Genetic Modifiers of Prenatal Brain Injury After Zika Virus Infection: A Scoping Review
Medrxiv : the Preprint Server for Health Sciences
|January 13, 2025
Summary
Genetic factors influence prenatal brain injury from Zika virus. This review identified 23 genes, 6 maternal and 17 infant, affecting susceptibility to neurological outcomes in children.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Genetics
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Prenatal exposure to Zika virus can cause brain injury, with varying severity.
- Individual and maternal factors, including genomics, influence outcomes.
- Understanding genetic susceptibility is crucial for neurological outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a scoping review of genetic susceptibility to neurological outcomes in children exposed to Zika virus in utero.
- To analyze existing data on candidate genes impacting brain injury after prenatal Zika infection.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive scoping review following JBI methodology.
- Searches conducted across multiple databases (PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, Web of Science, etc.).
- Independent screening of studies by three reviewers using the Rayyan platform.
Main Results:
- Thirteen articles were reviewed, identifying 23 candidate genes.
- Six maternal genes and 17 infant genes were implicated in modulating susceptibility.
- These genes are related to brain injury development following prenatal Zika virus infection.
Conclusions:
- Maternal and fetal genetic factors contribute to susceptibility to virally induced prenatal brain injury.
- Polygenic risk analysis may enhance screening programs for at-risk individuals.
- Integrating genetic information can personalize care for better outcomes.
