Evidence for enteroviral persistence in humans

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Human Infectious Diseases
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a complex, debilitating condition with uncertain etiology.
• Enteroviruses are a group of RNA viruses that can cause a range of human illnesses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the potential for enteroviral persistence in patients diagnosed with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS).

Main Methods:

• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect enteroviral sequences in serum samples from eight individuals with CFS.
• Two serum samples were collected from each individual at least five months apart.
• Nucleotide sequencing of the 5' non-translated region (nt 174-423) was performed on the amplified enteroviral sequences.

Main Results:

• Enteroviral sequences were detected in eight individuals with CFS.
• Four individuals exhibited virtually identical nucleotide sequences (>97% similarity) in both serum samples, suggesting viral persistence.
• Sequence analysis revealed evidence of persistent infection in some cases, while others suggested re-infection.
• One individual (HO) showed evidence of infection with two distinct enteroviruses.
• Most sequences, excluding HO, belonged to a subgroup related to Coxsackie B-like viruses.

Conclusions:

• The findings provide evidence supporting the hypothesis of enteroviral persistence in a subset of patients with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS).
• Enteroviral sequences, particularly those related to Coxsackie B-like viruses, may play a role in the pathophysiology of CFS.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms and clinical significance of enteroviral persistence in CFS.