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A novel varicella-zoster virus gE mutation discovered in two Swedish isolates
Benita Zweygberg Wirgart1, Victor Estrada, Wallen Jackson
1Department of Clinical Microbiology, Karolinska University Hospital, L2:02, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden. benita.zweygberg-wirgart@karolinska.se
Background:
Two VZV glycoprotein E (gE D150N) mutant strains were collected in North America in 1995 and in 1999. We now report a novel VZV gE mutant virus discovered in Europe in two VZV strains collected in Stockholm, Sweden, in 1990 and 1999.
Objectives:
To characterize the two isolates identified among a total of 634 VZV isolates collected over a 15-year period at the Karolinska University Hospital.
Study Design:
VZV genes were amplified by polymerase chain reaction and their sequences were compared to the genomic sequence of VZV-Dumas prototype strain.
Results:
A mutation within the gE gene in an epitope recognized by the 3B3 monoclonal antibody was identified in both isolates. A different residue was changed (R152S) compared to the North American strains (D150N).
Conclusions:
The occurrence of a VZV gE mutant virus is unusual, but probably a recurring event in Europe and North America. It is unknown whether widespread varicella vaccination programs will alter the rate at which these mutant viruses are isolated.
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