-dependent manner with a calculated 50% lethal dose (LD(50)) of 680 PFU, whereas there were no deaths of BALB/c mice at a 10,000-fold higher dose. CAST/EiJ mice exhibited greater MPXV sensitivity when infected via the intraperitoneal route, with an LD(50) of 14 PFU. Both routes resulted in MPXV replication in the lung, spleen, and liver. Intranasal infection with an isolate of the less-pathogenic West African clade yielded an LD(50) of 7,600 PFU. The immune competence of CAST/EiJ mice was established by immunization with vaccinia virus, which induced antigen-specific T- and B-lymphocyte responses and fully protected mice from lethal doses of MPXV. The new mouse model has the following advantages for studying pathogenesis of MPXV, as well as for evaluation of potential vaccines and therapeutics: relative sensitivity to MPXV through multiple routes, genetic homogeneity, available immunological reagents, and commercial production.

A mouse model of lethal infection for evaluating prophylactics and therapeutics against Monkeypox virus

Monkeypox virus (MPXV) is an orthopoxvirus closely related to variola, the etiological agent of smallpox. In humans, MPXV causes a disease similar to smallpox and is considered to be an emerging infectious disease. Moreover, the use of MPXV for bioterroristic/biowarfare activities is of significant concern. Available small animal models of human monkeypox have been restricted to mammals with poorly defined biologies that also have limited reagent availability. We have established a murine MPXV model utilizing the STAT1-deficient C57BL/6 mouse. Here we report that a relatively low-dose intranasal (IN) infection induces 100% mortality in the stat1(-)(/)(-) model by day 10 postinfection with high infectious titers in the livers, spleens, and lungs of moribund animals. Vaccination with modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) followed by a booster vaccination is sufficient to protect against an intranasal MPXV challenge and induces an immune response more robust than that of a single vaccination. Furthermore, antiviral treatment with CMX001 (HDP-cidofovir) and ST-246 protects when administered as a regimen initiated on the day of infection. Thus, the stat1(-)(/)(-) model provides a lethal murine platform for evaluating therapeutics and for investigating the immunological and pathological responses to MPXV infection.

Management and care of African dormice (Graphiurus kelleni)

African dormice (Graphiurus spp.) are small nocturnal rodents that currently are uncommon in laboratory settings. Their use may increase as they have recently been shown to develop an infection with monkeypox virus and may prove to be a valuable animal model for infectious disease research. Because African dormice are not commercially available, an extensive breeding colony is required to produce the animals needed for research use. Husbandry modifications that increased the production of offspring were the use of a high-protein diet, increased cage enrichment, and decreased animal density. To optimize consumption of a high-protein diet, we tested the palatability of several high-protein foods in a series of preference trials. Dormice preferred wax worm larva, cottage cheese, roasted soy nuts, and canned chicken. Issues related to medical management of Graphiurus kelleni include potential complications from traumatic injury. The development of a program for the husbandry and care of African dormice at our institution typifies the experiences of many laboratory animal facilities that are asked to support the development of animal models using novel species.

Comparison of West African and Congo Basin monkeypox viruses in BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice

Although monkeypox virus (MPXV) studies in wild rodents and non-human primates have generated important knowledge regarding MPXV pathogenesis and inferences about disease transmission, it might be easier to dissect the importance of virulence factors and correlates of protection to MPXV in an inbred mouse model. Herein, we compared the two clades of MPXV via two routes of infection in the BALB/c and C57BL/6 inbred mice strains. Our studies show that similar to previous animal studies, the Congo Basin strain of MPXV was more virulent than West African MPXV in both mouse strains as evidenced by clinical signs. Although animals did not develop lesions as seen in human MPX infections, localized signs were apparent with the foot pad route of inoculation, primarily in the form of edema at the site of inoculation; while the Congo Basin intranasal route of infection led to generalized symptoms, primarily weight loss. We have determined that future studies with MPXV and laboratory mice would be very beneficial in understanding the pathogenesis of MPXV, in particular if used in in vivo imaging studies. Although this mouse model may not suffice as a model of human MPX disease, with an appropriate inbred mouse model, we can unravel many unknown aspects of MPX pathogenesis, including virulence factors, disease progression in rodent hosts, and viral shedding from infected animals. In addition, such a model can be utilized to test antivirals and the next generation of orthopoxvirus vaccines for their ability to alter the course of disease.

Comparison of monkeypox viruses pathogenesis in mice by in vivo imaging

Monkeypox viruses (MPXV) cause human monkeypox, a zoonotic smallpox-like disease endemic to Africa, and are of worldwide public health and biodefense concern. Using viruses from the Congo (MPXV-2003-Congo-358) and West African (MPXV-2003-USA-044) clades, we constructed recombinant viruses that express the luciferase gene (MPXV-Congo/Luc+and MPXV-USA-Luc+) and compared their viral infection in mice by biophotonic imaging. BALB/c mice became infected by both MPXV clades, but they recovered and cleared the infection within 10 days post-infection (PI). However, infection in severe combined immune deficient (SCID) BALB/c mice resulted in 100% lethality. Intraperitoneal (IP) injection of both MPXV-Congo and MPXV-Congo/Luc+resulted in a systemic clinical disease and the same mean time-to-death at 9 (±0) days post-infection. Likewise, IP injection of SCID-BALB/c mice with MPXV-USA or the MPXV-USA-Luc+, resulted in similar disease but longer (P<0.05) mean time-to-death (11±0 days) for both viruses compared to the Congo strains. Imaging studies in SCID mice showed luminescence in the abdomen within 24 hours PI with subsequent spread elsewhere. Animals infected with the MPXV-USA/Luc+had less intense luminescence in tissues than those inoculated with MPXV-Congo/Luc+, and systemic spread of the MPXV-USA/Luc+virus occurred approximately two days later than the MPXV-Congo/Luc+. The ovary was an important target for viral replication as evidenced by the high viral titers and immunohistochemistry. These studies demonstrate the suitability of a mouse model and biophotonic imaging to compare the disease progression and tissue tropism of MPX viruses.