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Bakker JW, Esser HJ, Sprong H, Godeke GJ, Hoornweg TE, de Boer WF, Pijlman GP, Koenraadt CJM. Differential susceptibility of geographically distinct Ixodes ricinus populations to tick-borne encephalitis virus and louping ill virus. Emerg Microbes Infect 2024; 13:2321992. [PMID: 38484290 PMCID: PMC10946273 DOI: 10.1080/22221751.2024.2321992] [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: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) is an emerging pathogen in the Netherlands. Multiple divergent viral strains are circulating and the focal distribution of TBEV remains poorly understood. This may, however, be explained by differences in the susceptibility of tick populations for specific viruses and viral strains, and by viral strains having higher infection success in their local tick population. We investigated this hypothesis by exposing Dutch Ixodes ricinus ticks to two different TBEV strains: TBEV-NL from the Netherlands and TBEV-Neudoerfl from Austria. In addition, we exposed ticks to louping Ill virus (LIV), which is endemic to large parts of the United Kingdom and Ireland, but has not been reported in the Netherlands. Ticks were collected from two locations in the Netherlands: one location without evidence of TBEV circulation and one location endemic for the TBEV-NL strain. Ticks were infected in a biosafety level 3 laboratory using an artificial membrane feeding system. Ticks collected from the region without evidence of TBEV circulation had lower infection rates for TBEV-NL as compared to TBEV-Neudoerfl. Vice versa, ticks collected from the TBEV-NL endemic region had higher infection rates for TBEV-NL compared to TBEV-Neudoerfl. In addition, LIV infection rates were much lower in Dutch ticks compared to TBEV, which may explain why LIV is not present in the Netherlands. Our findings show that ticks from two distinct geographical populations differ in their susceptibility to TBEV strains, which could be the result of differences in the genetic background of the tick populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julian W. Bakker
- Laboratory of Entomology, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Helen J. Esser
- Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Group, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Hein Sprong
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, Netherlands
| | - Gert-Jan Godeke
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, Netherlands
| | - Tabitha E. Hoornweg
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, Netherlands
| | - Willem F. de Boer
- Wildlife Ecology and Conservation Group, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
| | - Gorben P. Pijlman
- Laboratory of Virology, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, Netherlands
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Velay A, Baquer F, Brunet J, Denis J, Parfut A, Talagrand-Reboul E, Hansmann Y. Infectious risks associated with outdoor sports activities. Infect Dis Now 2024; 54:104862. [PMID: 38845331 DOI: 10.1016/j.idnow.2024.104862] [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: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
In France, outdoor sports and activities account for 36% of sports engagement, making outdoor venues the most popular settings for sports participation. Discussing the links between sports and health almost always highlights the beneficial impact of engaging in sports. However, due to a lack of specific notifications, infectious risks are not subject to epidemiological monitoring, and need to be better understood. Since the practice of outdoor sports has become part and parcel of many individuals' daily routines, it is essential to more accurately characterize the knowledge we have gained about the risks associated with exposure. However, directly associating the practice of a sport with an elevated risk of infectious diseases is a challenging endeavor. Sociological factors based on risk awareness and adoption of protective behaviors in response to the risk are crucial to the orientation of prevention efforts. This review deals with several (bacteriological, viral, parasitic, and mycological) infectious risks related to outdoor activities practiced in a natural field via contamination routes such as tick-bite, enteric pathogen, skin, and aerosol transmission. We have also detailed a number of preventive measures taking into account the outdoor setting (e.g., vaccination).
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurélie Velay
- Laboratoire de Virologie, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France.
| | - Florian Baquer
- Laboratoire de Bactériologie, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Julie Brunet
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie et Mycologie Médicale, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Julie Denis
- Laboratoire de Parasitologie et Mycologie Médicale, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Assilina Parfut
- Laboratoire de Virologie, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | | | - Yves Hansmann
- Service des Maladies Infectieuses et Tropicales, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
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3
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Ruzek D, Kaucka K. A brief tale of two pioneering moments: Europe's first discovery of Tick-Borne Encephalitis (TBE) virus beyond the Soviet Union and the largest alimentary TBE outbreak in history. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2024; 15:102314. [PMID: 38290295 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2024.102314] [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: 12/02/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
The emergence of tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) in Europe marked several significant milestones. The discovery of TBE in Czechoslovakia in 1948, with Gallia and Krejčí simultaneously isolating the TBE virus (TBEV) from human samples for the first time in Europe outside the Soviet Union, was pivotal. Subsequent TBEV isolation from ticks suggested the viral transmission via this vector. In 1951, the outbreak in Rožňava in Slovakia (Czechoslovakia) revealed an unexpected mode of transmission, unpasteurized milk from a local dairy, challenging existing understanding. Investigations exposed illicit practices of mixing cow's milk with goat's milk for economic gains. Laboratory research confirmed the outbreak was caused by TBEV, which was substantiated by serological analyses. This was the first and largest documented alimentary TBE outbreak in history. In this review, we delve into both published sources and unpublished archival data, offering a comprehensive understanding of these historic accomplishments and shedding light on these pivotal moments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Ruzek
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic; Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic; Laboratory of Emerging Viral Diseases, Veterinary Research Institute, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | - Kristyna Kaucka
- Masaryk Institute and Archives of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
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Gonzalo-Nadal V, Kohl A, Rocchi M, Brennan B, Hughes J, Nichols J, Da Silva Filipe A, Dunlop JI, Fares M, Clark JJ, Tandavanitj R, Patel AH, Cloquell-Miro A, Bongers J, Deacon J, Kaczmarska A, Stalin C, Liatis T, Irving J, Gutierrez-Quintana R. Suspected tick-borne flavivirus meningoencephalomyelitis in dogs from the UK: six cases (2021). J Small Anim Pract 2024; 65:132-143. [PMID: 37956993 DOI: 10.1111/jsap.13682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/21/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Tick-borne encephalitis virus and louping ill virus are neurotropic flaviviruses transmitted by ticks. Epidemiologically, tick-borne encephalitis is endemic in Europe whereas louping ill's predominant geographical distribution is the UK. Rarely, these flaviviruses affect dogs causing neurological signs. This case series aimed to describe the clinical, clinicopathological, and imaging findings, as well as the outcomes in six dogs with meningoencephalitis and/or meningomyelitis caused by a flavivirus in the UK in 2021. MATERIALS AND METHODS Observational retrospective case-series study. Clinical data were retrieved from medical records of dogs with positive serological or immunohistochemical results from three different institutions from spring to winter 2021. RESULTS Six dogs were included in the study. All dogs presented an initial phase of pyrexia and/or lethargy followed by progressive signs of spinal cord and/or intracranial disease. Magnetic resonance imaging showed bilateral and symmetrical lesions affecting the grey matter of the thalamus, pons, medulla oblongata, and thoracic or lumbar intumescences with none or mild parenchymal and meningeal contrast enhancement. Serology for tick-borne encephalitis virus was positive in five dogs with the presence of seroconversion in two dogs. The viral distinction between flaviviruses was not achieved. One dog with negative serology presented positive immunohistochemistry at post-mortem examination. Three dogs survived but presented neurological sequelae. Three dogs were euthanased due to the rapid progression of the clinical signs or static neurological signs. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE These cases raise awareness of the presence of tick-borne encephalitis as an emergent disease or the increased prevalence of louping ill virus affecting dogs in the UK.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Gonzalo-Nadal
- Division of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - A Kohl
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, UK
| | - M Rocchi
- Moredun Research Institute, Midlothian, UK
| | - B Brennan
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, UK
| | - J Hughes
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, UK
| | - J Nichols
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, UK
| | | | - J I Dunlop
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, UK
| | - M Fares
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, UK
| | - J J Clark
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, UK
| | - R Tandavanitj
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, UK
| | - A H Patel
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, UK
| | - A Cloquell-Miro
- Division of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - J Bongers
- Division of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- Moorview Vets, Cramlington, UK
| | | | - A Kaczmarska
- Division of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - C Stalin
- Division of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
- Moorview Vets, Cramlington, UK
| | - T Liatis
- Queen Mother Hospital for Animals, Royal Veterinary College, University of London, London, UK
| | - J Irving
- Pathobiology and Population Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK
- Harper & Keele Veterinary School, Newport, Shropshire, UK
| | - R Gutierrez-Quintana
- Division of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
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Kubinski M, Beicht J, Gerlach T, Aregay A, Osterhaus ADME, Tscherne A, Sutter G, Prajeeth CK, Rimmelzwaan GF. Immunity to Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus NS3 Protein Induced with a Recombinant Modified Vaccinia Virus Ankara Fails to Afford Mice Protection against TBEV Infection. Vaccines (Basel) 2024; 12:105. [PMID: 38276677 PMCID: PMC10819467 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines12010105] [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: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a serious neurological disease caused by TBE virus (TBEV). Because antiviral treatment options are not available, vaccination is the key prophylactic measure against TBEV infections. Despite the availability of effective vaccines, cases of vaccination breakthrough infections have been reported. The multienzymatic non-structural protein 3 (NS3) of orthoflaviviruses plays an important role in polyprotein processing and virus replication. In the present study, we evaluated NS3 of TBEV as a potential vaccine target for the induction of protective immunity. To this end, a recombinant modified vaccinia virus Ankara that drives the expression of the TBEV NS3 gene (MVA-NS3) was constructed. MVA-NS3 was used to immunize C57BL/6 mice. It induced NS3-specific immune responses, in particular T cell responses, especially against the helicase domain of NS3. However, MVA-NS3-immunized mice were not protected from subsequent challenge infection with a lethal dose of the TBEV strain Neudoerfl, indicating that in contrast to immunity to prME and NS1, NS3-specific immunity is not an independent correlate of protection against TBEV in this mouse model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mareike Kubinski
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (M.K.); (J.B.); (T.G.); (A.A.); (A.D.M.E.O.); (C.K.P.)
| | - Jana Beicht
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (M.K.); (J.B.); (T.G.); (A.A.); (A.D.M.E.O.); (C.K.P.)
| | - Thomas Gerlach
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (M.K.); (J.B.); (T.G.); (A.A.); (A.D.M.E.O.); (C.K.P.)
| | - Amare Aregay
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (M.K.); (J.B.); (T.G.); (A.A.); (A.D.M.E.O.); (C.K.P.)
| | - Albert D. M. E. Osterhaus
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (M.K.); (J.B.); (T.G.); (A.A.); (A.D.M.E.O.); (C.K.P.)
| | - Alina Tscherne
- Division of Virology, Institute for Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, Sonnenstraße 24, 85764 Oberschleißheim, Germany; (A.T.)
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Munich, 80802 Munich, Germany
| | - Gerd Sutter
- Division of Virology, Institute for Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, Sonnenstraße 24, 85764 Oberschleißheim, Germany; (A.T.)
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), Partner Site Munich, 80802 Munich, Germany
| | - Chittappen Kandiyil Prajeeth
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (M.K.); (J.B.); (T.G.); (A.A.); (A.D.M.E.O.); (C.K.P.)
| | - Guus F. Rimmelzwaan
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Bünteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (M.K.); (J.B.); (T.G.); (A.A.); (A.D.M.E.O.); (C.K.P.)
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Kwasnik M, Rola J, Rozek W. Tick-Borne Encephalitis-Review of the Current Status. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6603. [PMID: 37892741 PMCID: PMC10607749 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12206603] [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: 07/26/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) is the arboviral etiological agent of tick-borne encephalitis (TBE), considered to be one of the most important tick-borne viral diseases in Europe and Asia. In recent years, an increase in the incidence of TBE as well as an increasing geographical range of the disease have been noted. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic and the imposition of restrictions that it necessitated, the incidence of TBE is rising in more than half of the European countries analyzed in recent studies. The virus is transmitted between ticks, animals, and humans. It seems that ticks and small mammals play a role in maintaining TBEV in nature. The disease can also affect dogs, horses, cattle, and small ruminants. Humans are incidental hosts, infected through the bite of an infected tick or by the alimentary route, through the consumption of unpasteurized milk or milk products from TBEV-infected animals. TBEV infections in humans may be asymptomatic, but the symptoms can range from mild flu-like to severe neurological. In Europe, cases of TBE are reported every year. While there is currently no effective treatment for TBE, immunization and protection against tick bites are critical in preventing this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malgorzata Kwasnik
- Department of Virology, National Veterinary Research Institute, Al. Partyzantow 57, 24-100 Pulawy, Poland; (J.R.); (W.R.)
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Pustijanac E, Buršić M, Talapko J, Škrlec I, Meštrović T, Lišnjić D. Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus: A Comprehensive Review of Transmission, Pathogenesis, Epidemiology, Clinical Manifestations, Diagnosis, and Prevention. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1634. [PMID: 37512806 PMCID: PMC10383662 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11071634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), a member of the Flaviviridae family, can cause serious infection of the central nervous system in humans, resulting in potential neurological complications and fatal outcomes. TBEV is primarily transmitted to humans through infected tick bites, and the viral agent circulates between ticks and animals, such as deer and small mammals. The occurrence of the infection aligns with the seasonal activity of ticks. As no specific antiviral therapy exists for TBEV infection, treatment approaches primarily focus on symptomatic relief and support. Active immunization is highly effective, especially for individuals in endemic areas. The burden of TBEV infections is increasing, posing a growing health concern. Reported incidence rates rose from 0.4 to 0.9 cases per 100,000 people between 2015 and 2020. The Baltic and Central European countries have the highest incidence, but TBE is endemic across a wide geographic area. Various factors, including social and environmental aspects, improved medical awareness, and advanced diagnostics, have contributed to the observed increase. Diagnosing TBEV infection can be challenging due to the non-specific nature of the initial symptoms and potential co-infections. Accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management, prevention of complications, and effective control measures. In this comprehensive review, we summarize the molecular structure of TBEV, its transmission and circulation in natural environments, the pathogenesis of TBEV infection, the epidemiology and global distribution of the virus, associated risk factors, clinical manifestations, and diagnostic approaches. By improving understanding of these aspects, we aim to enhance knowledge and promote strategies for timely and accurate diagnosis, appropriate management, and the implementation of effective control measures against TBEV infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emina Pustijanac
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Juraj Dobrila University of Pula, 52100 Pula, Croatia
| | - Moira Buršić
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Juraj Dobrila University of Pula, 52100 Pula, Croatia
| | - Jasminka Talapko
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Crkvena 21, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Ivana Škrlec
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Crkvena 21, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
| | - Tomislav Meštrović
- University Centre Varaždin, University North, 42000 Varaždin, Croatia
- Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation and the Department of Health Metrics Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| | - Dubravka Lišnjić
- Faculty of Dental Medicine and Health, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Crkvena 21, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
- Faculty of Medicine, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, Josipa Huttlera 4, 31000 Osijek, Croatia
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8
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Stone ET, Pinto AK. T Cells in Tick-Borne Flavivirus Encephalitis: A Review of Current Paradigms in Protection and Disease Pathology. Viruses 2023; 15:958. [PMID: 37112938 PMCID: PMC10146733 DOI: 10.3390/v15040958] [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: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The family Flaviviridae is comprised of a diverse group of arthropod-borne viruses that are the etiological agents of globally relevant diseases in humans. Among these, infection with several of these flaviviruses-including West Nile virus (WNV), Zika virus (ZIKV), Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), and Powassan virus (POWV)-can result in neuroinvasive disease presenting as meningitis or encephalitis. Factors contributing to the development and resolution of tick-borne flavivirus (TBEV, POWV) infection and neuropathology remain unclear, though many recently undertaken studies have described the virus-host interactions underlying encephalitic disease. With access to neural tissues despite the selectively permeable blood-brain barrier, T cells have emerged as one notable contributor to neuroinflammation. The goal of this review is to summarize the recent advances in tick-borne flavivirus immunology-particularly with respect to T cells-as it pertains to the development of encephalitis. We found that although T cell responses are rarely evaluated in a clinical setting, they are integral in conjunction with antibody responses to restricting the entry of TBFV into the CNS. The extent and means by which they can drive immune pathology, however, merits further study. Understanding the role of the T cell compartment in tick-borne flavivirus encephalitis is instrumental for improving vaccine safety and efficacy, and has implications for treatments and interventions for human disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amelia K. Pinto
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO 63103, USA
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9
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Hansford KM, Gandy SL, Gillingham EL, McGinley L, Cull B, Johnston C, Catton M, Medlock JM. Mapping and monitoring tick (Acari, Ixodida) distribution, seasonality, and host associations in the United Kingdom between 2017 and 2020. MEDICAL AND VETERINARY ENTOMOLOGY 2023; 37:152-163. [PMID: 36309852 PMCID: PMC10092223 DOI: 10.1111/mve.12621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Tick-borne disease risk is intrinsically linked to the distribution of tick vector species. To assess risk and anticipate disease emergence, an understanding of tick distribution, host associations, and seasonality is needed. This can be achieved, to some extent, using passive surveillance supported by engagement with the public, animal health, and public health experts. The Tick Surveillance Scheme (TSS) collects data and maps tick distribution across the United Kingdom (UK). Between 2017 and 2020, 3720 tick records were received and 39 tick species were detected. Most records were acquired in the UK, with a subset associated with recent overseas travel. The dominant UK acquired species was Ixodes ricinus (Ixodida: Ixodidae, Linnaeus), the main vector of Lyme borreliosis. Records peaked during May and June, highlighting a key risk period for tick bites. Other key UK species were detected, including Dermacentor reticulatus (Ixodida: Ixodidae, Fabricius) and Haemaphysalis punctata (Ixodida: Ixodidae, Canestrini & Fanzago) as well as several rarer species that may present novel tick-borne disease risk to humans and other animals. Updated tick distribution maps highlight areas in the UK where tick exposure has occurred. There is evidence of increasing human tick exposure over time, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, but seasonal patterns remain unchanged.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara L. Gandy
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses EcologyUK Health Security AgencyPorton DownUK
| | - Emma L. Gillingham
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses EcologyUK Health Security AgencyPorton DownUK
| | - Liz McGinley
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses EcologyUK Health Security AgencyPorton DownUK
| | - Benjamin Cull
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses EcologyUK Health Security AgencyPorton DownUK
| | - Colin Johnston
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses EcologyUK Health Security AgencyPorton DownUK
| | - Matthew Catton
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses EcologyUK Health Security AgencyPorton DownUK
| | - Jolyon M. Medlock
- Medical Entomology & Zoonoses EcologyUK Health Security AgencyPorton DownUK
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Parfut A, Laugel E, Baer S, Gonzalez G, Hansmann Y, Wendling MJ, Fafi-Kremer S, Velay A. Tick-borne encephalitis in pediatrics: An often overlooked diagnosis. Infect Dis Now 2023; 53:104645. [PMID: 36642097 DOI: 10.1016/j.idnow.2023.01.005] [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: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a vector-borne disease caused by a flavivirus, the tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), and transmitted by the bite of infected Ixodes ricinus ticks. The European subtype (TBEV-Eu) is endemic in 27 European countries. During the last decade, increased TBE incidence was observed in many countries, including some of those believed to be of low endemicity/devoid of TBEV circulation. However, data dealing with TBE in children are far less profuse than with adults. Historically, children are known to have mild TBEV infection with favorable outcomes. That said, recent case reports and observational studies on pediatric cohorts have challenged this point of view. Like adults, children may present severe forms and fail to completely recover following TBE infection, at times leading to long-term cognitive impairment. In this review, we comprehensively describe the incidence, exposure factors, and transmission routes of TBEV in children, as well as the clinical and biological manifestations of TBE and imaging findings in this population. We also harness new data on long-term outcomes and sequelae in pediatric cohorts. Finally, we provide an overview of vaccination recommendations for children in European countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Assilina Parfut
- Virology Laboratory, University Hospital of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, F-67000, France
| | - Elodie Laugel
- Virology Laboratory, University Hospital of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, F-67000, France; INSERM, UMR_S1109, LabEx Transplantex, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Sarah Baer
- CHU de Strasbourg, Service de Pédiatrie Spécialisée et Générale, Unité de Neurologie Pédiatrique, Strasbourg, France
| | - Gaëlle Gonzalez
- ANSES, INRAE, Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, UMR VIROLOGIE, Laboratoire de Santé Animale, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Yves Hansmann
- CHU de Strasbourg, Service des maladies infectieuses et tropicales, Strasbourg, France
| | - Marie-Josée Wendling
- Virology Laboratory, University Hospital of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, F-67000, France
| | - Samira Fafi-Kremer
- Virology Laboratory, University Hospital of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, F-67000, France; INSERM, UMR_S1109, LabEx Transplantex, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Aurélie Velay
- Virology Laboratory, University Hospital of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, F-67000, France; INSERM, UMR_S1109, LabEx Transplantex, Fédération de Médecine Translationnelle de Strasbourg (FMTS), Université de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France.
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11
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Rescue and in vitro characterization of a divergent TBEV-Eu strain from the Netherlands. Sci Rep 2023; 13:2872. [PMID: 36807371 PMCID: PMC9938877 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-29075-0] [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: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) may cause tick-borne encephalitis (TBE), a potential life-threatening infection of the central nervous system in humans. Phylogenetically, TBEVs can be subdivided into three main subtypes, which differ in endemic region and pathogenic potential. In 2016, TBEV was first detected in the Netherlands. One of two detected strains, referred to as Salland, belonged to the TBEV-Eu subtype, yet diverged ≥ 2% on amino acid level from other members of this subtype. Here, we report the successful rescue of this strain using infectious subgenomic amplicons and its subsequent in vitro characterization by comparison to two well-characterized TBEV-Eu strains; Neudoerfl and Hypr. In the human alveolar epithelial cell line A549, growth kinetics of Salland were comparable to the high pathogenicity TBEV-Eu strain Hypr, and both strains grew considerably faster than the mildly pathogenic strain Neudoerfl. In the human neuroblastoma cell line SK-N-SH, Salland replicated faster and to higher infectious titers than both reference strains. All three TBEV strains infected primary human monocyte-derived dendritic cells to a similar extent and interacted with the type I interferon system in a similar manner. The current study serves as the first in vitro characterization of the novel, divergent TBEV-Eu strain Salland.
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12
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Omazic A, Wallenhammar A, Lahti E, Asghar N, Hanberger A, Hjertqvist M, Johansson M, Albihn A. Dairy milk from cow and goat as a sentinel for tick-borne encephalitis virus surveillance. Comp Immunol Microbiol Infect Dis 2023; 95:101958. [PMID: 36893698 DOI: 10.1016/j.cimid.2023.101958] [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: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
Abstract
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is one of the most severe human tick-borne diseases in Europe. It is caused by the tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), which is transmitted to humans mainly via bites of Ixodes ricinus or I. persulcatus ticks. The geographical distribution and abundance of I. ricinus is expanding in Sweden as has the number of reported human TBE cases. In addition to tick bites, alimentary TBEV infection has also been reported after consumption of unpasteurized dairy products. So far, no alimentary TBEV infection has been reported in Sweden, but knowledge about its prevalence in Swedish ruminants is scarce. In the present study, a total of 122 bulk tank milk samples and 304 individual milk samples (including 8 colostrum samples) were collected from dairy farms (n = 102) in Sweden. All samples were analysed for the presence of TBEV antibodies by ELISA test and immunoblotting. Participating farmers received a questionnaire about milk production, pasteurization, tick prophylaxis used on animals, tick-borne diseases, and TBE vaccination status. We detected specific anti-TBEV antibodies, i.e., either positive (>126 Vienna Units per ml, VIEU/ml) or borderline (63-126 VIEU/ml) in bulk tank milk from 20 of the 102 farms. Individual milk samples (including colostrum samples) from these 20 farms were therefore collected for further analysis. Our results revealed important information for detection of emerging TBE risk areas. Factors such as consumption of unpasteurized milk, limited use of tick prophylaxis on animals and a moderate coverage of human TBE vaccination, may be risk factors for alimentary TBEV infection in Sweden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Omazic
- Department of Chemistry, Environment and Feed Hygiene, National Veterinary Institute, SE-751 89 Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Amélie Wallenhammar
- School of Medical Sciences, Inflammatory Response and Infection Susceptibility Centre (iRiSC), Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden.
| | - Elina Lahti
- Department of Epidemiology and Disease Control, National Veterinary Institute, SE-751 89 Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Naveed Asghar
- School of Medical Sciences, Inflammatory Response and Infection Susceptibility Centre (iRiSC), Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden.
| | - Alexander Hanberger
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 7028, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Marika Hjertqvist
- Department of Communicable Disease Control and Health Protection, Public Health, Agency of Sweden, SE-171 82 Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Magnus Johansson
- School of Medical Sciences, Inflammatory Response and Infection Susceptibility Centre (iRiSC), Faculty of Medicine and Health, Örebro University, SE-701 82 Örebro, Sweden.
| | - Ann Albihn
- Department of Epidemiology and Disease Control, National Veterinary Institute, SE-751 89 Uppsala, Sweden; Department of Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 7028, SE-750 07 Uppsala, Sweden.
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13
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Trozzi G, Adjadj NR, Vervaeke M, Matthijs S, Sohier C, De Regge N. Comparison of Serological Methods for Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus-Specific Antibody Detection in Wild Boar and Sheep: Impact of the Screening Approach on the Estimated Seroprevalence. Viruses 2023; 15:v15020459. [PMID: 36851673 PMCID: PMC9958861 DOI: 10.3390/v15020459] [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: 01/04/2023] [Revised: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) is a flavivirus transmitted by ticks. Serological screenings in animals are performed to estimate the prevalence and distribution of TBEV. Most screenings consist of a primary screening by ELISA, followed by confirmation of positive samples by plaque reduction neutralization tests (PRNTs). In this study, 406 wild boar sera were tested with 2 regularly used commercial ELISAs for flavivirus screening in animals (Immunozym FSME (TBEV) IgG All Species (Progen) and ID Screen West Nile Competition (Innovative Diagnostics)) and PRNTs for TBEV and USUTU virus. The results showed that the Immunozym and IDScreen ELISAs had low relative sensitivities of 23% and 20%, respectively, compared to the PRNT results. The relative specificities were 88% and 84% due to cross reactions with USUTU virus-specific antibodies. The minimal TBEV prevalence in our sample set was 8.6% when determined by PRNT. When the screening approach of ELISA testing followed by PRNT confirmation was applied, a TBEV seroprevalence of only 2.0% and 1.7% was found. The suboptimal performance of the ELISAs was confirmed by testing sera collected from experimentally TBEV-infected sheep. While the PRNT detected TBEV specific antibodies in 94% of samples collected between 7 and 18 days post-infection, the ELISAs classified only 50% and 31% of the samples as positive. Both routinely used ELISAs for TBEV antibody screening in animal sera were shown to have a low sensitivity, potentially leading to an underestimation of the true prevalence, and furthermore cross-react with other flavivirus antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle Trozzi
- Unit of Exotic and Vector-Borne Diseases, Sciensano, Groeselenberg 99, 1180 Brussels, Belgium
- Correspondence:
| | - Nadjah Radia Adjadj
- Unit of Exotic and Vector-Borne Diseases, Sciensano, Groeselenberg 99, 1180 Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Severine Matthijs
- Viral Reemerging, Enzootic and Bee Diseases, Sciensano, Groeselenberg 99, 1180 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Charlotte Sohier
- Unit of Exotic and Vector-Borne Diseases, Sciensano, Groeselenberg 99, 1180 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Nick De Regge
- Unit of Exotic and Vector-Borne Diseases, Sciensano, Groeselenberg 99, 1180 Brussels, Belgium
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14
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Bondaryuk AN, Kulakova NV, Belykh OI, Bukin YS. Dates and Rates of Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus-The Slowest Changing Tick-Borne Flavivirus. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24032921. [PMID: 36769238 PMCID: PMC9917962 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24032921] [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: 12/27/2022] [Revised: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
We evaluated the temporal signal and substitution rate of tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) using 276 complete open reading frame (ORF) sequences with known collection dates. According to a permutation test, the TBEV Siberian subtype (TBEV-S) data set has no temporal structure and cannot be applied for substitution rate estimation without other TBEV subtypes. The substitution rate obtained suggests that the common clade of TBEV (TBEV-common), including all TBEV subtypes and louping-ill virus (LIV), is characterized by the lowest rate (1.87 × 10-5 substitutions per site per year (s/s/y) or 1 nucleotide substitution per ORF per 4.9 years; 95% highest posterior density (HPD) interval, 1.3-2.4 × 10-5 s/s/y) among all tick-borne flaviviruses previously assessed. Within TBEV-common, the TBEV European subtype (TBEV-E) has the lowest substitution rate (1.3 × 10-5 s/s/y or 1 nucleotide substitution per ORF per 7.5 years; 95% HPD, 1.0-1.8 × 10-5 s/s/y) as compared with TBEV Far-Eastern subtype (3.0 × 10-5 s/s/y or 1 nucleotide substitution per ORF per 3.2 years; 95% HPD, 1.6-4.5 × 10-5 s/s/y). TBEV-common representing the species tick-borne encephalitis virus diverged 9623 years ago (95% HPD interval, 6373-13,208 years). The TBEV Baikalian subtype is the youngest one (489 years; 95% HPD, 291-697 years) which differs significantly by age from TBEV-E (848 years; 95% HPD, 596-1112 years), LIV (2424 years; 95% HPD, 1572-3400 years), TBEV-FE (1936 years, 95% HPD, 1344-2598 years), and the joint clade of TBEV-S (2505 years, 95% HPD, 1700-3421 years) comprising Vasilchenko, Zausaev, and Baltic lineages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Artem N. Bondaryuk
- Laboratory of Natural Focal Viral Infections, Irkutsk Antiplague Research Institute of Siberia and the Far East, 664047 Irkutsk, Russia
- Limnological Institute, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 664033 Irkutsk, Russia
| | - Nina V. Kulakova
- Department of Biodiversity and Biological Resources, Siberian Institute of Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 664033 Irkutsk, Russia
| | - Olga I. Belykh
- Limnological Institute, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 664033 Irkutsk, Russia
- Correspondence:
| | - Yurij S. Bukin
- Limnological Institute, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 664033 Irkutsk, Russia
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15
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Eyer L, Seley-Radtke K, Ruzek D. New directions in the experimental therapy of tick-borne encephalitis. Antiviral Res 2023; 210:105504. [PMID: 36574904 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2022.105504] [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: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a potentially fatal disease common in much of Europe and Asia. There is no specific therapy for the treatment of TBE patients. However, several efforts are being made to develop small molecules that specifically interfere with the life cycle of TBE virus. In particular, recently various nucleoside analogues that can inhibit the viral replicase, such as the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase or viral methyltransferases, have been explored. In addition, human or chimeric (i.e., structural chimeras that combine mouse variable domains with human constant domains) monoclonal antibodies with promising potential for post-exposure prophylaxis or early therapy have been developed. This review summarizes the latest directions and experimental approaches that may be used to combat TBE in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludek Eyer
- Laboratory of Emerging Viral Diseases, Veterinary Research Institute, Brno, Czech Republic; Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic; Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Katherine Seley-Radtke
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Daniel Ruzek
- Laboratory of Emerging Viral Diseases, Veterinary Research Institute, Brno, Czech Republic; Institute of Parasitology, Biology Centre of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic; Institute of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic.
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16
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Identifying New Clusterons: Application of TBEV Analyzer 3.0. Microorganisms 2023; 11:microorganisms11020324. [PMID: 36838289 PMCID: PMC9966418 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11020324] [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: 10/15/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Early knowledge about novel emerging viruses and rapid determination of their characteristics are crucial for public health. In this context, development of theoretical approaches to model viral evolution are important. The clusteron approach is a recent bioinformatics tool which analyzes genetic patterns of a specific E protein fragment and provides a hierarchical network structure of the viral population at three levels: subtype, lineage, and clusteron. A clusteron is a group of strains with identical amino acid (E protein fragment) signatures; members are phylogenetically closely related and feature a particular territorial distribution. This paper announces TBEV Analyzer 3.0, an analytical platform for rapidly characterizing tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) strains based on the clusteron approach, workflow optimizations, and simplified parameter settings. Compared with earlier versions of TBEV Analyzer, we provide theoretical and practical enhancements to the platform. Regarding the theoretical aspect, the model of the clusteron structure, which is the core of platform analysis, has been updated by analyzing all suitable TBEV strains available in GenBank, while the practical enhancements aim at improving the platform's functionality. Here, in addition to expanding the strain sets of prior clusterons, we introduce eleven novel clusterons through our experimental results, predominantly of the European subtype. The obtained results suggest effective application of the proposed platform as an analytical and exploratory tool in TBEV surveillance.
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17
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Kubinski M, Beicht J, Zdora I, Biermann J, Puff C, Gerlach T, Tscherne A, Baumgärtner W, Osterhaus ADME, Sutter G, Prajeeth CK, Rimmelzwaan GF. A recombinant Modified Vaccinia virus Ankara expressing prME of tick-borne encephalitis virus affords mice full protection against TBEV infection. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1182963. [PMID: 37153588 PMCID: PMC10160477 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1182963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) is an important human pathogen that can cause a serious disease involving the central nervous system (tick-borne encephalitis, TBE). Although approved inactivated vaccines are available, the number of TBE cases is rising, and breakthrough infections in fully vaccinated subjects have been reported in recent years. Methods In the present study, we generated and characterized a recombinant Modified Vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) for the delivery of the pre-membrane (prM) and envelope (E) proteins of TBEV (MVA-prME). Results MVA-prME was tested in mice in comparison with a licensed vaccine FSME-IMMUN® and proved to be highly immunogenic and afforded full protection against challenge infection with TBEV. Discussion Our data indicate that MVA-prME holds promise as an improved next-generation vaccine for the prevention of TBE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mareike Kubinski
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Jana Beicht
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Isabel Zdora
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
- Center for Systems Neuroscience, Hannover Graduate School for Neurosciences, Infection Medicine, and Veterinary Sciences (HGNI), Hannover, Germany
| | - Jeannine Biermann
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Christina Puff
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Thomas Gerlach
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Alina Tscherne
- Division of Virology, Institute for Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, Munich, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), partner site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Baumgärtner
- Department of Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
- Center for Systems Neuroscience, Hannover Graduate School for Neurosciences, Infection Medicine, and Veterinary Sciences (HGNI), Hannover, Germany
| | - Albert D. M. E. Osterhaus
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Gerd Sutter
- Division of Virology, Institute for Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Ludwig Maximilian University Munich, Munich, Germany
- German Center for Infection Research (DZIF), partner site Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Chittappen Kandiyil Prajeeth
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
| | - Guus F. Rimmelzwaan
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation, Hannover, Germany
- *Correspondence: Guus F. Rimmelzwaan,
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18
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Kholodilov IS, Belova OA, Ivannikova AY, Gadzhikurbanov MN, Makenov MT, Yakovlev AS, Polienko AE, Dereventsova AV, Litov AG, Gmyl LV, Okhezin EV, Luchinina SV, Klimentov AS, Karganova GG. Distribution and Characterisation of Tick-Borne Flavi-, Flavi-like, and Phenuiviruses in the Chelyabinsk Region of Russia. Viruses 2022; 14:v14122699. [PMID: 36560703 PMCID: PMC9780909 DOI: 10.3390/v14122699] [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: 10/22/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
In this work, we presented data from a two-year study of flavi-, flavi-like, and phenuiviruses circulation in the population of ixodid ticks in the Chelyabinsk region. We isolated three tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) strains from I. persulcatus, which was not detected in the ticks of the genus Dermacentor. The virus prevalence ranged from 0.66% to 2.28%. The Yanggou tick virus (YGTV) is widespread in steppe and forest-steppe zones and is mainly associated with ticks of the genus Dermacentor. We isolated 26 strains from D. reticulatus, D. marginatus, and I. persulcatus ticks in the HAE/CTVM8 tick cell line. The virus prevalence ranged from 1.58% to 4.18% in D. reticulatus, ranged from 0.78% to 3.93% in D. marginatus, and was 0.66% in I. persulcatus. There was combined focus of TBEV and YGTV in the territory of the Chelyabinsk region. The Alongshan virus (ALSV) was found to be associated with I. persulcatus ticks and is spread in forest zone. We detected 12 amplicons and isolated 7 strains of ALSV in tick cells. The virus prevalence ranged from 1.13% to 6.00%. The phlebovirus Gomselga and unclassified phenuivirus Stavropol were associated with I. persulcatus and D. reticulatus ticks, respectively. Virus prevalence of the unclassified phenuivirus Stavropol in the Chelyabinsk region is lower than that in neighbouring regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivan S. Kholodilov
- Laboratory of Biology of Arboviruses, FSASI Chumakov Federal Scientific Center for Research and Development of Immune-and-Biological Products of RAS, 108819 Moscow, Russia
| | - Oxana A. Belova
- Laboratory of Biology of Arboviruses, FSASI Chumakov Federal Scientific Center for Research and Development of Immune-and-Biological Products of RAS, 108819 Moscow, Russia
| | - Anna Y. Ivannikova
- Laboratory of Biology of Arboviruses, FSASI Chumakov Federal Scientific Center for Research and Development of Immune-and-Biological Products of RAS, 108819 Moscow, Russia
| | - Magomed N. Gadzhikurbanov
- Laboratory of Biology of Arboviruses, FSASI Chumakov Federal Scientific Center for Research and Development of Immune-and-Biological Products of RAS, 108819 Moscow, Russia
- Department of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119234 Moscow, Russia
| | - Marat T. Makenov
- Department of Molecular Diagnostics and Epidemiology, Central Research Institute of Epidemiology, 111123 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander S. Yakovlev
- Laboratory of Biology of Arboviruses, FSASI Chumakov Federal Scientific Center for Research and Development of Immune-and-Biological Products of RAS, 108819 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexandra E. Polienko
- Laboratory of Biology of Arboviruses, FSASI Chumakov Federal Scientific Center for Research and Development of Immune-and-Biological Products of RAS, 108819 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alena V. Dereventsova
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, FSASI Chumakov Federal Scientific Center for Research and Development of Immune-and-Biological Products of RAS, 108819 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander G. Litov
- Laboratory of Biology of Arboviruses, FSASI Chumakov Federal Scientific Center for Research and Development of Immune-and-Biological Products of RAS, 108819 Moscow, Russia
| | - Larissa V. Gmyl
- Laboratory of Biology of Arboviruses, FSASI Chumakov Federal Scientific Center for Research and Development of Immune-and-Biological Products of RAS, 108819 Moscow, Russia
| | - Egor V. Okhezin
- Laboratory of Biology of Arboviruses, FSASI Chumakov Federal Scientific Center for Research and Development of Immune-and-Biological Products of RAS, 108819 Moscow, Russia
- Department of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119234 Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Alexander S. Klimentov
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, FSASI Chumakov Federal Scientific Center for Research and Development of Immune-and-Biological Products of RAS, 108819 Moscow, Russia
| | - Galina G. Karganova
- Laboratory of Biology of Arboviruses, FSASI Chumakov Federal Scientific Center for Research and Development of Immune-and-Biological Products of RAS, 108819 Moscow, Russia
- Correspondence:
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Esser HJ, Lim SM, de Vries A, Sprong H, Dekker DJ, Pascoe EL, Bakker JW, Suin V, Franz E, Martina BEE, Koenraadt CJM. Continued Circulation of Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus Variants and Detection of Novel Transmission Foci, the Netherlands. Emerg Infect Dis 2022; 28:2416-2424. [PMID: 36288572 PMCID: PMC9707572 DOI: 10.3201/eid2812.220552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) is an emerging pathogen that was first detected in ticks and humans in the Netherlands in 2015 (ticks) and 2016 (humans). To learn more about its distribution and prevalence in the Netherlands, we conducted large-scale surveillance in ticks and rodents during August 2018-September 2020. We tested 320 wild rodents and >46,000 ticks from 48 locations considered to be at high risk for TBEV circulation. We found TBEV RNA in 3 rodents (0.9%) and 7 tick pools (minimum infection rate 0.02%) from 5 geographically distinct foci. Phylogenetic analyses indicated that 3 different variants of the TBEV-Eu subtype circulate in the Netherlands, suggesting multiple independent introductions. Combined with recent human cases outside known TBEV hotspots, our data demonstrate that the distribution of TBEV in the Netherlands is more widespread than previously thought.
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20
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Garcia-Vozmediano A, Bellato A, Rossi L, Hoogerwerf MN, Sprong H, Tomassone L. Use of Wild Ungulates as Sentinels of TBEV Circulation in a Naïve Area of the Northwestern Alps, Italy. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:life12111888. [PMID: 36431023 PMCID: PMC9699112 DOI: 10.3390/life12111888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Wild and domestic animals can be usefully employed as sentinels for the surveillance of diseases with an impact on public health. In the case of tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), the detection of antibodies in animals can be more effective than screening ticks for detecting TBEV foci, due to the patchy distribution of the virus. In the Piedmont region, northwestern Italy, TBEV is considered absent, but an increase in tick densities, of Ixodes ricinus in particular, has been observed, and TBEV is spreading in bordering countries, e.g., Switzerland. Therefore, we collected sera from wild ungulates during the hunting season (October-December) from 2017 to 2019 in the Susa Valley, Italian western Alps, and screened them for TBEV antibodies by a commercial competitive ELISA test. We collected 267 serum samples by endocranial venous sinuses puncture from red deer, roe deer and northern chamois carcasses. The animals were hunted in 13 different municipalities, at altitudes ranging between 750 and 2800 m a.s.l. The serological survey for TBEV yielded negative results. Borderline results for five serum samples were further confirmed as negative for TBEV by a plaque reduction neutralisation test. To date, our results indicate that TBEV is not circulating in western Piedmont. However, monitoring of TBEV should continue since TBEV and its vector are spreading in Europe. The wide-range distribution of wild ungulates and their role as feeding hosts, make them useful indicators of the health threats posed by Ixodid ticks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aitor Garcia-Vozmediano
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L.go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, TO, Italy
- Correspondence: (A.G.-V.); (L.T.)
| | - Alessandro Bellato
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L.go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, TO, Italy
| | - Luca Rossi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L.go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, TO, Italy
| | - Marieke N. Hoogerwerf
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3720 MA Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Hein Sprong
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3720 MA Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Laura Tomassone
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, L.go Braccini, 2, 10095 Grugliasco, TO, Italy
- Correspondence: (A.G.-V.); (L.T.)
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21
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Lang D, Chitimia-Dobler L, Bestehorn-Willmann M, Lindau A, Drehmann M, Stroppel G, Hengge H, Mackenstedt U, Kaier K, Dobler G, Borde J. The Emergence and Dynamics of Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus in a New Endemic Region in Southern Germany. Microorganisms 2022; 10:2125. [PMID: 36363717 PMCID: PMC9693875 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10112125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is the most important viral tick-borne infection in Europe and Asia. It is emerging in new areas. The mechanisms of emergence are fairly unknown or speculative. In the Ravensburg district in southern Germany, TBE emerged, mainly over the last five years. Here, we analyzed the underlying epidemiology in humans. The resulting identified natural foci of the causal TBE virus (TBEV) were genetically characterized. We sampled 13 potential infection sites at these foci and detected TBEV in ticks (Ixodes ricinus) at eight sites. Phylogenetic analysis spurred the introduction of at least four distinct TBEV lineages of the European subtype into the Ravensburg district over the last few years. In two instances, a continuous spread of these virus strains over up to 10 km was observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Lang
- National Reference Laboratory for TBEV, Bundeswehr Institute for Microbiology, 80937 Munich, Germany
| | - Lidia Chitimia-Dobler
- National Reference Laboratory for TBEV, Bundeswehr Institute for Microbiology, 80937 Munich, Germany
| | - Malena Bestehorn-Willmann
- National Reference Laboratory for TBEV, Bundeswehr Institute for Microbiology, 80937 Munich, Germany
| | - Alexander Lindau
- Department of Parasitology, University of Hohenheim, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Marco Drehmann
- Department of Parasitology, University of Hohenheim, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Gabriele Stroppel
- Public Health Office, District Ravensburg, 88212 Ravensburg, Germany
| | - Helga Hengge
- Public Health Office, District Ravensburg, 88212 Ravensburg, Germany
| | - Ute Mackenstedt
- Department of Parasitology, University of Hohenheim, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Klaus Kaier
- Institute of Medical Biometry and Statistics (IMBI), University Medical Center Freiburg im Breisgau, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
| | - Gerhard Dobler
- National Reference Laboratory for TBEV, Bundeswehr Institute for Microbiology, 80937 Munich, Germany
- Department of Parasitology, University of Hohenheim, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Johannes Borde
- Praxis Prof. Borde & Kollegen, Gesundheitszentrum Oberkirch, 77704 Oberkirch, Germany
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University Medical Center Freiburg im Breisgau, 79106 Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany
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22
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Goonawardane N, Upstone L, Harris M, Jones IM. Identification of Host Factors Differentially Induced by Clinically Diverse Strains of Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus. J Virol 2022; 96:e0081822. [PMID: 36098513 PMCID: PMC9517736 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00818-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) is an important human arthropod-borne virus that causes tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) in humans. TBEV acutely infects the central nervous system (CNS), leading to neurological symptoms of various severity. No therapeutics are currently available for TBEV-associated disease. Virus strains of various pathogenicity have been described, although the basis of their diverse clinical outcome remains undefined. Work with infectious TBEV requires high-level biocontainment, meaning model systems that can recapitulate the virus life cycle are highly sought. Here, we report the generation of a self-replicating, noninfectious TBEV replicon used to study properties of high (Hypr) and low (Vs) pathogenic TBEV isolates. Using a Spinach2 RNA aptamer and luciferase reporter system, we perform the first direct comparison of Hypr and Vs in cell culture. Infectious wild-type (WT) viruses and chimeras of the nonstructural proteins 3 (NS3) and 5 (NS5) were investigated in parallel to validate the replicon data. We show that Hypr replicates to higher levels than Vs in mammalian cells, but not in arthropod cells, and that the basis of these differences map to the NS5 region, encoding the methyltransferase and RNA polymerase. For both Hypr and Vs strains, NS5 and the viral genome localized to intracellular structures typical of positive-strand RNA viruses. Hypr was associated with significant activation of IRF-3, caspase-3, and caspase-8, while Vs activated Akt, affording protection against caspase-mediated apoptosis. Higher activation of stress-granule proteins TIAR and G3BPI were an additional early feature of Vs but not for Hypr. These findings highlight novel host cell responses driven by NS5 that may dictate the differential clinical characteristics of TBEV strains. This highlights the utility of the TBEV replicons for further virological characterization and antiviral drug screening. IMPORTANCE Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) is an emerging virus of the flavivirus family that is spread by ticks and causes neurological disease of various severity. No specific therapeutic treatments are available for TBE, and control in areas of endemicity is limited to vaccination. The pathology of TBEV ranges from mild to fatal, depending on the virus genotype. Characterization of TBEV isolates is challenging due to the requirement for high-containment facilities. Here, we described the construction of novel TBEV replicons that permit a molecular comparison of TBEV isolates of high and low pathogenicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niluka Goonawardane
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences and Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Laura Upstone
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences and Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Harris
- School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences and Astbury Centre for Structural Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Ian M. Jones
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
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23
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Wondim MA, Czupryna P, Pancewicz S, Kruszewska E, Groth M, Moniuszko-Malinowska A. Epidemiological Trends of Trans-Boundary Tick-Borne Encephalitis in Europe, 2000-2019. Pathogens 2022; 11:pathogens11060704. [PMID: 35745558 PMCID: PMC9228375 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11060704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne encephalitis is a neuroinfection widely distributed in the Euro-Asia region. Primarily, the virus is transmitted by the bite of infected ticks. From 2000-2019, the total number of confirmed cases in Europe reported to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control was 51,519. The number of cases decreased in 2014 and 2015; however, since 2015, a growing number of cases have been observed, with the involvement of countries in which TBE has not been previously reported. The determinant factors for the spread of TBE are host population size, weather conditions, movement of hosts, and local regulations on the socioeconomic dynamics of the local and travelling people around the foci areas. The mean incidence rate of tick-borne encephalitis from 2000-2019 in Europe was 3.27, while the age-adjusted mean incidence rate was 2.19 per 100,000 population size. This review used several articles and data sources from the European Centre for Diseases Prevention and Control.
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24
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Mansbridge CT, Osborne J, Holding M, Dryden M, Aram M, Brown K, Sutton J. Autochthonous tick-borne encephalitis in the United Kingdom: A second probable human case and local eco-epidemiological findings. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2021; 13:101853. [PMID: 34670189 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2021.101853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2021] [Revised: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 09/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a neurotropic flaviviral disease. TBE was previously thought to be absent from the United Kingdom. We report the second probable case of United Kingdom-acquired TBE and demonstrate deer TBE-serocomplex seropositivity in the surrounding area, providing further evidence of the presence of TBE in England.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jane Osborne
- Rare and Imported Pathogens Laboratory, Public Health England, Porton Down, Wiltshire, UK
| | - Maya Holding
- Virology and Pathogenesis Group, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Porton Down, Wiltshire, UK; National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, Liverpool, UK
| | - Matthew Dryden
- Rare and Imported Pathogens Laboratory, Public Health England, Porton Down, Wiltshire, UK
| | - Marilyn Aram
- Virology and Pathogenesis Group, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Porton Down, Wiltshire, UK
| | - Kevin Brown
- Immunisation and Countermeasures Division, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Colindale, London, UK
| | - Julian Sutton
- Department of Infection, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
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Olsthoorn F, Sprong H, Fonville M, Rocchi M, Medlock J, Gilbert L, Ghazoul J. Occurrence of tick-borne pathogens in questing Ixodes ricinus ticks from Wester Ross, Northwest Scotland. Parasit Vectors 2021; 14:430. [PMID: 34446082 PMCID: PMC8393815 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-021-04946-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lyme borreliosis and other tick-borne diseases emerge from increased interactions between humans, other animals, and infected ticks. The risk of acquiring a tick-borne infection varies across space and time, so knowledge of the occurrence and prevalence of pathogens in ticks can facilitate disease diagnosis in a specific area and the implementation of mitigation measures and awareness campaigns. Here we identify the occurrence and prevalence of several pathogens in Ixodes ricinus ticks in Wester Ross, Northwest Scotland, a region of high tourism and tick exposure, yet data-poor in terms of tick-borne pathogens. Methods Questing I. ricinus nymphs (n = 2828) were collected from 26 sites in 2018 and 2019 and tested for the presence of tick-borne pathogens using PCR-based methods. Prevalence was compared with other regions of Scotland, England, Wales, and the Netherlands. Results Anaplasma phagocytophilum (4.7% prevalence), Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato (s.l.) (2.2%), Babesia from clade X (0.2%), Rickettsia helvetica (0.04%), and Spiroplasma ixodetis (0.4%) were detected, but no Neoehrlichia mikurensis, Borrelia miyamotoi, or Babesia microti. Typing of A. phagocytophilum using a fragment of the GroEL gene identified the presence of both ecotype I and ecotype II. Genospecies identification of Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. revealed B. afzelii (53% of infected nymphs), B. garinii (9%), B. burgdorferi sensu stricto (7%), and B. valaisiana (31%). We found similar prevalence of A. phagocytophilum in Wester Ross as in the Netherlands, but higher than in other parts of Great Britain. We found lower B. burgdorferi s.l. prevalence than in England or the Netherlands, and similar to some other Scottish studies. We found higher prevalence of B. valaisiana and lower prevalence of B. garinii than in other Scottish studies. We found S. ixodetis at much lower prevalence than in the Netherlands, and R. helvetica at much lower prevalence than in England and the Netherlands. Conclusions As far as we know, this is the first description of S. ixodetis in Great Britain. The results are relevant for disease surveillance and management for public and veterinary health. The findings can also aid in designing targeted public health campaigns and in raising awareness among outdoor recreationists and professionals. Graphical abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13071-021-04946-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanny Olsthoorn
- Institute of Terrestrial Ecosystems, Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zürich, Universitätstrasse 16, 8092, Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - Hein Sprong
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3720 MA, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Manoj Fonville
- Centre for Infectious Disease Control, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment, Antonie van Leeuwenhoeklaan 9, 3720 MA, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Mara Rocchi
- Moredun Research Institute, Pentland Science Park, Bush Loan, Penicuik, EH26 0PZ, UK
| | - Jolyon Medlock
- Medical Entomology and Zoonoses Ecology Group, Emergency Response Department Science and Technology, Public Health England, Porton Down, Salisbury, SP4 0JG, Wiltshire, UK
| | - Lucy Gilbert
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine, Graham Kerr Building, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, G12 8QQ, UK
| | - Jaboury Ghazoul
- Institute of Terrestrial Ecosystems, Department of Environmental Systems Science, ETH Zürich, Universitätstrasse 16, 8092, Zürich, Switzerland
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LOUPING-ILL VIRUS SEROSURVEY OF WILLOW PTARMIGAN (LAGOPUS LAGOPUS LAGOPUS) IN NORWAY. J Wildl Dis 2021; 57:282-291. [PMID: 33822153 DOI: 10.7589/jwd-d-20-00068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
In Norway, the Willow Ptarmigan (Lagopus lagopus lagopus) is experiencing population declines and is nationally Red Listed as Near Threatened. Although disease has not generally been regarded as an important factor behind population fluctuations for Willow Ptarmigan in Norway, disease occurrence has been poorly investigated. Both louping-ill virus (LIV) and the closely related tick-borne encephalitis virus are found along the southern part of the Norwegian coast. We assessed whether and where Norwegian Willow Ptarmigan populations have been infected with LIV. We expected to find infected individuals in populations in the southernmost part of the country. We did not expect to find infected individuals in populations further north and at higher altitudes because of the absence of the main vector, the sheep tick (Ixodes ricinus). We collected serum samples on Nobuto filter paper and used a hemagglutination inhibition assay for antibodies against LIV. We collected data at both local and country-wide levels. For local sampling, we collected and analyzed 87 hunter-collected samples from one of the southernmost Willow Ptarmigan populations in Norway. Of these birds, only three positives (3.4%) were found. For the country-wide sampling, we collected serum samples from 163 Willow Ptarmigan carcasses submitted from selected locations all over the country. Of these birds, 32% (53) were seropositive for LIV or a cross-reacting virus. Surprisingly, we found seropositive individuals from locations across the whole country, including outside the known distribution of the sheep tick. These results suggest that either LIV or a cross-reacting virus infects ptarmigan in large parts of Norway, including at high altitudes and latitudes.
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27
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Cull B. Potential for online crowdsourced biological recording data to complement surveillance for arthropod vectors. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0250382. [PMID: 33930066 PMCID: PMC8087023 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0250382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Voluntary contributions by citizen scientists can gather large datasets covering wide geographical areas, and are increasingly utilized by researchers for multiple applications, including arthropod vector surveillance. Online platforms such as iNaturalist accumulate crowdsourced biological observations from around the world and these data could also be useful for monitoring vectors. The aim of this study was to explore the availability of observations of important vector taxa on the iNaturalist platform and examine the utility of these data to complement existing vector surveillance activities. Of ten vector taxa investigated, records were most numerous for mosquitoes (Culicidae; 23,018 records, 222 species) and ticks (Ixodida; 16,214 records, 87 species), with most data from 2019–2020. Case studies were performed to assess whether images associated with records were of sufficient quality to identify species and compare iNaturalist observations of vector species to the known situation at the state, national and regional level based on existing published data. Firstly, tick data collected at the national (United Kingdom) or state (Minnesota, USA) level were sufficient to determine seasonal occurrence and distribution patterns of important tick species, and were able to corroborate and complement known trends in tick distribution. Importantly, tick species with expanding distributions (Haemaphysalis punctata in the UK, and Amblyomma americanum in Minnesota) were also detected. Secondly, using iNaturalist data to monitor expanding tick species in Europe (Hyalomma spp.) and the USA (Haemaphysalis longicornis), and invasive Aedes mosquitoes in Europe, showed potential for tracking these species within their known range as well as identifying possible areas of expansion. Despite known limitations associated with crowdsourced data, this study shows that iNaturalist can be a valuable source of information on vector distribution and seasonality that could be used to supplement existing vector surveillance data, especially at a time when many surveillance programs may have been interrupted by COVID-19 restrictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Cull
- Department of Entomology, University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minnesota, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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28
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Enteric Ganglioneuritis, a Common Feature in a Subcutaneous TBEV Murine Infection Model. Microorganisms 2021; 9:microorganisms9040875. [PMID: 33919617 PMCID: PMC8074024 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms9040875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a severe neurologic disease in Europe and Asia. Disease expression ranges from asymptomatic to severe neurological clinical pictures, involving meningitis, encephalitis, meningoencephalitis and potentially fatal outcome. Humans mostly become infected with TBE virus (TBEV) by the bite of an infected tick. Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms in humans are mainly attributed to the first viremic phase of TBEV infection with unspecific symptoms and/or resulting from severe neurological impairment of the central nervous system (CNS). We used the subcutaneous TBEV-infection of C57BL/6 mice as a model to analyze GI complications of TBE. We observed the acute distension and segmental dilation of the intestinal tract in 10 of 22 subcutaneously infected mice. Histological analysis revealed an intramural enteric ganglioneuritis in the myenteric and submucosal plexus of the small and large intestine. The numbers of infiltrating macrophages and CD3+ T lymphocytes correlated with the severity of ganglioneuritis, indicating an immune-mediated pathogenesis due to TBEV-infection of the enteric plexus. Our study demonstrates that the inflammation of enteric intramural ganglia presents to be a common feature in TBEV-infected mice. Accordingly, the results of this mouse model emphasize that GI disease manifestation and consequences for long-term sequelae should not be neglected for TBEV-infections in humans and require further investigation.
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29
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Ivanov AS, Nikolaev KG, Stekolshchikova AA, Tesfatsion WT, Yurchenko SO, Novoselov KS, Andreeva DV, Rubtsova MY, Vorovitch MF, Ishmukhametov AA, Egorov AM, Skorb EV. Tick-Borne Encephalitis Electrochemical Detection by Multilayer Perceptron on Liquid–Metal Interface. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2020; 3:7352-7356. [DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.0c00954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Artemii S. Ivanov
- Infochemistry Scientific Center, ITMO University, Lomonosova Street 9, Saint Petersburg 191002, Russian Federation
| | - Konstantin G. Nikolaev
- Infochemistry Scientific Center, ITMO University, Lomonosova Street 9, Saint Petersburg 191002, Russian Federation
| | - Anna A. Stekolshchikova
- Infochemistry Scientific Center, ITMO University, Lomonosova Street 9, Saint Petersburg 191002, Russian Federation
| | - Weini T. Tesfatsion
- Infochemistry Scientific Center, ITMO University, Lomonosova Street 9, Saint Petersburg 191002, Russian Federation
| | | | - Kostya S. Novoselov
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117575, Singapore
| | - Daria V. Andreeva
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117575, Singapore
| | - Maya Yu. Rubtsova
- Faculty of Chemistry, M. V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow 119991, Russian Federation
| | - Mikhail F. Vorovitch
- Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution “Chumakov Federal Scientific Center for Research and Development of Immune-and-Biological Products of Russian Academy of Sciences” (FSBSI “Chumakov FSC R&D IBP RAS”), Moscow 108819, Russian Federation
- Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119991 Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Aydar A. Ishmukhametov
- Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution “Chumakov Federal Scientific Center for Research and Development of Immune-and-Biological Products of Russian Academy of Sciences” (FSBSI “Chumakov FSC R&D IBP RAS”), Moscow 108819, Russian Federation
- Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119991 Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Alex M. Egorov
- Faculty of Chemistry, M. V. Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow 119991, Russian Federation
- Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution “Chumakov Federal Scientific Center for Research and Development of Immune-and-Biological Products of Russian Academy of Sciences” (FSBSI “Chumakov FSC R&D IBP RAS”), Moscow 108819, Russian Federation
| | - Ekaterina V. Skorb
- Infochemistry Scientific Center, ITMO University, Lomonosova Street 9, Saint Petersburg 191002, Russian Federation
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30
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Deviatkin AA, Karganova GG, Vakulenko YA, Lukashev AN. TBEV Subtyping in Terms of Genetic Distance. Viruses 2020; 12:E1240. [PMID: 33142676 PMCID: PMC7692686 DOI: 10.3390/v12111240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Revised: 10/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, the lowest formal taxon in virus classification is species; however, unofficial lower-level units are commonly used in everyday work. Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) is a species of mammalian tick-borne flaviviruses that may cause encephalitis. Many known representatives of TBEV are grouped into subtypes, mostly according to their phylogenetic relationship. However, the emergence of novel sequences could dissolve this phylogenetic grouping; in the absence of strict quantitative criterion, it may be hard to define the borders of the first TBEV taxonomic unit below the species level. In this study, the nucleotide/amino-acid space of all known TBEV sequences was analyzed. Amino-acid sequence p-distances could not reliably distinguish TBEV subtypes. Viruses that differed by less than 10% of nucleotides in the polyprotein-coding gene belonged to the same subtype. At the same time, more divergent viruses were representatives of different subtypes. According to this distance criterion, TBEV species may be divided into seven subtypes: TBEV-Eur, TBEV-Sib, TBEV-FE, TBEV-2871 (TBEV-Ob), TBEV-Him, TBEV-178-79 (TBEV-Bkl-1), and TBEV-886-84 (TBEV-Bkl-2).
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrei A. Deviatkin
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119048 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Galina G. Karganova
- Department of Organization and Technology of Immunobiological Preparations, Institute for Translational Medicine and Biotechnology, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119991 Moscow, Russia;
- Laboratory of Biology of Arboviruses, Chumakov Institute of Poliomyelitis and Viral Encephalitides (FSBSI “Chumakov FSC R&D IBP RAS), 108819 Moscow, Russia
| | - Yulia A. Vakulenko
- Martsinovsky Institute of Medical Parasitology, Tropical and Vector Borne Diseases, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119435 Moscow, Russia;
- Department of Virology, Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119234 Moscow, Russia
| | - Alexander N. Lukashev
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119048 Moscow, Russia;
- Martsinovsky Institute of Medical Parasitology, Tropical and Vector Borne Diseases, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119435 Moscow, Russia;
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31
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Paulsen KM, Lamsal A, Bastakoti S, Pettersson JHO, Pedersen BN, Stiasny K, Haglund M, Smura T, Vapalahti O, Vikse R, Alfsnes K, Andreassen ÅK. High-throughput sequencing of two European strains of tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), Hochosterwitz and 1993/783. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2020; 12:101557. [PMID: 33080519 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2020.101557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) is a medically important arbovirus, widespread in Europe and Asia. The virus is primarily transmitted to humans and animals by bites from ticks and, in rare cases, by consumption of unpasteurized dairy products. The aim of this study was to sequence and characterize two TBEV strains with amplicon sequencing by designing overlapping primers. The amplicon sequencing, via Illumina MiSeq, covering nearly the entire TBEV genome, was successful: We retrieved and characterized the complete polyprotein sequence of two TBEV strains, Hochosterwitz and 1993/783 from Austria and Sweden, respectively. In this study the previous phylogenetic analysis of both strains was confirmed to be of the European subtypes of TBEV (TBEV-Eu) by whole genome sequencing. The Hochosterwitz strain clustered with the two strains KrM 93 and KrM 213 from South Korea, and the 1993/783 strain clustered together with the NL/UH strain from the Netherlands. Our study confirms the suitability and rapidness of the high-throughput sequencing method used to produce complete TBEV genomes from TBEV samples of high viral load giving high-molecular-weight cDNA with large overlapping amplicons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrine M Paulsen
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Division for Infection Control and Environmental Health, Department of Virology, PO-Box 222 Skøyen, NO-0213, Oslo, Norway
| | - Alaka Lamsal
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Division for Infection Control and Environmental Health, Department of Virology, PO-Box 222 Skøyen, NO-0213, Oslo, Norway; University of South-Eastern Norway, Department of Natural Science and Environmental Health, Gullbringvegen 36, NO-3800, Bø, Norway
| | - Srijana Bastakoti
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Division for Infection Control and Environmental Health, Department of Virology, PO-Box 222 Skøyen, NO-0213, Oslo, Norway
| | - John H-O Pettersson
- Uppsala University, Zoonosis Science Center, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Uppsala, Sweden; The University of Sydney, Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, Charles Perkins Centre, School of Life and Environmental Sciences and Sydney Medical School, Sydney, Australia
| | - Benedikte N Pedersen
- University of South-Eastern Norway, Department of Natural Science and Environmental Health, Gullbringvegen 36, NO-3800, Bø, Norway
| | - Karin Stiasny
- Medical University of Vienna, Center for Virology, Kinderspitalgasse 15, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Mats Haglund
- Kalmar County Hospital, Department of Infectious Diseases, SE-391 85, Kalmar, Sweden
| | - Teemu Smura
- University of Helsinki, Department of Virology, Medicum, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Olli Vapalahti
- University of Helsinki, Department of Virology, Medicum, Helsinki, Finland; University of Helsinki, Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Helsinki, Finland; University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Department of Virology and Immunology, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Rose Vikse
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Division for Infection Control and Environmental Health, Department of Virology, PO-Box 222 Skøyen, NO-0213, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kristian Alfsnes
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Division for Infection Control and Environmental Health, Department of Bacteriology, PO-Box 222 Skøyen, NO-0213, Oslo, Norway
| | - Åshild K Andreassen
- Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Division for Infection Control and Environmental Health, Department of Virology, PO-Box 222 Skøyen, NO-0213, Oslo, Norway; University of South-Eastern Norway, Department of Natural Science and Environmental Health, Gullbringvegen 36, NO-3800, Bø, Norway.
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32
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Tick-Borne Encephalitis: A Differential Pattern of Intrathecal Humoral Immune Response and Inflammatory Cell Composition Compared with Other Viral CNS Infections. Cells 2020; 9:cells9102169. [PMID: 32992967 PMCID: PMC7599799 DOI: 10.3390/cells9102169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
To investigate whether and how cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) findings can contribute to distinguish tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) from herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella zoster virus (VZV) induced central nervous system (CNS) infections (HSV-I, VZV-I). Chart review and identification of TBE, HSV- I, and VZV-I was carried out, fulfilling the following criteria: (1) clinical signs of encephalitis and/or meningitis, (2) complete CSF analysis and confirmed viral etiology by either PCR or antibody testing in CSF, (3) hospitalized patients, and (4) available brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Fifty-nine patients with 118 CSF/serum pairs were included. These comprised 21 with TBE (35 CSF/serum pairs), 20 (40 CSF/serum pairs) with HSV-I, and 18 (43 CSF/serum pairs) with VZV-I. In contrast to HSV-I and VZV-I, CSF cell differentiation in TBE showed more often an increased (>20%) proportion of granulocytes (p < 0.01) and a more frequent quantitative intrathecal IgM synthesis (p = 0.001 and p < 0.01, respectively), while the second was even more pronounced when follow-up CSF analyses were included (p < 0.001). CSF findings help to distinguish TBE from other viral infections. In cases with CSF pleocytosis and a positive history for a stay in or near an endemic area, TBE antibodies in CSF and serum should be determined, especially if granulocytes in CSF cell differentiation and/or an intrathecal IgM synthesis is present.
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Kirsch JM, Mlera L, Offerdahl DK, VanSickle M, Bloom ME. Tick-Borne Flaviviruses Depress AKT Activity during Acute Infection by Modulating AKT1/2. Viruses 2020; 12:v12101059. [PMID: 32977414 PMCID: PMC7598186 DOI: 10.3390/v12101059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne flaviviruses (TBFVs) are reemerging public health threats. To develop therapeutics against these pathogens, increased understanding of their interactions with the mammalian host is required. The PI3K-AKT pathway has been implicated in TBFV persistence, but its role during acute virus infection remains poorly understood. Previously, we showed that Langat virus (LGTV)-infected HEK 293T cells undergo a lytic crisis with a few surviving cells that become persistently infected. We also observed that AKT2 mRNA is upregulated in cells persistently infected with TBFV. Here, we investigated the virus-induced effects on AKT expression over the course of acute LGTV infection and found that total phosphorylated AKT (pAKT), AKT1, and AKT2 decrease over time, but AKT3 increases dramatically. Furthermore, cells lacking AKT1 or AKT2 were more resistant to LGTV-induced cell death than wild-type cells because they expressed higher levels of pAKT and antiapoptotic proteins, such as XIAP and survivin. The differential modulation of AKT by LGTV may be a mechanism by which viral persistence is initiated, and our results demonstrate a complicated manipulation of host pathways by TBFVs.
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Clark JJ, Gilray J, Orton RJ, Baird M, Wilkie G, Filipe ADS, Johnson N, McInnes CJ, Kohl A, Biek R. Population genomics of louping ill virus provide new insights into the evolution of tick-borne flaviviruses. PLoS Negl Trop Dis 2020; 14:e0008133. [PMID: 32925939 PMCID: PMC7515184 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0008133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The emergence and spread of tick-borne arboviruses pose an increased challenge to human and animal health. In Europe this is demonstrated by the increasingly wide distribution of tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV, Flavivirus, Flaviviridae), which has recently been found in the United Kingdom (UK). However, much less is known about other tick-borne flaviviruses (TBFV), such as the closely related louping ill virus (LIV), an animal pathogen which is endemic to the UK and Ireland, but which has been detected in other parts of Europe including Scandinavia and Russia. The emergence and potential spatial overlap of these viruses necessitates improved understanding of LIV genomic diversity, geographic spread and evolutionary history. We sequenced a virus archive composed of 22 LIV isolates which had been sampled throughout the UK over a period of over 80 years. Combining this dataset with published virus sequences, we detected no sign of recombination and found low diversity and limited evidence for positive selection in the LIV genome. Phylogenetic analysis provided evidence of geographic clustering as well as long-distance movement, including movement events that appear recent. However, despite genomic data and an 80-year time span, we found that the data contained insufficient temporal signal to reliably estimate a molecular clock rate for LIV. Additional analyses revealed that this also applied to TBEV, albeit to a lesser extent, pointing to a general problem with phylogenetic dating for TBFV. The 22 LIV genomes generated during this study provide a more reliable LIV phylogeny, improving our knowledge of the evolution of tick-borne flaviviruses. Our inability to estimate a molecular clock rate for both LIV and TBEV suggests that temporal calibration of tick-borne flavivirus evolution should be interpreted with caution and highlight a unique aspect of these viruses which may be explained by their reliance on tick vectors. Tick-borne pathogens represent a major emerging threat to public health and in recent years have been expanding into new areas. LIV is a neglected virus endemic to the UK and Ireland (though it has been detected in Scandinavia and Russia) which is closely related to the major human pathogen TBEV, but predominantly causes disease in sheep and grouse. The recent detection of TBEV in the UK, which has also emerged elsewhere in Europe, requires more detailed understanding of the spread and sequence diversity of LIV. This could be important for diagnosis and vaccination, but also to improve our understanding of the evolution and emergence of these tick-borne viruses. Here we describe the sequencing of 22 LIV isolates which have been sampled from several host species across the past century. We have utilised this dataset to investigate the evolutionary pressures that LIV is subjected to and have explored the evolution of LIV using phylogenetic analysis. Crucially we were unable to estimate a reliable molecular clock rate for LIV and found that this problem also extends to a larger phylogeny of TBEV sequences. This work highlights a previously unknown caveat of tick-borne flavivirus evolutionary analysis which may be important for understanding the evolution of these important pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jordan J. Clark
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Moredun Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (JC); (RB)
| | - Janice Gilray
- Moredun Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Richard J. Orton
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Margaret Baird
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Gavin Wilkie
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Ana da Silva Filipe
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas Johnson
- Animal and Plant Health Agency, Addlestone, Surrey, United Kingdom
- Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, United Kingdom
| | | | - Alain Kohl
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Roman Biek
- Institute of Biodiversity, Animal Health and Comparative Medicine - University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- * E-mail: (JC); (RB)
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35
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Kubinski M, Beicht J, Gerlach T, Volz A, Sutter G, Rimmelzwaan GF. Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus: A Quest for Better Vaccines against a Virus on the Rise. Vaccines (Basel) 2020; 8:E451. [PMID: 32806696 PMCID: PMC7564546 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines8030451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV), a member of the family Flaviviridae, is one of the most important tick-transmitted viruses in Europe and Asia. Being a neurotropic virus, TBEV causes infection of the central nervous system, leading to various (permanent) neurological disorders summarized as tick-borne encephalitis (TBE). The incidence of TBE cases has increased due to the expansion of TBEV and its vectors. Since antiviral treatment is lacking, vaccination against TBEV is the most important protective measure. However, vaccination coverage is relatively low and immunogenicity of the currently available vaccines is limited, which may account for the vaccine failures that are observed. Understanding the TBEV-specific correlates of protection is of pivotal importance for developing novel and improved TBEV vaccines. For affording robust protection against infection and development of TBE, vaccines should induce both humoral and cellular immunity. In this review, the adaptive immunity induced upon TBEV infection and vaccination as well as novel approaches to produce improved TBEV vaccines are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mareike Kubinski
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses (RIZ), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation (TiHo), Buenteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (M.K.); (J.B.); (T.G.)
| | - Jana Beicht
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses (RIZ), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation (TiHo), Buenteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (M.K.); (J.B.); (T.G.)
| | - Thomas Gerlach
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses (RIZ), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation (TiHo), Buenteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (M.K.); (J.B.); (T.G.)
| | - Asisa Volz
- Institute of Virology, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation (TiHo), Buenteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany;
| | - Gerd Sutter
- Institute for Infectious Diseases and Zoonoses, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU) Munich, Veterinaerstr. 13, 80539 Munich, Germany;
| | - Guus F. Rimmelzwaan
- Research Center for Emerging Infections and Zoonoses (RIZ), University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Foundation (TiHo), Buenteweg 17, 30559 Hannover, Germany; (M.K.); (J.B.); (T.G.)
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36
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Kreusch TM, Holding M, Hewson R, Harder T, Medlock JM, Hansford KM, Dowall S, Semper A, Brooks T, Walsh A, Russell K, Wichmann O. A probable case of tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) acquired in England, July 2019. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 24. [PMID: 31771699 PMCID: PMC6885749 DOI: 10.2807/1560-7917.es.2019.24.47.1900679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The United Kingdom (UK) has thus far been considered to be free from tick-borne encephalitis (TBE), yet in July 2019, a German infant developed serologically diagnosed TBE following a tick bite in southern England. This first report of a probable human case together with recent findings of TBE virus in ticks in foci in England suggest that TBE may be acquired in parts of England and should be considered in patients with aetiologically-unexplained neurological manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maya Holding
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, Liverpool, United Kingdom.,Virology and Pathogenesis Group, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Porton Down, United Kingdom
| | - Roger Hewson
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, Liverpool, United Kingdom.,Virology and Pathogenesis Group, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Porton Down, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas Harder
- Immunization Unit, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jolyon M Medlock
- Medical Entomology Group, Emergency Response Department, Public Health England, Porton Down, United Kingdom.,NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Kayleigh M Hansford
- Medical Entomology Group, Emergency Response Department, Public Health England, Porton Down, United Kingdom
| | - Stuart Dowall
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, Liverpool, United Kingdom.,Virology and Pathogenesis Group, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Porton Down, United Kingdom
| | - Amanda Semper
- Tuberculosis, Acute Respiratory, Gastrointestinal, Emerging/Zoonotic Infections and Travel Health Division, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom.,NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Tim Brooks
- Tuberculosis, Acute Respiratory, Gastrointestinal, Emerging/Zoonotic Infections and Travel Health Division, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom.,NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Emerging and Zoonotic Infections, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Amanda Walsh
- Tuberculosis, Acute Respiratory, Gastrointestinal, Emerging/Zoonotic Infections and Travel Health Division, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom
| | - Katherine Russell
- Tuberculosis, Acute Respiratory, Gastrointestinal, Emerging/Zoonotic Infections and Travel Health Division, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ole Wichmann
- Immunization Unit, Robert Koch Institute, Berlin, Germany
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37
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Akello JO, Leib SL, Engler O, Beuret C. Evaluation of Viral RNA Recovery Methods in Vectors by Metagenomic Sequencing. Viruses 2020; 12:v12050562. [PMID: 32438629 PMCID: PMC7290855 DOI: 10.3390/v12050562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Identification and characterization of viral genomes in vectors including ticks and mosquitoes positive for pathogens of great public health concern using metagenomic next generation sequencing (mNGS) has challenges. One such challenge is the ability to efficiently recover viral RNA which is typically dependent on sample processing. We evaluated the quantitative effect of six different extraction methods in recovering viral RNA in vectors using negative tick homogenates spiked with serial dilutions of tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) and surrogate Langat virus (LGTV). Evaluation was performed using qPCR and mNGS. Sensitivity and proof of concept of optimal method was tested using naturally positive TBEV tick homogenates and positive dengue, chikungunya, and Zika virus mosquito homogenates. The amount of observed viral genome copies, percentage of mapped reads, and genome coverage varied among different extractions methods. The developed Method 5 gave a 120.8-, 46-, 2.5-, 22.4-, and 9.9-fold increase in the number of viral reads mapping to the expected pathogen in comparison to Method 1, 2, 3, 4, and 6, respectively. Our developed Method 5 termed ROVIV (Recovery of Viruses in Vectors) greatly improved viral RNA recovery and identification in vectors using mNGS. Therefore, it may be a more sensitive method for use in arbovirus surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce Odeke Akello
- Biology Division, Spiez Laboratory, Swiss Federal Office for Civil Protection, Austrasse, CH-3700 Spiez, Switzerland;
- Institute for Infectious Diseases, University of Bern, Friedbühlstrasse 51, 3001 Bern, Switzerland;
- Graduate School for Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, Hochschulstrasse 4, 3012 Bern, Switzerland
- Correspondence: (J.O.A.); (C.B.); Tel.: +41-316328646 (J.O.A.); +41-584681664 (C.B.)
| | - Stephen L. Leib
- Institute for Infectious Diseases, University of Bern, Friedbühlstrasse 51, 3001 Bern, Switzerland;
| | - Olivier Engler
- Biology Division, Spiez Laboratory, Swiss Federal Office for Civil Protection, Austrasse, CH-3700 Spiez, Switzerland;
| | - Christian Beuret
- Biology Division, Spiez Laboratory, Swiss Federal Office for Civil Protection, Austrasse, CH-3700 Spiez, Switzerland;
- Correspondence: (J.O.A.); (C.B.); Tel.: +41-316328646 (J.O.A.); +41-584681664 (C.B.)
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38
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Holding M, Dowall S, Hewson R. Detection of tick-borne encephalitis virus in the UK. Lancet 2020; 395:411. [PMID: 32035545 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(20)30040-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Maya Holding
- Virology and Pathogenesis Group, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Porton Down SP4 0JG, UK.
| | - Stuart Dowall
- Virology and Pathogenesis Group, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Porton Down SP4 0JG, UK
| | - Roger Hewson
- Virology and Pathogenesis Group, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Porton Down SP4 0JG, UK
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