Understanding the Tissue Specificity of ZIKV Infection in Various Animal Models for Vaccine Development

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Immunology
• Pathogenesis

Background:

• Zika virus (ZIKV), a Flavivirus transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, causes mild to severe symptoms, including microcephaly and neurological disorders.
• Current therapeutic and vaccine options for ZIKV infection are limited.
• ZIKV primarily targets the placenta, leading to vertical transmission, but also affects multiple tissues in adults.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review and discuss the tissue specificity of ZIKV across various animal models.
• To highlight how genetic background and administration routes influence ZIKV tropism in different models.
• To guide the selection of appropriate animal models for ZIKV research.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies reporting ZIKV tissue tropism in animal models.
• Analysis of ZIKV pathogenesis based on host genetic factors.
• Evaluation of ZIKV dissemination patterns according to administration routes.

Main Results:

• ZIKV exhibits distinct tissue tropism patterns that vary among animal models.
• Host genetic background significantly influences ZIKV pathogenesis and tissue distribution.
• Route of ZIKV administration affects viral spread and target organs.

Conclusions:

• Understanding animal model-specific ZIKV tropism is essential for accurate pathogenesis studies.
• Informed animal model selection will enhance the design of preclinical and clinical studies.
• This review supports the development of targeted ZIKV vaccines and therapeutics.