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Virulence differences between monkeypox virus isolates from West Africa and the Congo basin
Nanhai Chen1, Guiyun Li, M Kathryn Liszewski
1Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Saint Louis University Health Sciences Center, M432, St. Louis, MO 63104, USA.
Virology
|July 19, 2005
Summary
Monkeypox virus (MPXV) strains from the Congo basin are more virulent than West African strains. This difference in monkeypox virulence may explain why the 2003 U.S. outbreak, caused by a West African MPXV, had no fatalities.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Genomics
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Monkeypox virus (MPXV) isolates from West Africa and the Congo basin are genetically distinct.
- Previous epidemiological data suggest differences in MPXV virulence between these two regions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the virulence of Congo basin and West African MPXV isolates in cynomolgus monkeys.
- To identify genetic factors contributing to observed virulence differences in MPXV.
Main Methods:
- Comparative virulence studies in cynomolgus monkeys using MPXV isolates.
- Whole-genome sequencing of MPXV isolates from different geographic regions.
- Bioinformatic analysis to compare viral genomes and identify potential virulence genes.
Main Results:
- Congo basin MPXV (isolate ZAI-V79) demonstrated higher virulence in cynomolgus monkeys compared to a West African isolate (MPXV-COP-58).
- Epidemiological data indicated a higher prevalence of severe MPXV cases in the Congo basin, with no reported fatalities outside this region.
- Genomic comparison identified five potential MPXV virulence genes (D10L, D14L, B10R, B14R, B19R), with D14L (vaccinia complement protein ortholog) being a primary candidate.
Conclusions:
- Virulence differences exist between Congo basin and West African MPXV strains.
- The D14L gene is a strong candidate for mediating MPXV virulence differences.
- Understanding these genetic variations is crucial for assessing MPXV outbreak potential and severity.