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Evaluation of Zika Virus-specific T-cell Responses in Immunoprivileged Organs of Infected Ifnar1-/- Mice
Published on: October 17, 2018
The Scientific Response to Zika Virus
Miguel A Martín-Acebes1, Juan-Carlos Saiz2
1Department of Biotechnology, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria (INIA), Madrid, 28040, Spain. martin.mangel@inia.es.
Abstract:
Zika virus (ZIKV) is a mosquito-borne pathogen that became renowned in 2015 in Brazil mainly due to its association with microcephaly in newborns. Although most infections in adults are asymptomatic or cause mild illnesses, in a reduced number of cases, ZIKV can also produce severe complications that include neurological disorders (Guillain⁻Barré syndrome), ocular lesions, or reproductive alterations. From 2015 the efforts of a significant part of the scientific community were placed on ZIKV research, which has resulted in an unpredicted escalation of the knowledge of the biology and pathology of this virus. The rapid response of the scientific community against ZIKV highlights its enormous potential to counter attack a viral threat within a short time period. It is expected that this huge collaborative effort will produce affordable and effective prophylactic and therapeutic tools against ZIKV. Nevertheless, there are still other arboviral threats different from ZIKV that should not be forgotten.
Insights
Zika virus (ZIKV) research surged after 2015, revealing its links to microcephaly and severe neurological issues. This rapid scientific response offers hope for new Zika virus treatments and emphasizes preparedness for other arboviruses.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Zika virus (ZIKV) gained prominence in 2015 due to its association with microcephaly in newborns.
- While often asymptomatic in adults, ZIKV can cause severe complications including neurological disorders, ocular lesions, and reproductive alterations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the significant escalation in Zika virus research following the 2015 outbreak.
- To highlight the scientific community's rapid response and its implications for combating viral threats.
- To underscore the ongoing need to address other arboviral threats.
Main Methods:
- Review of scientific literature and research efforts focused on Zika virus biology and pathology.
- Analysis of the global scientific community's response to the ZIKV threat.
- Assessment of the potential for developing prophylactic and therapeutic tools.
Main Results:
- An unprecedented increase in knowledge regarding ZIKV biology and pathology.
- Demonstration of the scientific community's capacity for rapid response to viral outbreaks.
- Anticipation of affordable and effective prophylactic and therapeutic tools against ZIKV.
Conclusions:
- The ZIKV research surge exemplifies the potential for swift scientific action against emerging viral threats.
- Continued vigilance and research are necessary for other arboviruses beyond ZIKV.
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