Dengue virus serotypes and genotypic characterization from northeast India

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Epidemiology
• Genetics

Background:

• Dengue virus (DENV) is a significant arboviral threat, with frequent outbreaks in Northeast India.
• Limited genetic characterization data exists for DENV strains circulating in this region.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the genotype and genetic makeup of dengue viruses in Northeast India.
• To analyze the genetic diversity and evolutionary patterns of circulating DENV strains.

Main Methods:

• Collected blood samples from 918 suspected dengue patients across five Northeast Indian states.
• Conducted serological tests (NS1, IgM, IgG ELISA) and molecular detection.
• Performed sequence analysis and phylogenetic tree construction using the C-prM gene junction.

Main Results:

• Serological tests indicated 35.34% NS1 and 18.12% IgM positivity, with 24.53% secondary infections.
• All four DENV serotypes were detected.
• Phylogenetic analysis identified DENV-1 genotype III, DENV-2 genotype IV, and DENV-3 genotype III, forming distinct clades.

Conclusions:

• The study highlights the circulation of specific DENV genotypes in Northeast India.
• Genetic variations in DENV strains were observed, impacting potential clinical outcomes.
• This genetic information is vital for designing targeted dengue intervention strategies.