Zika Virus Infection and Development of a Murine Model
1Division of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, University of Missouri-Kansas City, 2464 Charlotte Street, Kansas City, MO, 64108, USA.
Abstract:
In view of the recent outbreak of Zika virus (ZIKV), there is an urgent need to investigate the pathogenesis of the symptoms associated with ZIKV infection. Since the first identification of the virus in 1947, the pathologies associated with ZIKV infection were thought to be limited with mild illness that presented fever, rashes, muscle aches, and weakness. However, ZIKV infection has been shown to cause Guillain-Barré Syndrome, and numerous cases of congenital microcephaly in children have been reported when pregnant females were exposed to the virus. The severity and the rate of spread of ZIKV in the last year has drawn alarming interest among researchers to investigate murine models to study viral pathogenesis and develop candidate vaccines. A recent study by Lazear and colleagues, in the May 2016 issue of cell host and microbe, is an effort to study the pathogenesis of contemporary and historical virus strains in various mouse models.
Insights
The Zika virus (ZIKV) outbreak necessitates understanding its pathogenesis. This study investigates ZIKV strains in mouse models to explore disease mechanisms and inform vaccine development.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Zika virus (ZIKV) infection was historically associated with mild symptoms.
- Recent outbreaks reveal severe ZIKV-associated conditions, including Guillain-Barré Syndrome and congenital microcephaly.
- The urgent need to understand ZIKV pathogenesis has spurred research into effective disease models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the pathogenesis of contemporary and historical Zika virus strains.
- To utilize various mouse models for studying ZIKV infection mechanisms.
- To contribute to the development of candidate vaccines against ZIKV.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of different ZIKV strains.
- Infection of multiple mouse models.
- Pathological and virological assessments.
Main Results:
- Detailed pathogenesis of ZIKV strains in distinct murine models.
- Identification of viral factors contributing to disease severity.
- Insights into host-pathogen interactions during ZIKV infection.
Conclusions:
- Mouse models are crucial for elucidating ZIKV pathogenesis.
- Understanding viral mechanisms is key to developing effective countermeasures.
- Further research is needed to combat the global threat of ZIKV.
