MedWorm: Virology

HIV-1 Nef: hacker of the host cell

Future Virology — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 04:00:38 +0100

Future Virology , February 2012, Vol. 7, No. 2, Pages 117-120. (Source: Future Virology)

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Ross River virus evolution: implications for vaccine development

Future Virology — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:51:20 +0100

Future Virology , February 2012, Vol. 7, No. 2, Pages 173-178. (Source: Future Virology)

Acknowledgements

Future Virology — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:51:19 +0100

Future Virology , February 2012, Vol. 7, No. 2, Pages 215-215. (Source: Future Virology)

Progress in DNA vaccination against HBV infection

Future Virology — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:51:19 +0100

Future Virology , February 2012, Vol. 7, No. 2, Pages 149-160. (Source: Future Virology)

Highlights of the 27th International Papillomavirus Conference and Clinical Workshop: part 3: epidemiology and public health

Future Virology — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:51:16 +0100

Future Virology , February 2012, Vol. 7, No. 2, Pages 127-133. (Source: Future Virology)

Proteomics-related biomarkers for HBV-associated hepatocellular carcinoma: current status and future prospects

Future Virology — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:51:15 +0100

Future Virology , February 2012, Vol. 7, No. 2, Pages 161-171. (Source: Future Virology)

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Bulletin Board

Future Virology — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:51:14 +0100

Future Virology , February 2012, Vol. 7, No. 2, Pages 121-125. (Source: Future Virology)

Viral subversion of host functions for picornavirus translation and RNA replication

Future Virology — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:51:12 +0100

Future Virology , February 2012, Vol. 7, No. 2, Pages 179-191. (Source: Future Virology)

The effect of alcohol use on IL-6 responses across different racial/ethnic groups

Future Virology — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:51:11 +0100

Future Virology , February 2012, Vol. 7, No. 2, Pages 205-213. (Source: Future Virology)

Consequences of persistent HBV infection in HIV: the double-edged sword of nucleos(t)ide analogs

Future Virology — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:51:10 +0100

Future Virology , February 2012, Vol. 7, No. 2, Pages 139-148. (Source: Future Virology)

Diversity and compartmentalization of persistent HIV-1 reservoirs under suppressive antiretroviral therapy

Future Virology — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:51:10 +0100

Future Virology , February 2012, Vol. 7, No. 2, Pages 135-137. (Source: Future Virology)

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Race and CD4+ T-cell count in HIV prognosis and treatment

Future Virology — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 16:51:07 +0100

Future Virology , February 2012, Vol. 7, No. 2, Pages 193-203. (Source: Future Virology)

Nigeria: HIV Treatment Vaccine Expected in Five Years - Institute

AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:12:03 +0100

[Daily Trust] The Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria (IHVN), says vaccine for treatment of Human Immuno-deficiency Virus that causes AIDS, may be available in the next five years. (Source: AllAfrica News: Health and Medicine)

Presence of precore and core promoter mutants limits the probability of response to peginterferon in HBeAg‐positive chronic hepatitis B

Hepatology — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion:Presence of only WT virus at baseline is a strong predictor of response (HBeAg loss with HBV DNA <10,000 copies/mL) to PEG‐IFN for HBeAg‐positive CHB. Patients with detectable PC and/or BCP mutants have a lower probability of response and are less optimal candidates for PEG‐IFN therapy. (HEPATOLOGY 2012.) (Source: Hepatology)

Dominance of resistance-breaking cotton leaf curl Burewala virus (CLCuBuV) in northwestern India

Archives of Virology — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 17:52:04 +0100

This study shows that the resistance-breaking cotton leaf curl Burewala virus (CLCuBuV) is now the dominant virus in many fields. The spread and establishment of the mutant CLCuBuV in northwestern India, the variation in its genomic sequence, its virulence and infectivity, and the implications for cotton breeding are discussed. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-14DOI 10.1007/s00705-012-1225-yAuthors Prem A. Rajagopalan, Plant-Virus Interactions Lab, Mahyco Research Center, Maharashtra Hybrid Seeds Company Limited, Dawalwadi, Post Box no-76, Jalna, Maharashtra 431 203, IndiaAmruta Naik, Plant-Virus Interactions Lab, Mahyco Research Center, Maharashtra Hybrid Seeds Company Limited, Dawalwadi, Post Box no-76, Jalna, Maharashtra 431 203, IndiaPrashanth Kattu...

Characterization of Epstein-Barr virus type 1 nuclear antigen 3C sequence patterns of nasopharyngeal and gastric carcinomas in northern China

Archives of Virology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:10:20 +0100

In this study, we successfully amplified 26 Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-associated gastric carcinomas (EBVaGCs), 50 nasopharyngeal carcinomas (NPCs) and 27 throat washing (TW) samples from healthy donors. Based on a phylogenetic tree, the samples could be divided into three patterns. 3C-6 was the predominant subtype in northern China, and the variations between the strains sequenced in our study and those from southern China and Japan were similar, but differences were also identified. The distribution of EBNA3C subtypes among EBVaGCs, NPCs and healthy donors was not significantly different. These data suggest that EBNA3C gene variations are geographically restricted rather than tumor-specific polymorphisms. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-9DOI 10.1007/s...

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Development of a novel real-time PCR-based strategy for simple and rapid molecular pathotyping of Newcastle disease virus

Archives of Virology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 18:10:19 +0100

Abstract A novel real-time PCR strategy was applied to simultaneously detect and to discriminate low-pathogenic lentogenic and virulent meso/velogenic Newcastle disease virus (NDV). The pathotyping is achieved by a three-step semi-nested PCR. A pre-amplification of the cleavage site (CS) region of the F gene is followed by a two-level duplex real-time PCR directly targeting the CS, combining detection and pathotyping in a single tube. A wide range of NDV isolates spanning all genotypes were successfully detected and pathotyped. Clinical samples from outbreaks in Sweden in 2010 that were positive by the novel PCR method were also successfully pathotyped. The method is time-saving, reduces labour and costs and provides opportunities for rapid diagnosis at remote locations an...

Key Peptides Identified That Could Lead To A Universal Vaccine For Influenza

Health News from Medical News Today — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:00:00 +0100

Researchers at the University of Southampton, University of Oxford and Retroscreeen Virology Ltd have discovered a series of peptides, found on the internal structures of influenza viruses that could lead to the development of a universal vaccine for influenza, one that gives people immunity against all strains of the disease, including seasonal, avian, and swine flu. Influenza, an acute viral infection, affects hundreds of thousands of people a year and puts an enormous strain on healthcare providers globally... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Construction of an infectious cDNA clone of Culex flavivirus, an insect-specific flavivirus from Culex mosquitoes

Archives of Virology — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 06:56:42 +0100

Abstract Culex flavivirus (CxFV) is an insect-specific flavivirus that has recently been detected in various Culex spp. mosquitoes worldwide. Here, we report the successful construction of a full-length infectious cDNA clone of a Tokyo strain, CxFV-NIID21. The full-length CxFV-NIID21 cDNA was cloned into the low-copy-number plasmid pMW119, which was stably amplified in Escherichia coli. Transfection of a mosquito cell line with in vitro-transcribed RNA from the cDNA clone resulted in the production of recombinant progeny virus with growth properties, cytopathogenicity, and virion morphology similar to the parental virus. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Brief ReportPages 1-5DOI 10.1007/s00705-012-1240-zAuthors Haruhiko Isawa, Department of Medical Entomology, Natio...

A transgenic Marc-145 cell line of piggyBac transposon-derived targeting shRNA interference against porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus

Veterinary Research Communications — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 17:11:19 +0100

In this study, we designed 5 of the small hairpin RNAs (shRNAs) targeting the GP5 and M gene of PRRSV respectively, and investigated their inhibition to the production of PRRSV. The highest activity displayed in shRNAs of the ORF6e sequence (nts 261-279), which the inhibition rate reached was 99.09%. The result suggests that RNAi technology might serve as a potential molecular strategy for PRRSV therapy. Furthermore, the transgenic Marc-145 cell line of piggyBac transposon-derived targeting shRNA interference against PRRS virus was established. It presented stable inhibition to the replication and amplification of PRRS. The work implied that shRNAs targeting the GP5 and M gene of PRRSV may be used as potential RNA vaccines in vivo, and supplied the screening methods of transformed pig...

Antiviral function and efficacy of polyvalent immunoglobulin products against CMV isolates in different human cell lines

Medical Microbiology and Immunology — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 17:09:42 +0100

This study suggests different antiviral functions of polyvalent IVIG and confirms their potential to inhibit a CMV infection in vitro, with profound differences between the hereby used IVIG products. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperPages 1-10DOI 10.1007/s00430-012-0229-2Authors K. Frenzel, Institute of Medical Virology, Helmut-Ruska-Haus, Charité University Medicine, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin, GermanyS. Ganepola, Department of Haematology, Oncology and Transfusion Medicine, Charité University Medicine, Berlin, GermanyD. Michel, Institute of Virology, University Hospital Ulm, Ulm, GermanyE. Thiel, Department of Haematology, Oncology and Transfusion Medicine, Charité University Medicine, Berlin, GermanyD. H. Krüger, Institute of Medical Virology, Helmut-Ru...

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Influenza vaccination of healthcare workers in acute-care hospitals: a case-control study of its effect on hospital-acquired influenza among patients

BMC Infectious Diseases — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Our observational study indicates a shielding effect of more than 35% of vaccinated HCW on HAI among patients in acute-care units. Investigations, such as controlled clinical trials, are needed to validate the benefits of HCW vaccination on HAI incidence in patients. (Source: BMC Infectious Diseases)

UK consensus guidelines for the use of the protease inhibitors boceprevir and telaprevir in genotype 1 chronic hepatitis C infected patients

Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0100

ConclusionsThese UK Consensus guidelines indicate the current best practice for the use of boceprevir and telaprevir in the management of genotype 1 chronic HCV infection. (Source: Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics)

A DNA vaccine expressing PB1 protein of influenza A virus protects mice against virus infection

Archives of Virology — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:44:28 +0100

Abstract Although influenza DNA vaccine research has focused mainly on viral hemagglutinin and has led to promising results, other virion proteins have also shown some protective potential. In this work, we explored the potential of a DNA vaccine based on the PB1 protein to protect BALB/c mice against lethal influenza A virus infection. The DNA vaccine consisted of pTriEx4 plasmid expressing PB1. As a positive control, a pTriEx4 plasmid expressing influenza A virus HA was used. Two weeks after three subcutaneous doses of DNA vaccine, the mice were challenged intranasally with 1 LD50 of A/Puerto Rico/8/34 (H1N1) virus, and PB1- and HA-specific antibodies, survival rate, body weight change, viral mRNA load, infectious virus titer in the lungs, cytokines IL-2, IL-4 and IL-10, ...

Superiority of the buffy coat over serum or plasma for the detection of Alkhumra virus RNA using real time RT-PCR

Archives of Virology — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:44:28 +0100

In this study, RT-PCR detection of viral RNA from the plasma, serum, and buffy coat (BC) was compared to virus isolation. Plasma, serum, and BC were obtained from seven patients with clinically suspected ALKV infection in Najran, Saudi Arabia. Baby hamster kidney (BHK-21) and rhesus monkey kidney (LLC-MK2) cell culture monolayers were used for virus isolation. Real-time RT-PCR was used to confirm ALKV infection and to detect viral RNA directly from plasma, serum, and BC. ALKV was isolated from five of the seven patients. The virus was isolated from all three specimen types (plasma, serum, and BC) of the five confirmed patients. ALKV RNA was detected directly by RT-PCR in BC in all five (100%) culture-positive patients and in plasma or serum in only four (80%) of the five patients. Th...

Sequence variation analysis of the E2 gene of human papilloma virus type 16 in cervical lesions from women in Greece

Archives of Virology — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 16:44:28 +0100

Abstract The E2 gene of human papilloma virus is expressed at the early stage of the viral life cycle, encoding the E2 transcription factor, and regulates the expression of E6 and E7 oncogenes. Disruption of E2 gene due to viral integration inhibits the transcriptional suppression of the HPV oncogenes, inducing cell proliferation. In the present study, a total of 22 HPV16-positive cytological specimens derived from high- and low-grade cervical intraepithelial lesions were investigated in order to identify sequence variations in the HPV16 E2 ORF. The E2 gene was amplified by PCR using external and internal overlapping sets of primers. Amplicons were cloned and sequenced. Disruption sites were detected in cervical samples diagnosed as high-grade cervical intraepithelial lesi...

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Relevance of MET activation and genetic alterations of KRAS and E-cadherin for cetuximab sensitivity of gastric cancer cell lines

Journal of Cancer Research and Clinical Oncology — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 07:10:50 +0100

Conclusion These data indicate that our examinations may be clinically relevant, and the candidate markers should therefore be tested in clinical studies. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperPages 1-16DOI 10.1007/s00432-011-1128-4Authors Stefan Heindl, Institut für Allgemeine Pathologie und Pathologische Anatomie, Technische Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Trogerstr. 18, 81675 Munich, GermanyEvelyn Eggenstein, Institut für Allgemeine Pathologie und Pathologische Anatomie, Technische Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Trogerstr. 18, 81675 Munich, GermanySimone Keller, Institut für Allgemeine Pathologie und Pathologische Anatomie, Technische Universität München, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Trogerstr. 18, 81675 Munich, Ge...

QnAs with Harald zur Hausen [QnAs]

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

The first carcinogenic virus was discovered in chickens in 1911. More than 70 years later, Harald zur Hausen demonstrated that human papillomavirus (HPV) can cause cervical cancer, for which he garnered the 2008 Nobel Prize in Medicine or Physiology. A professor emeritus at the German Cancer Research Center and recently elected member of the National Academy of Sciences, zur Hausen’s contributions to the field of virology have reshaped our understanding of the connections between infectious and chronic diseases. PNAS recently spoke with the Nobel laureate about HPV, undercooked beef, and scientific “dogma.”pnas;109/5/1378/UNFIG01F1unfig01Harald zur Hausen.PNAS:In general, how do viruses cause cancer?zur... (Source: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences)

Using Administrative Claims Data to Estimate Virologic Failure Rates among Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected Patients with Antiretroviral Regimen Switches

Medical Decision Making — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions. This claims signature model allows payers to use claims data to estimate virologic failure rates in their patient populations, thereby better understanding plan costs of failure. (Source: Medical Decision Making)

Researchers identify key peptides that could lead to a universal vaccine for influenza

EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(University of Southampton) Researchers at the University of Southampton, University of Oxford and Retroscreen Virology Ltd have discovered a series of peptides, found on the internal structures of influenza viruses that could lead to the development of a universal vaccine for influenza, one that gives people immunity against all strains of the disease, including seasonal, avian, and swine flu. (Source: EurekAlert! - Social and Behavioral Science)

Population dynamics and ORF3 gene evolution of porcine circovirus type 2 circulating in Korea

Archives of Virology — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 16:06:12 +0100

This study was conducted to investigate the status and population dynamics of porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) in Korea and to assess the molecular evolutionary pattern of the two biologically important, overlapping open reading frames, the ORF1 and ORF3 genes. A wide range of PCV2 genomic sequences (entire genome, ORF1, ORF2 and ORF3) collected between 2001 and 2010 were analyzed using the Bayesian Markov chain Monte Carlo and maximum-likelihood approaches. These techniques identified the PCV2d genotype and the 2Ek cluster of PCV2a in Korea for the first time. Second, the genotypic shift of PCV2b dominating over PCV2a likely occurred between 2002 and 2004 due to a population expansion of PCV2b. In the context of positive Darwinian selection, the results uncovered independent evoluti...

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Novel monoclonal antibodies for identification of multicentric Castleman's disease; Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus-encoded vMIP-I and vMIP-II.

Virology — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Nakano K, Katano H, Tadagaki K, Sato Y, Ohsaki E, Mori Y, Yamanishi K, Ueda K Abstract Recent studies have indicated that vMIP-I and vMIP-II play important roles in the pathogenesis of Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV)-related diseases due to the effects of these proteins on vascularization. We developed monoclonal antibodies against KSHV-encoded viral macrophage inflammatory protein-I (vMIP-I) and vMIP-II to study these expression profiles and reveal the pathogenesis of KSHV-related diseases. The MAbs against vMIP-I and vMIP-II reacted to KSHV-infected cell lines after lytic induction. Both vMIP-I and the vMIP-II gene products were detected 24h post-induction with 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate until 60h in the cytoplasm of primary effusion lymphoma cel...

Systemic inhibition of myeloid dendritic cells by circulating HLA class I molecules in HIV-1 infection

Retrovirology — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

During progressive HIV-1 infection, soluble HLA class I molecules can contribute to systemic immune dysfunction by inhibiting the antigen-presenting properties of myeloid dendritic cells through interactions with inhibitory myelomonocytic HLA class I receptors. (Source: Retrovirology)

Influence of HLA alleles in response to treatment with pegylated interferon‐alpha and ribavirin in patients with chronic hepatitis C

International Journal of Immunogenetics — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

The objective of this study was to analyse the possible role of HLA polymorphism of chronically infected hepatitis C virus patients in the response outcome to treatment with pegylated interferon‐alpha plus ribavirin. To that end, 144 Brazilian patients infected only with genotype 1 of the virus were treated with pegylated interferon‐alpha at 1.5 μg kg−1 in conjunction with ribavirin (1000 mg if patient weight was <75 kg and 1250 mg if >75 kg) for 48 weeks. The patients did not have concomitant HBV or HIV infections or liver disease, did not undergo previous antiviral treatment, and were followed up for 24 weeks after the end of treatment to assure they presented a sustained virological response. Patients were classified according to response to treatment in res...

The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis of Dengue FeverThe Importance of Accurate Diagnosis of Dengue Fever

Medscape Today Headlines — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 04:00:00 +0100

Early diagnosis and prompt treatment is very important in dengue fever. How can we avoid diagnostic errors? Future Virology (Source: Medscape Today Headlines)

Tracking The Birth Of An Evolutionary Arms Race Between HIV-Like Viruses And Primate Genomes

Health News from Medical News Today — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 08:00:00 +0100

Using a combination of evolutionary biology and virology, scientists at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center have traced the birth of the ability of some HIV-related viruses to defeat a newly discovered cellular-defense system in primates. The research, led by Michael Emerman, Ph.D., a member of the Hutchinson Center's Human Biology and Basic Sciences Division, and Harmit Malik, Ph.D., a member of the Center's Basic Sciences Division, was published online ahead of the Feb. 16 print issue of Cell Host & Microbe... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

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Monitoring of HIV Type 1 DNA Load and Drug Resistance in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells During Suppressive Antiretroviral Therapy Does Not Predict Virologic Failure

AIDS Research and Human Retroviruses — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 04:02:11 +0100

AIDS Research and Human Retroviruses , Vol. 0, No. 0. (Source: AIDS Research and Human Retroviruses)

Epidemiology and genetic relatedness of measles virus infection in Uttar Pradesh, India, during 2009-2010

Archives of Virology — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:56:14 +0100

This study calls for an improved surveillance system and intensive characterization of genotypes in circulation for the measles elimination program in India. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-9DOI 10.1007/s00705-012-1227-9Authors Akhalesh Kumar Shakya, Department of Microbiology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Raebareli Road, Lucknow, 226 014 IndiaVibha Shukla, Department of Microbiology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Raebareli Road, Lucknow, 226 014 IndiaHarjeet Singh Maan, Department of Microbiology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Raebareli Road, Lucknow, 226 014 IndiaT. N. Dhole, Department of Microbiology, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Raebare...

A novel mitovirus from the hypogeous ectomycorrhizal fungus Tuber excavatum

Archives of Virology — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:56:13 +0100

Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Annotated Sequence RecordPages 1-4DOI 10.1007/s00705-012-1228-8Authors J. Benjamin Stielow, CBS-KNAW Fungal Biodiversity Centre, Uppsalalaan 8, 3584 CT Utrecht, The NetherlandsZoltan Bratek, Department of Plant Physiology and Molecular Plant Biology, ELTE University, Pázmány Péter sétány 1/C, Budapest, 1518 HungaryHans-Peter Klenk, DSMZ-German Collection of Microorganisms and Cell Cultures, Inhoffenstraße 7 B, 38124 Braunschweig, GermanyStephan Winter, DSMZ-German Collection of Microorganisms and Cell Cultures, Inhoffenstraße 7 B, 38124 Braunschweig, GermanyWulf Menzel, DSMZ-German Collection of Microorganisms and Cell Cultures, Inhoffenstraße 7 B, 38124 Braunschweig, Germany Journal Archives of VirologyOnline ISSN 1432-8798Print ISSN...

Semireplication-competent vesicular stomatitis virus as a novel platform for oncolytic virotherapy

Journal of Molecular Medicine — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 17:53:02 +0100

In conclusion, srVSV is a promising platform for virotherapeutic approaches and also for VSV-based vector vaccines, combining improved safety with an increased coding capacity for therapeutic transgenes, potentially allowing for multipronged approaches. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-12DOI 10.1007/s00109-012-0863-6Authors Alexander Muik, Georg-Speyer-Haus, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, GermanyCatherine Dold, Institute for Virology, Innsbruck Medical University, Fritz-Pregl-Str. 3, A-6020 Innsbruck, AustriaYvonne Geiß, Georg-Speyer-Haus, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, GermanyAndreas Volk, Georg-Speyer-Haus, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, GermanyMarina Werbizki, Georg-Speyer-Haus, 60596 Frankfurt am Main, GermanyUrsula Dietrich, Georg-Speyer-Haus, 60596 Frankfurt am Mai...

The genome and proteome of a Campylobacter coli bacteriophage vB_CcoM-IBB_35 reveal unusual features

Virology Journal — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: Genes encoding proteins involved in the carbohydrate metabolism along with several incidences of gene duplications, split genes with inteins and introns have been rarely found in other phage genomes yet are found in this phage. We identified the genes encoding for tail fibres and for the lytic cassette, this later, expressing enzymes for bacterial capsular polysaccharides (CPS) degradation, which has not been reported before for Campylobacter phages. (Source: Virology Journal)

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The W100 pocket on HIV-1 gp120 penetrated by b12 is not a target for other CD4bs monoclonal antibodies

Retrovirology — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

This study indicates that the b12 W100 pocket on gp120 is targeted infrequently by CD4bs mabs. This site is therefore not a priority for preservation in vaccines aiming to elicit antibodies targeting the CD4bs. (Source: Retrovirology)

Bone marrow stromal cell antigen 2 (BST-2) restricts mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV) replication in vivo

Retrovirology — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

The findings in this work show that BST-2 restricts MMTV release from naturally infected cells and that BST-2 is an antiviral factor in vivo. (Source: Retrovirology)

[Articles] Trends in virological and clinical outcomes in individuals with HIV-1 infection and virological failure of drugs from three antiretroviral drug classes: a cohort study

The Lancet Infectious Diseases — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 23:05:13 +0100

A substantial improvement in viral load suppression and accompanying decrease in the rates of AIDS in people after extensive failure to drugs from the three original antiretroviral classes during 2000–09 was probably mainly driven by availability of newer drugs with better tolerability and ease of use and small cross-resistance profiles, suggesting the public health benefit of the introduction of new drugs. (Source: The Lancet Infectious Diseases)

Predictive value of HIV‐1 replication capacity and phenotypic susceptibility scores in antiretroviral treatment‐experienced patients

HIV Medicine — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 23:01:57 +0100

ConclusionsWe found no additional predictive value of replication capacity for virological or immunological responses (above what PSS provides) in patients undergoing salvage ARV treatment. (Source: HIV Medicine)

Recombinant Cell Lines Expressing shRNA Targeting Herpes Simplex Virus 2 VP16 Inhibit Virus Replication

Intervirology — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 23:00:00 +0100

Intervirology (DOI:10.1159/000335663) (Source: Intervirology)

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Meta‐analysis: antiviral treatment for hepatitis D

Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 18:34:11 +0100

ConclusionsLong‐term suppression of HDV RNA by IFNa is not maintained despite an end of treatment response; adding lamivudine is not beneficial. PEG‐IFNa is superior to other medications with respect to EOT and EOFUP. New RCTs should test combinations of PEG‐IFNa and newest antivirals. (Source: Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics)

Cellular transformation by human papillomaviruses: Lessons learned by comparing high- and low-risk viruses.

Virology — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Klingelhutz AJ, Roman A Abstract The oncogenic potential of papillomaviruses (PVs) has been appreciated since the 1930s yet the mechanisms of virally-mediated cellular transformation are still being revealed. Reasons for this include: a) the oncoproteins are multifunctional, b) there is an ever-growing list of cellular interacting proteins, c) more than one cellular protein may bind to a given region of the oncoprotein, and d) there is only limited information on the proteins encoded by the corresponding non-oncogenic PVs. The perspective of this review will be to contrast the activities of the viral E6 and E7 proteins encoded by the oncogenic human PVs (termed high-risk HPVs) to those encoded by their non-oncogenic counterparts (termed low-risk HPVs) in an attempt to sort...

Application and removal of polyanionic microbicide compounds enhances subsequent infection by HIV-1

Virology Journal — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: These studies, which demonstrate significant increases in HIV-1 infection subsequent to application and removal of LC and CS, support plausible explanations for the failures of microbicides formulated from these compounds. Detailed studies are now underway to determine the mechanism responsible for this enhancement effect and to assess the potential contribution of this effect to the clinical failures of these agents. (Source: Virology Journal)

Valproic acid in association with highly active antiretroviral therapy for reducing systemic HIV‐1 reservoirs: results from a multicentre randomized clinical study

HIV Medicine — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

ConclusionsOur study demonstrates that adding VPA to stable HAART does not reduce the latent HIV reservoir in virally suppressed patients. (Source: HIV Medicine)

Tracking the birth of an evolutionary arms race between HIV-like viruses and primate genomes

EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center) Using a combination of evolutionary biology and virology, scientists at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center have traced the birth of the ability of some HIV-related viruses to defeat a newly discovered cellular-defense system in primates. (Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health)

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Molecular characterization of β-lactam-resistant Escherichia coli isolated from Fu River, China

World Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:07:41 +0100

Abstract The present study aims to demonstrate the β-lactam resistance phenotypes and genotypes of Escherichia coli isolates from the Fu River in Chengdu, southwestern China. We obtained 108 E. coli isolates from nine sampling sites during May and December 2010. The total bacterial count varied from 79 colony-forming units (CFU)/ml to 14,550 CFU/ml, and coliform group number from 13 to 1,435 MPN/ml. Among the 108 isolates, 0–31.48% were resistant to β-lactams and β-lactam inhibitors, 1.85–7.40% to aminoglycoside, 1–20% to fluoroquinolone, and 50% to trimethoprim- sulfamethoxazole. The total bacterial count and antimicrobial resistance of different sites were significantly correlated (P < 0.05). Among the 34 ampicillin-resistant isolates, polymerase ...

TLR4 polymorphisms and disease susceptibility

Inflammation Research — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:07:18 +0100

Abstract Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play a central role in the regulation of the host immune system. Each TLR recognizes specific pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs). TLR4 is one of the well characterized pathogen recognition receptors (PRRs) that recognizes the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) of Gram-negative bacteria, some conserved structures from fungal to mycobacterial pathogens and some endogenous ligands. A complex signaling cascade initiates after the ligand binds to the TLR4 ectodomain, leading to the activation of multiple inflammatory genes. Genetic variations greatly influence immune responses towards pathogenic challenges and disease outcome. In this review, we summarize various reports regarding TLR4 polymorphisms and disease susceptibility. Content T...

Patient empowerment as a component of health system reforms: rights, benefits and vested interests

Internal and Emergency Medicine — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:06:46 +0100

Abstract Different strategies have been developed across countries to foster citizens’ and patients’ involvement, from health policies to patients’ active participation in decisions regarding their health. The spectrum varies from systems where patients lead the reform of health care services, to others where a paternalistic approach still limits patients’ autonomy in decision-making. This paper describes: (1) different interventions for involving patients; (2) experiences to promote consumer evidence-based advocacy; and (3) barriers to consumer involvement in health system reforms, including vested interests in patients’ associations. Citizens’ involvement in health systems can vary substantially, but is gaining increasing weight. Content Type Journal Arti...

Complete nucleotide sequences of the genomes of two isolates of apple chlorotic leaf spot virus from peach (Prunus persica) in China

Archives of Virology — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 18:05:38 +0100

Abstract The complete nucleotide sequences of two isolates of apple chlorotic leaf spot virus (Z1 and Z3) collected from peach in Henan Province, China, were determined. The genomes of both Z1 and Z3 were found to contain three open reading frames (ORFs). Sequence analysis showed that genomic sequences of Z1 and Z3 isolates shared 67.4%-82.9% and 67.2%-82.6% identity, respectively, with the other eight isolates of ACLSV that have been reported previously. Based on the putative amino acid sequences of the products of the three ORFs, Z1 and Z3 isolates showed the greatest identity to isolate PBM1 (GenBank accession number AJ243438) from plum and the least identity with isolate Ta Tao5 (GenBank Accession Number: EU223295) from peach. Considering the low level of sequence iden...

dsRNA binding characterization of full length recombinant wild type and mutants Zaire ebolavirus VP35.

Antiviral Research — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

We report the biochemical characterization of the Zaire ebolavirus (ZEBOV) full-length recombinant VP35 (rVP35)-dsRNA binding function. We established a novel in vitro magnetic dsRNA binding pull down assay, determined the rVP35 optimal dsRNA binding parameters, measured the rVP35 equilibrium dissociation constant for heterologous in vitro transcribed dsRNA of different length and short synthetic dsRNA of 8bp, and validated the assay for compound screening by assessing the inhibitory ability of auryntricarboxylic acid (IC(50) value of 50μg/mL). Furthermore, we compared the dsRNA binding properties of full length wt rVP35 with those of R305A, K309A and R312A rVP35 mutants, which were previously reported to be defective in dsRNA binding-mediated IFN inhibition, showing that the latter have ...

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Human papillomavirus type 16 E6 and E 7 proteins alter NF-kB in cultured cervical epithelial cells and inhibition of NF-kB promotes cell growth and immortalization.

Virology — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Vandermark ER, Deluca KA, Gardner CR, Marker DF, Schreiner CN, Strickland DA, Wilton KM, Mondal S, Woodworth CD Abstract The NF-kB family of transcription factors regulates important biological functions including cell growth, survival and the immune response. We found that Human Papillomavirus type 16 (HPV-16) E7 and E6/E7 proteins inhibited basal and TNF-alpha-inducible NF-kB activity in human epithelial cells cultured from the cervical transformation zone, the anatomic region where most cervical cancers develop. In contrast, HPV-16 E6 regulated NF-kB in a cell type- and cell growth-dependent manner. NF-kB influenced immortalization of cervical cells by HPV16. Inhibition of NF-kB by an IkB alpha repressor mutant increased colony formation and immortalization by HPV-16. I...

Enhanced magnitude and breadth of neutralizing humoral response to a DNA vaccine targeting the DHBV envelope protein delivered by in vivo electroporation.

Virology — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Khawaja G, Buronfosse T, Jamard C, Guerret S, Zoulim F, Luxembourg A, Hannaman D, Evans C, Hartmann D, Cova L Abstract We explored in the duck hepatitis B virus (DHBV) model the impact of electroporation (EP)-mediated DNA vaccine delivery on the neutralizing humoral response to viral preS/S large envelope protein. EP enhanced the kinetics and magnitude of anti-preS response compared to the standard needle DNA injection (SI). Importantly, EP dramatically enhanced the neutralizing potency of the humoral response, since antibodies induced by low DNA dose (10μg) were able to highly neutralize DHBV and to recognize ten antigenic regions, including four neutralization epitopes. Whereas, SI-induced antibodies by the same low DNA dose were not neutralizing and the epitope pattern...

Translation of MMTV Gag requires nuclear events involving splicing motifs in addition to the viral Rem protein and RmRE

Retrovirology — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

This paper shows that the translation of MMTV Gag mRNA is negatively regulated by a nuclear "experience" and that viral Rem protein, viral RmRE sequence,and a splice donor and acceptor are needed to counter the negative translational effect on Gag mRNA in the cytoplasm. (Source: Retrovirology)

Multiparametric cytometry for exploration of complex cellular dynamics

Cytometry Part A — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

AbstractThe development of polychromatic cytometry has contributed to significant progress in the field of human immunology. Although numerous functional studies of rare cell populations have been performed using this technology, here we used polychromatic cytometry to explore the dynamics of complex cellular systems implicated in innate immunity. We used PBMC stimulated with live influenza virus as an experimental model. We studied the time course of activation of PBMC, which contain DC, monocytes, and NK cells, all of which are, in addition to their innate immune properties, susceptible to Flu infection. We developed 12 color panels to investigate intracellular expression of IFN‐α, TNF‐α, IL‐12, IL‐6, IFN‐γ, CD107, and influenza virus nucleoprotein simultaneously in these ce...

Treatment outcomes in HIV-infected adolescents attending a community-based antiretroviral therapy clinic in South Africa.

BMC Infectious Diseases — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Background: Very few data are available on treatment outcomes of adolescents living with HIV infection (whether perinatally acquired or sexually acquired) in sub-Saharan Africa. The present study therefore compared the treatment outcomes in adolescents with those of young adults at a public sector community-based ART programme in Cape Town, South Africa. Methods: Treatment outcomes of adolescents (9-19 years) were compared with those of young adults (20-28 years), enrolled in a prospective cohort between September 2002 and June 2009. Kaplan-Meier estimates and Cox proportional hazard models were used to assess outcomes and determine associations with age, while adjusting for potential confounders. The treatment outcomes were mortality, loss to follow-up (LTFU), immunological response, viro...

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Induction of ebolavirus cross-species immunity using retrovirus-like particles bearing the Ebola virus glycoprotein lacking the mucin-like domain

Virology Journal — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Our findings suggest that GPDeltaMLD presented through retroVLPs may provide a strategy for development of a vaccine against multiple ebolaviruses. Similar vaccination strategies may be adopted for other viruses whose envelope proteins contain highly variable regions that may mask more conserved domains from the immune system. (Source: Virology Journal)

Genomic characterization of a cell-culture-adapted Korean human G9P[8] rotavirus, CAU05-202

Archives of Virology — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:10:05 +0100

Abstract The human rotavirus G9 strain is the fifth most common rotavirus worldwide. A human rotavirus G9P[8] strain CAU05-202 was isolated from a young child with diarrhea using a cell culture system, and its major gene sequences were determined. Phylogenetic analysis of the VP7 gene revealed that CAU05-202 clustered into genetic lineage III-d and was most closely related to G9 rotaviruses from Turkey (strain GUH13) and Sri Lanka (strain 05SLC056 and 05SLC057). VP4 and NSP4 gene analysis showed that CAU05-202 belongs to the P[8]-3 lineage and genotype B, respectively. In addition, CAU05-202 has a long RNA electropherotype, supported by VP6 gene analysis, which is clearly associated with subgroup II specificity. Analysis of the G9 rotavirus strain CAU05-202 provides informa...

Detection and characterisation of two novel vitiviruses infecting Actinidia

Archives of Virology — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:10:04 +0100

Abstract Two co-infecting novel vitiviruses from Actinidia chinensis were identified from mechanically inoculated Nicotiana occidentalis. Both virus genomes were sequenced and share 64% nucleotide identity. Their overall structure is typical of vitiviruses, with five open reading frames (ORFs) and a polyadenylated 3′ end. Open reading frame 4 (ORF4) encodes the coat protein, the most conserved gene of the vitiviruses, in which they share 75% amino acid identity, 61-68% with grapevine virus B, 55-59% with grapevine virus A, and 37-42% with grapevine virus E. Based on the molecular criteria for species demarcation in the family Betaflexiviridae, these are two novel viruses, tentatively named Actinidia virus A and Actinidia virus B. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory O...

Effects of the inhibition of cytosolic phospholipase A2α in non-small cell lung cancer cells

Journal of Cancer Research and Clinical Oncology — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 12:27:13 +0100

Conclusions Pyrrolidine-2 is a more potent and specific cPLA2α inhibitor than MAFP and AACOCF3 and represents an excellent pharmacological tool to investigate the biosynthesis and the biological roles of cancer. The present study suggests that pyrrolidine-2 could be a potential therapeutic agent for cancer therapy. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original PaperPages 1-9DOI 10.1007/s00432-012-1157-7Authors Shenbagamoorthy Sundarraj, Proteomics and Molecular Cell Physiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, 641046 TN, IndiaSoundarapandian Kannan, Proteomics and Molecular Cell Physiology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences, Bharathiar University, Coimbatore, 641046 TN, IndiaRamar ...

Porcine epidemic diarrhoea virus: a comprehensive review of molecular epidemiology, diagnosis, and vaccines

Virus Genes — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 07:16:23 +0100

Abstract The porcine epidemic diarrhoea virus (PEDV), a member of the Coronaviridae family, causes acute diarrhoea and dehydration in pigs. Although it was first identified in Europe, it has become increasingly problematic in many Asian countries, including Korea, China, Japan, the Philippines, and Thailand. The economic impacts of the PEDV are substantial, given that it results in significant morbidity and mortality in neonatal piglets and is associated with increased costs related to vaccination and disinfection. Recently, progress has been made in understanding the molecular epidemiology of PEDV, thereby leading to the development of new vaccines. In the current review, we first describe the molecular and genetic characteristics of the PEDV. Then we discuss its molecula...

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Complete sequence of a viral nervous necrosis virus (NNV) isolated from red-spotted grouper (Epinephelus akaara) in China

Archives of Virology — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 06:53:27 +0100

Abstract A nodavirus isolated from red-spotted grouper (Epinephelus akaara) larvae in China has been subjected to genome analysis. The full-length genome sequences of RNA1 and RNA2 were determined, and the 5′-non-coding region (NCR) and 3′NCR sequences were determined by 5′ rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) and 3′RACE. RNA1 is 3,103 nt in length and contains a 982-amino-acid open reading frame (ORF) encoding protein A with a calculated molecular mass of 110.74 kDa. RNA2 is 1,433 nt long and contains a 338-amino-acid major ORF encoding coat protein with a calculated molecular mass of 37.059 kDa. Multiple alignment and phylogenetic analysis clearly supported including this virus in the species Redspotted grouper nervous necrosis virus, genus ...

Analysis of the PKR-eIF2alpha phosphorylation homology domain (PePHD) of hepatitis C virus genotype 1 in HIV-coinfected patients by ultra-deep pyrosequencing and its relationship to responses to pegylated interferon-ribavirin treatment

Archives of Virology — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 06:53:26 +0100

Abstract Chronic coinfection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is among the greatest challenges facing public health worldwide. In this population, the response to hepatitis C therapy by treatment with pegylated interferon plus ribavirin (PEG-IFN+RBV) is lower than in HCV-monoinfected patients, particularly in those infected by HCV genotype 1. A PKR/eIF-2α phosphorylation homology domain (PePHD) within the E2 protein has been found to interact with PKR and inhibit PKR in vitro, suggesting a possible mechanism for HCV to evade the antiviral effects of IFN. The aim of this work was to analyze the amino acid conservation in the HCV-E2-PePHD and quasispecies diversity among HCV-HIV-coinfected patients exhibiting sustained virological response,...

A new proposed taxon for double-stranded DNA viruses, the order “Ligamenvirales”

Archives of Virology — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 06:53:22 +0100

Abstract Linear viruses with double-stranded DNA genomes are classified into two families, Lipothrixviridae and Rudiviridae. The members of these two families, all of which infect hyperhermophilic members of the domain Archaea, differ significantly in the complexity of their virions as well as in their mechanisms of genome replication. However, recent structural and genomic studies have revealed a robust evolutionary link between members of the two families. To acknowledge this relationship we propose to unify the two families into the new taxonomic order “Ligamenvirales”. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Virology Division NewsPages 1-5DOI 10.1007/s00705-012-1229-7Authors David Prangishvili, Department of Microbiology, Institut Pasteur, 25 rue du Dr. Roux, 7501...

Persistent retroviral infection with MoMuLV influences neuropathological signature and phenotype of prion disease

Acta Neuropathologica — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 06:51:59 +0100

Abstract A fundamental step in pathophysiology of prion diseases is the conversion of the host encoded prion protein (PrPC) into a misfolded isoform (PrPSc) that accumulates mainly in neuronal but also non-neuronal tissues. Prion diseases are transmissible within and between species. In a subset of prion diseases, peripheral prion uptake and subsequent transport to the central nervous system are key to disease initiation. The involvement of retroviruses in this process has been postulated based on the findings that retroviral infections enhance the spread of prion infectivity and PrPSc from cell to cell in vitro. To study whether retroviral infection influences the phenotype of prion disease or the spread of prion infectivity and PrPSc in vivo, we developed a murine model wi...

Gastroprotective Effect of NaHS Against Mucosal Lesions Induced by Ischemia–Reperfusion Injury in Rat

Digestive Diseases and Sciences — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 06:48:48 +0100

Conclusion Our findings indicate that a possible mechanism for the gastroprotective effect of H2S could be through the decreased mRNA expression and plasma release of proinflammatory cytokines. Content Type Journal ArticleCategory Original ArticlePages 1-8DOI 10.1007/s10620-012-2051-5Authors Seyyed Ali Mard, Department of Physiology, Physiology Research Center (PRC), Research institute for infectious diseases of digestive system, School of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundi Shapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, IranNiloofar Neisi, Research institute for infectious diseases of digestive system and Department of Virology, The school of medicine, Ahvaz Jundi Shapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, IranGhasem Solgi, Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Hamadan U...

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Development of a new quantitative real-time HHV-6-PCR and monitoring of HHV-6 DNAaemia after liver transplantation.

Journal of Virological Methods — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Karlsson T, Mannonen L, Loginov R, Lappalainen M, Höckerstedt K, Lautenschlager I Abstract A quantitative HHV-6 PCR (qPCR) assay was developed and compared to an "in-house" qualitative PCR and to the commercial quantitative Argene CMV, HHV6, 7, 8 R-gene™ test. Clinical specimens consisting of 127 whole blood and 57 cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) specimens were tested using the two qPCRs and the qualitative PCR in parallel. When the qualitative PCR was used as a "gold standard," the sensitivities of the qPCRs for the blood samples were 86% for the "in-house" qPCR and 76% for the Argene's test and the specificities were 96% and 92%, respectively. With CSF specimens the sensitivities were 92% and 80% and the specificities 98% and 82%, respectively. Furthermore, the two qPCRs we...

In utero activation of fetal memory T cells alters host regulatory gene expression and affects HIV susceptibility.

Virology — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Steiner KL, Malhotra I, Mungai PL, Muchiri EM, Dent AE, King CL Abstract In utero priming to malaria antigens renders cord blood mononuclear cells (CBMC) more susceptible to productive HIV infection in vitro in the absence of exogenous stimulation. This provides a unique model to better understand mechanisms affecting lymphocyte susceptibility to HIV infection in vivo. Effector memory CD3(+)CD4(+) T cells (T(EM)) were the exclusive initial targets of HIV with rapid spread to central memory cells. HIV susceptibility correlated with increased expression of CD25 and HLA-DR on T(EM). Virus entered all samples equally, however gag/pol RNA was only detected in HIV susceptible samples, suggesting regulation of proviral gene transcription. Targeted analysis of human genes in memor...

Recruitment of host translation initiation factor eIF4G by the Vaccinia Virus ssDNA-binding protein I3.

Virology — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Zaborowska I, Kellner K, Henry M, Meleady P, Walsh D Abstract Poxviruses are large double-stranded DNA viruses that replicate exclusively in the cytoplasm of infected cells within discrete compartments termed viral factories. Recent work has shown that the prototypical poxvirus, Vaccinia Virus (VacV) sequesters components of the eukaryotic translation initiation complex eIF4F within viral factories while also stimulating formation of eIF4F complexes. However, the forces that govern these events remain unknown. Here, we show that maximal eIF4F formation requires viral DNA replication and the formation of viral factories, suggesting that sequestration functions to promote eIF4F assembly, and identify the ssDNA-binding protein, I3 as a viral factor that interacts and co-local...

The nuclear protein Sam68 is cleaved by the FMDV 3C protease redistributing Sam68 to the cytoplasm during FMDV infection of host cells.

Virology — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Lawrence P, Schafer EA, Rieder E Abstract Picornavirus infection can lead to disruption of nuclear pore traffic, shut-off of cell translation machinery, and cleavage of proteins involved in cellular signal transduction and the innate response to infection. Here, we demonstrated that the FMDV 3C(pro) induced the cleavage of nuclear RNA-binding protein Sam68 C-terminus containing the nuclear localization sequence (NLS). Consequently, it stimulated the redistribution of Sam68 to the cytoplasm. The siRNA knockdown of Sam68 resulted in a 1000-fold reduction in viral titers, which prompted us to study the effect of Sam68 on FMDV post-entry events. Interestingly, Sam68 interacts with the internal ribosomal entry site within the 5' non-translated region of the FMDV genome, and Sam...

Matrigel-embedded 3D culture of Huh-7 cells as a hepatocyte-like polarized system to study hepatitis C virus cycle.

Virology — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

In conclusion, our findings describe a novel use of Matrigel to study the entire HCV cycle in a more relevant context. PMID: 22280897 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Virology)

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Updates on the genetic variations of Norovirus in sporadic gastroenteritis in Chungnam Korea, 2009-2010

Virology Journal — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Previously, we explored the epidemic pattern and molecular characterization of noroviruses (NoVs) isolated in Chungnam, Korea in 2008, and the present study extended these observations to 2009 and 2010. In Korea, NoVs showed the seasonal prevalence from late fall to spring, and widely detected in preschool children and peoples over 60 years of age. Epidemiological pattern of NoV was similar in 2008 and in 2010, but pattern in 2009 was affected by pandemic influenza A/H1N1 2009 virus. NoV-positive samples were subjected to sequence determination of the capsid gene region, which resolved the isolated NoVs into five GI (2, 6, 7, 9 and 10) and eleven GII genotypes (1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 12, 13, 16 and 17). The most prevalent genotype was GII.4 and occupied 130 out of 211 NoV isolates (61.6%). C...

Permissiveness of human hepatoma cell lines for HCV infection

Virology Journal — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: We conclude that the restrictions observed later during HCV infection in these cell lines could in part be attributed to HCV-induced innate signaling. Nevertheless, the identification of two new cell lines capable of supporting authentic HCVcc infection, even at reduced levels, expands the current repertoire of cell lines amendable for the study of HCV in vitro and should aid in further elucidating HCV biology and the cellular determinants that modulate HCV infection. (Source: Virology Journal)

Loss of Niemann Pick type C proteins 1 and 2 greatly enhances HIV infectivity and is associated with accumulation of HIV Gag and cholesterol in late endosomes/lysosomes.

Virology Journal — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: These results suggest cholesterol trafficking and localization can profoundly affect HIV-1 infectivity by modulating the cholesterol content of the virions. (Source: Virology Journal)

Role of Water Fleas (Daphnia magna) in the Accumulation of Avian Influenza Viruses from the Surrounding Water

Intervirology — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 23:00:00 +0100

Intervirology (DOI:10.1159/000334691) (Source: Intervirology)

Epstein-Barr Virus Genotypes and Strains in Central Nervous System Demyelinating Disease and Epstein-Barr Virus-Related Illnesses in Australia

Intervirology — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 23:00:00 +0100

Intervirology (DOI:10.1159/000334693) (Source: Intervirology)

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Transcriptional and functional studies of Human Endogenous Retrovirus envelope EnvP(b) and EnvV genes in human trophoblasts.

Virology — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

In this study, we have fully characterized both env transcripts and their expression pattern and have assessed their implication in trophoblast fusion. Through RACE analyses, standard spliced transcripts were detected, while EnvV transcripts demonstrated alternative splicing at its 3' end. Promoter activity and expression of both genes were induced in forskolin-stimulated BeWo cells and in primary trophoblasts. Although we have confirmed the fusogenic activity of EnvP(b), overexpression or silencing experiments revealed no impact of this protein on trophoblast fusion. Our results demonstrate that both env genes are expressed in human trophoblasts but are not required for syncytialization. PMID: 22277806 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Virology)

Systematic screening for novel, serologically reactive Hepatitis E Virus epitopes

Virology Journal — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The diagnostic value of identified ORF1 epitopes might not necessarily improve sensitivity and specificity, but broaden the overall quality of existing test systems. ORF2 and ORF3-antigens are still commonly used in diagnostic assays and possibly hold the potential to serologically differentiate between genotype 1 and 3 infections. Our systematic approach is a suitable method to investigate HEV domains for their serologic antigenicity. Epitope screening of native viral domains could be a preferable tool in developing new serologic test components. (Source: Virology Journal)

Impact of hepatitis B virus (HBV) preS/S genomic variability on HBV surface antigen and HBV DNA serum levels

Hepatology — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions.In patients infected with preS/S variants, HBV DNA replication and HBsAg synthesis/secretion appear to be dissociated. Therefore, the use of HBsAg titer as diagnostic/prognostic tool has to take into account the frequent emergence of preS/S variants in chronic HBV infection. (HEPATOLOGY 2012.) (Source: Hepatology)

A morphometric and immunohistochemical study to assess the benefit of an svr in hcv cirrhotic patients

Hepatology — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion:Cirrhosis regression and fibrosis amount decrease are frequently observed among HCV cirrhotic patients with an SVR. Despite ductular proliferation vanishing and lobular zonation restoration, portal inflammation and sinusoidal capillarization may not regress after viral eradication. (HEPATOLOGY 2012.) (Source: Hepatology)

Development of a SYBR green I based RT-PCR assay for yellow fever virus: application in assessment of YFV infection in Aedes aegypti

Virology Journal — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: The SYBR Green-1 based qRT-PCR assay is a faster, simpler, more sensitive and less expensive procedure for detection and quantification of YFV than other currently used methods. (Source: Virology Journal)

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Bird flu scientists suspend work amid epidemic fears

Guardian Unlimited Science — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 22:07:42 +0100

Researchers announce 60-day suspension to allow debate about security of their attempts to prevent spread of virusScientists trying to prevent bird flu from killing millions of people have suspended their work because of fears they might accidentally cause the epidemic they hope to stop, according to a letter published on Friday in scientific journals.Researchers from around the world signed a letter in the Nature and Science journals in which they announced a 60-day suspension to allow a public debate about the security of their work.The letter comes after developments in the study of bird flu in which scientists have created a similar virus that can be passed between mammals.Bird flu can only be caught by humans from birds such as chickens but it is usually lethal. Scientists fear that b...

rtL180M mutation of hepatitis B virus is closely associated with frequent virological resistance to adefovir dipivoxil therapy

Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 20:47:14 +0100

Conclusions: The rtL180M mutation of HBV, as well as a small decrease in HBV‐DNA after 1 year of treatment might be closely associated with frequent occurrence of virological resistance to ADV in patients with LAM‐resistant CHB. (Source: Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology)

Laparoscopic splenectomy with interferon therapy in 100 hepatitis‐C‐virus‐cirrhotic patients with hypersplenism and thrombocytopenia

Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 20:47:11 +0100

Conclusions: Lap‐Sp permits most patients with HCV cirrhosis and hypersplenism to receive sufficient IFN therapy. Therefore, Lap‐Sp can become a strong supportive surgery for cirrhotic patients who require antiviral therapy. (Source: Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology)

Prominent Virologists Want U.S. Advisory Board to Take a Second Look at Controversial Flu Papers

ScienceNOW — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 16:44:14 +0100

A group of prominent researchers is asking a U.S. government biosecurity advisory board to... (Source: ScienceNOW)

Endogenous or exogenous spreading of HIV-1 in Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany, investigated by phylodynamic analysis of the RESINA Study cohort

Medical Microbiology and Immunology — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 07:07:01 +0100

Abstract HIV’s genetic instability means that sequence similarity can illuminate the underlying transmission network. Previous application of such methods to samples from the United Kingdom has suggested that as many as 86% of UK infections arose outside of the country, a conclusion contrary to usual patterns of disease spread. We investigated transmission networks in the Resina cohort, a 2,747 member sample from Nordrhein-Westfalen, Germany, sequenced at therapy start. Transmission networks were determined by thresholding the pairwise genetic distance in the pol gene at 96.8% identity. At first blush the results concurred with the UK studies. Closer examination revealed four large and growing transmission networks that encompassed all major transmission groups. One of th...

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Hepatitis C virus RNA quantitation in a nationwide French cohort of patients co-infected with HIV and HCV: Should the same test be applied to all samples?

Journal of Virological Methods — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

This study shows that using the same assay in multicenter trials and cohorts is still relevant due to inter-assay differences observed in HCV plasma load measurements. PMID: 22285372 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Journal of Virological Methods)

RNA interference in vitro and in vivo using DsiRNA targeting the nucleocapsid N mRNA of human metapneumovirus.

Antiviral Research — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

In this study, we designed Dicer-substrate siRNAs (DsiRNAs) that target metapneumovirus sequences on the mRNAs of the N, P, and L genes. In vitro, six DsiRNAs were shown to inhibit virus replication using cell proliferation tests. Of those, the DsiRNA that targets the most conserved mRNA sequence was then resynthesized in Evader™ format with heavy 2'-O-methyl modification of the guide strand. In a murine model, the prophylactic administration of this Evader™ DsiRNA was effective at partially inhibiting viral replication of hMPV (13×10(3) vs. 29×10(3)PFU/g of lung; p<0.01), which was not the case for the control, a mismatched DsiRNA. Inhibition was achieved without inducing cytokines or off-target effects. Moreover, the specificity of the siRNA mechanism of action was demonstrated ...

Mutagen-mediated enhancement of HIV-1 replication in persistently infected cells.

Virology — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Sánchez-Jiménez C, Olivares I, de Ávila Lucas AI, Toledano V, Gutiérrez-Rivas M, Lorenzo-Redondo R, Grande-Pérez A, Domingo E, López-Galíndez C Abstract Lethal mutagenesis, a new antiviral strategy to extinguish virus through elevated mutation rates, was explored in H61-D cells an HIV-1 persistently infected lymphoid cell line. Three mutagenic agents: 5-hydroxy-2(')-deoxycytidine (5-OHdC), 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and 2,2(')-difluoro-2(')-deoxycytidine (gemcitabine) were used. After 54 passages, treatments with 5-FU and gemcitabine reduced virus infectivity, p24 and RT activity. Treatment with the pyrimidine analog 5-OHdC resulted in increases of p24 production, RT activity and infectivity. Rise in viral replication by 5-OHdC during HIV-1 persistence is in contrast wit...

Phylogenetic analysis of Chinese sheeppox and goatpox virus isolates

Virology Journal — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: This study may expand the datum for spread trend research of Chinese SPPVs and GTPVs, meanwhile provide theoretical references to improve the preventive and control strategy. (Source: Virology Journal)

Enterovirus 71 viral capsid protein linear epitopes: Identification and characterization

Virology Journal — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: These data suggested that human IgM epitopes were mainly mapped to VP2 and VP3 with multi-epitope responses occurred at acute infection, while the only IgG epitope located on protein VP1 was activated in recovery phase sera. The dynamic changes of humoral immune response at different stages of infection may have public health significance in evaluation of EV71 vaccine immunogenicity and the clinical application of diagnostic reagents. (Source: Virology Journal)

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A randomised controlled trial of ribavirin in Crimean Congo haemorrhagic fever: ethical considerations

Journal of Medical Ethics — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

The randomised controlled trial (RCT) constitutes a quantitative, comparative, controlled study of a particular treatment, and provides invaluable evidence regarding its pharmacotherapeutic efficacy. These studies are generally predicated upon the ethical principle of clinical equipoise. However, this may be insufficient to justify withholding treatment from a control group while assessing drug therapy in a potentially fatal disease. Thus, the criteria for randomisation, informed consent methodology and timing, and consideration of treatment options in such a scenario remain the province of medical ethics. This paper addresses the need for an RCT of ribavirin in the treatment of Crimean Congo haemorrhagic fever, and highlights underlying ethical concerns in light of the current medical, vi...

American Academy of Neurology Issues New Guidelines for Prescribing Antiepileptic Drugs to People Infected with HIV

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

The objective is to] develop guidelines for selection of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) among people with HIV/AIDS. … The literature was systematically reviewed to assess the global burden of relevant comorbid entities, to determine the number of patients who potentially utilize AEDs and antiretroviral agents (ARVs), and to address AED-ARV interactions. … AED-ARV administration may be indicated in up to 55% of people taking ARVs. Patients receiving phenytoin may require a lopinavir/ritonavir dosage increase of ∼50% to maintain unchanged serum concentrations (Level C). Patients receiving valproic acid may require a zidovudine dosage reduction to maintain unchanged serum zidovudine concentrations (Level C). Coadministration of valproic acid and efavirenz may not require efavire...

Author and Subject Index Vol. 55, No. 2, 2012

Intervirology — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 23:00:00 +0100

Intervirology 2012;55:184 (DOI:10.1159/000333244) (Source: Intervirology)

Practices to improve identification of adult antiretroviral therapy failure at the Lighthouse Trust clinic in Lilongwe, MalawiPratiques visant à améliorer l’identification de l’échec thérapeutique antirétrovirale chez les adultes dans la clinique du Lighthouse Trust à Lilongwe, MalawiPrácticas que mejoran la identificación del fallo de la terapia antirretroviral en adultos en la clínica Lighthouse Trust en Lilongwe, Malawi

Tropical Medicine and International Health — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 09:54:09 +0100

Conclusions Clinicians did not identify a large proportion of immunologic failure patients for screening. Implementation of VAFs produced little improvement in virologic screening during routine care. Better training and monitoring systems are needed.Contexte: Evaluer l’échec du traitement est cruciale lorsqu’il s’agit de décider de modifier un traitement antirétroviral (ART). Des formulaires d’évaluation virologique (FEV) ont été introduits en juillet 2008 comme préalable à la demande d’un test de la charge virale. Le formulaire exige une évaluation de l’état clinique et immunologique.Méthodes: En utilisant le dossier médical électronique, nous avons rétrospectivement évalué les patients répondant aux directives 2006 de l’OMS pour l’échec immunolog...

Infection of honey bees with acute bee paralysis virus does not trigger humoral or cellular immune responses

Archives of Virology — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 06:54:28 +0100

In this study, we have determined that honey bee larvae and adult workers do not produce a humoral immune reaction upon artificial infection with ABPV, in contrast to control individuals challenged with Escherichia coli. ABPV-infected bees produced neither elevated levels of specific antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), such as hymenoptaecin and defensin, nor any general antimicrobial activity, as revealed by inhibition-zone assays. Additionally, adult bees did not generate melanised nodules upon ABPV infection, an important cellular immune function activated by bacteria and viruses in some insects. Challenge of bees with both ABPV and E. coli showed that innate humoral and cellular immune reactions are induced in mixed infections, albeit at a reduced level. Content Type Journal Article...

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Meta-analysis: oral anti-viral agents in adults with decompensated hepatitis B virus cirrhosis.

Adv Data — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

CONCLUSIONS: All the oral anti-viral agents were associated with improved virological, biochemical and clinical parameters at 1-year. However, the efficacy of lamivudine and telbivudine is limited by drug resistance, and adefovir is limited by its potency and slower onset of action. Additional studies of tenofovir and entecavir are needed to determine the optimal agent(s) for treatment naïve patients and in those with drug-resistant decompensated HBV cirrhosis. PMID: 22257108 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher] (Source: Adv Data)

Phylogenetic analysis of strains of Orf virus isolated from two outbreaks of the disease in sheep in Greece

Virology Journal — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: We suggest that there can be differences between strains based on their geographical origin. However, differences in the origin of strains or in the clinical presentation of the disease may not be associated with their pathogenicity. More work is required to determine if differing clinical presentations are linked to viral strain differences or if other factors, e.g., flock immunity, method of exposure or genetic susceptibility, are more important to determine the clinical presentation of the infection. (Source: Virology Journal)

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 envelope proteins traffic toward virion assembly sites via a TBC1D20/Rab1-regulated pathway

Retrovirology — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Excessive TBC1D20 activity perturbs the early trafficking of HIV-1 envelope protein through the secretory pathway. Overexpression of TBC1D20 hampered envelope processing and reduced its association with detergent-resistant membranes, entailing a reduction in infectivity of HIV-1 virion like particles (VLPs). (Source: Retrovirology)

Meta‐analysis: oral anti‐viral agents in adults with decompensated hepatitis B virus cirrhosis

Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

ConclusionsAll the oral anti‐viral agents were associated with improved virological, biochemical and clinical parameters at 1‐year. However, the efficacy of lamivudine and telbivudine is limited by drug resistance, and adefovir is limited by its potency and slower onset of action. Additional studies of tenofovir and entecavir are needed to determine the optimal agent(s) for treatment naïve patients and in those with drug‐resistant decompensated HBV cirrhosis. (Source: Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics)

Report of the 2011 annual meeting of the Italian society for virology

Journal of Cellular Physiology — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

(Source: Journal of Cellular Physiology)

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Diagnostic significance of hepatitis B viral antigens in patients with glomerulonephritis-associated hepatitis B virus infection

Diagnostic Microbiology and Infectious Disease — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 03:02:10 +0100

Abstract: Hepatitis B viral infection can lead to hepatitis B virus–associated glomerulonephritis, a clinically significant subtype of secondary nephritis. In the present study, we examined the presence of PreS1/S2 antigen in renal tissues by use of immunohistochemistry and investigated the use of PreS1/S2 and 2 HBV serum antigens, HBe-Ag and HBs-Ag, in the diagnosis. We assessed the presence of these 3 antigens in patients with confirmed hepatitis B virus–associated glomerulonephritis (n = 22) and patients without this disease (n = 19). Our results indicate that the combined use of PreS1/S2-Ag and serum HBe-Ag in the diagnosis of hepatitis B virus–associated glomerulonephritis had good positive predictive value (0.89), modest negative predictive value (0.77), and substantial agreeme...

Evaluation of a novel commercial rapid test for dengue diagnosis based on specific IgA detection

Diagnostic Microbiology and Infectious Disease — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 03:02:10 +0100

Abstract: The performance of the novel commercial test ASSURE® Dengue IgA Rapid test (MP Diagnostics) was evaluated using a panel of 172 sera collected from dengue patients and 47 sera from healthy blood donors. The overall specificity and sensitivity were 61.0% and 85.1%, respectively. However, the positivity rate for IgA went from 33.3% for sera collected the same day of fever onset to 81.2% for sera collected 5 days after fever onset. Infections with serotype 2 viruses were detected more efficiently than those with serotype 1 viruses, and no sera from infections with serotypes 3 and 4 were available. In addition, the kit was twice more efficient at detecting secondary infections than at detecting primary infections. Finally, the ASSURE® test showed good repeatability and reproducibili...

New Combo KOs HCV Without Interferon, Ribavirin (CME/CE)

MedPage Today Gastroenterology — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 21:00:00 +0100

(MedPage Today) -- A combination of direct-acting antiviral agents aimed at hepatitis C -- and given without standard therapy -- can lead to sustained virologic response in patients with a difficult-to-treat strain of the virus. (Source: MedPage Today Gastroenterology)

News From The Journal Of Clinical Investigation: Jan. 17, 2012

Health News from Medical News Today — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 10:00:00 +0100

VIROLOGY: How to prevent hepatitis B virus reproducing Infection with hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major health problem worldwide, despite the fact that a highly effective preventative vaccine exists. A modified form of the immune molecule IFN-alpha is commonly used to treat individuals infected with HBV. The rationale behind this is that IFN-alpha inhibits HBV replication in vivo and in vitro, although the mechanisms by which it does this have not been clearly defined... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)

Development of a drug assay system with hepatitis C virus genome derived from a patient with acute hepatitis C

Virus Genes — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:59:20 +0100

Abstract We developed a new cell culture drug assay system (AH1R), in which genome-length hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA (AH1 strain of genotype 1b derived from a patient with acute hepatitis C) efficiently replicates. By comparing the AH1R system with the OR6 assay system that we developed previously (O strain of genotype 1b derived from an HCV-positive blood donor), we demonstrated that the anti-HCV profiles of reagents including interferon-γ and cyclosporine A significantly differed between these assay systems. Furthermore, we found unexpectedly that rolipram, an anti-inflammatory drug, showed anti-HCV activity in the AH1R assay but not in the OR6 assay, suggesting that the anti-HCV activity of rolipram differs depending on the HCV strain. Taken together, these results su...

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Molecular and functional interactions of cat APOBEC3 and feline foamy and immunodeficiency virus proteins: Different ways to counteract host-encoded restriction.

Virology — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Chareza S, Lukic DS, Liu Y, Räthe AM, Münk C, Zabogli E, Pistello M, Löchelt M Abstract Defined host-encoded feline APOBEC3 (feA3) cytidine deaminases efficiently restrict the replication and spread of exogenous retroviruses like Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) and Feline Foamy Virus (FFV) which developed different feA3 counter-acting strategies. Here we characterize the molecular interaction of FFV proteins with the diverse feA3 proteins. The FFV accessory protein Bet is the virus-encoded defense factor which is shown here to bind all feA3 proteins independent of whether they restrict FFV, a feature shared with FIV Vif that induces degradation of all feA3s including those that do not inactivate FIV. In contrast, only some feA3 proteins bind to FFV Gag, a pattern th...

Protective efficacy of an H1N1 cold-adapted live vaccine against the 2009 pandemic H1N1, seasonal H1N1, and H5N1 influenza viruses in mice.

Antiviral Research — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Shi J, Wen Z, Guo J, Zhang Y, Deng G, Shu Y, Wang D, Jiang Y, Kawaoka Y, Bu Z, Chen H Abstract Vaccination is a key strategy for preventing influenza virus infections. Here, we generated a reassortant virus (SC/AAca) containing the hemagglutinin and neuraminidase genes from a 2009 pandemic influenza virus A/Sichuan/1/2009 (H1N1) (SC/09) and six internal genes from the cold-adapted virus A/Ann Arbor/6/60 (H2N2) (AAca). The SC/AAca reassortant induced a sound humoral immune response and complete protection against homologous SC/09 virus challenge in mice after intranasal administration of an at least 10(6) 50% egg infectious dose (EID(50)) of SC/AAca. SC/AAca inoculation also induced significant CD4+ and CD8+ T cell responses and provided solid protection against heterologou...

Effect of interferon therapy on first and second recurrence after resection of hepatitis C virus‐related hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatology Research — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusions: These results suggest that on first HCC recurrence, a curative treatment should be considered in order to prevent a second recurrence if possible. In addition, IFN therapy contributes to improved prognosis after curative treatment, even in patients with recurrent HCC. (Source: Hepatology Research)

Study of the expression levels of Hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha and 3 beta in patients with different outcome of HBV infection

Virology Journal — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

In this study, liver tissue samples from different types of HBV patients were collected, and HNF4alpha and HNF3beta expression were detected by immunohistochemistry. The expression of HNF4alpha was significant higher in patients with severe hepatitis B(SHB) than those with chronic hepatitis B(CHB) and liver cirrhosis(LC) (both P < 0.05), but similar between patients with CHB and LC (P > 0.05). And the expression of HNF3beta was similar among patients with CHB, LC and SHB (P > 0.05 for all pairwise comparison). This suggests that the expression level of HNF4alpha was different in patients with different outcome of HBV infection, high expression level of HNF4alpha may correlate with occurrence of SHB (Source: Virology Journal)

Identification of a small-molecule inhibitor of dengue virus using a replicon system

Archives of Virology — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 07:12:29 +0100

Abstract Dengue virus (DENV) is a mosquito-borne human pathogen that causes a serious public-health threat in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Neither a vaccine to prevent nor an effective therapeutic agent to treat DENV infection is currently available. We established a stable cell line harboring a luciferase-reporting DENV subgenomic replicon to screen for inhibitors of DENV. A total of 14,400 small-molecule (MW < 500 Da) chemicals were evaluated for their ability to reduce luciferase reporter activity in cell lysates. One effective compound was identified from the screening. This compound was found to reduce virus production but did not block virus entry in virus-based assay. Mode-of-action analysis revealed that this inhibitor suppressed ...

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Epidemiology of Clostridium difficile-associated disease in internal medicine wards in northern Italy

Internal and Emergency Medicine — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 07:07:37 +0100

Abstract Clostridium difficile-associated disease (CDAD) is a growing health care problem. Elderly patients with multiple comorbidities and repeated hospitalization are at high risk for developing the disease. Few data are available on epidemiology of CDAD in Italy and no studies have focused on CDAD burden in internal medicine wards. We retrospectively analysed all CDAD cases in four internal medicine wards of a city hospital in northern Italy and reviewed the medical records of patients who developed CDAD during hospitalization. We identified 146 newly acquired cases, yielding a cumulative incidence of 2.56 per 100 hospitalizations and an incidence rate of 23.3 per 10,000 patient-days. Main risk factors were advanced age and length of hospitalization. A high proportion ...

A hexapeptide of the receptor-binding domain of SARS corona virus spike protein blocks viral entry into host cells via the human receptor ACE2.

Antiviral Research — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Struck AW, Axmann M, Pfefferle S, Drosten C, Meyer B Abstract In vitro infection of Vero E6 cells by SARS coronavirus (SARS-CoV) is blocked by hexapeptide Tyr-Lys-Tyr-Arg-Tyr-Leu. The peptide also inhibits proliferation of coronavirus NL63. On human cells both viruses utilize angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) as entry receptor. Blocking the viral entry is specific as alpha virus Sindbis shows no reduction in infectivity. Peptide (438)YKYRYL(443) is part of the receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein of SARS-CoV. Peptide libraries were screened by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) to identify RBD binding epitopes. (438)YKYRYL(443) carries the dominant binding epitope and binds to ACE2 with K(D)=46μM. The binding mode was further characterized by saturation tr...

Structural and Inhibition Studies of the RNase H Function of Xenotropic Murine Leukemia Virus-Related Virus Reverse Transcriptase.

Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Kirby KA, Marchand B, Ong YT, Ndongwe TP, Hachiya A, Michailidis E, Leslie MD, Sietsema DV, Fetterly TL, Dorst CA, Singh K, Wang Z, Parniak MA, Sarafianos SG Abstract Ribonuclease H (RNase H) inhibitors (RNHIs) have gained attention as potential HIV-1 therapeutics. Although several RNHIs have been studied in the context of HIV-1 Reverse Transcriptase (RT) RNase H, there is no information on inhibitors that might affect the RNase H activity of other RTs. We performed biochemical, virological, crystallographic, and molecular modeling studies to compare the RNase H function and inhibition profiles of the gammaretroviral Xenotropic Murine Leukemia Virus-Related Virus (XMRV) and Moloney Murine Leukemia Virus (MoMLV) RTs to HIV-1 RT. The RNase H activity of XMRV RT is significan...

Pharmacokinetic and short-term virologic response of low dose raltegravir 400mg once daily maintenance therapy.

Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Authors: Ananworanich J, Gorowara M, Avihingsanon A, Kerr SJ, van Heesch N, Khongpetch C, Uanithirat A, Hill A, Ruxrungtham K, Burger DM, Abstract Because studies showed similar viral suppression with lower raltegravir doses and Asians usually have high antiretroviral concentrations, we explored low dose raltegravir in Thais. Nineteen adults on raltegravir 400 mg twice-daily (BID) with HIV-RNA < 50 copies/ml were randomized to 400mg once-daily (QD) or 800mg QD for 2 weeks followed by the other dosing for 2 weeks. Intensive pharmacokinetics were performed and HIV-RNA monitored. Two were excluded from the 400mg QD analysis due to inevaluable pharmacokinetic data. Mean weight was 58 kg. Mean values were AUC(0-12h) 15.6 mg/L.h and C(trough) 0.22 mg/L for raltegravir 400mg BID; AUC(...

JC virus load in cerebrospinal fluid and transcriptional control region rearrangements may predict the clinical course of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy

Journal of Cellular Physiology — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

AbstractProgressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a severe disease of the central nervous system (CNS), caused by infection with the Polyomavirus JC virus (JCV). Because there are no known treatments or prognostic factors, we performed a long‐term study focusing mainly on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples from PML patients to describe the virological features akin to the different forms of the disease. Twenty‐eight PML patients were enrolled: 10 HIV‐1+ patients with classical PML (CPML), 9 HIV‐1+ patients with slowly progressing or stable neurological symptoms (benign PML), 3 HIV‐1+ asymptomatic patients and 6 HIV‐1‐negative patients. CSF, urine and blood samples were collected at the enrollment (baseline) and every six months afterwards when possible. The JCV DNA a...

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Epidemiologic Parameters and Evaluation of Control Measure for 2009 Novel Influenza A (H1N1) in Xiamen, Fujian Province, China

Virology Journal — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Our analysis indicated that the characteristics of this novel influenza virus were similar to those of seasonal influenza. The principle of "interception of imported cases" applied at Xiamen ports, and vaccination of students effectively limited the spread of the influenza pandemic and reduced the epidemic peak. (Source: Virology Journal)

Topical vitamin A treatment of recalcitrant common warts

Virology Journal — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Conclusion: Retinoids should be further investigated in controlled studies to determine their effectiveness in treating common warts and the broad range of other benign and cancerous lesions induced by HPVs. (Source: Virology Journal)

Human cytomegalovirus tegument proteins (pp65, pp71, pp150, pp28)

Virology Journal — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0100

Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), a member of the Betaherpesvirinae sub-family of Herpesviridae family, is a widespread pathogen that infects a majority of the world's population by early adulthood. In individuals whose immune systems are immature or weakened, HCMV is a significant pathogen causing morbidity and mortality. There is no effective vaccine and only limited antiviral treatments against HCMV infection to date. A possible target for novel antiviral treatments is the HCMV proteins that localize to the tegument of the virion, since they play important roles in all stages of the viral life cycle, including, viral entry, gene expression, immune evasion, assembly, and egress. The most likely tegument protein candidates are pp65 (immune evasion), pp71 (gene expression), and pp150 and pp28 ...

ESCV Membership

Journal of Clinical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:20:10 +0100

(Source: Journal of Clinical Virology)

Editorial Board

Journal of Clinical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:20:10 +0100

(Source: Journal of Clinical Virology)

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Rubella immune status among immigrant and nonimmigrant women in Spain

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:52 +0100

AbstractA cross‐sectional study of seroprevalence of rubella antibodies was carried out in all immigrant pregnant women (1,627) from February 2006 to June 2010. For each immigrant woman one Spanish pregnant woman was recruited. The seroprevalence of IgG antibodies against rubella in immigrant women was 92% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 90.4–93.3), and in native women was 97.7% (95%CI: 96.7–98.4) (P < 0.001). Immunity against was lowest among women from Latin America (odds ratio [OR]: 0.17), followed by women from Asia (OR: 0.20), Sub‐Saharan Africa (OR: 0.27) and Northern Africa (OR: 0.37). Female immigrants from developing countries should be targeted for immunization to reduce the risk of congenital rubella. J. Med. Virol. 84:548–550, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, In...

Single treatment with ethanol hand rub is ineffective against human rhinovirus—hand washing with soap and water removes the virus efficiently

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:51 +0100

In conclusion, thorough and conventional hand washing with water and soap can clean efficiently hands contaminated with the virus responsible for an extensive share of common cold episodes. J. Med. Virol. 84:543–547, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Source: Journal of Medical Virology)

High detection frequency and viral loads of human rhinovirus species A to C in fecal samples; diagnostic and clinical implications

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:50 +0100

AbstractHuman rhinoviruses (HRVs) can be divided into three species; HRV‐A to HRV‐C. Up to 148 different HRV (sero)types have been identified to date. Because of sequence similarity between 5′‐NCR of HRVs and enteroviruses (EVs), it is problematic to design EV‐specific RT‐PCR assays. The aims of this study were to assess the rate of false‐detection of different rhinoviruses by EV RT‐PCR, and to evaluate the diagnostic and clinical significance of such cross‐reactivity. In vitro RNA transcripts of HRV A‐C created from cDNA templates were quantified spectrophotometrically. Six hundred twenty‐one stool samples screened as part of routine diagnostic for EV, 17 EV‐positive stool samples referred for typing, 288 stool samples submitted for gastroenteritis investigations, ...

The 40–80 nt region in the 5′‐NCR of genome is a critical target for inactivating poliovirus by chlorine dioxide

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:49 +0100

This study not only elucidated the mechanism of PV1 inactivation by ClO2, but also defined the critical genetic target for the disinfectant to inactivate Poliovirus. This study also provides a strategy by which rapid, accurate, and molecular methods based on sensitive genetic targets may be established for evaluating the effects of disinfectants on viruses. J. Med. Virol. 84:526–535, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Source: Journal of Medical Virology)

Increase of GII.2 norovirus infections during the 2009–2010 season in Osaka City, Japan

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:47 +0100

This study revealed that the NoV epidemic in the 2009–2010 season differed considerably from the prior season, when GII.4 was predominant. Furthermore, GII.2 strains persisted in human populations by drastic recombination and gradual accumulation of mutations, indicating a prevalent pattern of non‐GII.4 genotypes with genetic evolution. J. Med. Virol. 84:517–525, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Source: Journal of Medical Virology)

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Human metapneumovirus‐associated hospital admissions over five consecutive epidemic seasons: Evidence for alternating circulation of different genotypes

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:46 +0100

AbstractHuman metapneumovirus (hMPV) is a pathogen of the respiratory tract with a worldwide distribution. The purpose of this study was to identify hMPV as the cause of acute respiratory diseases in children admitted at Spedali Civili, a public hospital in Brescia, Italy. Eight hundred forty‐six nasopharyngeal aspirate samples negative for the presence of other common respiratory viruses were tested for the presence of hMPV RNA by reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction. Of the 846 samples, 79 (9.3%) were positive for hMPV. Polymerase chain reaction products, obtained by amplification of the partial nucleotide sequence of gene F, were sequenced and compared with sequences deposited in GenBank. All four hMPV subtypes were identified, including the proposed subtype A2 sublineage...

EBV lytic infection enhances transformation of B‐lymphocytes infected with EBV in the presence of T‐lymphocytes

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:44 +0100

AbstractEpstein–Barr virus (EBV) establishes lifelong latency in B‐lymphocytes following infection. Although in immune‐competent individuals EBV remains in a quiescent state, in immunodeficient individuals, such as those with AIDS or transplant recipients, B‐lymphocytes infected with EBV proliferate to give rise to lymphoproliferative diseases. Similarly, in vitro, EBV transforms human B‐lymphocytes into indefinitely growing lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCLs) in the absence of cytotoxic T‐lymphocytes. Although LCLs harbor the entire EBV genome as an episome, in most cells the virus remains in a latent state expressing a fraction of EBV genes, and lytic infection occurs spontaneously but only in a small percentage of cells. Here, we report that lytic infection contributes to EBV�...

Epidemiology of dengue infections in Kassala, Eastern Sudan

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:43 +0100

AbstractEighty‐one (71.7%) out of 113 patients had confirmed dengue infection (using ELISA IgM serology) at Kassala, Eastern Sudan during the period of August through November 2010. According to the WHO criteria, dengue fever (DF), dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF), and dengue shock syndrome (DSS) were observed in 30.9, 58, and 11.1% of these patients, respectively. The mean age of these 81 patients was 25.5 years. Male:female ratio was 1.8:1. Various symptoms including fever (100%), headache (75.3%), vomiting (55.6%), nausea (53.1%), and backache (30.9%) were observed among these patients. Thrombocytopenia (<100/109 platelets/L), and leucopenia (WBC count <4,000 × 109 cells/L) and hemoconcentration (hematocrit >45) were reported in 86.4, 69.1, and 67.9% of the patients, respe...

Nonstructural protein NS1 immunodominant epitope detected specifically in dengue virus infected material by a SELDI‐TOF/MS based assay

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:42 +0100

In this study, the detection of NS1 protein in DV‐infected material was assessed by an alternative method combining a single NS1‐directed monoclonal antibody and the SELDI‐TOF/MS technology. According to the epitope mapping, the antibodies used are mainly directed against an immuno‐dominant peptide located on the C‐terminal part of the protein. The NS1 SELDI‐TOF assay is specific, has a sensitivity level close to capture‐ELISAs and is potentially useful for a coupled serotyping/detection assay or for the detection of subtle post‐translational modifications on the protein. J. Med. Virol. 84:490–499, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Source: Journal of Medical Virology)

Transient ischemic attack associated with acute cytomegalovirus infection

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:40 +0100

AbstractAcute cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is associated with thromboembolism. However, cerebrovascular ischemic events have not been reported in relation to acute CMV infection. A patient with a transient ischemic attack and acute CMV infection is described. Transient appearance of anti‐phospholipid antibodies suggests a causal relationship between the two. Physicians should be alert to symptoms and signs of acute CMV infection in patients with idiopathic cerebrovascular ischemic events. J. Med. Virol. 84:487–489, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Source: Journal of Medical Virology)

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Detection of active human cytomegalovirus by the promyelocytic leukemia body assay in cultures of PBMCs from patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:39 +0100

AbstractA novel detection system was established previously for cells infected with the human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) in vitro that utilizes the unique IE1‐dependent nuclear dispersion of promyelocytic leukemia (PML) bodies early in the HCMV replication cycle. This assay system, designated “the PML assay,” makes use of the GFP‐PML‐expressing cell line SE/15, and allows real‐time monitoring of infected cells by fluorescence microscopy without any staining procedures. A rapid and quantitative drug susceptibility testing was developed for low‐titer clinical isolates propagated in fibroblasts in vitro. The present study sought to exploit the PML assay for evaluating in vivo status of HCMV without virus isolation. Progeny viruses were detected directly from peripheral blood mononuc...

Lack of genetic diversity in Crimean‐Congo hemorrhagic fever viruses in Turkey: Assessment of present and future patterns of disease

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:38 +0100

AbstractCrimean‐Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is a tick‐borne zoonosis which is common in Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, and the Balkan Peninsula. CCHF has been reported in Turkey with high frequency since 2002. The aim of the present study was to investigate the genetic diversity and genetic relationship between CCHF virus (CCHFV) isolates derived from infected patients over a 2‐year period (2009 and 2010) in several provinces of Turkey. Serum samples (n = 48) were selected from CCHFV RNA positive patients and subjected to sequence analysis of the gene regions encoding the S (48 samples) and M (14 samples) segments. The nucleotide sequence alignments showed that the nucleic acid relatedness of CCHFV isolates ranged from 95.7% to 100% and from 93.7% to 100% for S and M segments, ...

Genetic diversity of chikungunya virus, India 2006–2010: Evolutionary dynamics and serotype analyses

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:36 +0100

AbstractThe genetic diversity of Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) causing recurring outbreaks in India since 2006 was studied. The 2006 epidemic was caused by a virus strain of the East, Central and South African (ECSA) genotype with 226A in the E1 glycoprotein. The variant strain with E1‐A226V mutation caused outbreaks since 2007 in the state of Kerala where Aedes albopictus is the abundant mosquito vector. Molecular epidemiology data since 2007 is scarce from other regions of the country. RT‐PCR, sequencing and phylogenetic analyses of CHIKV isolates from the 2009 to 2010 epidemics in the States of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh placed them in a separate clade within the ECSA lineage. The isolates of the study had 226A in the E1 glycoprotein. The isolates had a novel E1‐K211E mutation that...

Case report: Benefits of quantitative polymerase chain reaction in the clinical management of herpes simplex virus 1 infection with prominent hepatitis and unusual secondary progression

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:35 +0100

AbstractHerpes simplex virus (HSV) infection is rarely considered in the differential diagnosis of severe acute hepatitis and disseminated infection in immunocompetent adults. A case of disseminated HSV‐1 infection in an 82‐year‐old woman initially presenting with neurological problems, signs of meningitis and prominent hepatitis was investigated. Initial diagnosis, monitoring, and follow‐up were based on the application of molecular methods to cerebrospinal fluid, serum, and liver tissue samples from this patient. Following an initial full recovery, the patient presented delayed intracerebral haemorrhage and diffuse arthralgia. This atypical case, with delayed secondary progression, highlights the wide range of clinical features of HSV infection and the benefits of monitoring vira...

Confirmation of the low clinical effect of human herpesvirus‐6 and ‐7 infections after renal transplantation

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:34 +0100

This study revealed the differing behavior of HCMV, HHV‐6, and HHV‐7 in kidney transplant recipients, and confirmed the association of HHV‐6 with graft rejection. J. Med. Virol. 84:450–456, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Source: Journal of Medical Virology)

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Development of a hepatitis delta virus antibody assay for study of the prevalence of HDV among individuals infected with hepatitis B virus in China

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:32 +0100

AbstractCo‐infection with hepatitis delta virus (HDV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) has been shown to be associated with a more severe form of acute and chronic hepatitis. Cloning and expression of recombinant HDV antigen (rHDAg) in Escherichiacoli are described. Using purified rHDAg, a cost‐effective indirect anti‐HDV enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit was developed. Direct comparison of 15 known HDV‐positive sera and 15 HDV‐negative sera showed concordance agreement between the new assay kit and the Abbott Murex Anti‐Delta (total) kit. In addition, 1,486 hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) positive blood samples collected from various areas of China were tested using this indirect anti‐HDV ELISA. It was found that 1.2% (95% CI: 0.7–1.9%) of the samples were ant...

Prevalence of hepatitis C virus genotype 1a in Japan and correlation of mutations in the NS5A region and single‐nucleotide polymorphism of interleukin‐28B with the response to combination therapy with pegylated‐interferon‐alpha 2b and ribavirin

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:31 +0100

In conclusion, HCV genotype 1a is rare in Japan. The presence of IL28B genotype TT, and more than two mutations, in the ISDR are associated with a good response to IFN therapy in patients with HCV genotype 1a. J. Med. Virol. 84:438–444, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Source: Journal of Medical Virology)

Quantitation of hepatitis C virus RNA in peripheral blood mononuclear cells in HCV‐monoinfection and HIV/HCV‐coinfection

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:29 +0100

In this study, a commercial viral load assay for measuring cell‐associated PBMC HCV RNA was evaluated. HCV RNA was extracted from PBMCs, sorted CD14+, and CD19+ cells and corresponding plasma samples using the Abbott m2000 and Real‐Time HCV assay. Test performance and influence of HIV seropositivity on plasma and PBMC HCV RNA were studied. Among 51 patients, 67 and 62 unique patient samples had detectable plasma and PBMC HCV viral load, respectively. The median PBMC viral load was 535 IU/1 M cells (range 29–5,190). CD19+ cells had significantly higher viral load than CD14+ cells (median log10 HCV viral load 2.63 vs. 1.50 IU/ml; P< 0.001). Stability of PBMC viral load over time was demonstrated in untreated patients; all patients with an undetectable plasma HCV viral load aft...

Antiviral efficacy of combination therapy with entecavir and adefovir for entecavir/lamivudine‐resistant hepatitis B virus with or without adefovir resistance

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:28 +0100

In conclusion, ETV/ADV combination therapy led to virological responses in five of seven patients with resistance to ETV and LAM, but a significantly poorer response in patients with prior ADV resistance than in those without prior ADV resistance. Therefore, ETV/ADV combination therapy could be a useful therapeutic option for ETV‐ and LAM‐resistant HBV without prior ADV resistance. J. Med. Virol. 84:424–430, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Source: Journal of Medical Virology)

Characterization of hepatitis B virus genome variability in Iranian patients with chronic infection, a nationwide study

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:27 +0100

In conclusion, these results demonstrate that HBV subgenotype D1 is the only subgenotype circulating in Iran, and there is no evidence of any exotic genotype in the region. The HBV PC (G1896A) mutation may play an important role in the clinical outcome of the disease by increasing the risk of progressive liver disease among Iranian patients infected with HBV. J. Med. Virol. 84:414–423, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. (Source: Journal of Medical Virology)

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Discordance in HIV‐1 Co‐receptor use prediction by different genotypic algorithms and phenotype assay: Intermediate profile in relation to concordant predictions

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:25 +0100

AbstractConcordant and discordant genotypic predictions of HIV‐1 co‐receptor tropism were analyzed. V3 region was sequenced from plasma samples of patients screened for R5 tropism by the Trofile® assay, before CCR5 antagonist prescription. Ten tools including geno2pheno, PSSM, an “11/25” and “net charge” rule, and other published algorithms were used. Patients were grouped according to concordance or discordance between tools and Trofile® result. Trofile® tropism reports from 50 patient samples were R5 in 38 and Dual/Mixed (DM) in 12. Prediction with the genotypic tools were concordant for 23 R5 samples, and discordant for the 15 other ones. From Trofile® DM strains were concordant in 6 and discordant in 6. V3 sequences were not clearly distinct between R5 and DM strains, e...

An in‐house HIV genotyping assay for the detection of drug resistance mutations in Southeast Asian patients infected with HIV‐1

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:24 +0100

AbstractGenotyping for HIV drug resistance is costly and beyond the means for many Southeast Asian patients, who are self‐funded. This prompted the development of a more cost‐effective, in‐house assay for an ethnically diverse, Southeast Asian population at the National University Hospital in Singapore, using Sanger‐based sequencing. Plasma samples from 20 treatment‐failure patients with a broad spectrum of HIV drug resistance mutations were used to validate this assay clinically. Blinded testing gave concordant results for 7/7 (100%) protease drug resistance‐related mutations, including one major and six minor mutations, and 111/116 (95.7%) reverse‐transcriptase (RT) drug resistance‐related mutations, including 65 nucleoside RT inhibitors (NRTI) and 46 non‐nucleoside RT ...

Genetic diversity of HA1 domain of hemagglutinin gene of pandemic influenza H1N1pdm09 viruses in New Delhi, India

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:23 +0100

AbstractGenetic analysis of pandemic 2009 influenza A (H1N1; H1N1pdm09) virus was undertaken to understand virus evolution during 2009 and 2010 in India. Surveillance of influenza viruses from July 2009 to December 2010 revealed major peaks of circulating H1N1pdm09 viruses in August–September and December–January 2009 and then in August–September 2010. To understand the diversity of the H1N1pdm09 virus, selected specimens (n = 23) from 2009 or 2010 were characterized by nucleotide sequence determination of the HA1 subunit of the HA gene. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that 22 clustered with clade 7 viruses characterized by S203T mutations, whereas one virus from 2010 fell within clade 6. None of the viruses from either 2009 or 2010 formed a monophyletic group, suggesting a contin...

Case report: Increased viral receptor expression associated with high viral load and severe pneumonia in a young patient infected with 2009 H1N1 influenza a with no pre‐existing conditions

Journal of Medical Virology — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:19:21 +0100

AbstractA case of unusually high severity of influenza pneumonia leading to acute respiratory distress syndrome and death was investigated. This was a previously a healthy 28‐year‐old man with no underlying conditions, admitted to a hospital during the first wave of influenza pandemic in Thailand in July 2009. He had experienced high fever and influenza‐like illness for 5 days before coming to the hospital. He developed acute respiratory distress syndrome and expired on day 7 after admission. In comparison to three other cases of influenza pneumonia in the same outbreak with known risk factors for severe influenza, such as pregnancy and diabetes mellitus, a much higher viral load was detected in the lungs of this patient despite antiviral treatment. In agreement with the high viral l...