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Standard Operating Procedure for Lyssavirus Surveillance of the Bat Population in Taiwan
Published on: August 27, 2019
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Novel insights into bat influenza A viruses
Kevin Ciminski1,2, Thiprampai Thamamongood3,4,1,2, Gert Zimmer5
1Institute of Virology, Medical Center - University of Freiburg, 79104 Freiburg, Germany.
The Journal of General Virology
|September 15, 2017
Summary
Newly discovered bat influenza A viruses (IAVs) were characterized using reverse genetics. Researchers found functional compatibility but significant differences in bat IAVs compared to conventional strains.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Influenza A virus (IAV) genome sequences of two novel subtypes were identified in bats in 2012 and 2013.
- Characterization of these bat IAVs was limited due to the absence of infectious virus isolates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To reconstitute infectious bat IAV using reverse genetics.
- To gain initial insights into the life cycle and properties of bat IAVs.
- To compare bat IAVs with conventional influenza A viruses.
Main Methods:
- Identification of susceptible cell lines for bat IAV replication.
- Application of reverse genetics to generate infectious bat IAV.
- Analysis of viral functional compatibility, receptor usage, infection polarity, and reassortment potential.
Main Results:
- Reconstitution of infectious bat IAV was achieved through reverse genetics in newly identified susceptible cell lines.
- Bat IAVs exhibit functional compatibility with conventional influenza A virus proteins.
- Striking differences were observed in receptor usage, infection polarity, and reassortment potential compared to conventional IAVs.
Conclusions:
- Infectious bat influenza A viruses can be generated and studied using reverse genetics.
- Bat IAVs represent distinct viral subtypes with unique biological characteristics.
- Understanding bat IAVs is crucial for assessing potential zoonotic threats and pandemic preparedness.
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