1
|
McMillen CM, Megli C, Radisic R, Skvarca LB, Hoehl RM, Boyles DA, McGaughey JJ, Bird BH, McElroy AK, Hartman AL. Vaccine strains of Rift Valley fever virus exhibit attenuation at the maternal-fetal placental interface. J Virol 2024:e0098324. [PMID: 39016561 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00983-24] [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: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) infection causes abortions in ruminant livestock and is associated with an increased likelihood of miscarriages in women. Using sheep and human placenta explant cultures, we sought to identify tissues at the maternal-fetal interface targeted by RVFV. Sheep villi and fetal membranes were highly permissive to RVFV infection resulting in markedly higher virus titers than human cultures. Sheep cultures were most permissive to wild-type RVFV and ΔNSm infection, while live-attenuated RVFV vaccines (LAVs; MP-12, ΔNSs, and ΔNSs/ΔNSm) exhibited reduced replication. The human fetal membrane restricted wild-type and LAV replication, and when infection occurred, it was prominent on the maternal-facing side. Type I and type III interferons were induced in human villi exposed to LAVs lacking the NSs protein. This study supports the use of sheep and human placenta explants to understand vertical transmission of RVFV in mammals and whether LAVs are attenuated at the maternal-fetal interface.IMPORTANCEA direct comparison of replication of Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) in sheep and human placental explants reveals comparative efficiencies and permissivity to infection and replication. Vaccine strains of RVFV demonstrated reduced infection and replication capacity in the mammalian placenta. This study represents the first direct cross-host comparison of the vertical transmission capacity of this high-priority emerging mosquito-transmitted virus.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia M McMillen
- University of Pittsburgh, Center for Vaccine Research, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Pittsburgh, School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Christina Megli
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Reproductive Infectious Disease, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and the Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Rebecca Radisic
- One Health Institute, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Lauren B Skvarca
- Department of Pathology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ryan M Hoehl
- University of Pittsburgh, Center for Vaccine Research, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Devin A Boyles
- University of Pittsburgh, Center for Vaccine Research, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jackson J McGaughey
- University of Pittsburgh, Center for Vaccine Research, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Brian H Bird
- One Health Institute, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California, USA
| | - Anita K McElroy
- University of Pittsburgh, Center for Vaccine Research, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Infectious Disease, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Amy L Hartman
- University of Pittsburgh, Center for Vaccine Research, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Pittsburgh, School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Cao X, Liu B, Wang Z, Pang T, Sun L, Kondo H, Li J, Andika IB, Chi S. Identification of a novel member of the genus Laulavirus (family Phenuiviridae) from the entomopathogenic ascomycete fungus Cordyceps javanica. Arch Virol 2024; 169:166. [PMID: 38995418 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-024-06069-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
The virus family Phenuiviridae (order Hareavirales, comprising segmented negative-sense single stranded RNA viruses) has highly diverse members that are known to infect animals, plants, protozoans, and fungi. In this study, we identified a novel phenuivirus infecting a strain of the entomopathogenic fungus Cordyceps javanica isolated from a small brown plant hopper (Laodelphax striatellus), and this virus was tentatively named "Cordyceps javanica negative-strand RNA virus 1" (CjNRSV1). The CjNRSV1 genome consists of three negative-sense single stranded RNA segments (RNA1-3) with lengths of 7252, 2401, and 1117 nt, respectively. The 3'- and 5'-terminal regions of the RNA1, 2, and 3 segments have identical sequences, and the termini of the RNA segments are complementary to each other, reflecting a common characteristic of viruses in the order Hareavirales. RNA1 encodes a large protein (∼274 kDa) containing a conserved domain for the bunyavirus RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRP) superfamily, with 57-80% identity to the RdRP encoded by phenuiviruses in the genus Laulavirus. RNA2 encodes a protein (∼79 kDa) showing sequence similarity (47-63% identity) to the movement protein (MP, a plant viral cell-to-cell movement protein)-like protein (MP-L) encoded by RNA2 of laulaviruses. RNA3 encodes a protein (∼28 kDa) with a conserved domain of the phenuivirid nucleocapsid protein superfamily. Phylogenetic analysis using the RdRPs of various phenuiviruses and other unclassified phenuiviruses showed CjNRSV1 to be grouped with established members of the genus Laulavirus. Our results suggest that CjNRSV1 is a novel fungus-infecting member of the genus Laulavirus in the family Phenuiviridae.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinran Cao
- College of Plant Health and Medicine, Shandong Engineering Research Center for Environment-Friendly Agricultural Pest Management, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
- College of Horticulture Science and Engineering, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, 271018, China
- Shouguang International Vegetable Sci-Tech Fair Management Service Center, Shouguang, 262700, China
| | - Bo Liu
- College of Plant Health and Medicine, Shandong Engineering Research Center for Environment-Friendly Agricultural Pest Management, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Ziqi Wang
- College of Plant Health and Medicine, Shandong Engineering Research Center for Environment-Friendly Agricultural Pest Management, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Tianxing Pang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas and College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, 712100, China
| | - Liying Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Biology for Arid Areas and College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Xianyang, 712100, China
| | - Hideki Kondo
- Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University, Kurashiki, 710-0046, Japan
| | - Junmin Li
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology in Plant Protection of MARA, Institute of Plant Virology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China
| | - Ida Bagus Andika
- College of Plant Health and Medicine, Shandong Engineering Research Center for Environment-Friendly Agricultural Pest Management, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China.
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology in Plant Protection of MARA, Institute of Plant Virology, Ningbo University, Ningbo, 315211, China.
| | - Shengqi Chi
- College of Plant Health and Medicine, Shandong Engineering Research Center for Environment-Friendly Agricultural Pest Management, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
McMillen CM, Megli C, Radisic R, Skvarca LB, Hoehl RM, Boyles DA, McGaughey JJ, Bird BH, McElroy AK, Hartman AL. Vaccine strains of Rift Valley fever virus exhibit attenuation at the maternal-fetal placental interface. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.31.596800. [PMID: 38854055 PMCID: PMC11160702 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.31.596800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) infection causes abortions in ruminant livestock and is associated with an increased likelihood of miscarriages in women. Using sheep and human placenta explant cultures, we sought to identify tissues at the maternal-fetal interface targeted by RVFV. Sheep villi and fetal membranes were highly permissive to RVFV infection resulting in markedly higher virus titers than human cultures. Sheep cultures were most permissive to wild-type RVFV and ΔNSm infection, while live attenuated RVFV vaccines (LAVs; MP-12, ΔNSs, and ΔNSs/ΔNSm) exhibited reduced replication. The human fetal membrane restricted wild-type and LAV replication, and when infection occurred, it was prominent in the maternal-facing side. Type-I and type-III interferons were induced in human villi exposed to LAVs lacking the NSs protein. This study supports the use of sheep and human placenta explants to understand vertical transmission of RVFV in mammals and whether LAVs are attenuated at the maternal-fetal interface.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia M. McMillen
- University of Pittsburgh, Center for Vaccine Research, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- University of Pittsburgh, Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Christina Megli
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and the Magee-Womens Research Institute, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Reproductive Infectious Disease, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Rebecca Radisic
- One Health Institute, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Lauren B. Skvarca
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Department of Pathology, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Ryan M. Hoehl
- University of Pittsburgh, Center for Vaccine Research, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Devin A. Boyles
- University of Pittsburgh, Center for Vaccine Research, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Brian H. Bird
- One Health Institute, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Anita K. McElroy
- University of Pittsburgh, Center for Vaccine Research, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Infectious Disease, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Amy L. Hartman
- University of Pittsburgh, Center for Vaccine Research, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- University of Pittsburgh, Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Dai R, Yang S, Pang T, Tian M, Wang H, Zhang D, Wu Y, Kondo H, Andika IB, Kang Z, Sun L. Identification of a negative-strand RNA virus with natural plant and fungal hosts. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2024; 121:e2319582121. [PMID: 38483998 PMCID: PMC10962957 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2319582121] [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: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
The presence of viruses that spread to both plant and fungal populations in nature has posed intriguingly scientific question. We found a negative-strand RNA virus related to members of the family Phenuiviridae, named Valsa mali negative-strand RNA virus 1 (VmNSRV1), which induced strong hypovirulence and was prevalent in a population of the phytopathogenic fungus of apple Valsa canker (Valsa mali) infecting apple orchards in the Shaanxi Province of China. Intriguingly, VmNSRV1 encodes a protein with a viral cell-to-cell movement function in plant tissue. Mechanical leaf inoculation showed that VmNSRV1 could systemically infect plants. Moreover, VmNSRV1 was detected in 24 out of 139 apple trees tested in orchards in Shaanxi Province. Fungal inoculation experiments showed that VmNSRV1 could be bidirectionally transmitted between apple plants and V. mali, and VmNSRV1 infection in plants reduced the development of fungal lesions on leaves. Additionally, the nucleocapsid protein encoded by VmNSRV1 is associated with and rearranged lipid droplets in both fungal and plant cells. VmNSRV1 represents a virus that has adapted and spread to both plant and fungal hosts and shuttles between these two organisms in nature (phyto-mycovirus) and is potential to be utilized for the biocontrol method against plant fungal diseases. This finding presents further insights into the virus evolution and adaptation encompassing both plant and fungal hosts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruoyin Dai
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production and College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling712100, China
| | - Shian Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production and College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling712100, China
| | - Tianxing Pang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production and College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling712100, China
| | - Mengyuan Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production and College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling712100, China
| | - Hao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production and College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling712100, China
| | - Dong Zhang
- Yangling Sub-Center of National Center for Apple Improvement and College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling712100, China
| | - Yunfeng Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production and College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling712100, China
| | - Hideki Kondo
- Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University, Kurashiki710-0046, Japan
| | - Ida Bagus Andika
- College of Plant Health and Medicine, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao266109, China
| | - Zhensheng Kang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production and College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling712100, China
| | - Liying Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Stress Resistance and High-Efficiency Production and College of Plant Protection, Northwest A&F University, Yangling712100, China
- Institute of Plant Science and Resources, Okayama University, Kurashiki710-0046, Japan
- Institute of Future Agriculture, Northwest A&F University, Yangling712100, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Petraccione K, Ali MGH, Cyr N, Wahba HM, Stocker T, Akhrymuk M, Akhrymuk I, Panny L, Bracci N, Cafaro R, Sastre D, Silberfarb A, O’Maille P, Omichinski J, Kehn-Hall K. An LIR motif in the Rift Valley fever virus NSs protein is critical for the interaction with LC3 family members and inhibition of autophagy. PLoS Pathog 2024; 20:e1012093. [PMID: 38512999 PMCID: PMC10986958 DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1012093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 04/02/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is a viral zoonosis that causes severe disease in ruminants and humans. The nonstructural small (NSs) protein is the primary virulence factor of RVFV that suppresses the host's antiviral innate immune response. Bioinformatic analysis and AlphaFold structural modeling identified four putative LC3-interacting regions (LIR) motifs (NSs 1-4) in the RVFV NSs protein, which suggest that NSs interacts with the host LC3-family proteins. Using, isothermal titration calorimetry, X-ray crystallography, co-immunoprecipitation, and co-localization experiments, the C-terminal LIR motif (NSs4) was confirmed to interact with all six human LC3 proteins. Phenylalanine at position 261 (F261) within NSs4 was found to be critical for the interaction of NSs with LC3, retention of LC3 in the nucleus, as well as the inhibition of autophagy in RVFV infected cells. These results provide mechanistic insights into the ability of RVFV to overcome antiviral autophagy through the interaction of NSs with LC3 proteins.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaylee Petraccione
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
- Center for Emerging, Zoonotic, and Arthropod-borne Pathogens, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Mohamed G. H. Ali
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Normand Cyr
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Haytham M. Wahba
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Timothy Stocker
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Maryna Akhrymuk
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
- Center for Emerging, Zoonotic, and Arthropod-borne Pathogens, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Ivan Akhrymuk
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
- Center for Emerging, Zoonotic, and Arthropod-borne Pathogens, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Lauren Panny
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
- Center for Emerging, Zoonotic, and Arthropod-borne Pathogens, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Nicole Bracci
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
- Center for Emerging, Zoonotic, and Arthropod-borne Pathogens, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| | - Raphaël Cafaro
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Danuta Sastre
- Biosciences Division, SRI International, Menlo Park, California, United States of America
| | - Andrew Silberfarb
- Artificial Intelligence Center, SRI International, Menlo Park, California, United States of America
| | - Paul O’Maille
- Biosciences Division, SRI International, Menlo Park, California, United States of America
| | - James Omichinski
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Kylene Kehn-Hall
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
- Center for Emerging, Zoonotic, and Arthropod-borne Pathogens, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Virginia, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Hungwe FTT, Laycock KM, Ntereke TD, Mabaka R, Paganotti GM. A historical perspective on arboviruses of public health interest in Southern Africa. Pathog Glob Health 2024; 118:131-159. [PMID: 38082563 PMCID: PMC11141323 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2023.2290375] [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] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Arboviruses are an existing and expanding threat globally, with the potential for causing devastating health and socioeconomic impacts. Mitigating this threat necessitates a One Health approach that integrates vector surveillance, rapid disease detection, and innovative prevention and control measures. In Southern Africa, limited data on the epidemiology of arboviruses, their vectors, and their hosts prevent an effective response. We reviewed the current knowledge on arboviruses in Southern Africa and identified opportunities for further research. A literature search was conducted to identify studies published on arboviruses in 10 tropical and temperate countries of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) from 1900 onward. We identified 280 studies, half (51.1%) originating from South Africa, that described 31 arboviral species, their vectors, and their clinical effects on hosts reported in the region. Arboviral research flourished in the SADC in the mid-20th century but then declined, before reemerging in the last two decades. Recent research consists largely of case reports describing outbreaks. Historical vector surveillance and serosurveys from the mid-20th century suggest that arboviruses are plentiful across Southern Africa, but large gaps remain in the current understanding of arboviral distribution, transmission dynamics, and public health impact.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Faith T. T. Hungwe
- School of Engineering Sciences in Chemistry, Biotechnology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Katherine M. Laycock
- The Ryan White Center for Pediatric Infectious Disease and Global Health, Department of Pediatrics, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | | | - Rorisang Mabaka
- School of Allied Health Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Giacomo M. Paganotti
- Botswana-University of Pennsylvania Partnership, Gaborone, Botswana
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Galiè A, McLeod A, Campbell ZA, Ngwili N, Terfa ZG, Thomas LF. Gender considerations in One Health: a framework for researchers. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1345273. [PMID: 38481845 PMCID: PMC10933012 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1345273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
One Health research and intervention outcomes are strongly influenced by gender dynamics. Women, men, girls, and boys can be negatively affected by gender-based disadvantage in any of the three One Health domains (animal, human, and environmental health), and where this occurs in more than one domain the result may be a compounding of inequity. Evidence worldwide shows that women and girls are more likely to suffer from such gender-based disadvantage. A thoughtfully implemented One Health intervention that prioritizes gender equity is more likely to be adopted, has fewer unintended negative consequences, and can support progress toward gender equality, however there is limited evidence and discussion to guide using a gender lens in One Health activities. We propose a framework to identify key gender considerations in One Health research for development - with a focus on Low-and Middle-Income Countries. The framework encourages developing two types of research questions at multiple stages of the research process: those with a bioscience entry-point and those with a gender entry-point. Gender considerations at each stage of research, institutional support required, and intervention approaches is described in the framework. We also give an applied example of the framework as it might be used in One Health research. Incorporation of gender questions in One Health research supports progress toward more equitable, sustainable, and effective One Health interventions. We hope that this framework will be implemented and optimized for use across many One Health challenge areas with the goal of mainstreaming gender into One Health research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Anni McLeod
- Independent Researcher, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Zelalem G. Terfa
- International Livestock Research Institute, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Lian F. Thomas
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Hcini N, Lambert V, Picone O, Carod JF, Carles G, Pomar L, Epelboin L, Nacher M. Arboviruses and pregnancy: are the threats visible or hidden? Trop Dis Travel Med Vaccines 2024; 10:4. [PMID: 38355934 PMCID: PMC10868105 DOI: 10.1186/s40794-023-00213-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Mosquito-borne arboviral diseases are a global concern and can have severe consequences on maternal, neonatal, and child health. Their impact on pregnancy tends to be neglected in developing countries. Despite hundreds of millions of infections, 90% pregnancies being exposed, scientific data on pregnant women is poor and sometimes non-existent. Recently and since the 2016 Zika virus outbreak, there has been a newfound interest in these diseases. Through various neuropathogenic, visceral, placental, and teratogenic mechanisms, these arbovirus infections can lead to fetal losses, obstetrical complications, and a wide range of congenital abnormalities, resulting in long-term neurological and sensory impairments. Climate change, growing urbanization, worldwide interconnectivity, and ease of mobility allow arboviruses to spread to other territories and impact populations that had never been in contact with these emerging agents before. Pregnant travelers are also at risk of infection with potential subsequent complications. Beyond that, these pathologies show the inequalities of access to care on a global scale in a context of demographic growth and increasing urbanization. It is essential to promote research, diagnostic tools, treatments, and vaccine development to address this emerging threat.Background The vulnerability of pregnant women and fetuses to emergent and re-emergent pathogens has been notably illustrated by the outbreaks of Zika virus. Our comprehension of the complete scope and consequences of these infections during pregnancy remains limited, particularly among those involved in perinatal healthcare, such as obstetricians and midwives. This review aims to provide the latest information and recommendations regarding the various risks, management, and prevention for pregnant women exposed to arboviral infections.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Najeh Hcini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West French Guiana Hospital Center, Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, French Guiana.
- CIC Inserm 1424 and DFR Santé Université Guyane, Cayenne, French Guiana, France.
| | - Véronique Lambert
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West French Guiana Hospital Center, Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, French Guiana
| | - Olivier Picone
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital Louis Mourier, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris Nord Val de Seine, Assistance Publique : Hôpitaux de Paris, Université Paris Diderot, CEDEX, Colombes, France
| | - Jean-Francois Carod
- Department of Biology, West French Guiana Hospital Center, Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, French Guiana
| | - Gabriel Carles
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West French Guiana Hospital Center, Saint-Laurent-du-Maroni, French Guiana
| | - Léo Pomar
- Materno-Fetal and Obstetrics Research Unit, Department "Woman-Mother-Child", Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Loïc Epelboin
- Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, Cayenne General Hospital, Cayenne, French Guiana, France
| | - Mathieu Nacher
- Centre d'Investigation Clinique Antilles Guyane, Inserm CIC1424, Centre Hospitalier de Cayenne, 97300, Cayenne, French Guiana
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Lwande OW, Näslund J, Sjödin A, Lantto R, Luande VN, Bucht G, Ahlm C, Agwanda B, Obanda V, Evander M. Novel strains of Culex flavivirus and Hubei chryso-like virus 1 from the Anopheles mosquito in western Kenya. Virus Res 2024; 339:199266. [PMID: 37944758 PMCID: PMC10682293 DOI: 10.1016/j.virusres.2023.199266] [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: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Surveillance of mosquito vectors is critical for early detection, prevention and control of vector borne diseases. In this study we used advanced molecular tools, such as DNA barcoding in combination with novel sequencing technologies to discover new and already known viruses in genetically identified mosquito species. Mosquitoes were captured using BG sentinel traps in Western Kenya during May and July 2019, and homogenized individually before pooled into groups of ten mosquitoes. The pools and individual samples were then used for molecular analysis and to infect cell cultures. Of a total of fifty-four (54) 10-pools, thirteen (13) showed cytopathic effect (CPE) on VeroB4 cells, eighteen (18) showed CPE on C6/36 cells. Eight (8) 10-pools out of the 31 CPE positive pools showed CPE on both VeroB4 and C6/36 cells. When using reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), Sanger sequencing and Twist Comprehensive Viral Research Panel (CVRP) (Twist Biosciences), all pools were found negative by RT-PCR when using genus specific primers targeting alphaviruses, orthobunyaviruses and virus specific primers towards o'nyong-nyong virus, chikungunya virus and Sindbis virus (previously reported to circulate in the region). Interestingly, five pools were RT-PCR positive for flavivirus. Two of the RT-PCR positive pools showed CPE on both VeroB4 and C6/36 cells, two pools showed CPE on C6/36 cells alone and one pool on VeroB4 cells only. Fifty individual mosquito homogenates from the five RT-PCR positive 10-pools were analyzed further for flavivirus RNA. Of these, 19 out of the 50 individual mosquito homogenates indicated the presence of flavivirus RNA. Barcoding of the flavivirus positive mosquitoes revealed the mosquito species as Aedes aegypti (1), Mansonia uniformis (6), Anopheles spp (3), Culex pipiens (5), Culex spp (1), Coquilletidia metallica (2) and Culex quinquefasciatus (1). Of the 19 flavivirus positive individual mosquitoes, five (5) virus positive homogenates were sequenced. Genome sequences of two viruses were completed. One was identified as the single-stranded RNA Culex flavivirus and the other as the double-stranded RNA Hubei chryso-like virus 1. Both viruses were found in the same Anopheles spp. homogenate extracted from a sample that showed CPE on both VeroB4 and C6/36 cells. The detection of both viruses in a single mosquito homogenate indicated coinfection. Phylogenetic analyses suggested that the Culex flavivirus sequence detected was closely related to a Culex flavivirus isolated from Uganda in 2008. All four Hubei chryso-like virus 1 segments clusters closely to Hubei chryso-like virus 1 strains isolated in Australia, China and USA. Two novel strains of insect-specific viruses in Anopheles mosquitoes were detected and characterized.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Wesula Lwande
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University, Umeå 901-85, Sweden; Umeå Centre for Microbial Research, Umeå University, Umeå 901-87, Sweden.
| | - Jonas Näslund
- Swedish Defence Research Agency, CBRN, Defence and Security, Umeå 901 82, Sweden
| | - Andreas Sjödin
- Swedish Defence Research Agency, CBRN, Defence and Security, Umeå 901 82, Sweden
| | - Rebecca Lantto
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University, Umeå 901-85, Sweden
| | | | - Göran Bucht
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University, Umeå 901-85, Sweden
| | - Clas Ahlm
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University, Umeå 901-85, Sweden; Umeå Centre for Microbial Research, Umeå University, Umeå 901-87, Sweden
| | - Bernard Agwanda
- Mammalogy Section, National Museums of Kenya, Nairobi 40658-00100, Kenya
| | - Vincent Obanda
- Department of Research Permitting and Compliance Wildlife Research and Training Institute, Naivasha 842-20117, Kenya
| | - Magnus Evander
- Department of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University, Umeå 901-85, Sweden; Umeå Centre for Microbial Research, Umeå University, Umeå 901-87, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Freeman TL, McElroy AK. Laboratory Animal Models for Rift Valley Fever Virus Disease. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2824:425-445. [PMID: 39039428 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3926-9_27] [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: 07/24/2024]
Abstract
Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is an arboviral pathogen of clinical and agricultural relevance. The ongoing development of targeted RVFV prophylactics and therapeutics is overwhelmingly dependent on animal models due to both natural, that is, sporadic outbreaks, and structural, for example, underresourcing of endemic regions, limitations in accessing human patient samples and cohorts. Elucidating mechanisms of viral pathogenesis and testing therapeutics is further complicated by the diverse manifestations of RVFV disease and the heterogeneity of the host response to infection. In this chapter, we describe major clinical manifestations of RVFV infection and discuss the laboratory animal models used to study each.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tracey L Freeman
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Infectious Disease, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- University of Pittsburgh Center for Vaccine Research, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Anita K McElroy
- University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Infectious Disease, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
- University of Pittsburgh Center for Vaccine Research, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Coler B, Cervantes O, Li M, Coler C, Li A, Shivakumar M, Every E, Schwartz D, Adams Waldorf KM. Common pathways targeted by viral hemorrhagic fever viruses to infect the placenta and increase the risk of stillbirth. Placenta 2023; 141:2-9. [PMID: 36939178 PMCID: PMC10102255 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2022.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Viral hemorrhagic fevers (VHF) are endemic to Africa, South America and Asia and contribute to significant maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Viruses causing VHFs are typically zoonotic, spreading to humans through livestock, wildlife, or mosquito vectors. Some of the most lethal VHF viruses also impart a high-risk of stillbirth including ebolaviruses, Marburg virus (MARV), Lassa virus (LASV), and Rift Valley Fever Virus (RVFV). Large outbreaks and epidemics are common, though the impact on the mother, fetus and placenta is understudied from a public health, clinical and basic science perspective. Notably, these viruses utilize ubiquitous cellular surface entry receptors critical for normal placental function to enable viral invasion into multiple key cell types of the placenta and set the stage for maternal-fetal transmission and stillbirth. We employ insights from molecular virology and viral immunology to discuss how trophoblast expression of viral entry receptors for VHF viruses may increase the risk for viral transmission to the fetus and stillbirth. As the frequency of VHF outbreaks is expected to increase with worsening climate change, understanding the pathogenesis of VHF-related diseases in the placenta is paramount to predicting the impact of emerging viruses on the placenta and perinatal outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brahm Coler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, WA, USA
| | - Orlando Cervantes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Miranda Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York City, NY, USA
| | | | - Amanda Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Case Western Reserve, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Megana Shivakumar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Emma Every
- School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | | | - Kristina M Adams Waldorf
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Nair N, Osterhaus ADME, Rimmelzwaan GF, Prajeeth CK. Rift Valley Fever Virus-Infection, Pathogenesis and Host Immune Responses. Pathogens 2023; 12:1174. [PMID: 37764982 PMCID: PMC10535968 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12091174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 09/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley Fever Virus is a mosquito-borne phlebovirus causing febrile or haemorrhagic illness in ruminants and humans. The virus can prevent the induction of the antiviral interferon response through its NSs proteins. Mutations in the NSs gene may allow the induction of innate proinflammatory immune responses and lead to attenuation of the virus. Upon infection, virus-specific antibodies and T cells are induced that may afford protection against subsequent infections. Thus, all arms of the adaptive immune system contribute to prevention of disease progression. These findings will aid the design of vaccines using the currently available platforms. Vaccine candidates have shown promise in safety and efficacy trials in susceptible animal species and these may contribute to the control of RVFV infections and prevention of disease progression in humans and ruminants.
Collapse
|
13
|
Chapman NS, Hulswit RJG, Westover JLB, Stass R, Paesen GC, Binshtein E, Reidy JX, Engdahl TB, Handal LS, Flores A, Gowen BB, Bowden TA, Crowe JE. Multifunctional human monoclonal antibody combination mediates protection against Rift Valley fever virus at low doses. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5650. [PMID: 37704627 PMCID: PMC10499838 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41171-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
The zoonotic Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) can cause severe disease in humans and has pandemic potential, yet no approved vaccine or therapy exists. Here we describe a dual-mechanism human monoclonal antibody (mAb) combination against RVFV that is effective at minimal doses in a lethal mouse model of infection. We structurally analyze and characterize the binding mode of a prototypical potent Gn domain-A-binding antibody that blocks attachment and of an antibody that inhibits infection by abrogating the fusion process as previously determined. Surprisingly, the Gn domain-A antibody does not directly block RVFV Gn interaction with the host receptor low density lipoprotein receptor-related protein 1 (LRP1) as determined by a competitive assay. This study identifies a rationally designed combination of human mAbs deserving of future investigation for use in humans against RVFV infection. Using a two-pronged mechanistic approach, we demonstrate the potent efficacy of a rationally designed combination mAb therapeutic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nathaniel S Chapman
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
- The Vanderbilt Vaccine Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Ruben J G Hulswit
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Jonna L B Westover
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT, 84322, USA
| | - Robert Stass
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Guido C Paesen
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK
| | - Elad Binshtein
- The Vanderbilt Vaccine Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Joseph X Reidy
- The Vanderbilt Vaccine Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Taylor B Engdahl
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
- The Vanderbilt Vaccine Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Laura S Handal
- The Vanderbilt Vaccine Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Alejandra Flores
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA
| | - Brian B Gowen
- Department of Animal, Dairy and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT, 84322, USA
| | - Thomas A Bowden
- Division of Structural Biology, Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, University of Oxford, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford, OX3 7BN, UK
| | - James E Crowe
- Department of Pathology, Microbiology, and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA.
- The Vanderbilt Vaccine Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA.
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, 37232, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Chiuya T, Fevre EM, Junglen S, Borgemeister C. Understanding knowledge, attitude and perception of Rift Valley fever in Baringo South, Kenya: A cross-sectional study. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0002195. [PMID: 37699003 PMCID: PMC10497146 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/14/2023]
Abstract
Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a mosquito-borne viral hemorrhagic disease that affects humans and livestock. In Kenya, the disease has spread to new areas like Baringo County, with a growing realization that the epidemiology of the virus may also include endemic transmission. Local knowledge of a disease in susceptible communities is a major driver of prevention and control efforts. A cross-sectional survey using a semi-structured questionnaire was conducted in five locations of Baringo South that had reported RVF cases during the last outbreak, to determine the knowledge, attitude and perception of the predominantly agro-pastoralist community to RVF. Knowledge of RVF clinical signs, transmission, risk factors and prevention all contributed to the total knowledge score. Additionally, the respondents' attitude was based on their awareness of the threat posed by RVF and preparedness to take appropriate measures in case of suspected infection. Out of the 300 respondents, 80% had heard about the disease, however, only 9.6% attained at least half of the total knowledge score on RVF. Nevertheless, 86% recognized the threat it posed and knew the appropriate action to take in suspected human and livestock cases (positive attitude). Factors significantly associated with a better knowledge of RVF included higher education level, being Maasai, higher socio-economic index, old age and history of RVF in household members and livestock. Being Maasai and a higher socio-economic index were significantly associated with a positive attitude. The low level of knowledge exhibited by the respondents could be due to progressive loss of interest and information associated with a prolonged inter-outbreak period. This calls for regular awareness campaigns. More emphasis should also be put on educating communities on the role played by the mosquito vector in the epidemiology of RVF. The most promising routes of disseminating this information are radio and community gatherings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tatenda Chiuya
- Centre for Development Research (ZEF), University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Eric M. Fevre
- International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Nairobi, Kenya
- Institute of Virology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Free University Berlin, Humboldt-University Berlin and Berlin Institute of Health, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sandra Junglen
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Leahurst Campus, Neston, United Kingdom
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Ali Y, Siddig EE, Mohamed N, Ahmed A. Rift Valley fever and malaria co-infection: A case report. Clin Case Rep 2023; 11:e7926. [PMID: 37731970 PMCID: PMC10507219 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.7926] [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: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Key Clinical Message We report a case of febrile illness that was presented with mild symptoms. However, laboratory investigation confirmed a malaria and Rift Valley fever co-infection. Healthcare providers in settings endemic with several infectious diseases should seek rolling out possibilities of other infections prior to starting treatment for achieving effective case management with less resources and better safety of patients. Abstract Here we report a case of febrile illness that confirmed to be a co-infection of malaria and Rift Valley fever. The patient was initially diagnosed with malaria and started on treatment immediately. However, due to the lack of response to the treatment further laboratory investigations were pursued.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yousif Ali
- Sudan Field Epidemiology Training, Health Emergencies and Epidemics Control General DirectorateSudan Federal Ministry of HealthKhartoumSudan
| | - Emmanuel Edwar Siddig
- Faculty of Medical Laboratory SciencesUniversity of KhartoumKhartoumSudan
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious DiseasesErasmus University Medical Center RotterdamRotterdamThe Netherlands
| | - Nouh Mohamed
- Molecular Biology UnitSirius Training and Research CentreKhartoumSudan
| | - Ayman Ahmed
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH)AllschwilSwitzerland
- Faculty of ScienceUniversity of BaselBaselSwitzerland
- Institute of Endemic DiseasesUniversity of KhartoumKhartoumSudan
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Ebogo‐Belobo JT, Kenmoe S, Abanda NN, Bowo‐Ngandji A, Mbaga DS, Magoudjou‐Pekam JN, Kame‐Ngasse GI, Tchatchouang S, Menkem EZ, Okobalemba EA, Noura EA, Meta‐Djomsi D, Maïdadi‐Foudi M, Kenfack‐Zanguim J, Kenfack‐Momo R, Kengne‐Nde C, Esemu SN, Mbacham WF, Sadeuh‐Mba SA, Ndip L, Njouom R. Contemporary epidemiological data of Rift Valley fever virus in humans, mosquitoes and other animal species in Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Vet Med Sci 2023; 9:2309-2328. [PMID: 37548116 PMCID: PMC10508527 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.1238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a severe zoonotic mosquito-borne disease that represents an important threat to human and animal health, with major public health and socioeconomic impacts. This disease is endemic throughout many African countries and the Arabian Peninsula. This systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted to determine the RVF prevalence in humans, mosquitoes and other animal species in Africa. The review also provides contemporary data on RVF case fatality rate (CFR) in humans. In this systematic review with meta-analysis, a comprehensive literature search was conducted on the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and Global Index Medicus databases from January 2000 to June 2022 to identify relevant studies. Pooled CFR and prevalence estimates were calculated using the random-effects model. Subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis were performed, and the I2 -statistic was used to investigate a potential source of heterogeneity. A total of 205 articles were included in the final analysis. The overall RVF CFR in humans was found to be 27.5% [95% CI = 8.0-52.5]. The overall pooled prevalence was 7.8% [95% CI = 6.2-9.6] in humans and 9.3% [95% CI = 8.1-10.6] in animals, respectively. The RVF prevalence in individual mosquitoes ranged from 0.0% to 25%. Subgroup analysis showed substantial heterogeneity with respect to geographical regions and human categories. The study shows that there is a correspondingly similar prevalence of RVF in human and animals; however, human CFR is much higher than the observed prevalence. The lack of a surveillance programme and the fact that this virus has subclinical circulation in animals and humans could explain these observations. The implementation of a One Health approach for RVF surveillance and control would be of great interest for human and animal health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean Thierry Ebogo‐Belobo
- Centre for Research on Health and Priority PathologiesInstitute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants StudiesYaoundeCameroon
- Department of BiochemistryFaculty of SciencesThe University of Yaounde IYaoundéCameroon
| | - Sebastien Kenmoe
- Department of Microbiology and ParasitologyUniversity of BueaBueaCameroon
| | - Ngu Njei Abanda
- Virology DepartmentCentre Pasteur of CameroonYaoundéCameroon
| | - Arnol Bowo‐Ngandji
- Department of MicrobiologyFaculty of SciencesThe University of Yaounde IYaoundéCameroon
| | - Donatien Serge Mbaga
- Department of MicrobiologyFaculty of SciencesThe University of Yaounde IYaoundéCameroon
| | | | - Ginette Irma Kame‐Ngasse
- Centre for Research on Health and Priority PathologiesInstitute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants StudiesYaoundeCameroon
| | | | | | | | - Efietngab Atembeh Noura
- Centre for Research on Health and Priority PathologiesInstitute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants StudiesYaoundeCameroon
| | - Dowbiss Meta‐Djomsi
- Research Centre on Emerging and Re‐Emerging DiseasesInstitute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants StudiesYaoundeCameroon
| | - Martin Maïdadi‐Foudi
- Research Centre on Emerging and Re‐Emerging DiseasesInstitute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants StudiesYaoundeCameroon
| | | | - Raoul Kenfack‐Momo
- Department of BiochemistryFaculty of SciencesThe University of Yaounde IYaoundéCameroon
| | - Cyprien Kengne‐Nde
- Epidemiological Surveillance, Evaluation and Research UnitNational AIDS Control CommitteeYaoundéCameroon
| | | | - Wilfred Fon Mbacham
- Department of BiochemistryFaculty of SciencesThe University of Yaounde IYaoundéCameroon
| | - Serge Alain Sadeuh‐Mba
- Virology DepartmentCentre Pasteur of CameroonYaoundéCameroon
- Maryland Department of AgricultureSalisbury Animal Health LaboratorySalisburyMarylandUSA
| | - Lucy Ndip
- Department of Microbiology and ParasitologyUniversity of BueaBueaCameroon
| | - Richard Njouom
- Virology DepartmentCentre Pasteur of CameroonYaoundéCameroon
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Jenkin D, Wright D, Folegatti PM, Platt A, Poulton I, Lawrie A, Tran N, Boyd A, Turner C, Gitonga JN, Karanja HK, Mugo D, Ewer KJ, Bowden TA, Gilbert SC, Charleston B, Kaleebu P, Hill AVS, Warimwe GM. Safety and immunogenicity of a ChAdOx1 vaccine against Rift Valley fever in UK adults: an open-label, non-randomised, first-in-human phase 1 clinical trial. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2023; 23:956-964. [PMID: 37060917 PMCID: PMC7614834 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(23)00068-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rift Valley fever is a viral epidemic illness prevalent in Africa that can be fatal or result in debilitating sequelae in humans. No vaccines are available for human use. We aimed to evaluate the safety and immunogenicity of a non-replicating simian adenovirus-vectored Rift Valley fever (ChAdOx1 RVF) vaccine in humans. METHODS We conducted a phase 1, first-in-human, open-label, dose-escalation trial in healthy adults aged 18-50 years at the Centre for Clinical Vaccinology and Tropical Medicine, Oxford, UK. Participants were required to have no serious comorbidities or previous history of receiving an adenovirus-based vaccine before enrolment. Participants were non-randomly allocated to receive a single ChAdOx1 RVF dose of either 5 × 109 virus particles (vp), 2·5 × 1010 vp, or 5 × 1010 vp administered intramuscularly into the deltoid of their non-dominant arm; enrolment was sequential and administration was staggered to allow for safety to be assessed before progression to the next dose. Primary outcome measures were assessment of adverse events and secondary outcome measures were Rift Valley fever neutralising antibody titres, Rift Valley fever GnGc-binding antibody titres (ELISA), and cellular response (ELISpot), analysed in all participants who received a vaccine. This trial is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04754776). FINDINGS Between June 11, 2021, and Jan 13, 2022, 15 volunteers received a single dose of either 5 × 109 vp (n=3), 2·5 × 1010 vp (n=6), or 5 × 1010 vp (n=6) ChAdOx1 RVF. Nine participants were female and six were male. 14 (93%) of 15 participants reported solicited local adverse reactions; injection-site pain was the most frequent (13 [87%] of 15). Ten (67%) of 15 participants (from the 2·5 × 1010 vp and 5 × 1010 vp groups only) reported systemic symptoms, which were mostly mild in intensity, the most common being headache (nine [60%] of 15) and fatigue (seven [47%]). All unsolicited adverse events reported within 28 days were either mild or moderate in severity; gastrointestinal symptoms were the most common reaction (at least possibly related to vaccination), occurring in four (27%) of 15 participants. Transient decreases in total white cell, lymphocyte, or neutrophil counts occurred at day 2 in some participants in the intermediate-dose and high-dose groups. Lymphopenia graded as severe occurred in two participants in the 5 × 1010 vp group at a single timepoint, but resolved at the subsequent follow-up visit. No serious adverse events occurred. Rift Valley fever neutralising antibodies were detectable across all dose groups, with all participants in the 5 × 1010 vp dose group having high neutralising antibody titres that peaked at day 28 after vaccination and persisted through the 3-month follow-up. High titres of binding IgG targeting Gc glycoprotein were detected whereas those targeting Gn were comparatively low. IFNγ cellular responses against Rift Valley fever Gn and Gc glycoproteins were observed in all participants except one in the 5 × 1010 vp dose group. These IFNγ responses peaked at 2 weeks after vaccination, were highest in the 5 × 1010 vp dose group, and tended to be more frequent against the Gn glycoprotein. INTERPRETATION ChAdOx1 RVF was safe, well tolerated, and immunogenic when administered as a single dose in this study population. The data support further clinical development of ChAdOx1 RVF for human use. FUNDING UK Department of Health and Social Care through the UK Vaccines Network, Oak Foundation, and the Wellcome Trust. TRANSLATION For the Swahili translation of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Jenkin
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Daniel Wright
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Department of Paediatrics, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Abigail Platt
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Ian Poulton
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Alison Lawrie
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Nguyen Tran
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Amy Boyd
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Cheryl Turner
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - John N Gitonga
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Henry K Karanja
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Daisy Mugo
- Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Katie J Ewer
- The Jenner Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Thomas A Bowden
- Wellcome Centre for Human Genetics, Division of Structural Biology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Sarah C Gilbert
- Chinese Academy of Medical Science Oxford Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Pandemic Sciences Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Pontiano Kaleebu
- Medical Research Council-Uganda Virus Research Institute and The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | - George M Warimwe
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK; Kenya Medical Research Institute-Wellcome Trust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
McMillen CM, Chapman NS, Hoehl RM, Skvarca LB, Schwarz MM, Handal LS, Crowe JE, Hartman AL. A highly potent human neutralizing antibody prevents vertical transmission of Rift Valley fever virus in a rat model. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4507. [PMID: 37495594 PMCID: PMC10372071 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40187-z] [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: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is an emerging mosquito-transmitted virus that circulates in livestock and humans in Africa and the Middle East. Outbreaks lead to high rates of miscarriages in domesticated livestock. Women are also at risk of vertical virus transmission and late-term miscarriages. MAb RVFV-268 is a highly potent recombinant neutralizing human monoclonal antibody that targets RVFV. Here we show that mAb RVFV-268 reduces viral replication in rat placenta explant cultures and prevents vertical transmission in a rat model of congenital RVF. Passive transfer of mAb RVFV-268 from mother to fetus occurs as early as 6 h after administration and persists through 24 h. Administering mAb RVFV-268 2 h prior to RVFV challenge or 24 h post-challenge protects the dams and offspring from RVFV infection. These findings support mAb RVFV-268 as a pre- and post-infection treatment to subvert RVFV infection and vertical transmission, thus protecting the mother and offspring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia M McMillen
- University of Pittsburgh, Center for Vaccine Research, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- University of Pittsburgh, Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Nathaniel S Chapman
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Ryan M Hoehl
- University of Pittsburgh, Center for Vaccine Research, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Lauren B Skvarca
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Magee-Womens Hospital, Department of Pathology, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Madeline M Schwarz
- University of Pittsburgh, Center for Vaccine Research, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
- University of Pittsburgh, Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Laura S Handal
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt Vaccine Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - James E Crowe
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Nashville, TN, USA.
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Vanderbilt Vaccine Center, Nashville, TN, USA.
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, Nashville, TN, USA.
| | - Amy L Hartman
- University of Pittsburgh, Center for Vaccine Research, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
- University of Pittsburgh, Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Bisom TC, Smelser H, Lanchy JM, Lodmell JS. Alternative Splicing of RIOK3 Engages the Noncanonical NFκB Pathway during Rift Valley Fever Virus Infection. Viruses 2023; 15:1566. [PMID: 37515252 PMCID: PMC10383813 DOI: 10.3390/v15071566] [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: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the noncanonical NFκB pathway was originally identified as a cellular pathway contributing to lymphoid organogenesis, in the past 20 years, its involvement in innate immunity has become more appreciated. In particular, the noncanonical NFκB pathway has been found to be activated and even exploited by some RNA viruses during infection. Intriguingly, activation of this pathway has been shown to have a role in disrupting transcription of type 1 interferon (IFN), suggesting a rationale for why this response could be co-opted by some viruses. Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is a trisegmented ambisense RNA virus that poses a considerable threat to domestic livestock and human health. Previously, we showed the atypical kinase RIOK3 is important for mounting an IFN response to RVFV infection of human epithelial cells, and shortly following infection with RVFV (MP12 strain), RIOK3 mRNA is alternatively spliced to its X2 isoform that encodes a truncated RIOK3 protein. Alternative splicing of RIOK3 mRNA has an inhibitory effect on the IFN response but also stimulates an NFκB-mediated inflammatory response. Here, we demonstrate alternative splicing of RIOK3 mRNA is associated with activation of the noncanonical NFκB pathway and suggest this pathway is co-opted by RVFV (MP12) to enhance viral success during infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Charles Bisom
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59801, USA
| | - Hope Smelser
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59801, USA
| | - Jean-Marc Lanchy
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59801, USA
| | - J Stephen Lodmell
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59801, USA
- Center for Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59801, USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Ahmed EM, Boseila AA, Hanora AS, Solyman SM. Antiviral and protective effect of small interfering RNAs against rift valley fever virus in vitro. Mol Biol Rep 2023:10.1007/s11033-023-08455-9. [PMID: 37231214 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-023-08455-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rift Valley Fever Virus (RVFV) is an arbovirus, a zoonotic disease that resurfaces as a potential hazard beyond geographic boundaries. Fever that can proceed to encephalitis, retinitis, hemorrhagic fever, and death is the main manifestation observed in human infections. RVFV has no authorized medication. The RNA interference (RNAi) gene silencing pathway is extremely well conserved. By targeting specific genes, small interfering RNA (siRNA) can be used to suppress viral replication. The aim of this study was to design specific siRNAs against RVFV and evaluate their prophylactic and antiviral effects on the Vero cells. METHODS AND RESULTS Various siRNAs were designed using different bioinformatics tools. Three unique candidates were tested against an Egyptian sheep cell culture-adapted strain BSL-2 that suppressed RVFV N mRNA expression. SiRNAs were transfected a day before RVFV infection (pre-transfection), and 1 h after the viral infection (post-transfection), and were evaluated to detect the silencing activity and gene expression decrease using real-time PCR and a TCID50 endpoint test. The degree of N protein expression was determined by western blot 48 h after viral infection. D2 which targets the (488-506 nucleotides), the middle region of RVFV N mRNA was the most effective siRNA at 30 nM concentration, it almost eliminates N mRNA expression when utilized as antiviral or preventive therapy. siRNAs had a stronger antiviral silencing impact when they were post-transfected into Vero cells. CONCLUSION Pre and post-transfection of siRNAs significantly reduced RVFV titer in cell lines, offering novel and potentially effective anti-RVFV epidemics and epizootics therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Engy M Ahmed
- Egyptian Drug Authority (EDA), Giza, Egypt
- Microbiology & Immunology Department, College of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | | | - Amro S Hanora
- Microbiology & Immunology Department, College of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt.
| | - Samar M Solyman
- Microbiology & Immunology Department, College of Pharmacy, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
- Microbiology & Immunology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Sinai University Kantara branch, Ismailia, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Kampango A, Pinto J, Abílio AP, Machoe E, Matusse J, McCall PJ. Characterisation of human exposure to nocturnal biting by malaria and arbovirus vectors in a rural community in Chókwè district, southern Mozambique. Wellcome Open Res 2023; 8:193. [PMID: 37484481 PMCID: PMC10357080 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.19278.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Understanding the magnitude of human exposure to mosquito biting is fundamental to reduce pathogen transmission. Here we report on a study quantifying the levels of mosquitoes attacking humans throughout the night in a rural area of Southern Mozambique. Methods: Surveys were carried out in Massavasse village, southern Mozambique. The abundance and composition of host-seeking mosquito communities at night were assessed by human-landing catches (HLC) at one-hour intervals. Periods when people were located predominantly outdoors or indoors were used to estimate the amount of residents' exposure to mosquito bites in either location, to explore the potential impact a bed net could have had in reducing biting by each vector species. Results: A total of 69,758 host-seeking female mosquitoes comprising 23 species in four genera were collected. The exposure to biting by virtually all vector species was consistently high outdoors, typically at early evening and morning, with exception of An. gambiae s.l which was likely of biting a person with nearly same intensity indoors and outdoors throughout the night. Bed nets use could have reduced biting by An. gambiae s.l (dominated by An. arabiensis), Ma. africana, Ma. uniformis, Cx. pipiens, Cx. antennatus, and Cx. poicilipes by 53%, 47%, 46%, 38%, 31%, and 28% respectively, compared to non-users. Conversely, a bed net user would have had little protection against An. pharoensis, An. ziemanni, An. tenebrosus, and Cx. tritaeniorhynchus biting exposures. Conclusions: This study showed that Massavasse residents were exposed to high levels of outdoor biting by malaria and arbovirus vectors that abound in the village. The findings help to identify entomological drivers of persistent malaria transmission in Mozambique and identify a wide range of arbovirus vectors nocturnally active in rural areas, many with outbreak potential. The study highlights the need for a surveillance system for monitoring arboviral diseases vectors in Mozambique.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ayubo Kampango
- Sector de Estudo de Vectores, Instituto Nacional de Saúde (INS), Maputo, Villa de Marracuene EN1, Plot 3943, Mozambique
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, Hatfield, 0028, South Africa
| | - João Pinto
- Global Health and Tropical Medicine, Institute of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (IHMT), Lisbon, Rua da Junqueira, 100 1349-008, Portugal
| | - Ana Paula Abílio
- Sector de Estudo de Vectores, Instituto Nacional de Saúde (INS), Maputo, Villa de Marracuene EN1, Plot 3943, Mozambique
| | - Elias Machoe
- Sector de Estudo de Vectores, Instituto Nacional de Saúde (INS), Maputo, Villa de Marracuene EN1, Plot 3943, Mozambique
| | - Júlio Matusse
- Sector de Estudo de Vectores, Instituto Nacional de Saúde (INS), Maputo, Villa de Marracuene EN1, Plot 3943, Mozambique
| | - Philip J. McCall
- Vector Biology Department, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM), Liverpool, Pembroke Place, L3 5QA, UK
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Hao M, Bian T, Fu G, Chen Y, Fang T, Zhao C, Liu S, Yu C, Li J, Chen W. An adenovirus-vectored RVF vaccine confers complete protection against lethal RVFV challenge in A129 mice. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1114226. [PMID: 36925463 PMCID: PMC10011166 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1114226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Instruction: Rift valley fever virus (RVFV) is a mosquito-transmitted bunyavirus that causes severe disease in animals and humans. Nevertheless, there are no vaccines applied to prevent RVFV infection for human at present. Therefore, it is necessary to develop a safe and effective RVFV vaccine. Methods: We generated Ad5-GnGcopt, a replication-deficient recombinant Ad5 vector (human adenovirus serotype 5) expressing codon-optimized RVFV glycoproteins Gn and Gc, and evaluated its immunogenicity and protective efficacy in mice. Results and Discussion: Intramuscular immunization of Ad5-GnGcopt in mice induces strong and durable antibody production and robust cellular immune responses. Additionally, a single vaccination with Ad5-GnGcopt vaccination can completely protect interferon-α/β receptor-deficient A129 mice from lethal RVFV infection. Our work indicates that Ad5-GnGcopt might represent a potential vaccine candidate against RVFV. However, further research is needed, first to confirm its efficacy in a natural animal host, and ultimately escalate as a potential vaccine candidate for humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Meng Hao
- Vaccine and Antibody Engineer Laboratory, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, China
| | - Ting Bian
- Vaccine and Antibody Engineer Laboratory, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, China
| | - Guangcheng Fu
- Vaccine and Antibody Engineer Laboratory, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, China
| | - Yi Chen
- Vaccine and Antibody Engineer Laboratory, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, China
| | - Ting Fang
- Vaccine and Antibody Engineer Laboratory, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, China
| | - Chuanyi Zhao
- Vaccine and Antibody Engineer Laboratory, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, China
| | - Shuling Liu
- Vaccine and Antibody Engineer Laboratory, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, China
| | - Changming Yu
- Vaccine and Antibody Engineer Laboratory, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, China
| | - Jianmin Li
- Vaccine and Antibody Engineer Laboratory, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, China.,Frontier Biotechnology Laboratory, Zhejiang University-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Vaccine and Antibody Engineer Laboratory, Beijing Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
McMillen CM, Boyles DA, Kostadinov SG, Hoehl RM, Schwarz MM, Albe JR, Demers MJ, Hartman AL. Congenital Rift Valley fever in Sprague Dawley rats is associated with diffuse infection and pathology of the placenta. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010898. [PMID: 36315601 PMCID: PMC9648853 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a disease of animals and humans associated with abortions in ruminants and late-gestation miscarriages in women. Here, we use a rat model of congenital RVF to identify tropisms, pathologies, and immune responses in the placenta during vertical transmission. Infection of late-gestation pregnant rats resulted in vertical transmission to the placenta and widespread infection throughout the decidua, basal zone, and labyrinth zone. Some pups from infected dams appeared normal while others had gross signs of teratogenicity including death. Histopathological lesions were detected in placenta from pups regardless of teratogenicity, while teratogenic pups had widespread hemorrhage throughout multiple placenta layers. Teratogenic events were associated with significant increases in placental pro-inflammatory cytokines, type I interferons, and chemokines. RVFV displays a high degree of tropism for all placental tissue layers and the degree of hemorrhage and inflammatory mediator production is highest in placenta from pups with adverse outcomes. Given the potential for RVFV to emerge in new locations and the recent evidence of emerging viruses, like Zika and SARS-CoV-2, to undergo vertical transmission, this study provides essential understanding regarding the mechanisms by which RVFV crosses the placenta barrier. Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) infections cause human health and economical burdens given its ability to induce high rates of abortions in ruminants and possible contributions towards late-term miscarriages in women. In this study, we have identified important structures in the placenta targeted by this emerging bunyavirus. Inflammation was associated with more severe fetal outcomes such as death and fetal deformities. The striking similarities between the pathologies of the placenta in the rat model of congenital RVF and those observed in naturally infected ruminants highlight the utility of this rodent model. These findings may be further translated towards understanding the mechanisms involved in vertical transmission of RVFV in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cynthia M. McMillen
- Center for Vaccine Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Devin A. Boyles
- Center for Vaccine Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Stefan G. Kostadinov
- Department of Pathology, Magee Women’s Hospital of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Ryan M. Hoehl
- Center for Vaccine Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Madeline M. Schwarz
- Center for Vaccine Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Joseph R. Albe
- Center for Vaccine Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Matthew J. Demers
- Center for Vaccine Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Amy L. Hartman
- Center for Vaccine Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Campbell CL, Snell TK, Bennett S, Wyckoff JH, Heaslip D, Flatt J, Harris EK, Hartman DA, Lian E, Bird BH, Stenglein MD, Bowen RA, Kading RC. Safety study of Rift Valley Fever human vaccine candidate (DDVax) in mosquitoes. Transbound Emerg Dis 2022; 69:2621-2633. [PMID: 34890118 PMCID: PMC9788258 DOI: 10.1111/tbed.14415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is a mosquito-borne pathogen with significant human and veterinary health consequences that periodically emerges in epizootics. RVFV causes fetal loss and death in ruminants and in humans can lead to liver and renal disease, delayed-onset encephalitis, retinitis, and in some cases severe haemorrhagic fever. A live attenuated vaccine candidate (DDVax), was developed by the deletion of the virulence factors NSs and NSm from a clinical isolate, ZH501, and has proven safe and immunogenic in rodents, pregnant sheep and non-human primates. Deletion of NSm also severely restricted mosquito midgut infection and inhibited vector-borne transmission. To demonstrate environmental safety, this study investigated the replication, dissemination and transmission efficiency of DDVax in mosquitoes following oral exposure compared to RVFV strains MP-12 and ZH501. Infection and dissemination profiles were also measured in mosquitoes 7 days after they fed on goats inoculated with DDvax or MP-12. We hypothesized that DDVax would infect mosquitoes at significantly lower rates than other RVFV strains and, due to lack of NSm, be transmission incompetent. Exposure of Ae. aegypti and Cx. tarsalis to 8 log10 plaque forming units (PFU)/ml DDVax by artificial bloodmeal resulted in significantly reduced DDVax infection rates in mosquito bodies compared to controls. Plaque assays indicated negligible transmission of infectious DDVax in Cx. tarsalis saliva (1/140 sampled) and none in Ae. aegypti saliva (0/120). Serum from goats inoculated with DDVax or MP-12 did not harbour detectable infectious virus by plaque assay at 1, 2 or 3 days post-inoculation. Infectious virus was, however, recovered from Aedes and Culex bodies that fed on goats vaccinated with MP-12 (13.8% and 4.6%, respectively), but strikingly, DDvax-positive mosquito bodies were greatly reduced (4%, and 0%, respectively). Furthermore, DDVax did not disseminate to legs/wings in any of the goat-fed mosquitoes. Collectively, these results are consistent with a beneficial environmental safety profile.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Corey L. Campbell
- Department of MicrobiologyImmunology, and PathologyCenter for Vector‐Borne Infectious DiseasesColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColorado
| | - Trey K. Snell
- Department of MicrobiologyImmunology, and PathologyCenter for Vector‐Borne Infectious DiseasesColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColorado
| | - Susi Bennett
- Department of MicrobiologyImmunology, and PathologyCenter for Vector‐Borne Infectious DiseasesColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColorado
| | - John H. Wyckoff
- BioMARC, Infectious Diseases Research Center, Colorado State UniversityFort CollinsColorado
| | - Darragh Heaslip
- BioMARC, Infectious Diseases Research Center, Colorado State UniversityFort CollinsColorado
| | - Jordan Flatt
- BioMARC, Infectious Diseases Research Center, Colorado State UniversityFort CollinsColorado
| | - Emma K. Harris
- Department of MicrobiologyImmunology, and PathologyCenter for Vector‐Borne Infectious DiseasesColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColorado
| | - Daniel A. Hartman
- Department of MicrobiologyImmunology, and PathologyCenter for Vector‐Borne Infectious DiseasesColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColorado
| | - Elena Lian
- Department of MicrobiologyImmunology, and PathologyCenter for Vector‐Borne Infectious DiseasesColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColorado
| | - Brian H. Bird
- School of Veterinary MedicineOne Health InstituteUniversity of CaliforniaDavisCalifornia
| | - Mark D. Stenglein
- Department of MicrobiologyImmunology, and PathologyCenter for Vector‐Borne Infectious DiseasesColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColorado
| | - Richard A. Bowen
- Department of MicrobiologyImmunology, and PathologyCenter for Vector‐Borne Infectious DiseasesColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColorado
| | - Rebekah C. Kading
- Department of MicrobiologyImmunology, and PathologyCenter for Vector‐Borne Infectious DiseasesColorado State UniversityFort CollinsColorado
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Seroprevalence of Rift Valley fever virus in domestic ruminants of various origins in two markets of Yaoundé, Cameroon. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010683. [PMID: 35951644 PMCID: PMC9397978 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2022] [Revised: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a mosquito-borne zoonosis endemic in Africa. With little known of the burden or epidemiology of RVF virus (RVFV) in Cameroon, this study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of RVFV in domestic ruminants of various origins in two markets of Yaoundé, Cameroon. Methodology/Principal findings The origin of animals randomly sampled at two livestock markets in Yaoundé were recorded and plasma samples collected for competitive and capture Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) to determine the prevalence of Immunoglobulins G (IgG) and Immunoglobulins M (IgM) antibodies. Following ELISA IgM results, a real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was performed to detect RVFV RNA. In June-August 2019, February-March 2020, and March-April 2021, 756 plasma samples were collected from 441 cattle, 168 goats, and 147 sheep. RVFV IgG seroprevalence was 25.7% for all animals, 42.2% in cattle, 2.7% in sheep, and 2.4% in goats. However, IgM seroprevalence was low, at 0.9% in all animals, 1.1% in cattle, 1.4% in sheep, and 0% in goats. The seroprevalence rates varied according to the animal’s origin with the highest rate (52.6%) in cattle from Sudan. In Cameroon, IgG and IgM rates respectively were 45.1% and 2.8% in the North, 44.8% and 0% in the Adamawa, 38.6% and 1.7% in the Far-North. All IgM positive samples were from Cameroon. In cattle, 2/5 IgM positive samples were also IgG positive, but both IgM positive samples in sheep were IgG negative. Three (42.9%) IgM positive samples were positive for viral RVFV RNA using qRT-PCR but given the high ct values, no amplicon was obtained. Conclusion/Significance These findings confirm the circulation of RVFV in livestock in Cameroon with prevalence rates varying by location. Despite low IgM seroprevalence rates, RVF outbreaks can occur without being noticed. Further epidemiological studies are needed to have a broad understanding of RVFV transmission in Cameroon.
Collapse
|
26
|
Kainga H, Mponela J, Basikolo L, Phonera MC, Mpundu P, Munyeme M, Simulundu E, Saasa N. Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices towards Rift Valley Fever among Livestock Farmers in Selected Districts of Malawi. Trop Med Infect Dis 2022; 7:tropicalmed7080167. [PMID: 36006259 PMCID: PMC9415226 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed7080167] [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: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a mosquito-borne viral zoonosis whose cases go unreported in endemic areas without active surveillance. Information on the knowledge, attitude, and practice of RVF among livestock farmers remains speculative in Malawi. A cross-section survey using a semi-structured questionnaire (n = 400) was conducted in eight districts of Malawi to capture information on knowledge, attitude, and management practices (KAP) regarding RVF. The average KAP score was calculated from total scores for knowledge, attitude, and practices and then assessed. The association between the level of knowledge and factors of knowledge, factors of attitude, and factors of practices was determined using Pearson chi-square. Multivariate analysis was used to determine the predictors of knowledge. Participants had an overall poor knowledge (score = 17.94%), negative attitude (score = 9.40%), and poor management practices (score = 41.23%) towards RVF. Only 8.25% (33/400) of participants had sufficient knowledge of RVF. The study found that the cause of abortion (OR: 3.86 (95% CI: 1.14–13.05)) (p = 0.030) and knowledge on transmission of RVFV (OR: 5.65 (95% CI: 1.76–18.12)) (p = 0.004) were predictors of insufficient knowledge of RVF. The current study reported that participants had insufficient knowledge and a negative attitude despite displaying limited management practices towards RVF. Therefore, this study recommends community sensitization to RVF and advocates for the importance of reporting suspected cases to relevant authorities for proper management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Henson Kainga
- Department of Veterinary Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Lilongwe 207203, Malawi
- Department of Disease Control, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
- Correspondence: or
| | - James Mponela
- Department of Animal Health and Livestock Development, Ministry of Agriculture, Lilongwe 207203, Malawi
| | - Linda Basikolo
- Department of Animal Health and Livestock Development, Ministry of Agriculture, Lilongwe 207203, Malawi
| | - Marvin Collen Phonera
- Department of Animal Health and Livestock Development, Ministry of Agriculture, Lilongwe 207203, Malawi
| | - Prudence Mpundu
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Levy Mwanawasa Medical University, Lusaka 33991, Zambia
| | - Muso Munyeme
- Department of Disease Control, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
| | - Edgar Simulundu
- Department of Disease Control, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
- Macha Research Trust, Choma 20100, Zambia
| | - Ngonda Saasa
- Department of Disease Control, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Safety and immunogenicity of four-segmented Rift Valley fever virus in the common marmoset. NPJ Vaccines 2022; 7:54. [PMID: 35585071 PMCID: PMC9117246 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-022-00476-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is an emerging mosquito-borne bunyavirus that is highly pathogenic to wild and domesticated ruminants, camelids, and humans. While animals are exclusively infected via mosquito bites, humans can also be infected via contact with contaminated tissues or blood. No human vaccine is available and commercialized veterinary vaccines do not optimally combine efficacy with safety. We previously reported the development of two novel live-attenuated RVF vaccines, created by splitting the M genome segment and deleting the major virulence determinant NSs. The vaccine candidates, referred to as the veterinary vaccine vRVFV-4s and the human vaccine hRVFV-4s, were shown to induce protective immunity in multiple species after a single vaccination. Anticipating accidental exposure of humans to the veterinary vaccine and the application of hRVFV-4s to humans, the safety of each vaccine was evaluated in the most susceptible nonhuman primate model, the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus). Marmosets were inoculated with high doses of each vaccine and were monitored for clinical signs as well as for vaccine virus dissemination, shedding, and spreading to the environment. To accurately assess the attenuation of both vaccine viruses, separate groups of marmosets were inoculated with the parent wild-type RVFV strains. Both wild-type strains induced high viremia and disseminated to primary target organs, associated with mild-to-severe morbidity. In contrast, both vaccines were well tolerated with no evidence of dissemination and shedding while inducing potent neutralizing antibody responses. The results of the studies support the unprecedented safety profile of both vaccines for animals and humans.
Collapse
|
28
|
Eckstein S, Ehmann R, Gritli A, Ben Rhaiem M, Ben Yahia H, Diehl M, Wölfel R, Handrick S, Ben Moussa M, Stoecker K. Viral and Bacterial Zoonotic Agents in Dromedary Camels from Southern Tunisia: A Seroprevalence Study. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10040727. [PMID: 35456778 PMCID: PMC9028256 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10040727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
The rapid spread of SARS-CoV-2 clearly demonstrated the potential of zoonotic diseases to cause severe harm to public health. Having limited access to medical care combined with severe underreporting and a lack of active surveillance, Africa carries a high burden of neglected zoonotic diseases. Therefore, the epidemiological monitoring of pathogen circulation is essential. Recently, we found extensive Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) prevalence in free-roaming dromedary camels from southern Tunisia. In this study, we aimed to investigate the seroprevalence, and thus the risk posed to public health, of two additional viral and two bacterial pathogens in Tunisian dromedaries: Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV), foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV), Coxiella burnetii and Brucella spp. via ELISA. With 73.6% seropositivity, most animals had previously been exposed to the causative agent of Q fever, C. burnetii. Additionally, 7.4% and 1.0% of the dromedaries had antibodies against Brucella and RVFV, respectively, while no evidence was found for the occurrence of FMDV. Our studies revealed considerable immunological evidence of various pathogens within Tunisian dromedary camels. Since these animals have intense contact with humans, they pose a high risk of transmitting serious zoonotic diseases during active infection. The identification of appropriate countermeasures is therefore highly desirable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Simone Eckstein
- Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology (IMB), 80937 Munich, Germany; (R.E.); (M.D.); (R.W.); (S.H.); (K.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-992692-3990
| | - Rosina Ehmann
- Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology (IMB), 80937 Munich, Germany; (R.E.); (M.D.); (R.W.); (S.H.); (K.S.)
| | - Abderraouf Gritli
- Veterinary Service, General Directorate of Military Health, Ministry of National Defense, Tunis 1000, Tunisia; (A.G.); (M.B.R.); (H.B.Y.)
| | - Mohamed Ben Rhaiem
- Veterinary Service, General Directorate of Military Health, Ministry of National Defense, Tunis 1000, Tunisia; (A.G.); (M.B.R.); (H.B.Y.)
| | - Houcine Ben Yahia
- Veterinary Service, General Directorate of Military Health, Ministry of National Defense, Tunis 1000, Tunisia; (A.G.); (M.B.R.); (H.B.Y.)
| | - Manuel Diehl
- Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology (IMB), 80937 Munich, Germany; (R.E.); (M.D.); (R.W.); (S.H.); (K.S.)
| | - Roman Wölfel
- Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology (IMB), 80937 Munich, Germany; (R.E.); (M.D.); (R.W.); (S.H.); (K.S.)
| | - Susann Handrick
- Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology (IMB), 80937 Munich, Germany; (R.E.); (M.D.); (R.W.); (S.H.); (K.S.)
| | - Mohamed Ben Moussa
- Department of Virology, Military Hospital of Instruction of Tunis, Tunis 1008, Tunisia;
| | - Kilian Stoecker
- Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology (IMB), 80937 Munich, Germany; (R.E.); (M.D.); (R.W.); (S.H.); (K.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Islam K, Carlsson M, Enquist PA, Qian W, Marttila M, Strand M, Ahlm C, Evander M. Structural Modifications and Biological Evaluations of Rift Valley Fever Virus Inhibitors Identified from Chemical Library Screening. ACS OMEGA 2022; 7:6854-6868. [PMID: 35252679 PMCID: PMC8892858 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c06513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is an emerging high-priority pathogen endemic in Africa with pandemic potential. There is no specific treatment or approved antiviral drugs for the RVFV. We previously developed a cell-based high-throughput assay to screen small molecules targeting the RVFV and identified a potential effective antiviral compound (1-N-(2-(biphenyl-4-yloxy)ethyl)propane-1,3-diamine) as a lead compound. Here, we investigated how structural modifications of the lead compound affected the biological properties and the antiviral effect against the RVFV. We found that the length of the 2-(3-aminopropylamino)ethyl chain of the compound was important for the compound to retain its antiviral activity. The antiviral activity was similar when the 2-(3-aminopropylamino)ethyl chain was replaced with a butyl piperazine chain. However, we could improve the cytotoxicity profile of the lead compound by changing the phenyl piperazine linker from the para-position (compound 9a) to the meta-position (compound 13a). Results from time-of-addition studies suggested that compound 13a might be active during virus post-entry and/or the replication phase of the virus life cycle and seemed to affect the K+ channel. The modifications improved the properties of our lead compound, and our data suggest that 13a is a promising candidate to evaluate further as a therapeutic agent for RVFV infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Koushikul Islam
- Department
of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University, Umeå 901 85, Sweden
| | - Marcus Carlsson
- Department
of Chemistry, Umeå University, Umeå 901 87, Sweden
| | | | - Weixing Qian
- Department
of Chemistry, Umeå University, Umeå 901 87, Sweden
| | - Marko Marttila
- Department
of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University, Umeå 901 85, Sweden
| | - Mårten Strand
- Department
of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University, Umeå 901 85, Sweden
| | - Clas Ahlm
- Department
of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University, Umeå 901 85, Sweden
| | - Magnus Evander
- Department
of Clinical Microbiology, Umeå University, Umeå 901 85, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Heydarifard Z, Zadheidar S, Yavarian J, Shatizadeh Malekshahi S, Kalantari S, Mokhtari-Azad T, Shafiei-Jandaghi NZ. Potential role of viral infections in miscarriage and insights into the underlying molecular mechanisms. Congenit Anom (Kyoto) 2022; 62:54-67. [PMID: 34961973 DOI: 10.1111/cga.12458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Intrauterine viruses can infect the decidua and placenta and cause adverse effects on the fetus during gestation. This review discusses the contribution of various viral infections to miscarriage and the molecular mechanisms by which viruses can cause devastating effects on healthy fetuses and induce miscarriage. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 as newly emerged coronavirus was considered here, due to the concerns about its role during pregnancy and inducing miscarriage, as well. In this narrative review, an extensive literature search was conducted to find all studies investigating viral infections in miscarriage and their molecular mechanisms published over the past 20 years. The results of various studies investigating the roles of 20 viral infections in miscarriage are presented. Then, the mechanisms of pregnancy loss in viral infections were addressed, including alteration of trophoblast invasion and placental dysfunction, inducing excessive maternal immune response, and inducing apoptosis in the placental tissue. Viruses may cause pregnancy loss through different mechanisms and our knowledge about these mechanisms can be helpful for controlling or preventing viral infections and achieving a successful pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Heydarifard
- Virology Department, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Sevrin Zadheidar
- Virology Department, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Jila Yavarian
- Virology Department, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Shirin Kalantari
- Virology Department, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Talat Mokhtari-Azad
- Virology Department, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Anywaine Z, Lule SA, Hansen C, Warimwe G, Elliott A. Clinical manifestations of Rift Valley fever in humans: Systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010233. [PMID: 35333856 PMCID: PMC8986116 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rift Valley fever (RVF) is an emerging, neglected, mosquito-borne viral zoonosis associated with significant morbidity, mortality and expanding geographical scope. The clinical signs and symptoms in humans are non-specific and case definitions vary. We reviewed and analysed the clinical manifestations of RVF in humans. METHODS In this systematic review and meta-analysis we searched on different dates, the Embase (from 1947 to 13th October 2019), Medline (1946 to 14th October 2019), Global Health (1910 to 15th October 2019), and Web of Science (1970 to 15th October 2019) databases. Studies published in English, reporting frequency of symptoms in humans, and laboratory confirmed RVF were included. Animal studies, studies among asymptomatic volunteers, and single case reports for which a proportion could not be estimated, were excluded. Quality assessment was done using a modified Hoy and Brooks et al tool, data was extracted, and pooled frequency estimates calculated using random effects meta-analysis. RESULTS Of the 3765 articles retrieved, less than 1% (32 articles) were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. Nine RVF clinical syndromes were reported including the general febrile, renal, gastrointestinal, hepatic, haemorrhagic, visual, neurological, cardio-pulmonary, and obstetric syndromes. The most common clinical manifestations included fever (81%; 95% Confidence Interval (CI) 69-91; [26 studies, 1286 patients]), renal failure (41%; 23-59; [4, 327]), nausea (38%; 12-67; [6, 325]), jaundice (26%; 16-36; [15, 393]), haemorrhagic disease (26%; 17-36; [16, 277]), partial blindness (24%; 7-45; [11, 225]), encephalitis (21%; 11-33; [4, 327]), cough (4%; 0-17; [4, 11]), and miscarriage (54%) respectively. Death occurred in 21% (95% CI 14-29; [16 studies, 328 patients]) of cases, most of whom were hospitalised. DISCUSSION This study delineates the complex symptomatology of human RVF disease into syndromes. This approach is likely to improve case definitions and detection rates, impact outbreak control, increase public awareness about RVF, and subsequently inform 'one-health' policies. This study provides a pooled estimate of the proportion of RVF clinical manifestations alongside a narrative description of clinical syndromes. However, most studies reviewed were case series with small sample sizes and enrolled mostly in-patients and out-patients, and captured symptoms either sparsely or using broad category terms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zacchaeus Anywaine
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- * E-mail:
| | - Swaib Abubaker Lule
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Christian Hansen
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
- MRC International Statistics & Epidemiology Group, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - George Warimwe
- Centre for Tropical Medicine and Global Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
- KEMRI WellcomeTrust Research Programme, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Alison Elliott
- Department of Clinical Research, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
White LA, Bisom TC, Grimes HL, Hayashi M, Lanchy JM, Lodmell JS. Tra2beta-Dependent Regulation of RIO Kinase 3 Splicing During Rift Valley Fever Virus Infection Underscores the Links Between Alternative Splicing and Innate Antiviral Immunity. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 11:799024. [PMID: 35127560 PMCID: PMC8807687 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.799024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is an emerging pathogen that has potential to cause severe disease in humans and domestic livestock. Propagation of RVFV strain MP-12 is negatively impacted by the actions of RIOK3, a protein involved in the cellular immune response to viral infection. During RVFV infection, RIOK3 mRNA is alternatively spliced to produce an isoform that correlates with the inhibition of interferon β signaling. Here, we identify splicing factor TRA2-β (also known as TRA2beta and hTRA2-β) as a key regulator governing the relative abundance of RIOK3 splicing isoforms. Using RT-PCR and minigenes, we determined that TRA2-β interaction with RIOK3 pre-mRNA was necessary for constitutive splicing of RIOK3 mRNA, and conversely, lack of TRA2-β engagement led to increased alternative splicing. Expression of TRA2-β was found to be necessary for RIOK3's antiviral effect against RVFV. Intriguingly, TRA2-β mRNA is also alternatively spliced during RVFV infection, leading to a decrease in cellular TRA2-β protein levels. These results suggest that splicing modulation serves as an immune evasion strategy by RVFV and/or is a cellular mechanism to prevent excessive immune response. Furthermore, the results suggest that TRA2-β can act as a key regulator of additional steps of the innate immune response to viral infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luke Adam White
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, United States
| | - Thomas C. Bisom
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, United States
| | - Hunter L. Grimes
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, United States
| | - Miyuki Hayashi
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, United States
| | - Jean-Marc Lanchy
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, United States
| | - J. Stephen Lodmell
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, United States,Center for Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics, University of Montana, Missoula, MT, United States,*Correspondence: J. Stephen Lodmell,
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Middlebrook EA, Romero AT, Bett B, Nthiwa D, Oyola SO, Fair JM, Bartlow AW. Identification and distribution of pathogens coinfecting with Brucella spp., Coxiella burnetii and Rift Valley fever virus in humans, livestock and wildlife. Zoonoses Public Health 2022; 69:175-194. [PMID: 35034427 PMCID: PMC9303618 DOI: 10.1111/zph.12905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Zoonotic diseases, such as brucellosis, Q fever and Rift Valley fever (RVF) caused by Brucella spp., Coxiella burnetii and RVF virus, respectively, can have devastating effects on human, livestock, and wildlife health and cause economic hardship due to morbidity and mortality in livestock. Coinfection with multiple pathogens can lead to more severe disease outcomes and altered transmission dynamics. These three pathogens can alter host immune responses likely leading to increased morbidity, mortality and pathogen transmission during coinfection. Developing countries, such as those commonly afflicted by outbreaks of brucellosis, Q fever and RVF, have high disease burden and thus common coinfections. A literature survey provided information on case reports and studies investigating coinfections involving the three focal diseases. Fifty five studies were collected demonstrating coinfections of Brucella spp., C. burnetii or RVFV with 50 different pathogens, of which 64% were zoonotic. While the literature search criteria involved ‘coinfection’, only 24/55 studies showed coinfections with direct pathogen detection methods (microbiology, PCR and antigen test), while the rest only reported detection of antibodies against multiple pathogens, which only indicate a history of co‐exposure, not concurrent infection. These studies lack the ability to test whether coinfection leads to changes in morbidity, mortality or transmission dynamics. We describe considerations and methods for identifying ongoing coinfections to address this critical blind spot in disease risk management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Earl A Middlebrook
- Biosecurity and Public Health, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM, USA
| | - Alicia T Romero
- Biosecurity and Public Health, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM, USA
| | - Bernard Bett
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Daniel Nthiwa
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya.,Department of Biological Sciences, University of Embu, Embu, Kenya
| | - Samuel O Oyola
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Jeanne M Fair
- Biosecurity and Public Health, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM, USA
| | - Andrew W Bartlow
- Biosecurity and Public Health, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM, USA
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Viral Infections During Pregnancy: The Big Challenge Threatening Maternal and Fetal Health. MATERNAL-FETAL MEDICINE 2022; 4:72-86. [PMID: 35187500 PMCID: PMC8843053 DOI: 10.1097/fm9.0000000000000133] [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: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Viral infections during pregnancy are associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, including maternal and fetal mortality, pregnancy loss, premature labor, and congenital anomalies. Mammalian gestation encounters an immunological paradox wherein the placenta balances the tolerance of an allogeneic fetus with protection against pathogens. Viruses cannot easily transmit from mother to fetus due to physical and immunological barriers at the maternal-fetal interface posing a restricted threat to the fetus and newborns. Despite this, the unknown strategies utilized by certain viruses could weaken the placental barrier to trigger severe maternal and fetal health issues especially through vertical transmission, which was not fully understood until now. In this review, we summarize diverse aspects of the major viral infections relevant to pregnancy, including the characteristics of pathogenesis, related maternal-fetal complications, and the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms of vertical transmission. We highlight the fundamental signatures of complex placental defense mechanisms, which will prepare us to fight the next emerging and re-emerging infectious disease in the pregnancy population.
Collapse
|
35
|
Gerken KN, Mutuku FM, Ndenga BA, Agola GA, Migliore E, Fabre EP, Malumbo S, Shaita KN, Rezende IM, LaBeaud AD. Urban risk factors for human Rift Valley fever virus exposure in Kenya. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 2:e0000505. [PMID: 36962424 PMCID: PMC10021321 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0000505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is a zoonotic arbovirus that can also transmit directly to humans from livestock. Previous studies have shown consumption of sick animal products are risk factors for RVFV infection, but it is difficult to disentangle those risk factors from other livestock rearing activities. Urban areas have an increased demand for animal source foods, different vector distributions, and various arboviruses are understood to establish localized urban transmission cycles. Thus far, RVFV is an unevaluated public health risk in urban areas within endemic regions. We tested participants in our ongoing urban cohort study on dengue (DENV) and chikungunya (CHIKV) virus for RVFV exposure and found 1.6% (57/3,560) of individuals in two urban areas of Kenya had anti-RVFV IgG antibodies. 88% (50/57) of RVFV exposed participants also had antibodies to DENV, CHIKV, or both. Although livestock ownership was very low in urban study sites, RVFV exposure was overall significantly associated with seeing goats around the homestead (OR = 2.34 (CI 95%: 1.18-4.69, p = 0.02) and in Kisumu, RVFV exposure was associated with consumption of raw milk (OR = 6.28 (CI 95%: 0.94-25.21, p = 0.02). In addition, lack of piped water and use of small jugs (15-20 liters) for water was associated with a higher risk of RVFV exposure (OR = 5.36 (CI 95%: 1.23-16.44, p = 0.01) and this may contribute to interepidemic vector-borne maintenance of RVFV. We also investigated perception towards human vaccination for RVFV and identified high acceptance (91% (97/105) at our study sites. This study provides baseline evidence to guide future studies investigating the urban potential of RVFV and highlights the unexplored role of animal products in continued spread of RVFV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keli Nicole Gerken
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Francis Maluki Mutuku
- Department of Environment and Health Sciences, Technical University of Mombasa, Mombasa, Kenya
| | | | | | - Eleonora Migliore
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Eduardo Palacios Fabre
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Said Malumbo
- Vector Borne Disease Control Unit, Msambweni County Referral Hospital, Kwale, Kenya
| | | | - Izabela Mauricio Rezende
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - A Desiree LaBeaud
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Infectious Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Gerken KN, LaBeaud AD, Mandi H, L’Azou Jackson M, Breugelmans JG, King CH. Paving the way for human vaccination against Rift Valley fever virus: A systematic literature review of RVFV epidemiology from 1999 to 2021. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0009852. [PMID: 35073355 PMCID: PMC8812886 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is a lethal threat to humans and livestock in many parts of Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and the Indian Ocean. This systematic review's objective was to consolidate understanding of RVFV epidemiology during 1999-2021 and highlight knowledge gaps relevant to plans for human vaccine trials. METHODOLOGY/PRINCIPAL FINDINGS The review is registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020221622). Reports of RVFV infection or exposure among humans, animals, and/or vectors in Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and the Indian Ocean during the period January 1999 to June 2021 were eligible for inclusion. Online databases were searched for publications, and supplemental materials were recovered from official reports and research colleagues. Exposures were classified into five groups: 1) acute human RVF cases, 2) acute animal cases, 3) human RVFV sero-surveys, 4) animal sero-surveys, and 5) arthropod infections. Human risk factors, circulating RVFV lineages, and surveillance methods were also tabulated. In meta-analysis of risks, summary odds ratios were computed using random-effects modeling. 1104 unique human or animal RVFV transmission events were reported in 39 countries during 1999-2021. Outbreaks among humans or animals occurred at rates of 5.8/year and 12.4/year, respectively, with Mauritania, Madagascar, Kenya, South Africa, and Sudan having the most human outbreak years. Men had greater odds of RVFV infection than women, and animal contact, butchering, milking, and handling aborted material were significantly associated with greater odds of exposure. Animal infection risk was linked to location, proximity to water, and exposure to other herds or wildlife. RVFV was detected in a variety of mosquito vectors during interepidemic periods, confirming ongoing transmission. CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE With broad variability in surveillance, case finding, survey design, and RVFV case confirmation, combined with uncertainty about populations-at-risk, there were inconsistent results from location to location. However, it was evident that RVFV transmission is expanding its range and frequency. Gaps assessment indicated the need to harmonize human and animal surveillance and improve diagnostics and genotyping. Given the frequency of RVFV outbreaks, human vaccination has strong potential to mitigate the impact of this now widely endemic disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keli N. Gerken
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - A. Desirée LaBeaud
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Henshaw Mandi
- Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), Oslo, Norway
| | | | | | - Charles H. King
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Wainaina M, Vey da Silva DA, Dohoo I, Mayer-Scholl A, Roesel K, Hofreuter D, Roesler U, Lindahl J, Bett B, Al Dahouk S. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the aetiological agents of non-malarial febrile illnesses in Africa. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2022; 16:e0010144. [PMID: 35073309 PMCID: PMC8812962 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The awareness of non-malarial febrile illnesses (NMFIs) has been on the rise over the last decades. Therefore, we undertook a systematic literature review and meta-analysis of causative agents of non-malarial fevers on the African continent. Methodology We searched for literature in African Journals Online, EMBASE, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases to identify aetiologic agents that had been reported and to determine summary estimates of the proportional morbidity rates (PMr) associated with these pathogens among fever patients. Findings A total of 133 studies comprising 391,835 patients from 25 of the 54 African countries were eligible. A wide array of aetiologic agents were described with considerable regional differences among the leading agents. Overall, bacterial pathogens tested from blood samples accounted for the largest proportion. The summary estimates from the meta-analysis were low for most of the agents. This may have resulted from a true low prevalence of the agents, the failure to test for many agents or the low sensitivity of the diagnostic methods applied. Our meta-regression analysis of study and population variables showed that diagnostic methods determined the PMr estimates of typhoidal Salmonella and Dengue virus. An increase in the PMr of Klebsiella spp. infections was observed over time. Furthermore, the status of patients as either inpatient or outpatient predicted the PMr of Haemophilus spp. infections. Conclusion The small number of epidemiological studies and the variety of NMFI agents on the African continent emphasizes the need for harmonized studies with larger sample sizes. In particular, diagnostic procedures for NMFIs should be standardized to facilitate comparability of study results and to improve future meta-analyses. Reliable NMFI burden estimates will inform regional public health strategies. Previous systematic reviews have highlighted the research priorities of causative agents for non-malarial febrile illnesses by counting the number of publications attributed to an agent. However, proportional morbidity rates are calculated by dividing the number of cases with a specific disease (numerator) by the total number of diagnosed fever cases (denominator) and are better indicators of the relative importance of aetiological agents in a population. Therefore, we present the leading causes of non-malarial febrile illnesses in African patients in both healthcare and community settings. Preference is given to HIV-negative patients when data could be found. We also determined summary estimates of Brucella spp., Chikungunya virus, Dengue virus, Haemophilus spp., Klebsiella spp., Leptospira spp., non-typhoidal Salmonella spp., typhoidal Salmonella spp., Staphylococcus spp., and Streptococcus spp. The wide array of aetiological agents causing febrile illnesses on the African continent does not only complicate malaria control programs but may also hamper response to epidemic and pandemic illnesses such as Ebola and COVID-19. The harmonisation of diagnostics and study designs will reduce between-study differences, which may result in better estimates of disease burden on the continent and in the different African regions. This information is important for Pan-African surveillance and control efforts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Wainaina
- Department of Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- * E-mail:
| | - David Attuy Vey da Silva
- Department of Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ian Dohoo
- University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, Canada
| | - Anne Mayer-Scholl
- Department of Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany
| | - Kristina Roesel
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Dirk Hofreuter
- Department of Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany
| | - Uwe Roesler
- Institute for Animal Hygiene and Environmental Health, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Johanna Lindahl
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Bernard Bett
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Sascha Al Dahouk
- Department of Biological Safety, German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, Berlin, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Bob NS, Barry MA, Diagne MM, Faye M, Ndione MHD, Diallo A, Diop M, Diop B, Faye O, Loucoubar C, Fall G, Faye O. Detection of Rift Valley Fever Virus Lineage H from South Africa through Syndromic Sentinel Surveillance Network in Senegal. Open Forum Infect Dis 2021; 9:ofab655. [PMID: 35198642 PMCID: PMC8860161 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofab655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is an arbovirus that causes epizootics and epidemics among livestock population and humans. Our surveillance system has revealed multiple emergences and re-emergences of RVFV in West Africa over the last decade. Methods The Sentinel Syndromic Surveillance Network in Senegal (4S) has been implemented since 2011. Samples from human suspected arbovirus infection in 4S sentinel sites were sent to Institut Pasteur de Dakar (IPD), where arbovirus diagnosis by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and virus isolation was performed. Overall, IPD has received a total of 1149 samples from arboviral suspected patients through the 4S network from January to December 2020. These samples were screened for 7 arboviruses including RVFV. Whole-genome sequencing of positive RVFV samples by RT-PCR was performed using the Illumina Miseq platform followed by genome assembly. Phylogenetic analyses were performed using MEGA X. Results Out of the 1149 arbovirus suspected cases, 4 RVFV-positive samples were detected with RT-PCR while 5 RVFV-positive samples were detected by ELISA. Complete genome sequences were obtained for 3 strains among the 4 positive samples by RT-PCR. Phylogenetic analyses indicated an emergence of a virus first described in South Africa during a major outbreak. Conclusions This strong surveillance system allowed the detection of an RVFV outbreak in Senegal in 2020. The obtained genomes clustered with strains from South Africa belonging to lineage H. This calls for implementation of a strong surveillance system for wild animals, humans, and livestock simultaneously in all African countries.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Martin Faye
- Pole of virology, Institut Pasteur of Dakar, Senegal
| | | | - Amadou Diallo
- Epidemiological unit, Institut Pasteur of Dakar,Senegal
| | - Mamadou Diop
- Epidemiological unit, Institut Pasteur of Dakar,Senegal
| | | | - Oumar Faye
- Pole of virology, Institut Pasteur of Dakar, Senegal
| | | | - Gamou Fall
- Pole of virology, Institut Pasteur of Dakar, Senegal
| | - Ousmane Faye
- Pole of virology, Institut Pasteur of Dakar, Senegal
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Hayashi M, Schultz EP, Lanchy JM, Lodmell JS. Time-Resolved Analysis of N-RNA Interactions during RVFV Infection Shows Qualitative and Quantitative Shifts in RNA Encapsidation and Packaging. Viruses 2021; 13:2417. [PMID: 34960686 PMCID: PMC8704896 DOI: 10.3390/v13122417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is a negative-sense, tripartite RNA virus that is endemic to Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. It can cause severe disease and mortality in humans and domestic livestock and is a concern for its potential to spread more globally. RVFV's nucleocapsid protein (N) is an RNA-binding protein that is necessary for viral transcription, replication, and the production of nascent viral particles. We have conducted crosslinking, immunoprecipitation, and sequencing (CLIP-seq) to characterize N interactions with host and viral RNAs during infection. In parallel, to precisely measure intracellular N levels, we employed multiple reaction monitoring mass spectrometry (MRM-MS). Our results show that N binds mostly to host RNAs at early stages of infection, yielding nascent virus particles of reduced infectivity. The expression of N plateaus 10 h post-infection, whereas the intracellular viral RNA concentration continues to increase. Moreover, the virions produced later in infection have higher infectivity. Taken together, the detailed examination of these N-RNA interactions provides insight into how the regulated expression of N and viral RNA produces both infectious and incomplete, noninfectious particles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miyuki Hayashi
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, USA;
- Center for Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics, Missoula, MT 59812, USA;
| | - Eric P. Schultz
- Center for Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics, Missoula, MT 59812, USA;
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, USA;
| | - Jean-Marc Lanchy
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, USA;
| | - J. Stephen Lodmell
- Center for Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics, Missoula, MT 59812, USA;
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59812, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Rift Valley Fever Virus Propagates in Human Villous Trophoblast Cell Lines and Induces Cytokine mRNA Responses Known to Provoke Miscarriage. Viruses 2021; 13:v13112265. [PMID: 34835071 PMCID: PMC8625252 DOI: 10.3390/v13112265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Revised: 11/08/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The mosquito-borne Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a prioritised disease that has been listed by the World Health Organization for urgent research and development of counteraction. Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) can cause a cytopathogenic effect in the infected cell and induce hyperimmune responses that contribute to pathogenesis. In livestock, the consequences of RVFV infection vary from mild symptoms to abortion. In humans, 1–3% of patients with RVFV infection develop severe disease, manifested as, for example, haemorrhagic fever, encephalitis or blindness. RVFV infection has also been associated with miscarriage in humans. During pregnancy, there should be a balance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory mediators to create a protective environment for the placenta and foetus. Many viruses are capable of penetrating that protective environment and infecting the foetal–maternal unit, possibly via the trophoblasts in the placenta, with potentially severe consequences. Whether it is the viral infection per se, the immune response, or both that contribute to the pathogenesis of miscarriage remains unknown. To investigate how RVFV could contribute to pathogenesis during pregnancy, we infected two human trophoblast cell lines, A3 and Jar, representing normal and transformed human villous trophoblasts, respectively. They were infected with two RVFV variants (wild-type RVFV and RVFV with a deleted NSs protein), and the infection kinetics and 15 different cytokines were analysed. The trophoblast cell lines were infected by both RVFV variants and infection caused upregulation of messenger RNA (mRNA) expression for interferon (IFN) types I–III and inflammatory cytokines, combined with cell line-specific mRNA expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 and interleukin (IL)-10. When comparing the two RVFV variants, we found that infection with RVFV lacking NSs function caused a hyper-IFN response and inflammatory response, while the wild-type RVFV suppressed the IFN I and inflammatory response. The induction of certain cytokines by RVFV infection could potentially lead to teratogenic effects that disrupt foetal and placental developmental pathways, leading to birth defects and other pregnancy complications, such as miscarriage.
Collapse
|
41
|
Terasaki K, Kalveram B, Johnson KN, Juelich T, Smith JK, Zhang L, Freiberg AN, Makino S. Rift Valley fever virus 78kDa envelope protein attenuates virus replication in macrophage-derived cell lines and viral virulence in mice. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2021; 15:e0009785. [PMID: 34516560 PMCID: PMC8460012 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0009785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Revised: 09/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is a mosquito-borne bunyavirus with a wide host range including ruminants and humans. RVFV outbreaks have had devastating effects on public health and the livestock industry in African countries. However, there is no approved RVFV vaccine for human use in non-endemic countries and no FDA-approved antiviral drug for RVFV treatment. The RVFV 78kDa protein (P78), which is a membrane glycoprotein, plays a role in virus dissemination in the mosquito host, but its biological role in mammalian hosts remains unknown. We generated an attenuated RVFV MP-12 strain-derived P78-High virus and a virulent ZH501 strain-derived ZH501-P78-High virus, both of which expressed a higher level of P78 and carried higher levels of P78 in the virion compared to their parental viruses. We also generated another MP-12-derived mutant virus (P78-KO virus) that does not express P78. MP-12 and P78-KO virus replicated to similar levels in fibroblast cell lines and Huh7 cells, while P78-High virus replicated better than MP-12 in Vero E6 cells, fibroblast cell lines, and Huh7 cells. Notably, P78-High virus and P78-KO virus replicated less efficiently and more efficiently, respectively, than MP-12 in macrophage cell lines. ZH501-P78-High virus also replicated poorly in macrophage cell lines. Our data further suggest that inefficient binding of P78-High virus to the cells led to inefficient virus internalization, low virus infectivity and reduced virus replication in a macrophage cell line. P78-High virus and P78-KO virus showed lower and higher virulence than MP-12, respectively, in young mice. ZH501-P78-High virus also exhibited lower virulence than ZH501 in mice. These data suggest that high levels of P78 expression attenuate RVFV virulence by preventing efficient virus replication in macrophages. Genetic alteration leading to increased P78 expression may serve as a novel strategy for the attenuation of RVFV virulence and generation of safe RVFV vaccines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaori Terasaki
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
- Institute of Human Infection and Immunity, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail: (KT); (SM)
| | - Birte Kalveram
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Kendra N. Johnson
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Terry Juelich
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Jennifer K. Smith
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Lihong Zhang
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Alexander N. Freiberg
- Institute of Human Infection and Immunity, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
- Center for Biodefense and Emerging Infectious Diseases, the University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
- Center for Tropical Diseases, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
- Sealy Institute for Vaccine Sciences, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Shinji Makino
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
- Institute of Human Infection and Immunity, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
- Center for Biodefense and Emerging Infectious Diseases, the University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
- Center for Tropical Diseases, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
- Sealy Institute for Vaccine Sciences, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail: (KT); (SM)
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Megli CJ, Coyne CB. Infections at the maternal-fetal interface: an overview of pathogenesis and defence. Nat Rev Microbiol 2021; 20:67-82. [PMID: 34433930 PMCID: PMC8386341 DOI: 10.1038/s41579-021-00610-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 148] [Impact Index Per Article: 49.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Infections are a major threat to human reproductive health, and infections in pregnancy can cause prematurity or stillbirth, or can be vertically transmitted to the fetus leading to congenital infection and severe disease. The acronym ‘TORCH’ (Toxoplasma gondii, other, rubella virus, cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex virus) refers to pathogens directly associated with the development of congenital disease and includes diverse bacteria, viruses and parasites. The placenta restricts vertical transmission during pregnancy and has evolved robust mechanisms of microbial defence. However, microorganisms that cause congenital disease have likely evolved diverse mechanisms to bypass these defences. In this Review, we discuss how TORCH pathogens access the intra-amniotic space and overcome the placental defences that protect against microbial vertical transmission. Infections during pregnancy can be associated with devastating outcomes for the pregnant mother and developing fetus. In this Review, Megli and Coyne discuss placental defences and provide an overview of how various viral, bacterial and parasitic pathogens traverse the maternal–fetal interface and cause disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christina J Megli
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Division of Reproductive Infectious Disease, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and the Magee Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Carolyn B Coyne
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology and the Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Ahmed A, Mahmoud I, Eldigail M, Elhassan RM, Weaver SC. The Emergence of Rift Valley Fever in Gedaref State Urges the Need for a Cross-Border One Health Strategy and Enforcement of the International Health Regulations. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10070885. [PMID: 34358035 PMCID: PMC8308630 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10070885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the causative agent of a haemorrhagic fever epidemic in Gedaref state, south-east Sudan. Six cases of febrile illness with haemorrhagic manifestations presented at outpatient health-clinics. Blood samples were collected from the patients and shipped to Khartoum where they were tested for dengue virus (DENV), chikungunya virus (CHIKV), and Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) using real-time qPCR. Fifty percent (3/6) of them tested positive for RVFV and neither DENV or CHIKV was detected. All patients were males between 20 and 48 years old who had no history of recent travel. This finding describes the first emergence of RVFV in Gedaref state. Considering that the state hosts a major market of livestock, and it has one of the largest-seasonal open pastures in the country that is usually flooded with herds from the neighbouring states and countries during the rainy season, this emergence could represent a major threat to public health in the region and countries importing animals and/or animal products from east Africa. Therefore, we urge the policymakers of the health and animal resources sectors to implement a one health strategy with a well-established early warning surveillance and response system to prevent the establishment of the disease in the area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ayman Ahmed
- Institute of Endemic Diseases, University of Khartoum, Khartoum 11111, Sudan
- World Reference Center for Emerging Viruses and Arboviruses, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77550, USA;
- Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77550, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +249-123997091
| | - Iman Mahmoud
- National Public Health Laboratory, Sudan Federal Ministry of Health, Khartoum 11111, Sudan; (I.M.); (M.E.); (R.M.E.)
| | - Mawahib Eldigail
- National Public Health Laboratory, Sudan Federal Ministry of Health, Khartoum 11111, Sudan; (I.M.); (M.E.); (R.M.E.)
| | - Rehab M. Elhassan
- National Public Health Laboratory, Sudan Federal Ministry of Health, Khartoum 11111, Sudan; (I.M.); (M.E.); (R.M.E.)
| | - Scott C. Weaver
- World Reference Center for Emerging Viruses and Arboviruses, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77550, USA;
- Institute for Human Infections and Immunity, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX 77550, USA
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Petrova V, Kristiansen P, Norheim G, Yimer SA. Rift valley fever: diagnostic challenges and investment needs for vaccine development. BMJ Glob Health 2021; 5:bmjgh-2020-002694. [PMID: 32816810 PMCID: PMC7437696 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2020-002694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Rift valley fever virus (RVFV) is a causative agent of a viral zoonosis that constitutes a major clinical burden in wild and domestic ruminants. The virus causes major outbreaks in livestock (sheep, goats, cattle and camels) and can be transmitted to humans by contaminated animal products or via arthropod vectors. Human-to-human transmission has not been reported to date, but spill-over events from animals have led to outbreaks in humans in Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Currently, there is no licensed human vaccine against RVFV and the virus is listed as a priority pathogen by the World Health Organisation (WHO) due to the high epidemic potential and the lack of effective countermeasures. Multiple large RVFV outbreaks have been reported since the virus was discovered. During the last two decades, over 4000 cases and ~1000 deaths have been reported. The lack of systematic surveillance to estimate the true burden and incidence of human RVF disease is a challenge for planning future vaccine efficacy evaluation. This creates a need for robust diagnostic methodologies that can be deployed in remote regions to aid case confirmation, assessment of seroprevalence as well as pathogen surveillance required for the different stages of vaccine evaluation. Here, we perform comprehensive landscaping of the available diagnostic solutions for detection of RVFV in humans. Based on the identified gaps in the currently available in-house and commercially available methods, we highlight the specific investment needs for diagnostics that are critical for accelerating the development of effective vaccines against RVFV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul Kristiansen
- Vaccine Research and Development, Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Solomon A Yimer
- Vaccine Research and Development, Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations, Oslo, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Abstract
We describe Shuni virus (SHUV) detection in human neurologic disease cases in South Africa. SHUV RNA was identified in 5% of cerebrospinal fluid specimens collected during the arbovirus season from public sector hospitals. This finding suggests that SHUV may be a previously unrecognized cause of human neurologic infections in Africa.
Collapse
|
46
|
Sanderson CE, Jori F, Moolla N, Paweska JT, Oumer N, Alexander KA. Silent Circulation of Rift Valley Fever in Humans, Botswana, 2013-2014. Emerg Infect Dis 2021; 26:2453-2456. [PMID: 32946735 PMCID: PMC7510741 DOI: 10.3201/eid2610.191837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
We evaluated the prevalence of Rift Valley fever virus IgG and IgM in human serum samples (n = 1,276) collected in 2013–2014 in northern Botswana. Our findings provide evidence of active circulation of this virus in humans in the absence of clinical disease in this region.
Collapse
|
47
|
Ahmed A, Ali Y, Elduma A, Eldigail MH, Mhmoud RA, Mohamed NS, Ksiazek TG, Dietrich I, Weaver SC. Unique Outbreak of Rift Valley Fever in Sudan, 2019. Emerg Infect Dis 2021; 26:3030-3033. [PMID: 33219787 PMCID: PMC7706939 DOI: 10.3201/eid2612.201599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
We report a unique outbreak of Rift Valley fever in the Eldamar area, Sudan, May–July 2019, that resulted in 1,129 case-patients and 19 (1.7%) deaths. Patients exhibited clinical signs including fever (100%), headache (79%), and bleeding (4%). Most (98%) patients also reported death and abortions among their livestock.
Collapse
|
48
|
Agboli E, Zahouli JBZ, Badolo A, Jöst H. Mosquito-Associated Viruses and Their Related Mosquitoes in West Africa. Viruses 2021; 13:v13050891. [PMID: 34065928 PMCID: PMC8151702 DOI: 10.3390/v13050891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Mosquito-associated viruses (MAVs), including mosquito-specific viruses (MSVs) and mosquito-borne (arbo)viruses (MBVs), are an increasing public, veterinary, and global health concern, and West Africa is projected to be the next front for arboviral diseases. As in-depth knowledge of the ecologies of both western African MAVs and related mosquitoes is still limited, we review available and comprehensive data on their diversity, abundance, and distribution. Data on MAVs’ occurrence and related mosquitoes were extracted from peer-reviewed publications. Data on MSVs, and mosquito and vertebrate host ranges are sparse. However, more data are available on MBVs (i.e., dengue, yellow fever, chikungunya, Zika, and Rift Valley fever viruses), detected in wild and domestic animals, and humans, with infections more concentrated in urban areas and areas affected by strong anthropogenic changes. Aedes aegypti, Culex quinquefasciatus, and Aedes albopictus are incriminated as key arbovirus vectors. These findings outline MAV, related mosquitoes, key knowledge gaps, and future research areas. Additionally, these data highlight the need to increase our understanding of MAVs and their impact on host mosquito ecology, to improve our knowledge of arbovirus transmission, and to develop specific strategies and capacities for arboviral disease surveillance, diagnostic, prevention, control, and outbreak responses in West Africa.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric Agboli
- Molecular Biology and Immunology Department, Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, 20359 Hamburg, Germany;
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Health and Allied Sciences, Ho PMB 31, Ghana
| | - Julien B. Z. Zahouli
- Centre d’Entomologie Médicale et Vétérinaire, Université Alassane Ouattara, Bouake, 27 BP 529 Abidjan 27, Cote D’Ivoire;
- Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques en Côte d’Ivoire, Département de Recherche et Développement, 01 BP 1303 Abidjan 01, Cote D’Ivoire
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, 4051 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Athanase Badolo
- Laboratory of Fundamental and Applied Entomology, Universitée Joseph Ki-Zerbo, Ouagadougou 03 BP 7021, Burkina Faso;
| | - Hanna Jöst
- Bernhard Nocht Institute for Tropical Medicine, WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Hemorrhagic Fever Reference and Research, 20359 Hamburg, Germany
- Correspondence:
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Rift Valley fever virus detection in susceptible hosts with special emphasis in insects. Sci Rep 2021; 11:9822. [PMID: 33972596 PMCID: PMC8110843 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-89226-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever phlebovirus (RVFV, Phenuiviridae) is an emerging arbovirus that can cause potentially fatal disease in many host species including ruminants and humans. Thus, tools to detect this pathogen within tissue samples from routine diagnostic investigations or for research purposes are of major interest. This study compares the immunohistological usefulness of several mono- and polyclonal antibodies against RVFV epitopes in tissue samples derived from natural hosts of epidemiologic importance (sheep), potentially virus transmitting insect species (Culex quinquefasciatus, Aedes aegypti) as well as scientific infection models (mouse, Drosophila melanogaster, C6/36 cell pellet). While the nucleoprotein was the epitope most prominently detected in mammal and mosquito tissue samples, fruit fly tissues showed expression of glycoproteins only. Antibodies against non-structural proteins exhibited single cell reactions in salivary glands of mosquitoes and the C6/36 cell pellet. However, as single antibodies exhibited a cross reactivity of varying degree in non-infected specimens, a careful interpretation of positive reactions and consideration of adequate controls remains of critical importance. The results suggest that primary antibodies directed against viral nucleoproteins and glycoproteins can facilitate RVFV detection in mammals and insects, respectively, and therefore will allow RVFV detection for diagnostic and research purposes.
Collapse
|
50
|
Rift Valley Fever: a Threat to Pregnant Women Hiding in Plain Sight? J Virol 2021; 95:JVI.01394-19. [PMID: 33597209 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01394-19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The potential for emerging mosquito-borne viruses to cause fetal infection in pregnant women was overlooked until the Zika fever outbreak several years ago. Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is an emerging arbovirus with a long history of fetal infection and death in pregnant livestock. The effect of RVFV infection on pregnant women is not well understood. This Gem examines the effects that this important emerging pathogen has during pregnancy, its potential impact on pregnant women, and the current research efforts designed to understand and mitigate adverse effects of RVFV infection during pregnancy.
Collapse
|