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Motsoeneng BM, Bhiman JN, Richardson SI, Moore PL. SARS-CoV-2 humoral immunity in people living with HIV-1. Trends Immunol 2024; 45:511-522. [PMID: 38890026 DOI: 10.1016/j.it.2024.05.005] [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: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 05/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
The effect of COVID-19 on the high number of immunocompromised people living with HIV-1 (PLWH), particularly in Africa, remains a critical concern. Here, we identify key areas that still require further investigation, by examining COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness, and understanding antibody responses in SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination in comparison with people without HIV-1 (PWOH). We also assess the potential impact of pre-existing immunity against endemic human coronaviruses on SARS-CoV-2 responses in these individuals. Lastly, we discuss the consequences of persistent infection in PLWH (or other immunocompromised individuals), including prolonged shedding, increased viral diversity within the host, and the implications on SARS-CoV-2 evolution in Africa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boitumelo M Motsoeneng
- South African Medical Research Council Antibody Immunity Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; HIV Virology Section, Centre for HIV and STIs, National Institute for Communicable Diseases of the National Health Laboratory Services, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Jinal N Bhiman
- South African Medical Research Council Antibody Immunity Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; HIV Virology Section, Centre for HIV and STIs, National Institute for Communicable Diseases of the National Health Laboratory Services, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Simone I Richardson
- South African Medical Research Council Antibody Immunity Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; HIV Virology Section, Centre for HIV and STIs, National Institute for Communicable Diseases of the National Health Laboratory Services, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Penny L Moore
- South African Medical Research Council Antibody Immunity Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; HIV Virology Section, Centre for HIV and STIs, National Institute for Communicable Diseases of the National Health Laboratory Services, Johannesburg, South Africa; Centre for the AIDS Program of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), University of KwaZulu Natal, Durban, South Africa.
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2
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Olorunfemi AB, Suliman SA, Tran TT, Ayorinde B, Fowora MA, Iwalokun BA, Olowe OA, Opaleye OO, Osman M, Salako BL, Adegbola R, Thomas BN, Pallerla SR, Velavan TP, Ojurongbe O. Whole genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of SARS-CoV-2 strains isolated during the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria. IJID REGIONS 2024; 10:174-178. [PMID: 38322246 PMCID: PMC10845906 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijregi.2024.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Objectives The emergence and spread of SARS-CoV-2 have stimulated ongoing research into the virus transmission dynamics, circulating variants, and potential mutations. This study was conducted to understand the genomic dynamics of the epidemic in Nigeria. Design Whole genome sequencing was conducted on SARS-CoV-2 samples collected during the first and second outbreaks using the Oxford Nanopore MinION sequencing platform. Phylogenetic analysis was conducted, and genomes were grouped into different pangolin lineages. Results The study revealed four circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants. The Alpha (B.1.1.7) variant was the most prevalent (32.7%), followed by Beta (B.1 B.1.1, L.3, and B.1.1.318) (30.8%), Eta (B.1.525) (28.9%), and Delta (B.1.617, AY.1, AY.109, and AY.36) (7.7%). Phylogenetic analysis revealed three clusters with four Nextstrain clades (20I, 20B, 21D, and 21J). The Alpha lineages (B.1.1.7) clustered with references from Italy. The Beta lineages (Clade 20B) (B.11, B.11318, and L3) and sub-lineage B.11 were distinct. Sub-lineage B.11318 is clustered with references from the USA, whereas sub-lineage L3 is clustered with references from Russia, the Philippines, Australia, and Japan. The 21D and 21J, belonging to two Pango lineages, Eta (B.1525) and Delta (B.1.617 and AY.109), showed high genetic similarity. Conclusion The phylogenetic relatedness of the lineages suggests multiple virus introduction, which could be a source of more virulent, locally adapted variants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adedolapo B. Olorunfemi
- Center for Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
| | | | - Tung T. Tran
- Vietnamese-German Center for Medical Research (VG-CARE), Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Babatunde Ayorinde
- Molecular Biology & Biotechnology Department, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
- Central Research Laboratory, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Muinah A. Fowora
- Molecular Biology & Biotechnology Department, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
- Central Research Laboratory, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Bamidele A. Iwalokun
- Molecular Biology & Biotechnology Department, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
- Central Research Laboratory, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Olugbenga A. Olowe
- Center for Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
| | - Oluyinka O. Opaleye
- Center for Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
| | - Mohamed Osman
- Institute of Endemic Diseases, University of Khartoum, Sudan
- York Biomedical Research Institute, Department of Biology, University of York, Wentworth Way, York YO10 5DD, UK
| | - Babatunde L. Salako
- Molecular Biology & Biotechnology Department, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
- Central Research Laboratory, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Richard Adegbola
- Molecular Biology & Biotechnology Department, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
- Central Research Laboratory, Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria
| | - Bolaji N. Thomas
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences and Technology, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY 14623, USA
| | - Srinivas Reddy Pallerla
- Institute for Medical Virology, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe University Frankfurt, Frankfurt, Germany
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Universität Tübingen, Germany
| | - Thirumalaisamy P. Velavan
- Vietnamese-German Center for Medical Research (VG-CARE), Hanoi, Vietnam
- Institute of Tropical Medicine, Universitätsklinikum Tübingen, Universität Tübingen, Germany
| | - Olusola Ojurongbe
- Center for Emerging and Re-emerging Infectious Diseases, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Nigeria
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Ugwu CA, Alao O, John OG, Akinnawo B, Ajayi I, Odebode O, Bejide I, Campbell A, Campbell J, Adole JA, B. Olawoye I, Akano K, Okolie J, Eromon P, Olaitan P, Olagunoye A, Adebayo I, Adebayo V, Babalola E, Abioye O, Ajayi N, Ogah E, Ukwaja K, Okoro S, Oje O, Kingsley OC, Eke M, Onyia V, Achonduh-Atijegbe O, Ewah FE, Obasi M, Igwe V, Ayodeji O, Chukwuyem A, Owhin S, Oyejide N, Abah S, Ingbian W, Osoba M, Alebiosu A, Nadesalingam A, Aguinam ET, Carnell G, Krause N, Chan A, George C, Kinsley R, Tonks P, Temperton N, Heeney J, Happi C. Immunological insights into COVID-19 in Southern Nigeria. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1305586. [PMID: 38322252 PMCID: PMC10844438 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1305586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction One of the unexpected outcomes of the COVID-19 pandemic was the relatively low levels of morbidity and mortality in Africa compared to the rest of the world. Nigeria, Africa's most populous nation, accounted for less than 0.01% of the global COVID-19 fatalities. The factors responsible for Nigeria's relatively low loss of life due to COVID-19 are unknown. Also, the correlates of protective immunity to SARS-CoV-2 and the impact of pre-existing immunity on the outcome of the COVID-19 pandemic in Africa are yet to be elucidated. Here, we evaluated the natural and vaccine-induced immune responses from vaccinated, non-vaccinated and convalescent individuals in Southern Nigeria throughout the three waves of the COVID-19 pandemic in Nigeria. We also examined the pre-existing immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 from samples collected prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods We used spike RBD and N- IgG antibody ELISA to measure binding antibody responses, SARS-CoV-2 pseudotype assay protocol expressing the spike protein of different variants (D614G, Delta, Beta, Omicron BA1) to measure neutralizing antibody responses and nucleoprotein (N) and spike (S1, S2) direct ex vivo interferon gamma (IFNγ) T cell ELISpot to measure T cell responses. Result Our study demonstrated a similar magnitude of both binding (N-IgG (74% and 62%), S-RBD IgG (70% and 53%) and neutralizing (D614G (49% and 29%), Delta (56% and 47%), Beta (48% and 24%), Omicron BA1 (41% and 21%)) antibody responses from symptomatic and asymptomatic survivors in Nigeria. A similar magnitude was also seen among vaccinated participants. Interestingly, we revealed the presence of preexisting binding antibodies (N-IgG (60%) and S-RBD IgG (44%)) but no neutralizing antibodies from samples collected prior to the pandemic. Discussion These findings revealed that both vaccinated, non-vaccinated and convalescent individuals in Southern Nigeria make similar magnitude of both binding and cross-reactive neutralizing antibody responses. It supported the presence of preexisting binding antibody responses among some Nigerians prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Lastly, hybrid immunity and heterologous vaccine boosting induced the strongest binding and broadly neutralizing antibody responses compared to vaccine or infection-acquired immunity alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chinedu A. Ugwu
- The Africa Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
| | - Oluwasina Alao
- The Africa Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
| | - Oluwagboadurami G. John
- The Africa Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
| | - Blossom Akinnawo
- The Africa Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
| | - Israel Ajayi
- The Africa Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
| | - Ooreofe Odebode
- The Africa Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
| | - Ifeoluwa Bejide
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
| | - Allan Campbell
- The Africa Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
| | - Julian Campbell
- The Africa Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
| | - Jolly A. Adole
- The Africa Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
| | - Idowu B. Olawoye
- The Africa Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
| | - Kazeem Akano
- The Africa Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
| | - Johnson Okolie
- The Africa Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
| | - Philomena Eromon
- The Africa Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
| | - Peter Olaitan
- Osun State University Teaching Hospital (UNIOSUNTH), Osogbo, Nigeria
| | - Ajibola Olagunoye
- Osun State University Teaching Hospital (UNIOSUNTH), Osogbo, Nigeria
| | - Ibukun Adebayo
- Osun State University Teaching Hospital (UNIOSUNTH), Osogbo, Nigeria
| | - Victor Adebayo
- Osun State University Teaching Hospital (UNIOSUNTH), Osogbo, Nigeria
| | | | - Omowumi Abioye
- Osun State University Teaching Hospital (UNIOSUNTH), Osogbo, Nigeria
| | - Nnennaya Ajayi
- Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki (AEFUTHA), Abakaliki, Nigeria
| | - Emeka Ogah
- Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki (AEFUTHA), Abakaliki, Nigeria
| | - Kingsley Ukwaja
- Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki (AEFUTHA), Abakaliki, Nigeria
| | - Sylvanus Okoro
- Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki (AEFUTHA), Abakaliki, Nigeria
| | - Ogbonnaya Oje
- Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki (AEFUTHA), Abakaliki, Nigeria
| | | | - Matthew Eke
- Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki (AEFUTHA), Abakaliki, Nigeria
| | - Venatius Onyia
- Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki (AEFUTHA), Abakaliki, Nigeria
| | - Olivia Achonduh-Atijegbe
- The Africa Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
| | - Friday Elechi Ewah
- Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki (AEFUTHA), Abakaliki, Nigeria
| | - Mary Obasi
- Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki (AEFUTHA), Abakaliki, Nigeria
| | - Violet Igwe
- Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital Abakaliki (AEFUTHA), Abakaliki, Nigeria
| | | | | | | | - Nicholas Oyejide
- The Africa Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
| | | | - Winifred Ingbian
- The Africa Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
| | - Moyosoore Osoba
- The Africa Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
| | - Ahmed Alebiosu
- The Africa Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
| | - Angalee Nadesalingam
- Laboratory of Viral Zoonotics, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Ernest T. Aguinam
- Laboratory of Viral Zoonotics, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - George Carnell
- Laboratory of Viral Zoonotics, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Nina Krause
- Laboratory of Viral Zoonotics, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Chan
- Laboratory of Viral Zoonotics, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Charlotte George
- Laboratory of Viral Zoonotics, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca Kinsley
- Laboratory of Viral Zoonotics, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Tonks
- Laboratory of Viral Zoonotics, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Nigel Temperton
- Viral Pseudotype Unit, Medway School of Pharmacy, The Universities of Greenwich and Kent, Kent, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan Heeney
- Laboratory of Viral Zoonotics, Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Christian Happi
- The Africa Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun, Nigeria
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You R, Wu R, Wang X, Fu R, Xia N, Chen Y, Yang K, Chen J. Systematic Genomic Surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 at Xiamen International Airport and the Port of Xiamen Reveals the Importance of Incoming Travelers in Lineage Diversity. Viruses 2024; 16:132. [PMID: 38257832 PMCID: PMC10821529 DOI: 10.3390/v16010132] [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: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 01/13/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Sever Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is still a threat to human health globally despite the World Health Organization (WHO) announcing the end of the COVID-19 pandemic. Continued surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 at national borders would be helpful in understanding the epidemics of novel imported variants and updating local strategies for disease prevention and treatment. This study focuses on the surveillance of imported SARS-CoV-2 variants among travelers entering Xiamen International Airport and the Port of Xiamen from February to August 2023. A total of 97 imported SARS-CoV-2 sequences among travelers from 223 cases collected from 12 different countries and regions were identified by real-time RT-PCR. Next-generation sequencing was used to generate high-quality complete sequences for phylogenetic and population dynamic analysis. The study revealed a dominant shift in variant distribution, in which the XBB subvariant (XBB.1.5, XBB.1.16, XBB.1.9, XBB.2.3, and EG.5.1) accounted for approximately 88.8% of the sequenced samples. In detail, clades 23D and 23E accounted for 26.2% and 21.4% of the sequenced samples, respectively, while clades 23B (13.6%) and 23F (10.7%) took the third and fourth spots in the order of imported sequences, respectively. Additionally, the XBB.2.3 variants were first identified in imported cases from the mainland of Xiamen, China on 27 February 2023. The spatiotemporal analyses of recent viral genome sequences from a limited number of travelers into Xiamen provide valuable insights into the situation surrounding SARS-CoV-2 and highlight the importance of sentinel surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 variants in the national border screening of incoming travelers, which serves as an early warning system for the presence of highly transmissible circulating SARS-CoV-2 lineages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruiluan You
- Xiamen International Travel Healthcare Center, Xiamen Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau, Xiamen 361001, China;
| | - Ruotong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Public Health & School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; (R.W.); (N.X.); (Y.C.)
| | - Xijing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Public Health & School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; (R.W.); (N.X.); (Y.C.)
| | - Rao Fu
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Public Health & School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; (R.W.); (N.X.); (Y.C.)
- National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biologic Products, National Innovation Platform for Industry-Education Integration in Vaccine Research, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Ningshao Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Public Health & School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; (R.W.); (N.X.); (Y.C.)
- National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biologic Products, National Innovation Platform for Industry-Education Integration in Vaccine Research, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Yixin Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Public Health & School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; (R.W.); (N.X.); (Y.C.)
- National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biologic Products, National Innovation Platform for Industry-Education Integration in Vaccine Research, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Kunyu Yang
- Xiamen International Travel Healthcare Center, Xiamen Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau, Xiamen 361001, China;
| | - Junyu Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Vaccines for Infectious Diseases, Xiang An Biomedicine Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Medicine, School of Public Health & School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; (R.W.); (N.X.); (Y.C.)
- National Institute of Diagnostics and Vaccine Development in Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Vaccinology and Molecular Diagnostics, Collaborative Innovation Center of Biologic Products, National Innovation Platform for Industry-Education Integration in Vaccine Research, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
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Grieve R, Yang Y, Abbott S, Babu GR, Bhattacharyya M, Dean N, Evans S, Jewell N, Langan SM, Lee W, Molenberghs G, Smeeth L, Williamson E, Mukherjee B. The importance of investing in data, models, experiments, team science, and public trust to help policymakers prepare for the next pandemic. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0002601. [PMID: 38032861 PMCID: PMC10688710 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0002601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about valuable insights regarding models, data, and experiments. In this narrative review, we summarised the existing literature on these three themes, exploring the challenges of providing forecasts, the requirement for real-time linkage of health-related datasets, and the role of 'experimentation' in evaluating interventions. This literature review encourages us to broaden our perspective for the future, acknowledging the significance of investing in models, data, and experimentation, but also to invest in areas that are conceptually more abstract: the value of 'team science', the need for public trust in science, and in establishing processes for using science in policy. Policy-makers rely on model forecasts early in a pandemic when there is little data, and it is vital to communicate the assumptions, limitations, and uncertainties (theme 1). Linked routine data can provide critical information, for example, in establishing risk factors for adverse outcomes but are often not available quickly enough to make a real-time impact. The interoperability of data resources internationally is required to facilitate sharing across jurisdictions (theme 2). Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) provided timely evidence on the efficacy and safety of vaccinations and pharmaceuticals but were largely conducted in higher income countries, restricting generalisability to low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). Trials for non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) were almost non-existent which was a missed opportunity (theme 3). Building on these themes from the narrative review, we underscore the importance of three other areas that need investment for effective evidence-driven policy-making. The COVID-19 response relied on strong multidisciplinary research infrastructures, but funders and academic institutions need to do more to incentivise team science (4). To enhance public trust in the use of scientific evidence for policy, researchers and policy-makers must work together to clearly communicate uncertainties in current evidence and any need to change policy as evidence evolves (5). Timely policy decisions require an established two-way process between scientists and policy makers to make the best use of evidence (6). For effective preparedness against future pandemics, it is essential to establish models, data, and experiments as fundamental pillars, complemented by efforts in planning and investment towards team science, public trust, and evidence-based policy-making across international communities. The paper concludes with a 'call to actions' for both policy-makers and researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard Grieve
- Centre for Data and Statistical Science for Health (DASH), London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Health Services Research and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Youqi Yang
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Sam Abbott
- Centre for the Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Giridhara R. Babu
- Indian Institute of Public Health, Public Health Foundation of India, Bengaluru, India
| | | | - Natalie Dean
- Department of Biostatistics & Bioinformatics, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Stephen Evans
- Centre for Data and Statistical Science for Health (DASH), London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas Jewell
- Centre for Data and Statistical Science for Health (DASH), London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sinéad M. Langan
- Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Woojoo Lee
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Graduate School of Public Health, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Geert Molenberghs
- Interuniversity Institute for Biostatistics and Statistical Bioinformatics (I-BioStat), Universiteit Hasselt & KU Leuven, Hasselt, Belgium
| | - Liam Smeeth
- Department of Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth Williamson
- Centre for Data and Statistical Science for Health (DASH), London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Medical Statistics, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, United Kingdom
| | - Bhramar Mukherjee
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States of America
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Oguzie JU, Petros BA, Oluniyi PE, Mehta SB, Eromon PE, Nair P, Adewale-Fasoro O, Ifoga PD, Odia I, Pastusiak A, Gbemisola OS, Aiyepada JO, Uyigue EA, Edamhande AP, Blessing O, Airende M, Tomkins-Tinch C, Qu J, Stenson L, Schaffner SF, Oyejide N, Ajayi NA, Ojide K, Ogah O, Abejegah C, Adedosu N, Ayodeji O, Liasu AA, Okogbenin S, Okokhere PO, Park DJ, Folarin OA, Komolafe I, Ihekweazu C, Frost SDW, Jackson EK, Siddle KJ, Sabeti PC, Happi CT. Metagenomic surveillance uncovers diverse and novel viral taxa in febrile patients from Nigeria. Nat Commun 2023; 14:4693. [PMID: 37542071 PMCID: PMC10403498 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-40247-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Effective infectious disease surveillance in high-risk regions is critical for clinical care and pandemic preemption; however, few clinical diagnostics are available for the wide range of potential human pathogens. Here, we conduct unbiased metagenomic sequencing of 593 samples from febrile Nigerian patients collected in three settings: i) population-level surveillance of individuals presenting with symptoms consistent with Lassa Fever (LF); ii) real-time investigations of outbreaks with suspected infectious etiologies; and iii) undiagnosed clinically challenging cases. We identify 13 distinct viruses, including the second and third documented cases of human blood-associated dicistrovirus, and a highly divergent, unclassified dicistrovirus that we name human blood-associated dicistrovirus 2. We show that pegivirus C is a common co-infection in individuals with LF and is associated with lower Lassa viral loads and favorable outcomes. We help uncover the causes of three outbreaks as yellow fever virus, monkeypox virus, and a noninfectious cause, the latter ultimately determined to be pesticide poisoning. We demonstrate that a local, Nigerian-driven metagenomics response to complex public health scenarios generates accurate, real-time differential diagnoses, yielding insights that inform policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith U Oguzie
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Redeemer's University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
- African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer's University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Brittany A Petros
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Harvard-MIT Program in Health Sciences and Technology, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA
- Harvard/MIT MD-PhD Program, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Systems, Synthetic, and Quantitative Biology PhD Program, Department of Systems Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Paul E Oluniyi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Redeemer's University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
- African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer's University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Samar B Mehta
- Department of Medicine, University of Maryland Medical Center, Baltimore, MA, USA
| | - Philomena E Eromon
- African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer's University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Parvathy Nair
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, USA
| | - Opeoluwa Adewale-Fasoro
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Redeemer's University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
- African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer's University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Peace Damilola Ifoga
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Redeemer's University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
- African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer's University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Ikponmwosa Odia
- Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria
| | | | - Otitoola Shobi Gbemisola
- African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer's University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
| | | | | | | | - Osiemi Blessing
- Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria
| | - Michael Airende
- Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria
| | - Christopher Tomkins-Tinch
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - James Qu
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Liam Stenson
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | - Nicholas Oyejide
- African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer's University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Nnenna A Ajayi
- Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Nigeria
| | - Kingsley Ojide
- Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Nigeria
| | - Onwe Ogah
- Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, Nigeria
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Daniel J Park
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Onikepe A Folarin
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Redeemer's University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
- African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer's University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Isaac Komolafe
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Redeemer's University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
- African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer's University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria
| | | | - Simon D W Frost
- Microsoft Premonition, Redmond, WA, USA
- London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Katherine J Siddle
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA.
| | - Pardis C Sabeti
- Broad Institute of Harvard and MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, USA.
- Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Christian T Happi
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Redeemer's University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria.
- African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID), Redeemer's University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria.
- Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria.
- Department of Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA.
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Nduwimana C, Nzoyikorera N, Ndihokubwayo A, Ihorimbere T, Nibogora C, Ndoreraho A, Hajayandi O, Bizimana JC, Diawara I, Niyonizigiye D, Nyandwi J. Genomic surveillance of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 in Burundi, from May 2021 to January 2022. BMC Genomics 2023; 24:312. [PMID: 37301830 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-023-09420-3] [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: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The emergence and rapid spread of new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-COV-2) variants have challenged the control of the COVID-19 pandemic globally. Burundi was not spared by that pandemic, but the genetic diversity, evolution, and epidemiology of those variants in the country remained poorly understood. The present study sought to investigate the role of different SARS-COV-2 variants in the successive COVID-19 waves experienced in Burundi and the impact of their evolution on the course of that pandemic. We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study using positive SARS-COV-2 samples for genomic sequencing. Subsequently, we performed statistical and bioinformatics analyses of the genome sequences in light of available metadata. RESULTS In total, we documented 27 PANGO lineages of which BA.1, B.1.617.2, AY.46, AY.122, and BA.1.1, all VOCs, accounted for 83.15% of all the genomes isolated in Burundi from May 2021 to January 2022. Delta (B.1.617.2) and its descendants predominated the peak observed in July-October 2021. It replaced the previously predominant B.1.351 lineage. It was itself subsequently replaced by Omicron (B.1.1.529, BA.1, and BA.1.1). Furthermore, we identified amino acid mutations including E484K, D614G, and L452R known to increase infectivity and immune escape in the spike proteins of Delta and Omicron variants isolated in Burundi. The SARS-COV-2 genomes from imported and community-detected cases were genetically closely related. CONCLUSION The global emergence of SARS-COV-2 VOCs and their subsequent introductions in Burundi was accompanied by new peaks (waves) of COVID-19. The relaxation of travel restrictions and the mutations occurring in the virus genome played an important role in the introduction and the spread of new SARS-COV-2 variants in the country. It is of utmost importance to strengthen the genomic surveillance of SARS-COV-2, enhance the protection by increasing the SARS-COV-2 vaccine coverage, and adjust the public health and social measures ahead of the emergence or introduction of new SARS-COV-2 VOCs in the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassien Nduwimana
- National Reference Laboratory, National Institute of Public Health, Bujumbura, Burundi.
| | - Néhémie Nzoyikorera
- National Reference Laboratory, National Institute of Public Health, Bujumbura, Burundi
- Mohamed VI University of Health Sciences (UM6SS), Higher Institute of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Casablanca, Morocco
- Mohamed VI Center for Research & Innovation, Laboratory of Microbial Biotechnology and Infectiology Research, Mohamed VI University of Health Sciences (UM6SS), Rabat, Morocco
| | | | - Théogène Ihorimbere
- National Reference Laboratory, National Institute of Public Health, Bujumbura, Burundi
| | - Célestin Nibogora
- National Reference Laboratory, National Institute of Public Health, Bujumbura, Burundi
| | - Adolphe Ndoreraho
- National Institute of Public Health, Ministry of Public Health and the Fight against AIDS, Bujumbura, Burundi
| | - Oscar Hajayandi
- National Reference Laboratory, National Institute of Public Health, Bujumbura, Burundi
| | - Jean Claude Bizimana
- Public Health Emergency Operation Center, Ministry of Public Health and the Fight against AIDS, Bujumbura, Burundi
| | - Idrissa Diawara
- Mohamed VI University of Health Sciences (UM6SS), Higher Institute of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Casablanca, Morocco
- Mohamed VI Center for Research & Innovation, Laboratory of Microbial Biotechnology and Infectiology Research, Mohamed VI University of Health Sciences (UM6SS), Rabat, Morocco
| | - Dionis Niyonizigiye
- National Institute of Public Health, Ministry of Public Health and the Fight against AIDS, Bujumbura, Burundi
| | - Joseph Nyandwi
- National Institute of Public Health, Ministry of Public Health and the Fight against AIDS, Bujumbura, Burundi
- Faculté de Médecine, Université du Burundi, Bujumbura, Burundi
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Molecular Epidemiology and Diversity of SARS-CoV-2 in Ethiopia, 2020–2022. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:genes14030705. [PMID: 36980977 PMCID: PMC10047986 DOI: 10.3390/genes14030705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Ethiopia is the second most populous country in Africa and the sixth most affected by COVID-19 on the continent. Despite having experienced five infection waves, >499,000 cases, and ~7500 COVID-19-related deaths as of January 2023, there is still no detailed genomic epidemiological report on the introduction and spread of SARS-CoV-2 in Ethiopia. In this study, we reconstructed and elucidated the COVID-19 epidemic dynamics. Specifically, we investigated the introduction, local transmission, ongoing evolution, and spread of SARS-CoV-2 during the first four infection waves using 353 high-quality near-whole genomes sampled in Ethiopia. Our results show that whereas viral introductions seeded the first wave, subsequent waves were seeded by local transmission. The B.1.480 lineage emerged in the first wave and notably remained in circulation even after the emergence of the Alpha variant. The B.1.480 was outcompeted by the Delta variant. Notably, Ethiopia’s lack of local sequencing capacity was further limited by sporadic, uneven, and insufficient sampling that limited the incorporation of genomic epidemiology in the epidemic public health response in Ethiopia. These results highlight Ethiopia’s role in SARS-CoV-2 dissemination and the urgent need for balanced, near-real-time genomic sequencing.
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