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A new parvovirus genotype persistent in human skin
Kati Hokynar1, Maria Söderlund-Venermo, Maria Pesonen
1Department of Virology, Haartman Institute and Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, FIN-00290 Helsinki, Finland. kati.hokynar@helsinki.fi
Virology
|November 21, 2002
Summary
A new Parvovirus B19 genotype, K71, was discovered in human skin. This genotype shows significant DNA variation, challenging previous understandings of the virus and its persistence.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Human Pathogens
- Erythrovirus Genus
Background:
- Parvovirus B19 is the sole human pathogen in the Erythrovirus genus.
- Traditionally, B19 virus DNA exhibits low variability with no specific disease or tissue associations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the genetic variability of Parvovirus B19 DNA in human skin biopsies.
- To identify potential new genotypes and their characteristics.
Main Methods:
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays on skin biopsies from patients and healthy adults.
- Sequencing of four different genomic regions of the B19 virus.
- Luciferase gene expression assay to assess promoter activity.
Main Results:
- Skin-derived B19 virus DNA showed significant sequence differences: 10.8% in the protein-coding region and 26.5% in the noncoding promoter region compared to reference sequences.
- A novel B19 virus genotype, designated K71, was identified.
- The promoter region, despite sequence divergence, demonstrated biological activity.
Conclusions:
- A new, highly divergent Parvovirus B19 genotype (K71) persists in human skin.
- The genetic variability of B19 virus may be greater than previously assumed.
- Further research is needed to understand the implications of this new genotype and its persistence.