Fetal Growth Restriction Caused by Sexual Transmission of Zika Virus in Mice
Ryuta Uraki1, Kellie Ann Jurado2, Jesse Hwang1
1Section of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine.
Abstract:
Zika virus (ZIKV) can be transmitted by mosquito bite or sexual contact. Using mice that lack the type I interferon receptor, we examined sexual transmission of ZIKV. Electron microscopy analyses showed association of virions with developing sperm within testes as well as with mature sperm within epididymis. When ZIKV-infected male mice were mated with naive female mice, the weight of fetuses at embryonic day 18.5 was significantly reduced compared with the control group. Additionally, we found ocular deformities in a minority of the fetuses. These results suggest that ZIKV causes fetal abnormalities after female mating with an infected male.
Insights
Zika virus (ZIKV) can spread through sexual contact, potentially causing fetal abnormalities like reduced weight and ocular deformities in offspring following mating with an infected male.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Reproductive Health
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Zika virus (ZIKV) is a known public health threat, transmitted by mosquitoes and sexual contact.
- The mechanisms of ZIKV sexual transmission and its impact on reproductive health require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of sexual transmission of Zika virus (ZIKV) in male mice.
- To determine the effects of ZIKV infection in males on fetal development after mating with naive females.
Main Methods:
- Utilized mice lacking the type I interferon receptor to study ZIKV sexual transmission.
- Employed electron microscopy to visualize ZIKV virions in male reproductive tissues.
- Assessed fetal development parameters, including weight and physical abnormalities, after experimental mating.
Main Results:
- Electron microscopy confirmed ZIKV virion association with sperm in testes and epididymis of infected male mice.
- Mating infected males with naive females resulted in significantly reduced fetal weight at embryonic day 18.5.
- A subset of fetuses exhibited ocular deformities, indicating developmental abnormalities.
Conclusions:
- Zika virus (ZIKV) can be sexually transmitted from infected males to females.
- ZIKV infection in males can lead to adverse fetal outcomes, including growth restriction and congenital anomalies.
- These findings highlight the risk of ZIKV-associated reproductive and developmental complications through sexual transmission.
