Paramyxoviruses: Pathogenesis, Vaccines, Antivirals, and Prototypes for Pandemic Preparedness
W Paul Duprex1,2, Rebecca Ellis Dutch3
1Center for Vaccine Research.
Abstract:
The Paramyxoviridae family includes established human pathogens such as measles virus, mumps virus, and the human parainfluenza viruses; highly lethal zoonotic pathogens such as Nipah virus; and a number of recently identified agents, such as Sosuga virus, which remain poorly understood. The high human-to-human transmission rate of paramyxoviruses such as measles virus, high case fatality rate associated with other family members such as Nipah virus, and the existence of poorly characterized zoonotic pathogens raise concern that known and unknown paramyxoviruses have significant pandemic potential. In this review, the general life cycle, taxonomic relationships, and viral pathogenesis are described for paramyxoviruses that cause both systemic and respiratory system-restricted infections. Next, key gaps in critical areas are presented, following detailed conversations with subject matter experts and based on the current literature. Finally, we present an assessment of potential prototype pathogen candidates that could be used as models to study this important virus family, including assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of each potential prototype.
Insights
Paramyxoviruses, including measles and Nipah viruses, pose pandemic threats due to high transmission and fatality rates. This review identifies research gaps and proposes prototype pathogens for studying this virus family.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- The Paramyxoviridae family encompasses significant human pathogens like measles virus and Nipah virus, alongside poorly understood emerging viruses.
- Paramyxoviruses exhibit high human-to-human transmission and high case fatality rates, indicating substantial pandemic potential.
Conclusions:
- Paramyxoviruses represent a significant public health concern due to their diverse pathogenic potentials.
- Addressing identified research gaps is crucial for preparedness against known and unknown Paramyxoviruses.
- The proposed prototype pathogens offer valuable models for advancing research on the Paramyxoviridae family.
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