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Japanese Encephalitis Virus Genotypes 1 and 3 Isolation in Kochi, Japan.
Kiyohiko Matsui1,2,3, Miyuki Yamaya4, Mina Takase4
1Department of Medical Technology, School of Life and Environmental Science, Azabu University, Japan.
Japanese Journal of Infectious Diseases
|November 30, 2022
Summary
Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) genotype 3 (G3) has re-emerged in Japan's Kochi Prefecture. Both JEV G1 and G3 strains are now co-circulating in the region, indicating a significant shift in viral activity.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is a significant mosquito-borne flavivirus responsible for encephalitis in humans.
- JEV is classified into five genotypes (G1-G5) based on envelope (E) protein sequences.
- Genotype G1 replaced G3 in Japan in the early 1990s.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the current genotypes of Japanese encephalitis virus circulating in Kochi Prefecture, Japan.
- To analyze genetic differences between recent JEV G3 isolates and previously reported strains.
Main Methods:
- Nucleotide sequencing of the polyprotein region of JEV isolates from swine and bovine samples.
- Comparison of sequencing results with existing JEV genotype databases.
Main Results:
- JEV genotype G3 was isolated from swine and bovine samples in Kochi Prefecture in 2018.
- Genetic analysis revealed differences between the 2018 G3 isolates and a previously identified 2004 G3 strain.
- Seven JEV G1 isolates were also detected in the same geographical area.
Conclusions:
- Both JEV genotypes G1 and G3 are currently co-circulating in the Kochi area.
- The re-emergence of JEV G3 suggests a dynamic evolution and circulation pattern of the virus in Japan.
