Vector borne and zoonotic diseases最新文献

{"title":"Molecular Identification of Onchocerciasis Vectors (Diptera: Simuliidae) from the Central Himalayan Landscape of India: A DNA Barcode Approach.","authors":"Arka Mukherjee, Oishik Kar, Koustav Mukherjee, Bindarika Mukherjee, Atanu Naskar, Dhriti Banerjee","doi":"10.1089/vbz.2024.0123","DOIUrl":"10.1089/vbz.2024.0123","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b><i>Background:</i></b> Black flies (Diptera: Simuliidae) are a notorious group of blood-sucking insects acting as vectors of various diseases in humans and other animals, most notable being Onchocerciasis. Due to its medical and veterinary significance, accurate and quick species identification is of utmost importance in the field of black fly research. DNA barcoding is one such taxonomic tool, aiding in quick and efficient species identification using molecular methods. Despite sporadic reports of ocular and cutaneous Onchocerciasis, especially from North-East India, Indian Simuliidae has been understudied due to lack of expertise on morphological taxonomy and lack of genetic library. <b><i>Materials and Methods:</i></b> Blackflies were collected from eight distinct locations in the Central Himalayan region that are part of the West Bengal, India, districts of Kalimpong and Darjeeling. Various traps were used to collect the specimens, and they were kept it in 70% ethyl alcohol. Following the morphological identification of each fly specimen, genomic DNA was extracted from its dissected legs using the QIAmp DNA extraction kit (QIAGEN, Germany). The voucher specimen slide was deposited in the National Zoological collection, ZSI, Kolkata, India. <b><i>Results:</i></b> This is the first comprehensive DNA barcoding study of black flies (Feuerborni and Multistriatum species group) using mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene sequences along with morphological identification from the Central Himalayan region of West Bengal involving four species: Simulium dentatum, Simulium digitatum, Simulium praelargum, and Simulium senile. DNA barcode approach through ML tree clearly distinguished all the species with supporting PTP, ASAP, and GMYC analysis. Interspecific genetic distances were also calculated where S. dentatum and S. digitatum showed minimum distances in the study area. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> Coupled with a robust morpho-taxonomic framework, the DNA barcodes generated here will help with accurate species identification, which will lead to better management and control strategies for these harmful vector species at the study site.</p>","PeriodicalId":23683,"journal":{"name":"Vector borne and zoonotic diseases","volume":" ","pages":"258-268"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143650945","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Genetic Characterization and Zoonotic Analyses of <i>Enterocytozoon bieneusi</i> from Cats and Dogs in Shanghai in China.","authors":"Yan Zhang, Yidan Zhang, Rongsheng Mi, Luming Xia, Hongxiao Han, Tao Ma, Haiyan Gong, Yan Huang, Xiangan Han, Zhaoguo Chen","doi":"10.1089/vbz.2024.0075","DOIUrl":"10.1089/vbz.2024.0075","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b><i>Background:</i></b> <i>Enterocytozoon bieneusi</i> is reported to be a common microsporidian of humans and animals in various countries. However, limited information on <i>E. bieneusi</i> has been recorded in cats (<i>Felis catus</i>) and dogs (<i>Canis familiaris</i>) in China. Here, we undertook molecular epidemiological investigation of <i>E. bieneusi</i> in cats and dogs in Shanghai, China. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> A total of 359 genomic DNAs were extracted from individual fecal samples from cats (<i>n</i> = 59) and dogs (<i>n</i> = 300), and then were tested using a nested PCR-based sequencing approach employing internal transcribed spacer (ITS) of nuclear ribosomal DNA as the genetic marker. <b><i>Results:</i></b> <i>Enterocytozoon bieneusi</i> was detected in 34 of 359 (9.5%) (95% confidence interval [6.7 - 13.0%]) fecal samples from cats (32.2%; 19/59) and dogs (5.0%; 15/300), including 24 stray cats and dogs (22.6%; 24/106), as well as 10 household/raised cats and dogs (4.0%; 10/253). Correlation analyses revealed that <i>E. bieneusi</i> positive rates were significantly associated with stray cats and dogs (<i>p</i> < 0.05). The analysis of ITS sequence data revealed the presence of five known genotypes, CD7, CHN-HD2, D, PtEb IX, and Type IV, and two novel genotypes, D-like1 and PtEb IX-like1. Zoonotic genotype D was the predominant type with percentage of 61.8% (21/34). Phylogenetic analysis of ITS sequence data sets showed that genotypes D, D-like1, and Type IV were clustered within Group 1, showing zoonotic potential. The others were assigned into Group 10 with host specificity. <b><i>Conclusions:</i></b> These findings suggested that cats and dogs in Shanghai harbor zoonotic genotype D of <i>E. bieneusi</i> and may have a significant risk for zoonotic transmission. Further insight into the epidemiology of <i>E. bieneusi</i> in other animals, water, and the environment from other areas in China will be important to have an informed position on the public health significance of microsporidiosis caused by this microbe.</p>","PeriodicalId":23683,"journal":{"name":"Vector borne and zoonotic diseases","volume":" ","pages":"250-257"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143626080","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Surveillance for Serological Evidence of Bourbon and Heartland Virus Infection in White-Tailed Deer and Feral Swine in Texas.","authors":"Karen Valdez, Patricia V Aguilar, Diana Fernandez, Gayan Bamunuarachchi, Adrianus C M Boon, John C Morrill, Pedro M Palermo, Douglas M Watts","doi":"10.1089/vbz.2024.0107","DOIUrl":"10.1089/vbz.2024.0107","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b><i>Background:</i></b> The tick-borne pathogens, Bourbon virus (BRBV) and Heartland virus (HRTV) are the cause of febrile illnesses that may progress to severe and fatal diseases. <b><i>Materials and Methods:</i></b> As a preliminary effort to determine if these viruses were enzootic in Texas, ticks and blood samples were collected from feral swine (<i>Sus scrofa</i>) and white-tailed deer (<i>Odocoileus virginianus</i>) (WTD) killed by gunning as part of an abatement program during 2019-2021 in Travis County, Texas. Ticks were collected from these animals by hand and blood samples were obtained by cardiac puncture using 22-gauge needles and 5 mL syringes. Information was recorded for each animal, including date, sex, and location. The species of ticks were identified morphologically using a taxonomic key, and serum samples were tested for neutralizing antibodies to BRBV and HRTV. <b><i>Results:</i></b> A total of 83 <i>Ixodes scapularis</i> and 58 <i>Amblyomma americanum</i> ticks were collected from feral swine, and 196 <i>I. scapularis</i> and 11 <i>Dermacentor albipictus</i> from WTD. Although <i>A. americanum</i>, the implicated vector of both viruses was collected from feral swine, neutralizing antibody was not detected to BRBV, but 12% (9/75) had antibody to HRTV as evidence of a previous infection. Of the serum samples obtained from WTD, all were negative for BRBV neutralizing antibody, but 6.6%% (5/75) were positive for HRTV antibody. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> These preliminary results indicated that HRTV was enzootic in Travis, County, Texas and further studies are warranted to determine the specific tick vectors and the possible role of WTD and feral swine in the maintenance and transmission cycle of this virus.</p>","PeriodicalId":23683,"journal":{"name":"Vector borne and zoonotic diseases","volume":" ","pages":"295-302"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143658876","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Serosurveillance Identifies Bourbon Virus-Neutralizing Antibodies in Bobcats, Coyotes, and Red Foxes in Missouri.","authors":"Gayan Bamunuarachchi, Fernando Najera, Ishmael D Aziati, Jamie L Palmer, Elizabeth G Biro, David Wang, Sharon L Deem, Adrianus C M Boon, Solny A Adalsteinsson","doi":"10.1089/vbz.2024.0076","DOIUrl":"10.1089/vbz.2024.0076","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b><i>Background:</i></b> Bourbon virus (BRBV) is an emerging pathogen that can cause severe and fatal disease in humans. BRBV is vectored by <i>Amblyomma americanum</i> (lone star ticks), which are widely distributed across the central, southern, and eastern United States. Wildlife species are potentially important for the maintenance and transmission of BRBV, but little is known about which species are involved, and what other factors play a role in their exposure to BRBV. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> To assess the exposure risk to BRBV among wildlife in the St. Louis, Missouri, area, we collected sera from 98 individuals, representing 6 different mammalian species from two locations in St. Louis County: Tyson Research Center (TRC) and WildCare Park (WCP) from fall 2021 to spring 2023. The sera were used in a BRBV neutralization assay to detect neutralizing antibodies and RT-qPCR for viral RNA analysis. We also sampled and compared the abundance of <i>A. americanum</i> ticks at the two locations and modeled which factors influenced BRBV seropositivity across species. <b><i>Results:</i></b> In TRC, we observed a high rate of seropositivity in raccoons (<i>Procyon lotor</i>, 23/25), and white-tailed deer (<i>Odocoileus virginianus</i>, 18/27), but a low rate in opossums (<i>Didelphis virginiana</i>, 1/18). Neutralizing antibodies were also detected in sampled TRC bobcats (<i>Lynx rufus</i>, 4/4), coyotes (<i>Canis latrans</i>, 3/3), and a red fox (<i>Vulpes vulpes</i>, 1/1). The virological analysis did not detect BRBV RNA in any serum samples. In contrast to TRC, all sera screened from WCP were negative for BRBV-specific neutralizing antibodies, and significantly fewer ticks were collected at WCP (31) compared with TRC (2316). <b><i>Conclusions:</i></b> Collectively, these findings suggest that BRBV circulates in multiple wildlife species in the St. Louis area and that tick density and host community composition may be important factors in BRBV ecology.</p>","PeriodicalId":23683,"journal":{"name":"Vector borne and zoonotic diseases","volume":" ","pages":"287-294"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143415124","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Diversity of Ticks and Rickettsiae in the Southwestern United States: Implications for Public Health.","authors":"Guillermo Arcega Castillo, Laura H Backus, Dawn Gouge, Lucy Li, Kathleen Walker, Janet Foley","doi":"10.1089/vbz.2024.0102","DOIUrl":"10.1089/vbz.2024.0102","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b><i>Background:</i></b> Surveillance is important in addressing the significant public health concerns posed by tick-borne diseases. However, the southwestern U.S. presents particular challenges due to diverse tick fauna and varied ecologies. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> From 2021 to 2022, we conducted a partner-based tick surveillance program in Arizona and California to assess the presence of <i>Rickettsia</i> spp. pathogens and species composition of tick vectors. <b><i>Results:</i></b> A total of 913 ticks was collected, comprising in descending abundance <i>Rhipicephalus sanguineus</i>, <i>Dermacentor similis</i>, <i>Ixodes pacificus (I. pacificus)</i>, <i>Argas sp</i>., <i>Otobius megnini,</i> and <i>Haemaphysalis leporispalustris</i>. Arizona submitted predominantly brown dog ticks (90.05% of all ticks from Arizona), while California showed greater tick species richness with five species identified. No <i>Rickettsia rickettsii</i> was detected, but a variety of other <i>Rickettsia</i> spp. was found in ticks from both Arizona and California and included <i>Rickettsia rhipicephali (R. rhipicephali)</i>, Rickettsia <i>massiliae</i>, and <i>Rickettsia monacensis</i>-like rickettsial agents of <i>I. pacificus</i>, and two rickettsial organisms that were not identified to species: one <i>Rickettsia montanensis</i> or <i>Rickettsia raoultii</i>-like, and the other most similar to <i>Candidatus Rickettsia tarasevichiae (R.</i> tarasevichiae). <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> This research contributes to our understanding of tickborne diseases in the southwestern U.S., and emphasizes the need for targeted surveillance and intervention initiatives in a region with complex relationships among ticks, hosts, and <i>Rickettsia</i> species. In particular, the finding of an apparently novel pairing of an unknown <i>Argas</i> sp. tick and <i>R. tarasevichiae</i>-like organism suggests that argasid species are an important target for future research. In addition, the results-both tick species submitted and resulting <i>Rickettsia</i> spp. identified-highlights the strengths and potential biases associated with a partner-based sampling method for tick surveillance.</p>","PeriodicalId":23683,"journal":{"name":"Vector borne and zoonotic diseases","volume":" ","pages":"240-249"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143558195","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Isolation and Characterization of Getah Virus GD2202 from Mosquitoes in Foshan, China.","authors":"Ying-Ling Deng, Zi-Yi Lin, Rui Lin, Zi-Shuo Lu, Xing-Xiu Yan, Li-Xia Li, Hui-Jun Lu, Xue Bai, Ning-Yi Jin, Hao Liu","doi":"10.1089/vbz.2024.0100","DOIUrl":"10.1089/vbz.2024.0100","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b><i>Background:</i></b> Getah virus (GETV) is a vector-borne virus that can proliferate in mosquitoes and be transmitted to host animals through bites. Clinical infection with the virus mainly causes diarrhea and reproductive disorders in pigs and fever, rash, and edema in horses. This caused huge losses to the pig industry and also affected the level of competition for horses. GETV has proliferated across over 20 regions within China, recently resulting in miscarriages and fatalities among the pig population, Guangdong province. Currently, there are no highly effective preventative or therapeutic strategies for diseases induced by GETV. Understanding the infection pathways, inclusive of GETV transmission vectors, is of paramount importance for the prevention and management of the disease. <b><i>Results:</i></b> To clarify the main transmission vectors and genotypes of GETV in this area, 3600 mosquitoes of different species were collected and GETV was detected using quantitative reverse transcription PCR. The minimum infection rate was 1.36 for <i>Culex tritaeniorhynchus</i> and 0.83 for <i>Anopheles sinensis</i>. The GETV GD2202 strain was successfully isolated from <i>C. tritaeniorhynchus</i> using mouse neuroblastoma (N2a) cells, and its complete genome was sequenced by PCR. This represents the first identification and isolation of GETV from mosquitoes in Guangdong Province of Southern China. Comparison with GenBank data showed 99.3% identity with the E2 gene of the GDFS2-2018 and GDFS9-2018 strains causing disease in local pig populations, and a nucleotide similarity of 99.8% with the E2 gene of the HNNY-1, HNPDS-1, and HNPDS-2 strains isolated from pigs in Henan, and the highest identity with the JL1708 strain isolated from mosquitoes in Jilin Province, with a nucleotide similarity in the E2 gene of 99.9%. Phylogenetic analysis showed that it had the closest genetic evolutionary relationship with the <i>Culex</i>-derived JL1708 strain and was on the same evolutionary branch as the pig-derived HNNY-1, HNPDS-1, and HNPDS-2 strains. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> A comprehensive investigation was undertaken to examine the prevalence of GETV infection among various mosquito species in Foshan, Guangdong Province, China. The findings indicated that <i>C. tritaeniorhynchus</i> acted as the principal vector for transmission, predominantly infected with GETV genotype III. This genotype was consistent with that identified in deceased pig populations and demonstrated significant homology. This study provides a robust scientific basis for understanding the propagation of GETV, thereby offering vital insights for the formulation of disease prevention and control strategies.</p>","PeriodicalId":23683,"journal":{"name":"Vector borne and zoonotic diseases","volume":" ","pages":"269-276"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143469396","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"First Insight into the Seroprevalence of Hepatitis E Virus and Associated Risk Factors Among Liver Transplant Recipients from Bulgaria.","authors":"Magdalena Petrova Baymakova, Marina Konaktchieva, Metodi Kunchev, Georgi Popivanov, Todor Kundurzhiev, Ilia Tsachev, Ventsislav Mutafchiyski","doi":"10.1089/vbz.2024.0101","DOIUrl":"10.1089/vbz.2024.0101","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b><i>Introduction:</i></b> Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is caused by viruses belonging to the <i>Hepeviridae</i> family. HEV infection can be self-limiting; however, extrahepatic manifestations may be present. The purpose of the current study was to establish the seroprevalence of HEV among Bulgarian liver transplant recipients (LTRs) and to identify associated risk factors. <b><i>Materials & Methods:</i></b> The present study was conducted between April 1, 2023, and October 30, 2023, at the Military Medical Academy, Sofia, Bulgaria. All serum samples were tested for anti-HEV IgG/IgM using HEV IgG/IgM enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay on Dia.Pro (Milan, Italy). Each participating LTR completed a detailed paper-based closed-ended questionnaire regarding the associated risk factors for HEV infection. <b><i>Results:</i></b> The study included 73 LTRs with a mean age of 47.0 ± 14.0 years. Anti-HEV IgG antibodies were detected in 25 LTRs (34.2%), including 20 males (37.7%) and 5 females (25%). All participants were HEV-IgM negative. HEV seropositivity rates were higher but not statistically significant in LTRs aged >60 years than in those aged <60 years (40% vs. 32.7%). A significant factor by logistic regression was \"high level of education\" (odds ratio [OR] = 2.917; <i>p</i> = 0.038). <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> To the best of our knowledge, this is the first seroepidemiological HEV study among LTRs from Bulgaria that found a high seroprevalence (34.2%).</p>","PeriodicalId":23683,"journal":{"name":"Vector borne and zoonotic diseases","volume":" ","pages":"303-313"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143411113","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"A Review of West Nile Virus as a Cause of Human Disease in Kansas.","authors":"Stephen Higgs, Susan M Hettenbach, Ashlie M Ake, Nicole M Ioerger, Dana L Vanlandingham","doi":"10.1089/vbz.2024.0104","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1089/vbz.2024.0104","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b><i>Background:</i></b> In the United States, West Nile virus (WNV) was first identified in 1999 in New York City and in Kansas in 2002. How the virus was introduced remains uncertain, although several potential methods have been hypothesized. This review presents an overview of what has occurred with WNV since 1999 and the potential for establishment of related viruses, such as Japanese encephalitis virus, if they were to be introduced in the United States. <b><i>Materials and Methods:</i></b> We have compiled human West Nile case data from Kansas over time with the purpose of illustrating how this virus has become endemic in the center of North America in a representative Midwestern state that is seasonal and does not have year-round mosquito vector activity. Case data were compiled from multiple sources including the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. <b><i>Results:</i></b> The annual reported numbers of human WNV infections have fluctuated widely in Kansas since the introduction in 2002. Between 2002 and 2022, there were a total of 715 reported cases in Kansas, with an average of 34 cases per year. Among the 715 cases, 73% were from 23 counties, but 4 counties accounted for 32% of this total with clusters of cases. Sedgwick County, which is the second most populous county in Kansas, represented 15% of the 715 total cases. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> The reasons for fluctuations in the number of cases reported each year and the distribution of these cases is uncertain, but they are most likely due to changes in the mosquito vector populations, which are influenced by environmental factors, such as seasonal rainfall, temperature, and humidity. With regards to the future, WNV is here to stay with annual fluctuations that are difficult to predict. The establishment of WNV in the U.S. and Kansas should serve as a warning for the possibility of establishment of other mosquito-vectored diseases, including Japanese Encephalitis virus.</p>","PeriodicalId":23683,"journal":{"name":"Vector borne and zoonotic diseases","volume":" ","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2025-03-13","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143626063","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"The Compound AT13148 Targeting AKT Suppresses Dengue Virus 2 Replication.","authors":"Yangchao Dong, Chuantao Ye, Peijun Han, Wei Ye, Yuan Wang, Jing Yang, Zhikai Xu, Fanglin Zhang, Yingfeng Lei","doi":"10.1089/vbz.2024.0069","DOIUrl":"10.1089/vbz.2024.0069","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b><i>Background:</i></b> Dengue virus (DENV) infection, caused by serotypes DENV 1-4, represents a significant global public health challenge, with no antiviral drugs currently available for treatment. The host Protein kinase B (AKT) signaling pathway is crucial for DENV infection, presenting a potential target for antiviral drug development. <b><i>Objective:</i></b> This study aimed to evaluate the antiviral activity of kinase inhibitors that target the AKT pathway, focusing on the compound AT13148. Methods: A mini-screening was conducted to identify kinase inhibitors with antiviral properties against DENV-2. The effects of AT13148 on viral RNA replication and translation were assessed in a dose- and time-dependent manner following DENV-2 entry. The mechanism of action was further investigated by evaluating the impact of AT13148 on AKT kinase activity and phosphorylation status. <b><i>Results:</i></b> AT13148 exhibited potent antiviral activity against DENV-2, significantly inhibiting viral RNA replication and translation post-entry. The compound was found to inhibit AKT kinase activity through hyperphosphorylation. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> The findings indicate that AT13148 effectively targets the AKT pathway, demonstrating potential as an antiviral therapeutic against DENV-2 by interfering with the virus's post-entry processes. Further in vivo studies are warranted to assess the efficacy of AT13148 in controlling DENV infection.</p>","PeriodicalId":23683,"journal":{"name":"Vector borne and zoonotic diseases","volume":" ","pages":"213-219"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2025-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142955923","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Short Communication: Analysis of the Spectrum of Glomerular Diseases in Chronic Filariasis Diagnosed in a Tertiary Care Hospital in India.","authors":"Priti Meena, Sandip Panda, Paromita Das, Anish Garg, Suvendu Purkait, Pavithra Ayyanar","doi":"10.1089/vbz.2024.0038","DOIUrl":"10.1089/vbz.2024.0038","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p><b><i>Introduction:</i></b> The study presents renal manifestations in chronic filariasis, a substantial health concern in the eastern and north-eastern regions of India. <b><i>Materials and Methods:</i></b> The study is a retrospective analysis of a renal biopsy series of patients with chronic filariasis from a tertiary care hospital in Odisha. It involves eight cases of chronic filariasis. <b><i>Results:</i></b> Common indications of biopsy were nephrotic syndrome, chyluria, and unexplained renal failure. The mean duration from the diagnosis of filariasis to the onset of glomerular diseases was 15.75 years, SD ± 4.2 years. Patients were followed up for a minimum of 6 months. Renal histopathology revealed various patterns, including membranous nephropathy, minimal change disease, IGA nephropathy, and membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> The study fills a critical gap in the literature by elucidating renal biopsy findings in chronic filariasis. The multifaceted nature of this disease underscores the need for continued research to understand kidney diseases due to filariasis, especially in endemic regions.</p>","PeriodicalId":23683,"journal":{"name":"Vector borne and zoonotic diseases","volume":" ","pages":"220-222"},"PeriodicalIF":1.8,"publicationDate":"2025-03-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"142740610","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":4,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}