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Sadeghi B, Groschup MH, Eiden M. In silico identification of novel pre-microRNA genes in Rift valley fever virus suggest new pathomechanisms for embryo-fetal dysgenesis. Virulence 2024; 15:2329447. [PMID: 38548679 PMCID: PMC10984114 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2024.2329447] [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: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that regulate the post-transcriptional expression of target genes. Virus-encoded miRNAs play an important role in the replication of viruses, modulate gene expression in both the virus and host, and affect their persistence and immune evasion in hosts. This renders viral miRNAs as potential targets for therapeutic applications, especially against pathogenic viruses that infect humans and animals. Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is a mosquito-borne zoonotic RNA virus that causes severe disease in both humans and livestock. High mortality among newborn lambs and abortion storms are key characteristics of an RVF outbreak. To date, limited information is available on RVFV-derived miRNAs. In this study, computational methods were used to analyse the RVFV genome for putative pre-miRNA genes, which were then analysed for the presence of mature miRNAs. We detected 19 RVFV-encoded miRNAs and identified their potential mRNAs targets in sheep (Ovis aries), the most susceptible host. The identification of significantly enriched O. aries genes in association with RVFV miRNAs will help elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying RVFV pathogenesis and potentially uncover novel drug targets for RVFV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Balal Sadeghi
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Martin H. Groschup
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Martin Eiden
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
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2
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Nsengimana I, Juma J, Roesel K, Gasana MN, Ndayisenga F, Muvunyi CM, Hakizimana E, Hakizimana JN, Eastwood G, Chengula AA, Bett B, Kasanga CJ, Oyola SO. Genomic Epidemiology of Rift Valley Fever Virus Involved in the 2018 and 2022 Outbreaks in Livestock in Rwanda. Viruses 2024; 16:1148. [PMID: 39066310 PMCID: PMC11281637 DOI: 10.3390/v16071148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2024] [Revised: 07/09/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever (RVF), a mosquito-borne transboundary zoonosis, was first confirmed in Rwanda's livestock in 2012 and since then sporadic cases have been reported almost every year. In 2018, the country experienced its first large outbreak, which was followed by a second one in 2022. To determine the circulating virus lineages and their ancestral origin, two genome sequences from the 2018 outbreak, and thirty-six, forty-one, and thirty-eight sequences of small (S), medium (M), and large (L) genome segments, respectively, from the 2022 outbreak were generated. All of the samples from the 2022 outbreak were collected from slaughterhouses. Both maximum likelihood and Bayesian-based phylogenetic analyses were performed. The findings showed that RVF viruses belonging to a single lineage, C, were circulating during the two outbreaks, and shared a recent common ancestor with RVF viruses isolated in Uganda between 2016 and 2019, and were also linked to the 2006/2007 largest East Africa RVF outbreak reported in Kenya, Tanzania, and Somalia. Alongside the wild-type viruses, genetic evidence of the RVFV Clone 13 vaccine strain was found in slaughterhouse animals, demonstrating a possible occupational risk of exposure with unknown outcome for people working in meat-related industry. These results provide additional evidence of the ongoing wide spread of RVFV lineage C in Africa and emphasize the need for an effective national and international One Health-based collaborative approach in responding to RVF emergencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isidore Nsengimana
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Parasitology and Biotechnology, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro P.O. Box 3000, Tanzania
- SACIDS Africa Centre of Excellence for Infectious Diseases, SACIDS Foundation for One Health, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro P.O. Box 3297, Tanzania
- Rwanda Inspectorate, Competition and Consumer Protection Authority, Kigali P.O. Box 375, Rwanda
- Department of Entomology, and Center for Emerging Zoonotic & Arthropod-Borne Pathogens (CeZAP), Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - John Juma
- International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Nairobi P.O. Box 30709, Kenya
| | - Kristina Roesel
- International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Nairobi P.O. Box 30709, Kenya
| | - Methode N. Gasana
- Department of Animal Resource Research and Technology Transfer, Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB), Huye P.O. Box 5016, Rwanda
| | - Fabrice Ndayisenga
- Department of Animal Resource Research and Technology Transfer, Rwanda Agriculture and Animal Resources Development Board (RAB), Huye P.O. Box 5016, Rwanda
| | | | | | - Jean N. Hakizimana
- SACIDS Africa Centre of Excellence for Infectious Diseases, SACIDS Foundation for One Health, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro P.O. Box 3297, Tanzania
| | - Gillian Eastwood
- Department of Entomology, and Center for Emerging Zoonotic & Arthropod-Borne Pathogens (CeZAP), Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA 24061, USA
| | - Augustino A. Chengula
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Parasitology and Biotechnology, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro P.O. Box 3000, Tanzania
| | - Bernard Bett
- International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Nairobi P.O. Box 30709, Kenya
| | - Christopher J. Kasanga
- Department of Veterinary Microbiology, Parasitology and Biotechnology, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro P.O. Box 3000, Tanzania
| | - Samuel O. Oyola
- International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Nairobi P.O. Box 30709, Kenya
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Sene O, Sagne SN, Bob NS, Mhamadi M, Dieng I, Gaye A, Ba H, Dia M, Faye ET, Diop SM, Sall Y, Diop B, Ndiaye M, Loucoubar C, Simon-Lorière E, Sakuntabhai A, Faye O, Sall AA, Diallo D, Dia N, Faye O, Diagne MM, Fall M, Ndione MHD, Barry MA, Fall G. Re-Emergence of Rift Valley Fever Virus Lineage H in Senegal in 2022: In Vitro Characterization and Impact on Its Global Emergence in West Africa. Viruses 2024; 16:1018. [PMID: 39066182 PMCID: PMC11281490 DOI: 10.3390/v16071018] [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: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a re-emerging vector-borne zoonosis with a high public health and veterinary impact. In West Africa, many lineages were previously detected, but since 2020, lineage H from South Africa has been the main cause of the outbreaks. In this study, clinical samples collected through national surveillance were screened for RVF virus (RVFV) acute infection by RT-PCR and IgM ELISA tests. Sequencing, genome mapping and in vitro phenotypic characterization in mammal cells were performed on RT-PCR positive samples in comparison with other epidemic lineages (G and C). Four RVFV human cases were detected in Senegal and the sequence analyses revealed that the strains belonged to lineage H. The in vitro kinetics and genome mapping showed different replication efficiency profiles for the tested RVFV lineages and non-conservative mutations, which were more common to lineage G or specific to lineage H. Our findings showed the re-emergence of lineage H in Senegal in 2022, its high viral replication efficiency in vitro and support the findings that genetic diversity affects viral replication. This study gives new insights into the biological properties of lineage H and calls for deeper studies to better assess its potential to cause a future threat in Senegal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ousseynou Sene
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Virology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (N.S.B.); (I.D.); (H.B.); (M.D.); (E.T.F.); (S.M.D.); (O.F.); (A.A.S.); (N.D.); (O.F.); (M.M.D.); (M.H.D.N.); (G.F.)
| | - Samba Niang Sagne
- Epidemiology, Clinical Research & Data Science, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (S.N.S.); (A.G.); (C.L.); (M.A.B.)
| | - Ndeye Sakha Bob
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Virology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (N.S.B.); (I.D.); (H.B.); (M.D.); (E.T.F.); (S.M.D.); (O.F.); (A.A.S.); (N.D.); (O.F.); (M.M.D.); (M.H.D.N.); (G.F.)
| | | | - Idrissa Dieng
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Virology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (N.S.B.); (I.D.); (H.B.); (M.D.); (E.T.F.); (S.M.D.); (O.F.); (A.A.S.); (N.D.); (O.F.); (M.M.D.); (M.H.D.N.); (G.F.)
| | - Aboubacry Gaye
- Epidemiology, Clinical Research & Data Science, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (S.N.S.); (A.G.); (C.L.); (M.A.B.)
| | - Haoua Ba
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Virology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (N.S.B.); (I.D.); (H.B.); (M.D.); (E.T.F.); (S.M.D.); (O.F.); (A.A.S.); (N.D.); (O.F.); (M.M.D.); (M.H.D.N.); (G.F.)
| | - Moussa Dia
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Virology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (N.S.B.); (I.D.); (H.B.); (M.D.); (E.T.F.); (S.M.D.); (O.F.); (A.A.S.); (N.D.); (O.F.); (M.M.D.); (M.H.D.N.); (G.F.)
| | - Elisabeth Thérèse Faye
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Virology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (N.S.B.); (I.D.); (H.B.); (M.D.); (E.T.F.); (S.M.D.); (O.F.); (A.A.S.); (N.D.); (O.F.); (M.M.D.); (M.H.D.N.); (G.F.)
| | - Sokhna Mayemouna Diop
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Virology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (N.S.B.); (I.D.); (H.B.); (M.D.); (E.T.F.); (S.M.D.); (O.F.); (A.A.S.); (N.D.); (O.F.); (M.M.D.); (M.H.D.N.); (G.F.)
| | - Yoro Sall
- Ministry of Health, Dakar 10700, Senegal; (Y.S.); (B.D.); (M.N.)
| | - Boly Diop
- Ministry of Health, Dakar 10700, Senegal; (Y.S.); (B.D.); (M.N.)
| | - Mamadou Ndiaye
- Ministry of Health, Dakar 10700, Senegal; (Y.S.); (B.D.); (M.N.)
| | - Cheikh Loucoubar
- Epidemiology, Clinical Research & Data Science, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (S.N.S.); (A.G.); (C.L.); (M.A.B.)
| | | | - Anavaj Sakuntabhai
- Functional Genetics of Infectious Disease Unit, Pasteur Institute, 75015 Paris, France;
- Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), UMR2000, Department of Global Health, 75015 Paris, France
- International Vaccine Design Center (vDesC), the Institute of Medical Science, University of Tokyo (IMSUT), Tokyo 108-8639, Japan
| | - Ousmane Faye
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Virology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (N.S.B.); (I.D.); (H.B.); (M.D.); (E.T.F.); (S.M.D.); (O.F.); (A.A.S.); (N.D.); (O.F.); (M.M.D.); (M.H.D.N.); (G.F.)
| | - Amadou Alpha Sall
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Virology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (N.S.B.); (I.D.); (H.B.); (M.D.); (E.T.F.); (S.M.D.); (O.F.); (A.A.S.); (N.D.); (O.F.); (M.M.D.); (M.H.D.N.); (G.F.)
| | - Diawo Diallo
- Zoology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal;
| | - Ndongo Dia
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Virology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (N.S.B.); (I.D.); (H.B.); (M.D.); (E.T.F.); (S.M.D.); (O.F.); (A.A.S.); (N.D.); (O.F.); (M.M.D.); (M.H.D.N.); (G.F.)
| | - Oumar Faye
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Virology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (N.S.B.); (I.D.); (H.B.); (M.D.); (E.T.F.); (S.M.D.); (O.F.); (A.A.S.); (N.D.); (O.F.); (M.M.D.); (M.H.D.N.); (G.F.)
| | - Moussa Moise Diagne
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Virology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (N.S.B.); (I.D.); (H.B.); (M.D.); (E.T.F.); (S.M.D.); (O.F.); (A.A.S.); (N.D.); (O.F.); (M.M.D.); (M.H.D.N.); (G.F.)
| | - Malick Fall
- Animal Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Cheikh Anta Diop University, Dakar 10700, Senegal;
| | - Marie Henriette Dior Ndione
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Virology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (N.S.B.); (I.D.); (H.B.); (M.D.); (E.T.F.); (S.M.D.); (O.F.); (A.A.S.); (N.D.); (O.F.); (M.M.D.); (M.H.D.N.); (G.F.)
| | - Mamadou Aliou Barry
- Epidemiology, Clinical Research & Data Science, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (S.N.S.); (A.G.); (C.L.); (M.A.B.)
| | - Gamou Fall
- WHO Collaborating Centre for Arbovirus and Viral Hemorrhagic Fevers, Virology Department, Pasteur Institute, Dakar 12900, Senegal; (N.S.B.); (I.D.); (H.B.); (M.D.); (E.T.F.); (S.M.D.); (O.F.); (A.A.S.); (N.D.); (O.F.); (M.M.D.); (M.H.D.N.); (G.F.)
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4
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Situma S, Nyakarahuka L, Omondi E, Mureithi M, Mweu MM, Muturi M, Mwatondo A, Dawa J, Konongoi L, Khamadi S, Clancey E, Lofgren E, Osoro E, Ngere I, Breiman RF, Bakamutumaho B, Muruta A, Gachohi J, Oyola SO, Njenga MK, Singh D. Widening geographic range of Rift Valley fever disease clusters associated with climate change in East Africa. BMJ Glob Health 2024; 9:e014737. [PMID: 38857944 PMCID: PMC11168176 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-014737] [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: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent epidemiology of Rift Valley fever (RVF) disease in Africa suggests growing frequency and expanding geographic range of small disease clusters in regions that previously had not reported the disease. We investigated factors associated with the phenomenon by characterising recent RVF disease events in East Africa. METHODS Data on 100 disease events (2008-2022) from Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania were obtained from public databases and institutions, and modelled against possible geoecological risk factors of occurrence including altitude, soil type, rainfall/precipitation, temperature, normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI), livestock production system, land-use change and long-term climatic variations. Decadal climatic variations between 1980 and 2022 were evaluated for association with the changing disease pattern. RESULTS Of 100 events, 91% were small RVF clusters with a median of one human (IQR, 1-3) and three livestock cases (IQR, 2-7). These clusters exhibited minimal human mortality (IQR, 0-1), and occurred primarily in highlands (67%), with 35% reported in areas that had never reported RVF disease. Multivariate regression analysis of geoecological variables showed a positive correlation between occurrence and increasing temperature and rainfall. A 1°C increase in temperature and a 1-unit increase in NDVI, one months prior were associated with increased RVF incidence rate ratios of 1.20 (95% CI 1.1, 1.2) and 1.93 (95% CI 1.01, 3.71), respectively. Long-term climatic trends showed a significant decadal increase in annual mean temperature (0.12-0.3°C/decade, p<0.05), associated with decreasing rainfall in arid and semi-arid lowlands but increasing rainfall trends in highlands (p<0.05). These hotter and wetter highlands showed increasing frequency of RVF clusters, accounting for 76% and 43% in Uganda and Kenya, respectively. CONCLUSION These findings demonstrate the changing epidemiology of RVF disease. The widening geographic range of disease is associated with climatic variations, with the likely impact of wider dispersal of virus to new areas of endemicity and future epidemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Situma
- Washington State University Global Health Program-Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
- University of Nairobi, Faculty of Health Sciences, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Animal Science, Pwani University, Kilifi, Kenya
| | - Luke Nyakarahuka
- Uganda Virus Research Institute, Entebbe, Uganda
- Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
- Department of Biosecurity, Ecosystems and Veterinary Public Health, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Evans Omondi
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
- Strathmore University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | | | | | - Jeanette Dawa
- Washington State University Global Health Program-Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | - Erin Clancey
- Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Eric Lofgren
- Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Eric Osoro
- Washington State University Global Health Program-Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Isaac Ngere
- Washington State University Global Health Program-Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | | | | | - John Gachohi
- Washington State University Global Health Program-Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Samuel O Oyola
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - M Kariuki Njenga
- Washington State University Global Health Program-Kenya, Nairobi, Kenya
- Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Deepti Singh
- Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
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Bracci N, Baer A, Flor R, Petraccione K, Stocker T, Zhou W, Ammosova T, Dinglasan RR, Nekhai S, Kehn-Hall K. CK1 and PP1 regulate Rift Valley fever virus genome replication through L protein phosphorylation. Antiviral Res 2024; 226:105895. [PMID: 38679165 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2024.105895] [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: 01/06/2024] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is an arbovirus in the Phenuiviridae family identified initially by the large 'abortion storms' observed among ruminants; RVFV can also infect humans. In humans, there is a wide variation of clinical symptoms ranging from subclinical to mild febrile illness to hepatitis, retinitis, delayed-onset encephalitis, or even hemorrhagic fever. The RVFV is a tri-segmented negative-sense RNA virus consisting of S, M, and L segments. The L segment encodes the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp), termed the L protein, which is responsible for both viral mRNA synthesis and genome replication. Phosphorylation of viral RdRps is known to regulate viral replication. This study shows that RVFV L protein is serine phosphorylated and identified Casein Kinase 1 alpha (CK1α) and protein phosphatase 1 alpha (PP1α) as L protein binding partners. Inhibition of CK1 and PP1 through small molecule inhibitor treatment, D4476 and 1E7-03, respectively, caused a change in the phosphorylated status of the L protein. Inhibition of PP1α resulted in increased L protein phosphorylation whereas inhibition of CK1α decreased L protein phosphorylation. It was also found that in RVFV infected cells, PP1α localized to the cytoplasmic compartment. Treatment of RVFV infected cells with CK1 inhibitors reduced virus production in both mammalian and mosquito cells. Lastly, inhibition of either CK1 or PP1 reduced viral genomic RNA levels. These data indicate that L protein is phosphorylated and that CK1 and PP1 play a crucial role in regulating the L protein phosphorylation cycle, which is critical to viral RNA production and viral replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Bracci
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Virginia, USA; Center for Emerging, Zoonotic, and Arthropod-borne Pathogens, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Virginia, USA
| | - Alan Baer
- National Center for Biodefense and Infectious Diseases, School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Manassas, VA, USA
| | - Rafaela Flor
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Virginia, USA; Center for Emerging, Zoonotic, and Arthropod-borne Pathogens, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Virginia, USA
| | - Kaylee Petraccione
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Virginia, USA; Center for Emerging, Zoonotic, and Arthropod-borne Pathogens, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Virginia, USA
| | - Timothy Stocker
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Virginia, USA; Center for Emerging, Zoonotic, and Arthropod-borne Pathogens, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Virginia, USA
| | - Weidong Zhou
- Center for Applied Proteomics and Molecular Medicine, School of Systems Biology, George Mason University, Manassas, VA, USA
| | - Tatiana Ammosova
- Center for Sickle Cell Disease, Department of Medicine, Howard University, Washington D.C., USA
| | - Rhoel R Dinglasan
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Florida, USA; Department of Infectious Diseases & Immunology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Florida, USA
| | - Sergei Nekhai
- Center for Sickle Cell Disease, Department of Medicine, Howard University, Washington D.C., USA
| | - Kylene Kehn-Hall
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Pathobiology, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Virginia, USA; Center for Emerging, Zoonotic, and Arthropod-borne Pathogens, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Virginia, USA.
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6
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Balaraman V, Indran SV, Kim IJ, Trujillo JD, Meekins DA, Shivanna V, Zajac MD, Urbaniak K, Morozov I, Sunwoo SY, Faburay B, Osterrieder K, Gaudreault NN, Wilson WC, Richt JA. Rift Valley Fever Phlebovirus Reassortment Study in Sheep. Viruses 2024; 16:880. [PMID: 38932172 PMCID: PMC11209395 DOI: 10.3390/v16060880] [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: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever (RVF) in ungulates and humans is caused by a mosquito-borne RVF phlebovirus (RVFV). Live attenuated vaccines are used in livestock (sheep and cattle) to control RVF in endemic regions during outbreaks. The ability of two or more different RVFV strains to reassort when co-infecting a host cell is a significant veterinary and public health concern due to the potential emergence of newly reassorted viruses, since reassortment of RVFVs has been documented in nature and in experimental infection studies. Due to the very limited information regarding the frequency and dynamics of RVFV reassortment, we evaluated the efficiency of RVFV reassortment in sheep, a natural host for this zoonotic pathogen. Co-infection experiments were performed, first in vitro in sheep-derived cells, and subsequently in vivo in sheep. Two RVFV co-infection groups were evaluated: group I consisted of co-infection with two wild-type (WT) RVFV strains, Kenya 128B-15 (Ken06) and Saudi Arabia SA01-1322 (SA01), while group II consisted of co-infection with the live attenuated virus (LAV) vaccine strain MP-12 and a WT strain, Ken06. In the in vitro experiments, the virus supernatants were collected 24 h post-infection. In the in vivo experiments, clinical signs were monitored, and blood and tissues were collected at various time points up to nine days post-challenge for analyses. Cell culture supernatants and samples from sheep were processed, and plaque-isolated viruses were genotyped to determine reassortment frequency. Our results show that RVFV reassortment is more efficient in co-infected sheep-derived cells compared to co-infected sheep. In vitro, the reassortment frequencies reached 37.9% for the group I co-infected cells and 25.4% for the group II co-infected cells. In contrast, we detected just 1.7% reassortant viruses from group I sheep co-infected with the two WT strains, while no reassortants were detected from group II sheep co-infected with the WT and LAV strains. The results indicate that RVFV reassortment occurs at a lower frequency in vivo in sheep when compared to in vitro conditions in sheep-derived cells. Further studies are needed to better understand the implications of RVFV reassortment in relation to virulence and transmission dynamics in the host and the vector. The knowledge learned from these studies on reassortment is important for understanding the dynamics of RVFV evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Velmurugan Balaraman
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (V.B.); (S.V.I.); (J.D.T.); (S.-Y.S.)
| | - Sabarish V. Indran
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (V.B.); (S.V.I.); (J.D.T.); (S.-Y.S.)
| | - In Joong Kim
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (V.B.); (S.V.I.); (J.D.T.); (S.-Y.S.)
| | - Jessie D. Trujillo
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (V.B.); (S.V.I.); (J.D.T.); (S.-Y.S.)
| | - David A. Meekins
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (V.B.); (S.V.I.); (J.D.T.); (S.-Y.S.)
| | - Vinay Shivanna
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (V.B.); (S.V.I.); (J.D.T.); (S.-Y.S.)
| | - Michelle D. Zajac
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (V.B.); (S.V.I.); (J.D.T.); (S.-Y.S.)
- Foreign Arthropod-Borne Animal Diseases Research Unit, United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility, Manhattan, KS 66505, USA
| | - Kinga Urbaniak
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (V.B.); (S.V.I.); (J.D.T.); (S.-Y.S.)
| | - Igor Morozov
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (V.B.); (S.V.I.); (J.D.T.); (S.-Y.S.)
| | - Sun-Young Sunwoo
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (V.B.); (S.V.I.); (J.D.T.); (S.-Y.S.)
| | - Bonto Faburay
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (V.B.); (S.V.I.); (J.D.T.); (S.-Y.S.)
- Foreign Arthropod-Borne Animal Diseases Research Unit, United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility, Manhattan, KS 66505, USA
| | - Klaus Osterrieder
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (V.B.); (S.V.I.); (J.D.T.); (S.-Y.S.)
| | - Natasha N. Gaudreault
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (V.B.); (S.V.I.); (J.D.T.); (S.-Y.S.)
| | - William C. Wilson
- Foreign Arthropod-Borne Animal Diseases Research Unit, United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility, Manhattan, KS 66505, USA
| | - Juergen A. Richt
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; (V.B.); (S.V.I.); (J.D.T.); (S.-Y.S.)
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7
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Yang M, Yang Y, Zhang A, Ni M, Liang M, Quan B, Han W, Yang J. Pancreatic Injury Is Associated with Poor Prognosis in Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome. Jpn J Infect Dis 2024; 77:121-128. [PMID: 38171850 DOI: 10.7883/yoken.jjid.2022.571] [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: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome (SFTS) is an emerging infectious disease. Previous studies have primarily focused on the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of patients with SFTS, whereas pancreatic injury has received little attention. This study investigated the effects of pancreatic injury on the prognosis of patients with SFTS. A total of 156 patients diagnosed with SFTS between April 2016 and April 2022 were included in the analysis. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that pancreatic injury (odds ratio [OR] = 3.754, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.361-79.036, P = 0.024) and neurological symptoms (OR = 18.648, 95% CI: 4.921-70.668, P < 0.001) were independent risk factors for mortality. The receiver operating characteristic curve indicated that serum pancreatic enzymes were predictive of progression to death in patients with SFTS. The area under the curve (AUC) for amylase was 0.711, with an optimal cutoff value of 95.5 U/L, sensitivity of 96.4%, and specificity of 35.9%. Lipase had an AUC of 0.754, an optimal cutoff value of 354.75 U/L, sensitivity of 75%, and specificity of 67.2%. Thus, pancreatic injury was associated with a poor prognosis of SFTS and can be used as an important reference for SFTS determination and prognostic assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengke Yang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, China
| | - Yang Yang
- Class 1, Grade 2019, Department of Stomatology, Bengbu Medical College, China
| | - Aiping Zhang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, China
| | - Mingyue Ni
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, China
| | - Manman Liang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, China
| | - Bin Quan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, China
| | - Wenzheng Han
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, China
| | - Jianghua Yang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wannan Medical College, China
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8
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Situma S, Nyakarahuka L, Omondi E, Mureithi M, Mweu M, Muturi M, Mwatondo A, Dawa J, Konongoi L, Khamadi S, Clancey E, Lofgren E, Osoro E, Ngere I, Breiman RF, Bakamutumaho B, Muruta A, Gachohi J, Oyola SO, Njenga MK, Singh D. Widening geographic range of Rift Valley fever disease clusters associated with climate change in East Africa. MEDRXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR HEALTH SCIENCES 2024:2024.05.17.24307534. [PMID: 38798521 PMCID: PMC11118650 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.17.24307534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Background Recent epidemiology of Rift Valley fever (RVF) disease in Africa suggests growing frequency and expanding geographic range of small disease clusters in regions that previously had not reported the disease. We investigated factors associated with the phenomenon by characterizing recent RVF disease events in East Africa. Methods Data on 100 disease events (2008 - 2022) from Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania were obtained from public databases and institutions, and modeled against possible geo-ecological risk factors of occurrence including altitude, soil type, rainfall/precipitation, temperature, normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), livestock production system, land-use change, and long-term climatic variations. Decadal climatic variations between 1980-2022 were evaluated for association with the changing disease pattern. Results Of 100 events, 91% were small RVF clusters with a median of one human (IQR, 1-3) and 3 livestock cases (IQR, 2-7). These clusters exhibited minimal human mortality (IQR 0-1), and occurred primarily in highlands (67%), with 35% reported in areas that had never reported RVF disease. Multivariate regression analysis of geo-ecological variables showed a positive correlation between occurrence and increasing temperature and rainfall. A 1oC increase in temperature and 1-unit increase in NDVI, 1-3 months prior were associated with increased RVF incidence rate ratios (IRR) of 1.20 (95% CI 1.1,1.2) and 9.88 (95% CI 0.85, 119.52), respectively. Long-term climatic trends showed significant decadal increase in annual mean temperature (0.12 to 0.3oC/decade, P<0.05), associated with decreasing rainfall in arid and semi-arid lowlands but increasing rainfall trends in highlands (P<0.05). These hotter and wetter highlands showed increasing frequency of RVF clusters, accounting for 76% and 43% in Uganda and Kenya, respectively. Conclusion These findings demonstrate the changing epidemiology of RVF disease. The widening geographic range of disease is associated with climatic variations, with the likely impact of wider dispersal of virus to new areas of endemicity and future epidemics. Key questions What is already known on this topic?: Rift Valley fever is recognized for its association with heavy rainfall, flooding, and El Niño rains in the East African region. A growing body of recent studies has highlighted a shifting landscape of the disease, marked by an expanding geographic range and an increasing number of small RVF clusters.What this study adds: This study challenges previous beliefs about RVF, revealing that it predominantly occurs in small clusters rather than large outbreaks, and its association with El Niño is not as pronounced as previously thought. Over 65% of these clusters are concentrated in the highlands of Kenya and Uganda, with 35% occurring in previously unaffected regions, accompanied by an increase in temperature and total rainfall between 1980 and 2022, along with a rise in the annual number of rainy days. Notably, the observed rainfall increases are particularly significant during the short-rains season (October-December), aligning with a secondary peak in RVF incidence. In contrast, the lowlands of East Africa, where typical RVF epidemics occur, display smaller and more varied trends in annual rainfall.How this study might affect research, practice, or policy: The worldwide consequence of the expanding RVF cluster is the broader dispersion of the virus, leading to the establishment of new regions with virus endemicity. This escalation heightens the risk of more extensive extreme-weather-associated RVF epidemics in the future. Global public health institutions must persist in developing preparedness and response strategies for such scenarios. This involves the creation and approval of human RVF vaccines and therapeutics, coupled with a rapid distribution plan through regional banks.
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9
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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.
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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
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10
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Bostedt L, Fénéant L, Leske A, Holzerland J, Günther K, Waßmann I, Bohn P, Groseth A. Alternative translation contributes to the generation of a cytoplasmic subpopulation of the Junín virus nucleoprotein that inhibits caspase activation and innate immunity. J Virol 2024; 98:e0197523. [PMID: 38294249 PMCID: PMC10878266 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01975-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The highly pathogenic arenavirus, Junín virus (JUNV), expresses three truncated alternative isoforms of its nucleoprotein (NP), i.e., NP53kD, NP47kD, and NP40kD. While both NP47kD and NP40kD have been previously shown to be products of caspase cleavage, here, we show that expression of the third isoform NP53kD is due to alternative in-frame translation from M80. Based on this information, we were able to generate recombinant JUNVs lacking each of these isoforms. Infection with these mutants revealed that, while all three isoforms contribute to the efficient control of caspase activation, NP40kD plays the predominant role. In contrast to full-length NP (i.e., NP65kD), which is localized to inclusion bodies, where viral RNA synthesis takes place, the loss of portions of the N-terminal coiled-coil region in these isoforms leads to a diffuse cytoplasmic distribution and a loss of function in viral RNA synthesis. Nonetheless, NP53kD, NP47kD, and NP40kD all retain robust interferon antagonistic and 3'-5' exonuclease activities. We suggest that the altered localization of these NP isoforms allows them to be more efficiently targeted by activated caspases for cleavage as decoy substrates, and to be better positioned to degrade viral double-stranded (ds)RNA species that accumulate in the cytoplasm during virus infection and/or interact with cytosolic RNA sensors, thereby limiting dsRNA-mediated innate immune responses. Taken together, this work provides insight into the mechanism by which JUNV leverages apoptosis during infection to generate biologically distinct pools of NP and contributes to our understanding of the expression and biological relevance of alternative protein isoforms during virus infection.IMPORTANCEA limited coding capacity means that RNA viruses need strategies to diversify their proteome. The nucleoprotein (NP) of the highly pathogenic arenavirus Junín virus (JUNV) produces three N-terminally truncated isoforms: two (NP47kD and NP40kD) are known to be produced by caspase cleavage, while, here, we show that NP53kD is produced by alternative translation initiation. Recombinant JUNVs lacking individual NP isoforms revealed that all three isoforms contribute to inhibiting caspase activation during infection, but cleavage to generate NP40kD makes the biggest contribution. Importantly, all three isoforms retain their ability to digest double-stranded (ds)RNA and inhibit interferon promoter activation but have a diffuse cytoplasmic distribution. Given the cytoplasmic localization of both aberrant viral dsRNAs, as well as dsRNA sensors and many other cellular components of innate immune activation pathways, we suggest that the generation of NP isoforms not only contributes to evasion of apoptosis but also robust control of the antiviral response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linus Bostedt
- Laboratory for Arenavirus Biology, Institute of Molecular Virology and Cell Biology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Lucie Fénéant
- Laboratory for Arenavirus Biology, Institute of Molecular Virology and Cell Biology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Anne Leske
- Laboratory for Arenavirus Biology, Institute of Molecular Virology and Cell Biology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Julia Holzerland
- Laboratory for Arenavirus Biology, Institute of Molecular Virology and Cell Biology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Karla Günther
- Laboratory for Arenavirus Biology, Institute of Molecular Virology and Cell Biology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Irke Waßmann
- Laboratory for Arenavirus Biology, Institute of Molecular Virology and Cell Biology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Patrick Bohn
- Laboratory for Arenavirus Biology, Institute of Molecular Virology and Cell Biology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Allison Groseth
- Laboratory for Arenavirus Biology, Institute of Molecular Virology and Cell Biology, Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut, Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
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11
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Chemison A, Ramstein G, Jones A, Morse A, Caminade C. Ability of a dynamical climate sensitive disease model to reproduce historical Rift Valley Fever outbreaks over Africa. Sci Rep 2024; 14:3904. [PMID: 38365824 PMCID: PMC10873308 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-53774-x] [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: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley Fever (RVF) is a zoonosis transmitted by Aedes and Culex mosquitoes, and is considered a priority pathogen by the WHO. RVF epidemics mostly occur in Africa and can decimate livestock herds, causing significant economic losses and posing health risks for humans. RVF transmission is associated with the occurrence of El Niño events that cause floods in eastern Africa and favour the emergence of mosquitoes in wetlands. Different risk models have been developed to forecast RVF transmission risk but very few studies have validated models at pan-African scale. This study aims to validate the skill of the Liverpool Rift Valley Fever model (LRVF) in reproducing RVF epidemics over Africa and to explore the relationship between simulated climatic suitability for RVF transmission and large-scale climate modes of variability such as the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and the Dipole Mode Index (DMI). Our results show that the LRVF model correctly simulates RVF transmission hotspots and reproduces large epidemics that affected African countries. LRVF was able to correctly reproduce major RVF epidemics in Somalia, Kenya, Zambia and to a lesser extent for Mauritania and Senegal. The positive phases of ENSO and DMI are associated with an increased risk of RVF over the Horn of Africa, with important time lags. Following research activities should focus on the development of predictive modelling systems at different time scales.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alizée Chemison
- Laboratoire des Sciences du Climat et de l'Environnement (LSCE), CEA, CNRS, UVSQ, 91190, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Gilles Ramstein
- Laboratoire des Sciences du Climat et de l'Environnement (LSCE), CEA, CNRS, UVSQ, 91190, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Anne Jones
- IBM Research Laboratory, Daresbury, WA4 4AD, UK
| | - Andy Morse
- Department of Geography and Planning, School of Environmental Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 7ZT, UK
| | - Cyril Caminade
- Earth System Physics, Abdus Salam International Centre for Theoretical Physics, 34151, Trieste, Italy.
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12
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Rangel MV, Bourguet FA, Hall CI, Weilhammer DR. Evaluation of Inactivation Methods for Rift Valley Fever Virus in Mouse Microglia. Pathogens 2024; 13:159. [PMID: 38392897 PMCID: PMC10892077 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens13020159] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever phlebovirus (RVFV) is a highly pathogenic mosquito-borne virus with bioweapon potential due to its ability to be spread by aerosol transmission. Neurological symptoms are among the worst outcomes of infection, and understanding of pathogenesis mechanisms within the brain is limited. RVFV is classified as an overlap select agent by the CDC and USDA; therefore, experiments involving fully virulent strains of virus are tightly regulated. Here, we present two methods for inactivation of live virus within samples derived from mouse microglia cells using commercially available kits for the preparation of cells for flow cytometry and RNA extraction. Using the flow cytometry protocol, we demonstrate key differences in the response of primary murine microglia to infection with fully virulent versus attenuated RVFV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarita V. Rangel
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA 94550, USA; (M.V.R.); (F.A.B.)
| | - Feliza A. Bourguet
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA 94550, USA; (M.V.R.); (F.A.B.)
| | - Carolyn I. Hall
- Environment, Safety & Health, Biosafety & Biogovernance Functional Area, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA 94550, USA;
| | - Dina R. Weilhammer
- Biosciences and Biotechnology Division, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA 94550, USA; (M.V.R.); (F.A.B.)
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13
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Confort MP, Ratinier M, Arnaud F. Validated Methods for Effective Decontamination and Inactivation of Rift Valley Fever Virus. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2824:81-89. [PMID: 39039407 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3926-9_6] [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
The Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is an arthropod-borne, zoonotic, hemorrhagic fever virus that can cause severe diseases both in livestock and humans. The spread of RVFV in areas previously considered as non-endemic together with the absence of licensed vaccines for use in humans and animals poses a major health and economic threat worldwide. It is therefore crucial to make major progresses in our understanding and management of this virus and its zoonosis. RVFV is considered a bioterrorism pathogen, and, thus, only a few institutes, facilities, and personnel are legally authorized to detain it and handle it. Moreover, this virus must be manipulated in a biosafety level 3 (BSL3) laboratory following strict biosafety protocols to ensure that biosecurity's highest standards are met. Only certain attenuated strains such as the MP12 strain can be handled in BSL2 laboratories, depending on the country considered. To assist researchers in working with RVFV in the safest possible conditions, this chapter presents validated methods for effective RVFV decontamination and inactivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Pierre Confort
- IVPC UMR754, INRAE, Universite Claude Bernard Lyon 1, EPHE, PSL Research University, LYON, France
| | - Maxime Ratinier
- IVPC UMR754, INRAE, Universite Claude Bernard Lyon 1, EPHE, PSL Research University, LYON, France
| | - Frédérick Arnaud
- IVPC UMR754, INRAE, Universite Claude Bernard Lyon 1, EPHE, PSL Research University, LYON, France.
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14
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Confort MP, Arnaud F, Ratinier M. Guidelines for In Vitro Production and Quantification of Rift Valley Fever Virus. Methods Mol Biol 2024; 2824:91-104. [PMID: 39039408 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-3926-9_7] [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 arthropod-borne virus (arbovirus) responsible for a severe zoonotic disease affecting a wide range of domestic and wild ruminants as well as humans. RVFV is endemic in many African countries and has also caused outbreaks in Madagascar and Arabian Peninsula. With regard to its wide geographical distribution, its potential to emerge in a new area, and its capability to trigger major health and economic crisis, it is essential to study and better understand several aspects of its life cycle and, in particular, its interactions with mammalian hosts and arthropod vectors. To do so, it is key for researchers to be able to amplify in vitro viral strains isolated from the field and determine accurately the viral titers of RVFV stocks. In this chapter, we present protocols that can be easily implemented to produce and titrate RVFV stocks in your laboratory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Pierre Confort
- EPHE, Université PSL, INRAE, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, IVPC, UMR754, Lyon, France
| | - Frédérick Arnaud
- EPHE, Université PSL, INRAE, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, IVPC, UMR754, Lyon, France
| | - Maxime Ratinier
- EPHE, Université PSL, INRAE, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, IVPC, UMR754, Lyon, France.
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15
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Tumusiime D, Nijhof AM, Groschup MH, Lutwama J, Roesel K, Bett B. Participatory survey of risk factors and pathways for Rift Valley fever in pastoral and agropastoral communities of Uganda. Prev Vet Med 2023; 221:106071. [PMID: 37984160 DOI: 10.1016/j.prevetmed.2023.106071] [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: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/03/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
To assess pastoralists' and agropastoralists' knowledge on Rift Valley fever (RVF), participatory epidemiological studies were conducted with 215 livestock keepers and 27 key informants in Napak, Butebo, Isingiro and Lyantonde districts, Uganda, between January and February 2022. Livestock keepers in all four districts had knowledge of RVF and even had local names or descriptions for it. Pastoralists and agropastoralists possessed valuable knowledge of RVF clinical descriptions and epidemiological risk factors such as the presence of infected mosquitoes, living in flood-prone areas, and excessive rainfall. RVF was ranked among the top ten most important cattle diseases. Pastoralists called RVF Lonyang, symbolizing a disease associated with jaundice, high fever, abortions in pregnant cows, and sudden death in calves. Key informants identified infected domestic animals, the presence of infected mosquitoes, livestock movement and trade, and infected wild animals as risk pathways for the introduction of RVF into an area. Drinking raw blood and milk was perceived as the most likely pathway for human exposure to RVF virus; while the highest consequence was high treatment costs. The results indicate that pastoralists provided key epidemiological information that could be essential for designing an effective national RVF surveillance and early warning system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Tumusiime
- Freie Universität Berlin, Institute of Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Robert-von-Ostertag-Str. 7-13, 14163 Berlin, Germany; International Livestock Research Institute, P.O. Box 24384, Kampala, Uganda; Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, P.O. Box 103, Entebbe, Uganda.
| | - Ard M Nijhof
- Freie Universität Berlin, Institute of Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Robert-von-Ostertag-Str. 7-13, 14163 Berlin, Germany; Freie Universität Berlin, Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research, Robert-von-Ostertag-Str. 8, 14163 Berlin, Germany
| | - Martin H Groschup
- Friedrich-Loeffler-Institute, Federal Research Institute for Animal Health, Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases, Südufer 10, 17493 Greifswald-Insel Riems, Germany
| | - Julius Lutwama
- Uganda Virus Research Institute, P.O. Box 49, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Kristina Roesel
- International Livestock Research Institute, P. O. Box 30709, 00100 Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Bernard Bett
- International Livestock Research Institute, P. O. Box 30709, 00100 Nairobi, Kenya
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16
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Balaraman V, Indran SV, Li Y, Meekins DA, Jakkula LUMR, Liu H, Hays MP, Souza-Neto JA, Gaudreault NN, Hardwidge PR, Wilson WC, Weber F, Richt JA. Identification of Host Factors for Rift Valley Fever Phlebovirus. Viruses 2023; 15:2251. [PMID: 38005928 PMCID: PMC10675714 DOI: 10.3390/v15112251] [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: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever phlebovirus (RVFV) is a zoonotic pathogen that causes Rift Valley fever (RVF) in livestock and humans. Currently, there is no licensed human vaccine or antiviral drug to control RVF. Although multiple species of animals and humans are vulnerable to RVFV infection, host factors affecting susceptibility are not well understood. To identify the host factors or genes essential for RVFV replication, we conducted CRISPR-Cas9 knockout screening in human A549 cells. We then validated the putative genes using siRNA-mediated knock-downs and CRISPR-Cas9-mediated knock-out studies. The role of a candidate gene in the virus replication cycle was assessed by measuring intracellular viral RNA accumulation, and the virus titers were analyzed using plaque assay or TCID50 assay. We identified approximately 900 genes with potential involvement in RVFV infection and replication. Further evaluation of the effect of six genes on viral replication using siRNA-mediated knock-downs revealed that silencing two genes (WDR7 and LRP1) significantly impaired RVFV replication. For further analysis, we focused on the WDR7 gene since the role of the LRP1 gene in RVFV replication was previously described in detail. WDR7 knockout A549 cell lines were generated and used to dissect the effect of WRD7 on a bunyavirus, RVFV, and an orthobunyavirus, La Crosse encephalitis virus (LACV). We observed significant effects of WDR7 knockout cells on both intracellular RVFV RNA levels and viral titers. At the intracellular RNA level, WRD7 affected RVFV replication at a later phase of its replication cycle (24 h) when compared with the LACV replication, which was affected in an earlier replication phase (12 h). In summary, we identified WDR7 as an essential host factor for the replication of two different viruses, RVFV and LACV, both of which belong to the Bunyavirales order. Future studies will investigate the mechanistic role through which WDR7 facilitates phlebovirus replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Velmurugan Balaraman
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, 1800 Denison Ave, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Sabarish V. Indran
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, 1800 Denison Ave, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Yonghai Li
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, 1800 Denison Ave, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - David A. Meekins
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, 1800 Denison Ave, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Laxmi U. M. R. Jakkula
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, 1800 Denison Ave, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Heidi Liu
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, 1800 Denison Ave, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Micheal P. Hays
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, 1800 Denison Ave, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Jayme A. Souza-Neto
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, 1800 Denison Ave, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Natasha N. Gaudreault
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, 1800 Denison Ave, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Philip R. Hardwidge
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, 1800 Denison Ave, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - William C. Wilson
- Foreign Arthropod-Borne Animal Diseases Research Unit, United States Department of Agriculture, National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility, Agricultural Research Service, 1980 Denison Ave, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
| | - Friedemann Weber
- Institute for Virology, FB10—Veterinary Medicine, Justus-Liebig University, 35392 Giessen, Germany
| | - Juergen A. Richt
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases, Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, 1800 Denison Ave, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
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Alkan C, Jurado-Cobena E, Ikegami T. Advancements in Rift Valley fever vaccines: a historical overview and prospects for next generation candidates. NPJ Vaccines 2023; 8:171. [PMID: 37925544 PMCID: PMC10625542 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-023-00769-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a zoonotic viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes and causes abortion storms, fetal malformations, and newborn animal deaths in livestock ruminants. In humans, RVF can manifest as hemorrhagic fever, encephalitis, or retinitis. Outbreaks of RVF have been occurring in Africa since the early 20th century and continue to pose a threat to both humans and animals in various regions such as Africa, Madagascar, the Comoros, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen. The development of RVF vaccines is crucial in preventing mortality and morbidity and reducing the spread of the virus. While several veterinary vaccines have been licensed in endemic countries, there are currently no licensed RVF vaccines for human use. This review provides an overview of the existing RVF vaccines, as well as potential candidates for future studies on RVF vaccine development, including next-generation vaccines that show promise in combating the disease in both humans and animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cigdem Alkan
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA
| | - Eduardo Jurado-Cobena
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA
| | - Tetsuro Ikegami
- Department of Pathology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA.
- The Sealy Institute for Vaccine Sciences, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA.
- The Center for Biodefense and Emerging Infectious Diseases, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA.
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18
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Kim KW, Lee B, Eom S, Shin D, Park C, Kim S, Yi H. Universal primers for rift valley fever virus whole-genome sequencing. Sci Rep 2023; 13:18688. [PMID: 37907670 PMCID: PMC10618441 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-45848-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: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a mosquito-borne zoonotic disease causing acute hemorrhagic fever. Accurate identification of mutations and phylogenetic characterization of RVF virus (RVFV) require whole-genome analysis. Universal primers to amplify the entire RVFV genome from clinical samples with low copy numbers are currently unavailable. Thus, we aimed to develop universal primers applicable for all known RVFV strains. Based on the genome sequences available from public databases, we designed eight pairs of universal PCR primers covering the entire RVFV genome. To evaluate primer universality, four RVFV strains (ZH548, Kenya 56 (IB8), BIME-01, and Lunyo), encompassing viral phylogenetic diversity, were chosen. The nucleic acids of the test strains were chemically synthesized or extracted via cell culture. These RNAs were evaluated using the PCR primers, resulting in successful amplification with expected sizes (0.8-1.7 kb). Sequencing confirmed that the products covered the entire genome of the RVFV strains tested. Primer specificity was confirmed via in silico comparison against all non-redundant nucleotide sequences using the BLASTn alignment tool in the NCBI database. To assess the clinical applicability of the primers, mock clinical specimens containing human and RVFV RNAs were prepared. The entire RVFV genome was successfully amplified and sequenced at a viral concentration of 108 copies/mL. Given the universality, specificity, and clinical applicability of the primers, we anticipate that the RVFV universal primer pairs and the developed method will aid in RVFV phylogenomics and mutation detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kwan Woo Kim
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Graduate School, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Interdisciplinary Program in Precision Public Health, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Center for Study of Emerging and Re-emerging Viruses, Korea Virus Research Institute, Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Banseok Lee
- Interdisciplinary Program in Precision Public Health, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Integrated Biomedical and Life Science, Graduate School, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Sujeong Eom
- Interdisciplinary Program in Precision Public Health, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Integrated Biomedical and Life Science, Graduate School, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Donghoon Shin
- Interdisciplinary Program in Precision Public Health, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
- Integrated Biomedical and Life Science, Graduate School, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Changwoo Park
- Microbiological Analysis Team, Group for Biometrology, Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science (KRISS), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Convergent Research Center for Emerging Virus Infection, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Daejeon, Republic of Korea
- Department of Agricultural Biotechnology, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seil Kim
- Microbiological Analysis Team, Group for Biometrology, Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science (KRISS), Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
- Convergent Research Center for Emerging Virus Infection, Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Bio-Analysis Science, University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.
| | - Hana Yi
- Interdisciplinary Program in Precision Public Health, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- Integrated Biomedical and Life Science, Graduate School, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
- School of Biosystems and Biomedical Sciences, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea.
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Marzok M, Alkashif K, Kandeel M, Salem M, Sayed-Ahmed MZ, Selim A. Seroprevalence of Rift Valley Fever virus in one-humped camels (Camelus dromedaries) in Egypt. Trop Anim Health Prod 2023; 55:345. [PMID: 37789189 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-023-03765-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023]
Abstract
Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a mosquito-borne viral disease that affects a variety of domestic animals, including cattle, sheep, goats, and camels, and has zoonotic potential. Although the rift valley fever virus (RVFV) is usually asymptomatic in camels, it can induce abortion in some pregnant animals. In the current study, a serosurvey was carried out to investigate the prevalence of RVFV antibodies and related risk factors in camels from four Egyptian governorates. A total of 400 serum samples were examined for anti-RVFV antibodies using a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (c-ELISA). The results revealed that the overall prevalence of RVF among examined camels was 21.5% and the disease was more prevalent in Kafr ElSheikh governorate in Nile Delta of Egypt. In addition, the age group of camels with more than 5 years (OR=4.49, 95%CI: 1.39-14.49), the female sex (OR=3.38, 95%CI: 1.51-7.58), the emaciated animals (OR=1.52, 95%CI: 0.86-2.66), the summer season's infection (OR=5.98, 95%CI: 1.79-19.93), the presence of mosquitoes (OR= 2.88, 95%CI: 1.39-5.95), and the absence of mosquitoes control (OR=3.97, 95%CI: 2.09-7.57) were identified as risk factors for RVFV infection. The results of this study support knowledge on the risk factors for RVFV infection and demonstrate that camels raising in Egypt have RVFV antibodies. Quarantine measures or vaccination program should be implemented to reduce the likelihood of RVFV introduction, dissemination among susceptible animals, and ultimately transmission to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Marzok
- Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, 31982, Saudi Arabia.
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafr El Sheikh University, Kafr El Sheikh, Egypt.
| | - Khalid Alkashif
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, 82722, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahmoud Kandeel
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafr elsheikh University, Kafrelsheikh, Egypt
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Salem
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, 45142, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, 12613, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Z Sayed-Ahmed
- Department of Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt
- Department of Animal Medicine (Infectious Diseases), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Toukh, 13736, Egypt
| | - Abdelfattah Selim
- Department of Animal Medicine (Infectious Diseases), Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Benha University, Toukh, 13736, Egypt.
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Matsiela MS, Naicker L, Khoza T, Mokoena N. Safety and immunogenicity of inactivated Rift Valley Fever Smithburn viral vaccine in sheep. Virol J 2023; 20:221. [PMID: 37789354 PMCID: PMC10548704 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-023-02180-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/05/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The live-attenuated Rift Valley Fever Smithburn (SB) vaccine is one of the oldest products widely used in ruminants for control of RVF infections. Vaccinations with RVF Smithburn result in residual pathogenic effect and is limited for use in non-pregnant animals. Commercially available RVFV inactivated vaccines are considered safer options to control the disease. These products are prepared from virulent RVFV isolates and present occupational safety concerns. This research study evaluates the ability of an inactivated SB vaccine strain to elicit neutralising antibody response in sheep. METHODS The RVF Smithburn vaccine was inactivated with binary ethylenimine at 37 °C. Inactivated RVFV cultures were adjuvanted with Montande™ Gel-01 and aluminium hydroxide (Al (OH)3) gel for immunogenicity and safety determination in sheep. The commercial RVF inactivated vaccine and a placebo were included as positive and negative control groups, respectively. RESULTS Inactivated RVFV vaccine formulations were safe with all animals showing no clinical signs of RVFV infection and temperature reactions following prime-boost injections. The aluminium hydroxide formulated vaccine induced an immune response as early as 14 days post primary vaccination with neutralising antibody titre of 1:20 and a peak antibody titre of 1:83 was reached on day 56. A similar trend was observed in the animal group vaccinated with the commercial inactivated RVF vaccine obtaining the highest antibody titre of 1:128 on day 56. The neutralizing antibody levels remained within a threshold for the duration of the study. Merino sheep vaccinated with Montanide™ Gel-01-Smithburn were characterised with overall lower immune response when compared to aluminium hydroxide vaccine emulsions. CONCLUSIONS These finding suggests that the inactivated RVF Smithburn vaccine strain adjuvanted with aluminium-hydroxide can be used an alternative to the products prepared from virulent RVFV isolates for protection of ruminants against the disease. The vaccine can further be evaluated for safety in pregnant ewes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matome Selina Matsiela
- Onderstepoort Biological Products (Pty. Ltd), 100 Old Soutpan Road, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, 0110, South Africa
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal (Pietermaritzburg Campus), Scottsville, 3209, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Leeann Naicker
- Onderstepoort Biological Products (Pty. Ltd), 100 Old Soutpan Road, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, 0110, South Africa
| | - Thandeka Khoza
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal (Pietermaritzburg Campus), Scottsville, 3209, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.
| | - Nobalanda Mokoena
- Onderstepoort Biological Products (Pty. Ltd), 100 Old Soutpan Road, Onderstepoort, Pretoria, 0110, South Africa.
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21
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Balaraman V, Indran SV, Li Y, Meekins DA, Jakkula LU, Liu H, Hays MP, Souza-Neto JA, Gaudreault NN, Hardwidge PR, Wilson WC, Weber F, Richt JA. Identification of host factors for Rift Valley Fever Phlebovirus. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.09.28.559935. [PMID: 37808812 PMCID: PMC10557628 DOI: 10.1101/2023.09.28.559935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Background Rift Valley fever phlebovirus (RVFV) is a zoonotic pathogen that causes Rift Valley fever (RVF) in livestock and humans. Currently, there is no licensed human vaccine or antiviral drug to control RVF. Although multiple species of animals and humans are vulnerable to RVFV infection, host factors affecting susceptibility are not well understood. Methodology To identify the host factors or genes essential for RVFV replication, we conducted a CRISPR-Cas9 knock-out screen in human A549 cells. We then validated the putative genes using siRNA-mediated knockdowns and CRISPR-Cas9-mediated knockout studies, respectively. The role of a candidate gene in the virus replication cycle was assessed by measuring intracellular viral RNA accumulation, and the virus titers by plaque assay or TCID50 assay. Findings We identified approximately 900 genes with potential involvement in RVFV infection and replication. Further evaluation of the effect of six genes on viral replication using siRNA-mediated knockdowns found that silencing two genes (WDR7 and LRP1) significantly impaired RVFV replication. For further analysis, we focused on the WDR7 gene since the role of LRP1 in RVFV replication was previously described in detail. Knock-out A549 cell lines were generated and used to dissect the effect of WRD7 on RVFV and another bunyavirus, La Crosse encephalitis virus (LACV). We observed significant effects of WDR7 knock-out cells on both intracellular RVFV RNA levels and viral titers. At the intracellular RNA level, WRD7 affected RVFV replication at a later phase of its replication cycle (24h) when compared to LACV which was affected an earlier replication phase (12h). Conclusion In summary, we have identified WDR7 as an essential host factor for the replication of two relevant bunyaviruses, RVFV and LACV. Future studies will investigate the mechanistic role by which WDR7 facilitates Phlebovirus replication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Velmurugan Balaraman
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases and Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Sabarish V. Indran
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases and Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Yonghai Li
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases and Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - David A. Meekins
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases and Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Laxmi U.M.R. Jakkula
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases and Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Heidi Liu
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases and Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Micheal P. Hays
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases and Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Jayme A. Souza-Neto
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases and Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Natasha N. Gaudreault
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases and Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Philip R. Hardwidge
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases and Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - William C. Wilson
- United States Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service, National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility, Foreign Arthropod-Borne Animal Diseases Research Unit, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
| | - Friedemann Weber
- Institute for Virology, FB10-Veterinary Medicine, Justus-Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Juergen A. Richt
- Center of Excellence for Emerging and Zoonotic Animal Diseases and Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, United States of America
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Muturi M, Mwatondo A, Nijhof AM, Akoko J, Nyamota R, Makori A, Nyamai M, Nthiwa D, Wambua L, Roesel K, Thumbi SM, Bett B. Ecological and subject-level drivers of interepidemic Rift Valley fever virus exposure in humans and livestock in Northern Kenya. Sci Rep 2023; 13:15342. [PMID: 37714941 PMCID: PMC10504342 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-42596-y] [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: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Nearly a century after the first reports of Rift Valley fever (RVF) were documented in Kenya, questions on the transmission dynamics of the disease remain. Specifically, data on viral maintenance in the quiescent years between epidemics is limited. We implemented a cross-sectional study in northern Kenya to determine the seroprevalence, risk factors, and ecological predictors of RVF in humans and livestock during an interepidemic period. Six hundred seventy-six human and 1,864 livestock samples were screened for anti-RVF Immunoglobulin G (IgG). Out of the 1,864 livestock samples tested for IgG, a subset of 1,103 samples was randomly selected for additional testing to detect the presence of anti-RVFV Immunoglobulin M (IgM). The anti-RVF virus (RVFV) IgG seropositivity in livestock and humans was 21.7% and 28.4%, respectively. RVFV IgM was detected in 0.4% of the livestock samples. Participation in the slaughter of livestock and age were positively associated with RVFV exposure in humans, while age was a significant factor in livestock. We detected significant interaction between rainfall and elevation's influence on livestock seropositivity, while in humans, elevation was negatively associated with RVF virus exposure. The linear increase of human and livestock exposure with age suggests an endemic transmission cycle, further corroborated by the detection of IgM antibodies in livestock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathew Muturi
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Dahlem Research School of Biomedical Sciences (DRS), Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya.
- Kenya Zoonotic Disease Unit, Ministry of Health and Ministry of Agriculture, Nairobi, Kenya.
- Center for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis-University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Athman Mwatondo
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
- Kenya Zoonotic Disease Unit, Ministry of Health and Ministry of Agriculture, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ard M Nijhof
- Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
- Institute for Parasitology and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Freie Univesität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - James Akoko
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Anita Makori
- Center for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis-University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Paul G Allen School for Global Health, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Mutono Nyamai
- Center for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis-University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Paul G Allen School for Global Health, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Daniel Nthiwa
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Embu, Embu, Kenya
| | - Lilian Wambua
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - S M Thumbi
- Center for Epidemiological Modelling and Analysis-University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
- Paul G Allen School for Global Health, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
- Institute for Immunology and Infection Research, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Bernard Bett
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
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23
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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.
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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
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Trabelsi MK, Hachid A, Derrar F, Messahel NE, Bia T, Mockbel Y, Khardine AF, Degui D, Bellout L, Benaissa MH, Leulmi H, Khelef D, Kaidi R, Hakem A, Bouguedour R, Bitam I, Lafri I. Serological evidence of Rift Valley fever viral infection among camels imported into Southern Algeria. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2023; 100:102035. [PMID: 37572591 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2023.102035] [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: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a mosquito-borne viral zoonosis caused by the Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV). The present work aims to investigate the epidemiological status and identify the risk factors associated with RVFV infection in dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius) from southern Algeria. A total of 269 sera of apparently healthy camels was collected and tested using a competitive Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Overall, 72 camels (26.7 %, 95 % CI: 21.4-32) were seropositive to RVFV. IgG antibodies were found to be most prevalent in camels from south-western areas, particularly in Tindouf wilaya (52.38 %, p < 0.0001), and in camels introduced from bordering Sahelian countries (35.8 %) (OR = 8.75, 95 %CI: 2.14-35.81). No anti-RVFV antibodies were detected in sera collected from local camels (0 %). Adult (5-10 years) and aged (>10 years) camels have a significantly higher risk of being infected by RVFV (OR = 2.15; 95 %CI = 1.21-3.81, OR = 2.05; 95 %CI = 1.03-4.11, respectively). This report indicated that dromedaries imported to the south-western areas are exposed to RVFV and may contribute to its spread in Algerian territories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Katia Trabelsi
- Institut des Sciences Vétérinaires, Université de Blida 1, Blida 09000, Algeria; Laboratoire des Biotechnologies Liées à la Reproduction Animale (LBRA), Institut des Sciences Vétérinaires, Université de Blida 1, Blida 09000, Algeria
| | - Aissam Hachid
- Faculté de Pharmacie, Univérsité d'Alger 1, Alger 16000, Algeria; Laboratoire des Arbovirus et Virus Emergents, Institut Pasteur d'Algérie, Alger 16000, Algeria
| | - Fawzi Derrar
- Faculté de Medecine, Université d'Alger 1, Alger 16000, Algeria; Laboratoire des Grippes et virus respiratoires, Institut Pasteur d'Algérie, Alger 16000, Algeria
| | - Nacer Eddine Messahel
- Faculté des Sciences de la Nature et de la Vie, Université Setif 1, Setif 19000, Algeria
| | - Taha Bia
- Institut des Sciences Vétérinaires, Université de Tiaret, Tiaret 14000, Algeria
| | - Youcef Mockbel
- Direction des Services Agricoles de la wilaya de Tindouf, Algeria
| | - Ahmed Fayez Khardine
- Laboratoire des Arbovirus et Virus Emergents, Institut Pasteur d'Algérie, Alger 16000, Algeria
| | - Djilali Degui
- Institut des Sciences Vétérinaires, Université de Blida 1, Blida 09000, Algeria; Laboratoire des Biotechnologies Liées à la Reproduction Animale (LBRA), Institut des Sciences Vétérinaires, Université de Blida 1, Blida 09000, Algeria
| | - Lydia Bellout
- Institut des Sciences Vétérinaires, Université de Blida 1, Blida 09000, Algeria
| | - Mohammed Hocine Benaissa
- Centre de Recherche Scientifique Et Technique Sur Les Régions Arides (CRSTRA), 55000 Touggourt, Algeria
| | - Hamza Leulmi
- Faculté des Sciences de la Nature et de la Vie, Université de Blida 1, Blida 09000, Algeria
| | - Djamel Khelef
- Ecole Nationale Supérieure Vétérinaire, Oued Smar, Alger 16000, Algeria
| | - Rachid Kaidi
- Institut des Sciences Vétérinaires, Université de Blida 1, Blida 09000, Algeria; Laboratoire des Biotechnologies Liées à la Reproduction Animale (LBRA), Institut des Sciences Vétérinaires, Université de Blida 1, Blida 09000, Algeria
| | - Ahcéne Hakem
- Centre de Recherche en Agropastoralisme (CRAPast) Djelfa, Djelfa 17000, Algeria
| | - Rachid Bouguedour
- Organisation Mondiale de la Santé Animale (OMSA), Representation Sous-Régionale de l'Afrique du Nord, 17 Avenue d'Afrique - El Menzah 5, 2091 Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Idir Bitam
- Ecole Supérieure des Sciences de l'Aliment et des Industries Agroalimentaires, Alger 16000, Algeria
| | - Ismail Lafri
- Institut des Sciences Vétérinaires, Université de Blida 1, Blida 09000, Algeria; Laboratoire des Biotechnologies Liées à la Reproduction Animale (LBRA), Institut des Sciences Vétérinaires, Université de Blida 1, Blida 09000, Algeria.
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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.
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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
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26
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Guterres A. Viral load: We need a new look at an old problem? J Med Virol 2023; 95:e29061. [PMID: 37638475 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29061] [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: 01/27/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
The concept of viral load was introduced in the 1980s to measure the amount of viral genetic material in a person's blood, primarily for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). It has since become crucial for monitoring HIV infection progression and assessing the efficacy of antiretroviral therapy. However, during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, the term "viral load" became widely popularized, not only for the scientific community but for the general population. Viral load plays a critical role in both clinical patient management and research, providing valuable insights for antiviral treatment strategies, vaccination efforts, and epidemiological control measures. As measuring viral load is so important, why don't researchers discuss the best way to do it? Is it simply acceptable to use raw Ct values? Relying solely on Ct values for viral load estimation can be problematic due to several reasons. First, Ct values can vary between different quantitative polymerase chain reaction assays, platforms, and laboratories, making it difficult to compare data across studies. Second, Ct values do not directly measure the quantity of viral particles in a sample and they can be influenced by various factors such as initial viral load, sample quality, and assay sensitivity. Moreover, variations in viral RNA extraction and reverse-transcription steps can further impact the accuracy of viral load estimation, emphasizing the need for careful interpretation of Ct values in viral load assessment. Interestingly, we did not observe scientific articles addressing different strategies to quantify viral load. The absence of standardized and validated methods impedes the implementation of viral load monitoring in clinical management. The variability in cell quantities within samples and the variation in viral particle numbers within infected cells further challenge accurate viral load measurement and interpretation. To advance the field and improve patient outcomes, there is an urgent need for the development and validation of tailored, standardized methods for precise viral load quantification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandro Guterres
- Laboratório de Hantaviroses e Rickettsioses, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Laboratório de Tecnologia Imunológica, Instituto de Tecnologia em Imunobiológicos, Vice-Diretoria de Desenvolvimento Tecnológico, Bio-Manguinhos, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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27
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Bermúdez-Méndez E, Angelino P, van Keulen L, van de Water S, Rockx B, Pijlman GP, Ciuffi A, Kortekaas J, Wichgers Schreur PJ. Transcriptomic Profiling Reveals Intense Host-Pathogen Dispute Compromising Homeostasis during Acute Rift Valley Fever Virus Infection. J Virol 2023; 97:e0041523. [PMID: 37306574 PMCID: PMC10308945 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00415-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) (family Phenuiviridae) can cause severe disease, and outbreaks of this mosquito-borne pathogen pose a significant threat to public and animal health. Yet many molecular aspects of RVFV pathogenesis remain incompletely understood. Natural RVFV infections are acute, characterized by a rapid onset of peak viremia during the first days post-infection, followed by a rapid decline. Although in vitro studies identified a major role of interferon (IFN) responses in counteracting the infection, a comprehensive overview of the specific host factors that play a role in RVFV pathogenesis in vivo is still lacking. Here, the host in vivo transcriptional profiles in the liver and spleen tissues of lambs exposed to RVFV are studied using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) technology. We validate that IFN-mediated pathways are robustly activated in response to infection. We also link the observed hepatocellular necrosis with severely compromised organ function, which is reflected as a marked downregulation of multiple metabolic enzymes essential for homeostasis. Furthermore, we associate the elevated basal expression of LRP1 in the liver with RVFV tissue tropism. Collectively, the results of this study deepen the knowledge of the in vivo host response during RVFV infection and reveal new insights into the gene regulation networks underlying pathogenesis in a natural host. IMPORTANCE Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is a mosquito-transmitted pathogen capable of causing severe disease in animals and humans. Outbreaks of RVFV pose a significant threat to public health and can result in substantial economic losses. Little is known about the molecular basis of RVFV pathogenesis in vivo, particularly in its natural hosts. We employed RNA-seq technology to investigate genome-wide host responses in the liver and spleen of lambs during acute RVFV infection. We show that RVFV infection drastically decreases the expression of metabolic enzymes, which impairs normal liver function. Moreover, we highlight that basal expression levels of the host factor LRP1 may be a determinant of RVFV tissue tropism. This study links the typical pathological phenotype induced by RVFV infection with tissue-specific gene expression profiles, thereby improving our understanding of RVFV pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erick Bermúdez-Méndez
- Department of Virology and Molecular Biology, Wageningen Bioveterinary Research, Lelystad, The Netherlands
- Laboratory of Virology, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Institute of Microbiology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Institute of Microbiology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Paolo Angelino
- Institute of Microbiology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Institute of Microbiology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Bioinformatics Core Facility, Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Lucien van Keulen
- Department of Bacteriology, Host-Pathogen Interaction and Diagnostics Development, Wageningen Bioveterinary Research, Lelystad, The Netherlands
| | - Sandra van de Water
- Department of Virology and Molecular Biology, Wageningen Bioveterinary Research, Lelystad, The Netherlands
| | - Barry Rockx
- Department of Virology and Molecular Biology, Wageningen Bioveterinary Research, Lelystad, The Netherlands
| | - Gorben P. Pijlman
- Laboratory of Virology, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Angela Ciuffi
- Institute of Microbiology, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Institute of Microbiology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Jeroen Kortekaas
- Department of Virology and Molecular Biology, Wageningen Bioveterinary Research, Lelystad, The Netherlands
- Laboratory of Virology, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Paul J. Wichgers Schreur
- Department of Virology and Molecular Biology, Wageningen Bioveterinary Research, Lelystad, The Netherlands
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Johnson SAM, Asmah R, Awuni JA, Tasiame W, Mensah GI, Paweska JT, Weyer J, Hellferscee O, Thompson PN. Evidence of Rift Valley Fever Virus Circulation in Livestock and Herders in Southern Ghana. Viruses 2023; 15:1346. [PMID: 37376647 DOI: 10.3390/v15061346] [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: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a re-emerging zoonotic disease of domestic ruminants and humans. While neighbouring countries have reported outbreaks of RVF, Ghana has not yet identified any cases. The aim of this study was to determine whether RVF virus (RVFV) was circulating in livestock and herders in the southern part of Ghana, to estimate its seroprevalence, and to identify associated risk factors. The study surveyed 165 livestock farms randomly selected from two districts in southern Ghana. Serum samples of 253 goats, 246 sheep, 220 cattle, and 157 herdsmen were tested to detect IgG and IgM antibodies against RVFV. The overall seroprevalence of anti-RVF antibodies in livestock was 13.1% and 30.9% of farms had RVFV seropositive animals. The species-specific prevalence was 24.1% in cattle, 8.5% in sheep, and 7.9% in goats. A RVFV IgG seroprevalence of 17.8% was found among the ruminant herders, with 8.3% of all herders being IgM positive. RVFV was shown, for the first time, to have been circulating in southern Ghana, with evidence of a recent outbreak in Kwahu East; however, it was clinically undetected despite significant recent human exposure. A One Health approach is recommended to better understand RVF epidemiology and socio-economic impact in Ghana.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherry Ama Mawuko Johnson
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa
- School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra 00233, Ghana
| | - Richard Asmah
- School of Biomedical & Allied Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Accra 00233, Ghana
| | - Joseph Adongo Awuni
- Accra Veterinary Laboratory, Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Accra P.O. Box M161, Ghana
| | - William Tasiame
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi 00233, Ghana
| | - Gloria Ivy Mensah
- Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra 00233, Ghana
| | - Janusz T Paweska
- Centre for Emerging Zoonotic and Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases of the National Health Laboratory Service, Sandringham, Johannesburg 2192, South Africa
- Department of Medical Virology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa
| | - Jacqueline Weyer
- Centre for Emerging Zoonotic and Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases of the National Health Laboratory Service, Sandringham, Johannesburg 2192, South Africa
- Department of Medical Virology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa
| | - Orienka Hellferscee
- Centre for Emerging Zoonotic and Parasitic Diseases, National Institute for Communicable Diseases of the National Health Laboratory Service, Sandringham, Johannesburg 2192, South Africa
- Department of Medical Virology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2050, South Africa
| | - Peter N Thompson
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort 0110, South Africa
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Tumusiime D, Isingoma E, Tashoroora OB, Ndumu DB, Bahati M, Nantima N, Mugizi DR, Jost C, Bett B. Mapping the risk of Rift Valley fever in Uganda using national seroprevalence data from cattle, sheep and goats. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2023; 17:e0010482. [PMID: 37235591 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0010482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Uganda has had repeated outbreaks of Rift Valley fever (RVF) since March 2016 when human and livestock cases were reported in Kabale after a long interval. The disease has a complex and poorly described transmission patterns which involves several mosquito vectors and mammalian hosts (including humans). We conducted a national serosurvey in livestock to determine RVF virus (RVFV) seroprevalence, risk factors, and to develop a risk map that could be used to guide risk-based surveillance and control measures. A total of 3,253 animals from 175 herds were sampled. Serum samples collected were screened at the National Animal Disease Diagnostics and Epidemiology Centre (NADDEC) using a competition multispecies anti-RVF IgG ELISA kit. Data obtained were analyzed using a Bayesian model that utilizes integrated nested Laplace approximation (INLA) and stochastic partial differential equation (SPDE) approaches to estimate posterior distributions of model parameters, and account for spatial autocorrelation. Variables considered included animal level factors (age, sex, species) and multiple environmental data including meteorological factors, soil types, and altitude. A risk map was produced by projecting fitted (mean) values, from a final model that had environmental factors onto a spatial grid that covered the entire domain. The overall RVFV seroprevalence was 11.39% (95% confidence interval: 10.35-12.51%). Higher RVFV seroprevalences were observed in older animals compared to the young, and cattle compared to sheep and goats. RVFV seroprevalence was also higher in areas that had (i) lower precipitation seasonality, (ii) haplic planosols, and (iii) lower cattle density. The risk map generated demonstrated that RVF virus was endemic in several regions including those that have not reported clinical outbreaks in the northeastern part of the country. This work has improved our understanding on spatial distribution of RVFV risk in the country as well as RVF burden in livestock.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Tumusiime
- Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Entebbe, Uganda
- International Livestock Research Institute, Kampala, Uganda
- Dahlem Research School (DRS) Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Emmanuel Isingoma
- Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | - Deo B Ndumu
- Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Milton Bahati
- Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Noelina Nantima
- Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Entebbe, Uganda
| | | | - Christine Jost
- United States Agency for International Development's Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance 14 (USAID/BHA), Washington, D.C., United States of America
- Global Health Support Initiative III, Social Solutions International, Washington, D.C., United States of America
| | - Bernard Bett
- International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
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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.
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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
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31
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Tabassum S, Naeem F, Azhar M, Naeem A, Oduoye MO, Dave T. Rift Valley fever virus outbreak in Mauritania yet again in 2022: No room for complacency. Health Sci Rep 2023; 6:e1278. [PMID: 37216056 PMCID: PMC10196093 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.1278] [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: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever is an important yet ignored viral hemorrhagic fever claiming many lives of African and Arabian countries over the past decade. Unfortunately, a recent outbreak of Rift Valley fever is currently ravaging in Mauritania. Death toll is rising continuously with 23 deaths reported in the month of October, 2022. Our article aims to shed light on the ongoing Rift Valley fever outbreak and recommendations to eradicate this potential threat to public health. Online databases including PubMed, the Lancet, and Science Direct as well as conferences, news, and press releases were used to for data collection. All the available medical literature related to Rift Valley fever in Mauritania were taken into consideration while writing the manuscript. As of October 17, 2022, 47 cases have been documented out of which 23 are dead. Case fatality rate has been reached to 49% which has given a wakeup call to the authorities. Efforts are being made by the concerned authorities and World Health Organization to halt the progression of this outbreak. Further investigations are required to completely eradicate the recurrent outbreaks in Mauritania especially in the area of vaccine development. Active involvement of public with the government authorities is of extreme significance in combating this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shehroze Tabassum
- Department of Internal MedicineKing Edward Medical UniversityLahorePakistan
| | - Farhan Naeem
- Department of Internal MedicineKing Edward Medical UniversityLahorePakistan
| | - Masood Azhar
- Department of Internal MedicineKing Edward Medical UniversityLahorePakistan
| | - Aroma Naeem
- Department of Internal MedicineKing Edward Medical UniversityLahorePakistan
| | - Malik O. Oduoye
- College of Medical SciencesAhmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH)ShikaKaduna StateNigeria
| | - Tirth Dave
- Department of Internal MedicineBukovinian State Medical UniversityChernivtsiUkraine
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32
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Zhu X, Guan Z, Fang Y, Zhang Y, Guan Z, Li S, Peng K. Rift Valley Fever Virus Nucleoprotein Triggers Autophagy to Dampen Antiviral Innate Immune Responses. J Virol 2023; 97:e0181422. [PMID: 36939341 PMCID: PMC10134837 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01814-22] [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: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is a mosquito-borne bunyavirus that causes severe and potentially fatal hemorrhagic fever in humans. Autophagy is a self-degradative process that can restrict viral replication at multiple infection steps. In this study, we evaluated the effects of RVFV-triggered autophagy on viral replication and immune responses. Our results showed that RVFV infection triggered autophagosome formation and induced complete autophagy. Impairing autophagy flux by depleting autophagy-related gene 5 (ATG5), ATG7, or sequestosome 1 (SQSTM1) or treatment with autophagy inhibitors markedly reduced viral RNA synthesis and progeny virus production. Mechanistically, our findings demonstrated that the RVFV nucleoprotein (NP) C-terminal domain interacts with the autophagy receptor SQSTM1 and promotes the SQSTM1-microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 B (LC3B) interaction and autophagy. Deletion of the NP C-terminal domain impaired the interaction between NP and SQSTM1 and its ability to trigger autophagy. Notably, RVFV-triggered autophagy promoted viral infection in macrophages but not in other tested cell types, including Huh7 hepatocytes and human umbilical vein endothelial cells, suggesting cell type specificity of this mechanism. It was further revealed that RVFV NP-triggered autophagy dampens antiviral innate immune responses in infected macrophages to promote viral replication. These results provide novel insights into the mechanisms of RVFV-triggered autophagy and indicate the potential of targeting the autophagy pathway to develop antivirals against RVFV. IMPORTANCE We showed that RVFV infection induced the complete autophagy process. Depletion of the core autophagy genes ATG5, ATG7, or SQSTM1 or pharmacologic inhibition of autophagy in macrophages strongly suppressed RVFV replication. We further revealed that the RVFV NP C-terminal domain interacted with SQSTM1 and enhanced the SQSTM1/LC3B interaction to promote autophagy. RVFV NP-triggered autophagy strongly inhibited virus-induced expression of interferon-stimulated genes in infected macrophages but not in other tested cell types. Our study provides novel insights into the mechanisms of RVFV-triggered autophagy and highlights the potential of targeting autophagy flux to develop antivirals against this virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangtao Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Antiviral Research, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Zihan Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Antiviral Research, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yujie Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Antiviral Research, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yulan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Antiviral Research, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhenqiong Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Antiviral Research, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Shufen Li
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Antiviral Research, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ke Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Center for Antiviral Research, Center for Biosafety Mega-Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, People’s Republic of China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Hubei Jiangxia Laboratory, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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Khandelwal V, Sharma T, Gupta S, Singh S, Sharma MK, Parashar D, Kashyap VK. Stem cell therapy: a novel approach against emerging and re-emerging viral infections with special reference to SARS-CoV-2. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:2663-2683. [PMID: 36536185 PMCID: PMC9762873 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-07957-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The past several decades have witnessed the emergence and re-emergence of many infectious viral agents, flaviviruses, influenza, filoviruses, alphaviruses, and coronaviruses since the advent of human deficiency virus (HIV). Some of them even become serious threats to public health and have raised major global health concerns. Several different medicinal compounds such as anti-viral, anti-malarial, and anti-inflammatory agents, are under investigation for the treatment of these viral diseases. These therapies are effective improving recovery rates and overall survival of patients but are unable to heal lung damage caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Therefore, there is a critical need to identify effective treatments to combat this unmet clinical need. Due to its antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties, stem cell therapy is considered a novel approach to regenerate damaged lungs and reduce inflammation. Stem cell therapy uses a heterogeneous subset of regenerative cells that can be harvested from various adult tissue types and is gaining popularity due to its prodigious regenerative potential as well as immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. These cells retain expression of cluster of differentiation markers (CD markers), interferon-stimulated gene (ISG), reduce expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and, show a rapid proliferation rate, which makes them an attractive tool for cellular therapies and to treat various inflammatory and viral-induced injuries. By examining various clinical studies, this review demonstrates positive considerations for the implications of stem cell therapy and presents a necessary approach for treating virally induced infections in patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishal Khandelwal
- Department of Biotechnology, GLA University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, 281406, India
| | - Tarubala Sharma
- Department of Biotechnology, GLA University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, 281406, India
| | - Saurabh Gupta
- Department of Biotechnology, GLA University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, 281406, India
| | - Shoorvir Singh
- Department of Biotechnology, GLA University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, 281406, India
| | - Manish Kumar Sharma
- Department of Microbiology, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Avadh University, Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh, 224001, India
| | - Deepak Parashar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, 53226, USA.
| | - Vivek K Kashyap
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX, 78504, USA. .,South Texas Center of Excellence in Cancer Research, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley, McAllen, TX, 78504, USA.
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Using Multiplex Amplicon PCR Technology to Efficiently and Timely Generate Rift Valley Fever Virus Sequence Data for Genomic Surveillance. Viruses 2023; 15:v15020477. [PMID: 36851690 PMCID: PMC9961268 DOI: 10.3390/v15020477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a febrile vector-borne disease endemic in Africa and continues to spread in new territories. It is a climate-sensitive disease mostly triggered by abnormal rainfall patterns. The disease is associated with high mortality and morbidity in both humans and livestock. RVF is caused by the Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) of the genus Phlebovirus in the family Phenuiviridae. It is a tripartite RNA virus with three genomic segments: small (S), medium (M) and large (L). Pathogen genomic sequencing is becoming a routine procedure and a powerful tool for understanding the evolutionary dynamics of infectious organisms, including viruses. Inspired by the utility of amplicon-based sequencing demonstrated in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) and Ebola, Zika and West Nile viruses, we report an RVFV sample preparation based on amplicon multiplex polymerase chain reaction (amPCR) for template enrichment and reduction of background host contamination. The technology can be implemented rapidly to characterize and genotype RVFV during outbreaks in a near-real-time manner. To achieve this, we designed 74 multiplex primer sets covering the entire RVFV genome to specifically amplify the nucleic acid of RVFV in clinical samples from an animal tissue. Using this approach, we demonstrate achieving complete RVFV genome coverage even from samples containing a relatively low viral load. We report the first primer scheme approach of generating multiplex primer sets for a tripartite virus which can be replicated for other segmented viruses.
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35
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Development and Validation of Rapid Colorimetric Reverse Transcription Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification for Detection of Rift Valley Fever Virus. Adv Virol 2023; 2023:1863980. [PMID: 36755743 PMCID: PMC9902148 DOI: 10.1155/2023/1863980] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is a high-priority zoonotic pathogen with the ability to cause massive loss during its outbreak within a very short period of time. Lack of a highly sensitive, instant reading diagnostic method for RVFV, which is more suitable for on-site testing, is a big gap that needs to be addressed. The aim of this study was to develop a novel one-step reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) method for the rapid detection of RVFV. To achieve this, the selected RVFV M segment nucleotide sequences were aligned using Multiple Sequence Comparison by Log-Expectation (MUSCLE) software in MEGA11 version 11.0.11 program to identify conserved regions. A 211 pb sequence was identified and six different primers to amplify it were designed using NEB LAMP Primer design tool version 1.1.0. The specificity of the designed primers was tested using primer BLAST, and a primer set, specific to RVFV and able to form a loop, was selected. In this study, we developed a single-tube test based on calorimetric RT-LAMP that enabled the visual detection of RVFV within 30 minutes at 65°C. Diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of the newly developed kit were compared with RVFV qRT-PCR, using total RNA samples extracted from 118 blood samples. The colorimetric RT-LAMP assay had a sensitivity of 98.36% and a specificity of 96.49%. The developed RT-LAMP was found to be tenfold more sensitive compared to the RVFV qRT-PCR assay commonly used in the confirmatory diagnosis of RVFV.
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36
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Moetlhoa B, Tjale M, Pretorius A, Hayeshi R, Grobler A, Mokoena NB. Rift Valley Fever vaccine strategies: Enhanced stability of RVF Clone 13. Vaccine 2023; 41:1050-1058. [PMID: 36593173 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2022.12.056] [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: 09/19/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Rift Valley Fever virus (RVFV) causes the zoonotic RVF disease, which results in substantial economic losses in livestock industries. Regular vaccination of livestock against RVF is necessary to generate long-term immunity and avoid the loss of livestock. The live attenuated vaccine based on Clone 13 virus strain has been used to reduce the negative impact of RVF disease. The vaccine strain is heat labile and requires stringent conditions for storage and handling. This research evaluated lactose and sucrose-based stabilizers coupled with lyophilisation to enhance stability of the RVF Clone 13 vaccine strain. The glass transition temperature (Tg) of the sucrose-RVF vaccine was 97.0 °C with average residual moisture of below 2 %. The lactose formulation was characterised with Tg of 83.5 °C and residual moisture of above 2 %. The RVF Clone 13 sucrose-based formulation maintained higher antigen titres during lyophilisation compared to the lactose-formulated vaccine. Cellular-mediated and humoral immunity was evaluated and compared for the two newly formulated vaccines. Pheroid® technology was also investigated as a potential adjuvant and its ability to further enhance the immunogenicity conferred by the RVF Clone 13 vaccine formulations in Merino sheep. No adverse reactions were observed following injection of the vaccine formulations in mice, guinea pigs and Merino sheep. Comparable protective humoral immune responses against RVF were obtained for all animals vaccinated with the lactose and sucrose-based stabilisers with and without the Pheroid® adjuvant. No proliferation of CD8+ and CD4+ T-cells as well as expression of IFN-γ was observed for all animals group vaccinated with Pheroid® only. Specific CD8+ IFN-γ+T-cells were expressed at higher levels compared to the CD4+ IFN-γ+T-cells in the RVF Clone 13 vaccines, suggesting that cellular immunity against RVF is through the Class I antigen presentation pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boitumelo Moetlhoa
- Onderstepoort Biological Products (OBP) SOC Ltd, 100 Old Soutpan Road, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa; DSI/NWU Preclinical Drug Development Platform (PCDDP), Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
| | - Mabotse Tjale
- Onderstepoort Biological Products (OBP) SOC Ltd, 100 Old Soutpan Road, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa; Biophotonics, National Laser Centre, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Meiring Naudé Road Brummeria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Alri Pretorius
- ARC-Onderstepoort Veterinary Research (OVR), 100 Old Soutpan Road, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa
| | - Rose Hayeshi
- DSI/NWU Preclinical Drug Development Platform (PCDDP), Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
| | - Anne Grobler
- DSI/NWU Preclinical Drug Development Platform (PCDDP), Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom 2520, South Africa
| | - Nobalanda B Mokoena
- Onderstepoort Biological Products (OBP) SOC Ltd, 100 Old Soutpan Road, Onderstepoort, 0110, South Africa.
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Confort MP, Duboeuf M, Thiesson A, Pons L, Marziali F, Desloire S, Ratinier M, Cimarelli A, Arnaud F. IFITMs from Naturally Infected Animal Species Exhibit Distinct Restriction Capacities against Toscana and Rift Valley Fever Viruses. Viruses 2023; 15:v15020306. [PMID: 36851520 PMCID: PMC9965546 DOI: 10.3390/v15020306] [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: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley Fever virus (RVFV) and Toscana virus (TOSV) are two pathogenic arthropod-borne viruses responsible for zoonotic infections in both humans and animals; as such, they represent a growing threat to public and veterinary health. Interferon-induced transmembrane (IFITM) proteins are broad inhibitors of a large panel of viruses belonging to various families and genera. However, little is known on the interplay between RVFV, TOSV, and the IFITM proteins derived from their naturally infected host species. In this study, we investigated the ability of human, bovine, and camel IFITMs to restrict RVFV and TOSV infection. Our results indicated that TOSV was extremely sensitive to inhibition by all the animal IFITMs tested, while RVFV was inhibited by human IFITM-2 and IFITM-3, but not IFITM-1, and exhibited a more heterogeneous resistance phenotype towards the individual bovine and camel IFITMs tested. Overall, our findings shed some light on the complex and differential interplay between two zoonotic viruses and IFITMs from their naturally infected animal species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Pierre Confort
- IVPC UMR754, INRAE, Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, EPHE, PSL University, F-69007 Lyon, France
| | - Maëva Duboeuf
- IVPC UMR754, INRAE, Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, EPHE, PSL University, F-69007 Lyon, France
| | - Adrien Thiesson
- IVPC UMR754, INRAE, Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, EPHE, PSL University, F-69007 Lyon, France
| | - Léa Pons
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (CIRI), Université de Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, École Nationale Supérieure de Lyon, F-69342 Lyon, France
| | - Federico Marziali
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (CIRI), Université de Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, École Nationale Supérieure de Lyon, F-69342 Lyon, France
| | - Sophie Desloire
- IVPC UMR754, INRAE, Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, EPHE, PSL University, F-69007 Lyon, France
| | - Maxime Ratinier
- IVPC UMR754, INRAE, Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, EPHE, PSL University, F-69007 Lyon, France
| | - Andrea Cimarelli
- Centre International de Recherche en Infectiologie (CIRI), Université de Lyon, Inserm, U1111, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, CNRS, UMR5308, École Nationale Supérieure de Lyon, F-69342 Lyon, France
- Correspondence: (A.C.); (F.A.); Tel.: +33-(0)-4-7272-8696 (A.C.); +33-4-3728-7612 (F.A.); Fax: +33-(0)-4-7272-8137 (A.C.); +33-4-3728-7605 (F.A.)
| | - Frédérick Arnaud
- IVPC UMR754, INRAE, Univ Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, EPHE, PSL University, F-69007 Lyon, France
- Correspondence: (A.C.); (F.A.); Tel.: +33-(0)-4-7272-8696 (A.C.); +33-4-3728-7612 (F.A.); Fax: +33-(0)-4-7272-8137 (A.C.); +33-4-3728-7605 (F.A.)
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38
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Ayers VB, Huang YJS, Dunlop JI, Kohl A, Brennan B, Higgs S, Vanlandingham DL. Immunogenicity of a Candidate Live Attenuated Vaccine for Rift Valley Fever Virus with a Two-Segmented Genome. Viral Immunol 2023; 36:33-40. [PMID: 36399689 PMCID: PMC9885543 DOI: 10.1089/vim.2022.0104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is an emerging arbovirus that affects both ruminants and humans. RVFV causes severe and recurrent outbreaks in Africa and the Arabian Peninsula with a significant risk for emergence into new locations. Although there are a variety of RVFV veterinary vaccines for use in endemic areas, there is currently no licensed vaccine for human use; therefore, there is a need to develop and assess new vaccines. Herein, we report a live-attenuated recombinant vaccine candidate for RVFV, based on the previously described genomic reconfiguration of the conditionally licensed MP12 vaccine. There are two general strategies used to develop live-attenuated RVFV vaccines, one being serial passage of wild-type RVFV strains to select attenuated mutants such as Smithburn, Clone 13, and MP12 vaccine strains. The second strategy has utilized reverse genetics to attenuate RVFV strains by introducing deletions or insertions within the viral genome. The novel candidate vaccine characterized in this report contains a two-segmented genome that lacks the medium viral segment (M) and two virulence genes (nonstructural small and nonstructural medium). The vaccine candidate, named r2segMP12, was evaluated for the production of neutralizing antibodies to RVFV in outbred CD-1 mice. The immune response induced by the r2segMP12 vaccine candidate was directly compared to the immune response induced by the rMP12 parental strain vaccine. Our study demonstrated that a single immunization with the r2segMP12 vaccine candidate at 105 plaque-forming units elicited a higher neutralizing antibody response than the rMP12 vaccine at the same vaccination titer without the need for a booster.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria B. Ayers
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA.,Biosecurity Research Institute, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA
| | - Yan-Jang S. Huang
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA.,Biosecurity Research Institute, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA
| | - James I. Dunlop
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Alain Kohl
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Benjamin Brennan
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Stephen Higgs
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA.,Biosecurity Research Institute, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA
| | - Dana L. Vanlandingham
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA.,Biosecurity Research Institute, Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas, USA.,Address correspondence to: Dr. Dana L. Vanlandingham, Department of Diagnostic Medicine/Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA
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Mbim EN, Edet UO, Okoroiwu HU, Nwaokorie FO, Edet AE, Owolabi A, I MC. Arbovirus and its potential to lead the next global pandemic from sub-Saharan Africa: What lessons have we learned from COVID-19? Germs 2022; 12:538-547. [PMID: 38021188 PMCID: PMC10660220 DOI: 10.18683/germs.2022.1358] [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: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Risk and predisposing factors for viral zoonoses abound in the sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) region with significant public health implications. For several decades, there have been several reports on the emergence and re-emergence of arbovirus infections. The lifetime burden of arboviral diseases in developing countries is still poorly understood. Studies indicate significant healthcare disruptions and economic losses attributed to the viruses in resource-poor communities marked by impairment in the performance of daily activities. Arboviruses have reportedly evolved survival strategies to aid their proliferation in favorable niches, further magnifying their public health relevance. However, there is poor knowledge about the viruses in the region. Thus, this review presents a survey of zoonotic arboviruses in SSA, the burden associated with their diseases, management of diseases as well as their prevention and control, mobility and determinants of infections, their vectors, and co-infection with various microorganisms. Lessons learned from the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic coupled with routine surveillance of zoonotic hosts for these viruses will improve our understanding of their evolution, their potential to cause a pandemic, control and prevention measures, and vaccine development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth N. Mbim
- PhD, Department of Public Health, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Arthur Jarvis University, Brigadier Dan Archibong Drive, Ikot Effanga Akpabuyo, Cross River State, Nigeria
| | - Uwem Okon Edet
- PhD, Department of Biological Sciences (Microbiology), Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences, Arthur Jarvis University, Brigadier Dan Archibong Drive, Ikot Effanga Akpabuyo, Cross River State, Nigeria
| | - Henshaw Uchechi Okoroiwu
- PhD, Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Arthur Jarvis University, Brigadier Dan Archibong Drive, Ikot Effanga Akpabuyo, Cross River State, Nigeria
| | - Francisca O. Nwaokorie
- PhD, Department of Medical Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, 12003, Lagos State, Nigeria
| | - Asanga Effiong Edet
- PhD, Department of Chemical Sciences (Biochemistry), Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences, Arthur Jarvis University, Brigadier Dan Archibong Drive, Ikot Effanga Akpabuyo, Cross River State, Nigeria
| | - Ayo Owolabi
- MSc, Department of Public Health, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, Arthur Jarvis University, Brigadier Dan Archibong Drive, Ikot Effanga Akpabuyo, Cross River State, Nigeria
| | - Mboto Clement I
- PhD, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Calabar, P.M.B 1115, Etta Agbo Rd, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria
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40
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Morrill JC, Peters CJ, Bettinger GE, Palermo PM, Smith DR, Watts DM. Rift Valley fever MP-12 vaccine elicits an early protective immune response in mice. Vaccine 2022; 40:7255-7261. [PMID: 36333222 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2022.10.062] [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: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is an important mosquito-borne pathogen that causes outbreaks of severe disease in people and livestock throughout Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. The development of an effective veterinary and human vaccine to protect against Rift Valley fever (RVF) disease remains a high priority. The live attenuated RVFV MP-12 is a promising vaccine candidate for the prevention of RVF in both human and domestic ruminants. The aim of this study was to determine the onset of protective immunity elicted in mice by a single dose of this vaccine. Groups of CD-1 mice were vaccinated intraperitoneally with RVFV MP-12 vaccine and challenged on days 2, 5, 6 and 7 post-vaccination (PV) with a lethal dose of virulent RVFV. The mice were observed once daily for terminal morbidity and blood samples were obtained from the retro-orbital sinus complex on days 23 and 28 PV of surviving mice to determine RVFV neutralizing antibody titers. In one test, 2 of 3 mice challenged on day 2 PV survived and all 3 mice challenged at days 5 and 7 PV also survived. A second test of 10 mice per group was performed, and half (5) of those challenged at day 2 PV survived while all (10) survived challenge at day 4 and 6 PV. All surviving animals develop antibody that ranged from 1:80 to 1:1,280 PV. In a separate experiment, RVFV MP-12 vaccinated CD-1 mice, but not challenged developed a low viremia for the first 3 days PV and neutralzing antibody was detected on days 5 through day 28 PV. These findings demonstrated that the RVFV MP-12 vaccine elicited a rapid protective immune response in mice as early as 2 days PV, thus further supporting the effectiveness of this vaccine candidate for preventing RVF among humans and domestic ruminants.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Morrill
- Departmentof Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, TX 77555, United States.
| | - C J Peters
- Departments of Microbiology & Immunology and Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, TX 77555, United States.
| | - G E Bettinger
- Dept. of Biological Sciences, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, United States
| | - P M Palermo
- Dept. of Biological Sciences, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, United States.
| | - D R Smith
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Naval Medical Research Center, Biological Defense Research Directorate, Fort Detrick, MD 21702, United States.
| | - D M Watts
- Dept. of Biological Sciences, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX 79968, United States.
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41
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Kainga H, Phonera MC, Chatanga E, Kallu SA, Mpundu P, Samutela M, Chambaro HM, Kajihara M, Shempela DM, Sikalima J, Muleya W, Shawa M, Chulu J, Njunga G, Simuunza M, Takada A, Sawa H, Simulundu E, Saasa N. Seroprevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Rift Valley Fever in Livestock from Three Ecological Zones of Malawi. Pathogens 2022; 11:1349. [PMID: 36422600 PMCID: PMC9698272 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11111349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/10/2022] [Indexed: 09/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The epidemiology of Rift Valley fever (RVF) is poorly understood in Malawi. Here, a cross-sectional study was conducted (March-June 2020) to investigate the seroprevalence and potential risk factors of RVF virus (RVFV) in cattle, goats, and sheep in three ecological zones of Malawi. A total of 1523 serum samples were tested for anti-RVFV IgG and IgM antibodies by ELISA. Additionally, a questionnaire survey was used to assess potential RVF risk factors. The overall seroprevalence was 17.14% (261/1523; 95% CI = 15.33-19.11) for individual livestock and 33.24% (120/361; 95% CI = 28.18-38.11) for the livestock herd. Seroprevalence was significantly high in sheep (25.68%, 95% CI = 19.31-33.26) compared with cattle (21.35%, 95% CI = 18.74-24.22) and goats (7.72%, 95% CI = 5.72-10.34), (p = 0.047). At the individual livestock level, the risk was elevated in female livestock (OR: 1.74, 95% CI = 1.08-12.82) (p = 0.016), while at the herd level, areas receiving approximately 1001-1500 mm of rainfall (OR: 2.47, 95% CI = 1.14-5.37) (p = 0.022), areas of rainfall amount greater than approximately 1600 mm (OR: 2.239, 95% CI = 1.07-8.82) (p = 0.023), and mixed species herds (OR: 10.410, 95% CI = 3.04-35.59) (p = 0.001), were significant risk factors. The detection of IgM antibodies confirmed active circulation of RVFV in Malawi. Therefore, monitoring of RVF in animals, humans, and vectors using a "One Health" approach, along with community sensitization among the high-risk populations, could help mitigate the threat posed by this zoonotic disease in Malawi.
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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
| | - Marvin Collen Phonera
- Department of Animal Health and Livestock Development, Ministry of Agriculture, Lilongwe 207203, Malawi
| | - Elisha Chatanga
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Lilongwe 207203, Malawi
| | - Simegnew Adugna Kallu
- Department of Disease Control, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Haramaya University, Dire Dawa P.O. Box 138, Ethiopia
| | - Prudence Mpundu
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Levy Mwanawasa Medical University, Lusaka 33991, Zambia
| | - Mulemba Samutela
- Department of Paraclinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
| | - Herman Moses Chambaro
- Virology Unit, Central Veterinary Research Institute (CVRI), Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
| | - Masahiro Kajihara
- Department of Disease Control, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
- Division of Global Epidemiology, International Institute for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 001-0020, Japan
| | | | - Jay Sikalima
- Churches Health Association of Zambia, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
| | - Walter Muleya
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
| | - Misheck Shawa
- Division of Collaboration and Education, International Institute for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 001-0020, Japan
| | - Julius Chulu
- Department of Animal Health and Livestock Development, Ministry of Agriculture, Lilongwe 207203, Malawi
| | - Gilson Njunga
- Department of Animal Health and Livestock Development, Ministry of Agriculture, Lilongwe 207203, Malawi
| | - Martin Simuunza
- Department of Disease Control, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
| | - Ayato Takada
- Department of Disease Control, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
- Division of Collaboration and Education, International Institute for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 001-0020, Japan
| | - Hirofumi Sawa
- Department of Disease Control, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka 10101, Zambia
- Japan Division of International Research Promotion, International Institute for Zoonosis Control, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 001-0020, Japan
- Japan Global Virus Network, Baltimore, ML 21201, USA
- One Health Research Center, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 001-0020, Japan
| | - 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
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Intranasal Exposure to Rift Valley Fever Virus Live-Attenuated Strains Leads to High Mortality Rate in Immunocompetent Mice. Viruses 2022; 14:v14112470. [PMID: 36366567 PMCID: PMC9694885 DOI: 10.3390/v14112470] [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: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is a pathogenic arthropod-borne virus that can cause serious illness in both ruminants and humans. The virus can be transmitted by an arthropod bite or contact with contaminated fluids or tissues. Two live-attenuated veterinary vaccines-the Smithburn (SB) and Clone 13 (Cl.13)-are currently used during epizootic events in Africa. However, their residual pathogenicity (i.e., SB) or potential of reversion (i.e., Cl.13) causes important adverse effects, strongly limiting their use in the field. In this study, we infected immunocompetent mice with SB or Cl.13 by a subcutaneous or an intranasal inoculation. Interestingly, we found that, unlike the subcutaneous infection, the intranasal inoculation led to a high mortality rate. In addition, we detected high titers and viral N antigen levels in the brain of both the SB- and Cl.13-infected mice. Overall, we unveil a clear correlation between the pathogenicity and the route of administration of both SB and Cl.13, with the intranasal inoculation leading to a stronger neurovirulence and higher mortality rate than the subcutaneous infection.
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Peinado RDS, Eberle RJ, Arni RK, Coronado MA. A Review of Omics Studies on Arboviruses: Alphavirus, Orthobunyavirus and Phlebovirus. Viruses 2022; 14:2194. [PMID: 36298749 PMCID: PMC9607206 DOI: 10.3390/v14102194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the intricate and complex steps in pathogenesis and host-viral interactions of arthropod-borne viruses or arboviruses are not completely understood, the multi-omics approaches, which encompass proteomics, transcriptomics, genomics and metabolomics network analysis, are of great importance. We have reviewed the omics studies on mosquito-borne viruses of the Togaviridae, Peribuyaviridae and Phenuiviridae families, specifically for Chikungunya, Mayaro, Oropouche and Rift Valley Fever viruses. Omics studies can potentially provide a new perspective on the pathophysiology of arboviruses, contributing to a better comprehension of these diseases and their effects and, hence, provide novel insights for the development of new antiviral drugs or therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafaela dos S. Peinado
- Multiuser Center for Biomolecular Innovation, Department of Physics, Sao Paulo State University, Sao Jose do Rio Preto 15054-000, SP, Brazil
| | - Raphael J. Eberle
- Institute of Biological Information Processing, IBI-7: Structural Biochemistry, Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52425 Jülich, Germany
- Institut für Physikalische Biologie, Heinrich-Heine-Universität, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Raghuvir K. Arni
- Multiuser Center for Biomolecular Innovation, Department of Physics, Sao Paulo State University, Sao Jose do Rio Preto 15054-000, SP, Brazil
| | - Mônika A. Coronado
- Institute of Biological Information Processing, IBI-7: Structural Biochemistry, Forschungszentrum Jülich, 52425 Jülich, Germany
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44
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Evaluations of rationally designed rift valley fever vaccine candidate RVax-1 in mosquito and rodent models. NPJ Vaccines 2022; 7:109. [PMID: 36131104 PMCID: PMC9492667 DOI: 10.1038/s41541-022-00536-3] [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: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a mosquito-borne zoonosis endemic to Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, which causes large outbreaks among humans and ruminants. Single dose vaccinations using live-attenuated RVF virus (RVFV) support effective prevention of viral spread in endemic countries. Due to the segmented nature of RVFV genomic RNA, segments of vaccine strain-derived genomic RNA could be incorporated into wild-type RVFV within co-infected mosquitoes or animals. Rationally designed vaccine candidate RVax-1 displays protective epitopes fully identical to the previously characterized MP-12 vaccine. Additionally, all genome segments of RVax-1 contribute to the attenuation phenotype, which prevents the formation of pathogenic reassortant strains. This study demonstrated that RVax-1 cannot replicate efficiently in orally fed Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, while retaining strong immunogenicity and protective efficacy in an inbred mouse model, which were indistinguishable from the MP-12 vaccine. These findings support further development of RVax-1 as the next generation MP-12-based vaccine for prevention of Rift Valley fever in humans and animals.
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45
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Jaleta MB, Tefera M, Negussie H, Mulatu T, Berhe T, Belete F, Yalew B, Gizaw O, Dabasa G, Abunna F, Regassa F, Amenu K, Leta S. Entomological survey of the potential vectors of Rift Valley fever virus and absence of detection of the virus genome from the vectors in various niches in the southern half of the Great Rift Valley of Ethiopia. Vet Med Sci 2022; 8:2716-2725. [DOI: 10.1002/vms3.941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Megarsa Bedasa Jaleta
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture Addis Ababa University Bishoftu Ethiopia
| | - Mehari Tefera
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture Addis Ababa University Bishoftu Ethiopia
| | - Haileleul Negussie
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture Addis Ababa University Bishoftu Ethiopia
| | | | - Tsega Berhe
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture Addis Ababa University Bishoftu Ethiopia
| | - Fasika Belete
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture Jimma University Jimma Ethiopia
| | - Bekele Yalew
- Animal Health Institute Entomology Unit Sebeta Ethiopia
| | - Oda Gizaw
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture Addis Ababa University Bishoftu Ethiopia
| | - Golo Dabasa
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture Addis Ababa University Bishoftu Ethiopia
| | - Fufa Abunna
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture Addis Ababa University Bishoftu Ethiopia
| | - Fikru Regassa
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture Addis Ababa University Bishoftu Ethiopia
- Ministry of Agriculture Livestock and Fishery Addis Ababa Ethiopia
| | - Kebede Amenu
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture Addis Ababa University Bishoftu Ethiopia
| | - Samson Leta
- College of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture Addis Ababa University Bishoftu Ethiopia
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46
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Ebogo‐Belobo JT, Sadeuh‐Mba SA, Mveng‐Sanding GMA, Chavely GM, Groschup MH, Mbacham WF, Njouom R. Serological evidence of the circulation of the Rift Valley fever virus in sheep and goats slaughtered in Yaoundé, Cameroon. Vet Med Sci 2022; 8:2114-2118. [PMID: 35594478 PMCID: PMC9514481 DOI: 10.1002/vms3.848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jean Thierry Ebogo‐Belobo
- Department of Virology Centre Pasteur of Cameroon Yaoundé Cameroon
- Medical Research Centre Institute of Medical Research and Medicinal Plants Studies Yaoundé Cameroon
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science The University of Yaoundé I Yaoundé Cameroon
| | | | | | | | - Martin H. Groschup
- Institute of Novel and Emerging Infectious Diseases Friedrich‐Loefer‐Institut Greifswald‐Insel Riems Germany
| | - Wilfred Fon Mbacham
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science The University of Yaoundé I Yaoundé Cameroon
| | - Richard Njouom
- Department of Virology Centre Pasteur of Cameroon Yaoundé Cameroon
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47
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Alzuheir I, Helal BA, Helal MA, Fayyad A, Jalboush N. No evidence of Rift Valley fever antibodies in veterinarians and sheep in Northern Palestine. Vet World 2022; 15:1990-1995. [PMID: 36313834 PMCID: PMC9615502 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2022.1990-1995] [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: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) is a vector-borne virus that causes RVF in humans and ruminants. The clinical symptoms in humans and animals are non-specific and often misdiagnosed, but abortions in ruminants and high mortality in young animals are characteristic. Since the initial outbreak in the Rift Valley area in Kenya, the disease has spread to most African countries and the Middle East. The presence and epidemiological status of RVFV in humans and animals in Palestine are unknown. This study aimed to investigate the presence and risk factors for RVF seroprevalence in veterinarians, as occupational hazard professionals, and sheep, as highly susceptible animals, in Northern Palestine. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted. Data and blood samples of 280 Assaf sheep and 100 veterinarians in close occupational contact with sheep were collected between August and September 2020 using an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Results: No evidence of RVF antibodies was found in any human or animal sample. Conclusion: Our results suggest that RVFV has not circulated in livestock in Northern Palestine, yet. Surveillance and response capabilities and cooperation with the nearby endemic regions are recommended. The distribution of competent vectors in Palestine, associated with global climate change and the role of wild animals, might be a possible route for RVF spreading to Palestine from neighboring countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim Alzuheir
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, An-Najah National University, P.O. Box 7 Nablus, Palestine
| | - Belal Abu Helal
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, An-Najah National University, P.O. Box 7 Nablus, Palestine
| | - Mohammad Abu Helal
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Faculty of Graduate Studies, An-Najah National University, P.O. Box 7 Nablus, Palestine
| | - Adnan Fayyad
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, An-Najah National University, P.O. Box 7 Nablus, Palestine
| | - Nasr Jalboush
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, An-Najah National University, P.O. Box 7 Nablus, Palestine
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48
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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.
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49
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Ronchi GF, Testa L, Iorio M, Pinoni C, Bortone G, Dondona AC, Rossi E, Capista S, Mercante MT, Morelli D, Di Ventura M, Monaco F. Immunogenicity and safety studies of an inactivated vaccine against Rift Valley fever. Acta Trop 2022; 232:106498. [PMID: 35513072 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106498] [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: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Rift Valley fever (RVF) is an emerging transboundary, mosquito-borne, zoonotic viral disease caused by a single serotype of a virus belonging to the Phenuiviridae family (genus Phlebovirus). It is considered an important threat to both agriculture and public health in endemic areas, because the virus, transmitted by different mosquito genera, leads to abortions in susceptible animal hosts especially sheep, goat, cattle, and buffaloes, resulting in severe economic losses. Humans can also acquire the infection, and the major sources are represented by the direct contact with infected animal blood, aerosol, consumption of unpasteurized contaminated milk and the bite of infected mosquitoes. Actually, the EU territory does not seem to be exposed to an imminent risk of RVFV introduction, however, the recent outbreaks in a French overseas department and some cases detected in Turkey, Tunisia and Libya, raised the attention of the EU for a possible risk of introduction of infected vectors. Thus, there is an urgent need to develop new therapeutic and/or preventive drugs, such as vaccines. In our work, we studied the immunogenicity of an inactivated and adjuvanted vaccine produced using a Namibian field strain of RVF virus (RVFV). The vaccine object of this study was formulated with Montanide Pet Gel A, a polymer-based adjuvant that has been previously reported for its promising safety profile and for the capacity to elicit a strong immune response. The produced inactivated vaccine was tested on six sheep and the level of IgM and IgG after the immunization of animals was evaluated by a commercial competitive ELISA, in order to assess the immunogenicity profile of our vaccine and to evaluate its potential use, as an alternative to the attenuated vaccines commercially available, in case of Rift Valley fever epidemic disease on EU territory. Following the administration of the second dose, 35 days after the first one, all animals seroconverted.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lilia Testa
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise G. Caporale, Teramo, Italy
| | - Mariangela Iorio
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise G. Caporale, Teramo, Italy.
| | - Chiara Pinoni
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise G. Caporale, Teramo, Italy
| | - Grazia Bortone
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise G. Caporale, Teramo, Italy
| | | | - Emanuela Rossi
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise G. Caporale, Teramo, Italy
| | - Sara Capista
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise G. Caporale, Teramo, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Mercante
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise G. Caporale, Teramo, Italy
| | - Daniela Morelli
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise G. Caporale, Teramo, Italy
| | - Mauro Di Ventura
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise G. Caporale, Teramo, Italy
| | - Federica Monaco
- Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale dell'Abruzzo e del Molise G. Caporale, Teramo, Italy
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50
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Juma J, Fonseca V, Konongoi SL, van Heusden P, Roesel K, Sang R, Bett B, Christoffels A, de Oliveira T, Oyola SO. Genomic surveillance of Rift Valley fever virus: from sequencing to lineage assignment. BMC Genomics 2022; 23:520. [PMID: 35850574 PMCID: PMC9295512 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-022-08764-6] [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: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Genetic evolution of Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) in Africa has been shaped mainly by environmental changes such as abnormal rainfall patterns and climate change that has occurred over the last few decades. These gradual environmental changes are believed to have effected gene migration from macro (geographical) to micro (reassortment) levels. Presently, 15 lineages of RVFV have been identified to be circulating within the Sub-Saharan Africa. International trade in livestock and movement of mosquitoes are thought to be responsible for the outbreaks occurring outside endemic or enzootic regions. Virus spillover events contribute to outbreaks as was demonstrated by the largest epidemic of 1977 in Egypt. Genomic surveillance of the virus evolution is crucial in developing intervention strategies. Therefore, we have developed a computational tool for rapidly classifying and assigning lineages of the RVFV isolates. The computational method is presented both as a command line tool and a web application hosted at https://www.genomedetective.com/app/typingtool/rvfv/. Validation of the tool has been performed on a large dataset using glycoprotein gene (Gn) and whole genome sequences of the Large (L), Medium (M) and Small (S) segments of the RVFV retrieved from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) GenBank database. Using the Gn nucleotide sequences, the RVFV typing tool was able to correctly classify all 234 RVFV sequences at species level with 100% specificity, sensitivity and accuracy. All the sequences in lineages A (n = 10), B (n = 1), C (n = 88), D (n = 1), E (n = 3), F (n = 2), G (n = 2), H (n = 105), I (n = 2), J (n = 1), K (n = 4), L (n = 8), M (n = 1), N (n = 5) and O (n = 1) were also correctly classified at phylogenetic level. Lineage assignment using whole RVFV genome sequences (L, M and S-segments) did not achieve 100% specificity, sensitivity and accuracy for all the sequences analyzed. We further tested our tool using genomic data that we generated by sequencing 5 samples collected following a recent RVF outbreak in Kenya. All the 5 samples were assigned lineage C by both the partial (Gn) and whole genome sequence classifiers. The tool is useful in tracing the origin of outbreaks and supporting surveillance efforts. Availability: https://github.com/ajodeh-juma/rvfvtyping
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Affiliation(s)
- John Juma
- International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Nairobi, Kenya.,South African MRC Bioinformatics Unit, South African National Bioinformatics Institute, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Vagner Fonseca
- KwaZulu-Natal Research Innovation and Sequencing Platform (KRISP), School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.,Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI), School of Data Science and Computational Thinking, Stellenbosch University Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, South Africa.,Laboratorio de Genética Celular e Molecular, Instituto de Ciências Biologicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil.,Organização Pan-Americana da Saúde/Organização Mundial da Saúde, Brasília, Distrito Federal, Brazil
| | - Samson L Konongoi
- International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Nairobi, Kenya.,Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Peter van Heusden
- South African MRC Bioinformatics Unit, South African National Bioinformatics Institute, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Kristina Roesel
- International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Rosemary Sang
- Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Bernard Bett
- International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Alan Christoffels
- South African MRC Bioinformatics Unit, South African National Bioinformatics Institute, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Tulio de Oliveira
- KwaZulu-Natal Research Innovation and Sequencing Platform (KRISP), School of Laboratory Medicine and Medical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa.,Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI), School of Data Science and Computational Thinking, Stellenbosch University Stellenbosch, Stellenbosch, South Africa.,Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa.,Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Samuel O Oyola
- International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Nairobi, Kenya.
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