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Genomics and zoonotic infections: Middle East respiratory syndrome

U Wernery, S K P Lau, P C Y Woo

    Revue Scientifique Et Technique (International Office of Epizootics)
    |May 25, 2016
    PubMed

    Insights

    Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) has persisted for years, with high fatality rates. Genomic analysis reveals minimal MERS-CoV variation and multiple camel-to-human transmissions, suggesting long-term dromedary reservoir.

    Area of Science:

    • Virology
    • Epidemiology
    • Genomics

    Background:

    • Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) emerged in 2012, caused by MERS-CoV, persisting longer than SARS.
    • MERS has a high fatality rate (>30%) with over 1,600 global cases.
    • MERS-CoV is a lineage C Betacoronavirus (ßCoV).

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To analyze the genomic diversity and origins of MERS-CoV.
    • To understand the transmission dynamics between dromedary camels and humans.

    Main Methods:

    • Sequencing and comparative analysis of 182 MERS-CoV genomes (94 human, 88 dromedary).
    • Phylogenetic analysis to determine viral clades and origins.
    • Homology searches for MERS-CoV proteins.

    Main Results:

    • 182 MERS-CoV genomes showed >99% identity, indicating low variation.
    • Genomes divided into two clades: A (few strains) and B (most strains).
    • Human and dromedary viral genomes intermingled, signifying multiple camel-to-human transmissions.

    Conclusions:

    • Multiple MERS-CoV origins suggest a long-standing presence in dromedaries.
    • Detection of anti-MERS-CoV antibodies in camels since the 1980s supports a persistent dromedary reservoir.
    • Understanding MERS-CoV evolution and transmission is crucial for public health.
    Keywords:
    CoronavirusDromadaireGenomiqueInfectionMoyen-orientSyndrome respiratoire du moyen-orient (mers)

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