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African origin of GB virus C/hepatitis G virus

Y Tanaka1, M Mizokami, E Orito

  • 1Second Department of Medicine, Nagoya City University Medical School, Kawasumi, Mizuho, Japan.

FEBS Letters
|March 25, 1998
PubMed

Insights

Global GB virus C/hepatitis G virus (GBV-C/HGV) isolates were analyzed. A specific 12-amino acid indel in the NS5A region of Central African isolates suggests an early African origin for GBV-C/HGV.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Population Genetics

Background:

  • GB virus C/hepatitis G virus (GBV-C/HGV) is a globally distributed RNA virus.
  • Understanding the genetic diversity and evolutionary history of GBV-C/HGV is crucial for tracing its origins and spread.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the genetic characteristics of GBV-C/HGV isolates from diverse geographical regions.
  • To determine the evolutionary origin of GBV-C/HGV using phylogenetic analysis.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of 94 GBV-C/HGV RNA-positive serum samples from worldwide.
  • Identification of insertions/deletions (indels) in the non-structural protein (NS) 5A region.
  • Phylogenetic analysis of the NS5A region using GBV-A as an outgroup.

Main Results:

  • A consistent 12-amino acid indel in the NS5A region was observed in all 15 GBV-C/HGV isolates from Pygmy and Bantu populations in Central Africa.
  • Phylogenetic analysis indicated that these 15 Central African isolates diverged earlier from the common ancestor compared to other global isolates.
  • The findings suggest a potential early origin of GBV-C/HGV within the African continent.

Conclusions:

  • The presence of a unique indel in Central African isolates provides evidence for early diversification.
  • Phylogenetic data strongly support an African origin for GBV-C/HGV.
  • Further research into African populations may reveal more about the early evolution of this virus.

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