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Updated: Nov 6, 2025
Isolation and Genome Analysis of Single Virions using 'Single Virus Genomics'
Published on: May 26, 2013
An enrichment method for capturing mumps virus whole genome sequences directly from clinical specimens
Jasmine Rae Frost1, Helene Schulz2, Elizabeth McLachlan2
1Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada.
Abstract:
Recently there has been a significant increase in the number of mumps outbreaks occurring in highly vaccinated populations. These outbreaks are often due to a mumps genotype G virus, where sequencing of the SH gene does not reveal enough genetic diversity to sufficient to resolve outbreaks. This has elevated the need to be able to sequence complete mumps viruses from clinical samples without laborious methods. Here we describe a probe enrichment method that allows for whole genome sequencing of the mumps virus directly from clinical specimens. Using 136 clinical samples, we show this method allows for a significant increase in the percentage of viral sequencing reads, resulting in the capture of mumps genomes. This method will be an asset in investigating future mumps outbreaks.
Insights
A new probe enrichment method enables whole genome sequencing of mumps virus directly from clinical samples. This technique aids in investigating mumps outbreaks in highly vaccinated populations.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Genomics
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Mumps outbreaks are increasing in highly vaccinated populations.
- Current sequencing methods for mumps virus are laborious and insufficient for outbreak resolution.
- Mumps genotype G viruses are frequently implicated in recent outbreaks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a method for whole genome sequencing of mumps virus directly from clinical specimens.
- To improve the ability to investigate mumps outbreaks.
- To overcome limitations of current sequencing techniques for mumps virus.
Main Methods:
- A probe enrichment method was designed for mumps virus.
- The method was applied to 136 clinical samples.
- Whole genome sequencing was performed directly from specimens.
Main Results:
- The probe enrichment method significantly increased the percentage of viral sequencing reads.
- The method successfully captured complete mumps virus genomes.
- This approach provides enhanced genetic data for outbreak investigations.
Conclusions:
- The developed probe enrichment method is effective for whole genome sequencing of mumps virus.
- This technique facilitates efficient investigation of mumps outbreaks.
- The method is a valuable tool for future mumps surveillance and research.
