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Published on: May 6, 2015
Genomic characterization of a novel human adenovirus type 31 recombinant in the hexon gene
Yuki Matsushima1, Hideaki Shimizu1, Tung Gia Phan2
1Division of Virology, Kawasaki City Institute of Public Health, 5-13-10 Oshima, Kawasaki-ku, Kawasaki 210-0834, Japan.
Abstract:
A novel human recombinant adenovirus of species A (HAdV-A31 MZ) was isolated from a patient with acute gastroenteritis in Japan. The complete genome of HAdV-A31 strain MZ contains 33 776 bp. Analysis of the hexon gene of HAdV-A31 MZ indicated that its hexon sequence is the result of a genetic recombination between those of HAdV-A31 and a close relative to HAdV-A12. The recombination sites were found around the border of hypervariable loops 1 and 2 in the hexon gene, which are the most important determinants for virus neutralization. Loops 1 and 2 of this virus were genetically related to HAdV-A12, whereas all other parts of the genome were highly similar to HAdV-A31. In order to understand the evolution of adenoviruses correctly and to avoid misidentification of HAdV types, we recommend characterizing not only the hexon gene, but also the penton base and fiber genes.
Insights
A novel human adenovirus (HAdV-A31 MZ) with a recombined hexon gene was identified in Japan. This finding highlights the importance of analyzing multiple genes for accurate adenovirus typing and understanding viral evolution.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Human adenoviruses (HAdVs) are common pathogens causing various illnesses.
- Accurate identification and characterization of HAdV strains are crucial for epidemiological surveillance and clinical management.
- Genetic recombination is a known mechanism contributing to the diversity of HAdVs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize a novel human recombinant adenovirus of species A (HAdV-A31 MZ) isolated from a patient with acute gastroenteritis.
- To investigate the genetic makeup of the HAdV-A31 MZ strain, focusing on the hexon gene.
- To provide recommendations for accurate HAdV typing to understand adenovirus evolution.
Main Methods:
- Isolation and whole-genome sequencing of the HAdV-A31 MZ strain.
- Bioinformatic analysis of the hexon gene, including identification of recombination events.
- Comparative sequence analysis of the hexon, penton base, and fiber genes.
Main Results:
- A novel HAdV-A31 MZ strain was identified, with a complete genome of 33,776 bp.
- The hexon gene sequence of HAdV-A31 MZ resulted from recombination between HAdV-A31 and a HAdV-A12 relative.
- Recombination occurred at hypervariable loops 1 and 2 of the hexon gene, with these loops showing similarity to HAdV-A12, while the rest of the genome resembled HAdV-A31.
Conclusions:
- The HAdV-A31 MZ strain represents a novel recombinant adenovirus with implications for HAdV evolution.
- The study underscores the complexity of HAdV genetic diversity driven by recombination.
- Comprehensive genetic characterization, including hexon, penton base, and fiber genes, is recommended for accurate HAdV identification and evolutionary studies.
