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Published on: July 15, 2011
Characterization of measles sequences from Pune, India
Niteen Wairagkar1, Paul A Rota, Stephanie Liffick
1National Institute of Virology, Pune, India.
Abstract:
The goal of this study was to conduct the initial genetic characterization wild-type measles viruses currently circulating in India. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction detected measles RNA in 11 of 14 throat swabs collected from sporadic and outbreak-associated cases in the city of Pune, during 1996-1998. Sequence analysis of the H and N genes showed that six sequences were genotype D4, three were genotype D8, and two were genotype A. Continued virologic surveillance in other areas of India as well as neighboring countries will indicate the extent of genetic diversity present among wild-type measles viruses circulating in India.
Insights
This study genetically characterized wild-type measles viruses in India. Six sequences were genotype D4, three were genotype D8, and two were genotype A, revealing genetic diversity.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Genetics
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Measles remains a significant public health concern globally.
- Understanding the genetic diversity of circulating measles virus strains is crucial for effective control strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To perform the initial genetic characterization of wild-type measles viruses circulating in India.
- To identify the genotypes of measles virus strains detected in Pune between 1996 and 1998.
Main Methods:
- Detection of measles virus RNA using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) on throat swab samples.
- Sequence analysis of the hemagglutinin (H) and nucleocapsid (N) genes of the detected measles virus strains.
Main Results:
- Measles virus RNA was identified in 11 out of 14 throat swabs collected.
- Sequence analysis revealed the presence of three distinct measles virus genotypes: D4 (six sequences), D8 (three sequences), and A (two sequences).
Conclusions:
- The study identified genetic diversity among wild-type measles viruses circulating in India.
- Ongoing virologic surveillance in India and neighboring regions is recommended to fully understand the genetic landscape of measles viruses.
