Viral metagenomic analysis reveals potential biological hazards in non-human primates in a zoo

Abstract

Pathogens have been documented to be transmissible between humans and non-human primates (NHPs), with NHPs demonstrating susceptibility to human viruses. Conducting surveillance for viruses in NHPs to identify potential zoonotic agents that may emerge or pose a high risk of spillover remains a critical strategy for preparing for and responding to future zoonotic events. This study employed viral metagenomic analysis on nine randomly selected NHPs from the Zoo in China to detect potential pathogens within captive environments. The analysis identified the presence of picornavirus Encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV), poxvirus (BeAn 58,058 virus, BAV), and retroviruses (human endogenous retrovirus, HERV and baboon endogenous virus, BaEV). These viruses exhibited significant genetic homology to established viral strains, with EMCV demonstrating close relatedness to a strain previously detected in the United States, and BAV beling newly identified in NHPs. The study suggests that zoo rodents, particularly rats, serve as the primary reservoirs for the viruses, thereby posing a potential threat to public health. Therefore, this underscores the imperative to enhance rodent control measures within zoological institutions and provides strategic recommendations for mitigating interspecies viral transmission.