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Open AccessEditorial

Rotaviruses and Rotavirus Vaccines: Special Issue Editorial

by John T. Patton and Ulrich Desselberger

Viruses 2024, 16(11), 1665; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16111665 - 24 Oct 2024

Viewed by 655

Abstract

Species A rotaviruses (RVA) are a major cause of acute gastroenteritis in infants and young children and in the young of various mammalian and avian species [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rotaviruses and Rotavirus Vaccines)

Research

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13 pages, 3790 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Rotavirus-Specific Maternal Serum Antibodies and Vaccine Responses to RV3-BB Rotavirus Vaccine Administered in a Neonatal or Infant Schedule in Malawi

by Benjamin Morgan, Eleanor A. Lyons, Amanda Handley, Nada Bogdanovic-Sakran, Daniel Pavlic, Desiree Witte, Jonathan Mandolo, Ann Turner, Khuzwayo C. Jere, Frances Justice, Darren Suryawijaya Ong, Rhian Bonnici, Karen Boniface, Celeste M. Donato, Ashley Mpakiza, Anell Meyer, Naor Bar-Zeev, Miren Iturriza-Gomara, Nigel A. Cunliffe, Margaret Danchin and Julie E. Bines Show full author list Hide full author list

Viruses 2024, 16(9), 1488; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16091488 - 19 Sep 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1254

Abstract

High titres of rotavirus-specific maternal antibodies may contribute to lower rotavirus vaccine efficacy in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). RV3-BB vaccine (G3P[6]) is based on a neonatal rotavirus strain that replicates well in the newborn gut in the presence of breast milk. This [...] Read more.

High titres of rotavirus-specific maternal antibodies may contribute to lower rotavirus vaccine efficacy in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). RV3-BB vaccine (G3P[6]) is based on a neonatal rotavirus strain that replicates well in the newborn gut in the presence of breast milk. This study investigated the association between maternal serum antibodies and vaccine response in infants administered the RV3-BB vaccine. Serum was collected antenatally from mothers of 561 infants enrolled in the RV3-BB Phase II study conducted in Blantyre, Malawi, and analysed for rotavirus-specific serum IgA and IgG antibodies using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Infant vaccine take was defined as cumulative IgA seroconversion (≥3 fold increase) and/or stool vaccine shedding. Maternal IgA or IgG antibody titres did not have a negative impact on vaccine-like stool shedding at any timepoint. Maternal IgG (but not IgA) titres were associated with reduced take post dose 1 (p < 0.005) and 3 (p < 0.05) in the neonatal vaccine schedule group but not at study completion (week 18). In LMICs where high maternal antibodies are associated with low rotavirus vaccine efficacy, RV3-BB in a neonatal or infant vaccine schedule has the potential to provide protection against severe rotavirus disease. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rotaviruses and Rotavirus Vaccines)

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12 pages, 4159 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Towards the Development of a Minigenome Assay for Species A Rotaviruses

by Ola Diebold, Shu Zhou, Colin Peter Sharp, Blanka Tesla, Hou Wei Chook, Paul Digard and Eleanor R. Gaunt

Viruses 2024, 16(9), 1396; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16091396 - 31 Aug 2024

Viewed by 856

Abstract

RNA virus polymerases carry out multiple functions necessary for successful genome replication and transcription. A key tool for molecular studies of viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerases (RdRps) is a ‘minigenome’ or ‘minireplicon’ assay, in which viral RdRps are reconstituted in cells in the absence [...] Read more.

RNA virus polymerases carry out multiple functions necessary for successful genome replication and transcription. A key tool for molecular studies of viral RNA-dependent RNA polymerases (RdRps) is a ‘minigenome’ or ‘minireplicon’ assay, in which viral RdRps are reconstituted in cells in the absence of full virus infection. Typically, plasmids expressing the viral polymerase protein(s) and other co-factors are co-transfected, along with a plasmid expressing an RNA encoding a fluorescent or luminescent reporter gene flanked by viral untranslated regions containing cis-acting elements required for viral RdRp recognition. This reconstitutes the viral transcription/replication machinery and allows the viral RdRp activity to be measured as a correlate of the reporter protein signal. Here, we report on the development of a ‘first-generation’ plasmid-based minigenome assay for species A rotavirus using a firefly luciferase reporter gene. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rotaviruses and Rotavirus Vaccines)

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14 pages, 1010 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Generation of Recombinant Authentic Live Attenuated Human Rotavirus Vaccine Strain RIX4414 (Rotarix^®) from Cloned cDNAs Using Reverse Genetics

by Saori Fukuda, Masanori Kugita, Kanako Kumamoto, Yuki Akari, Yuki Higashimoto, Shizuko Nagao, Takayuki Murata, Tetsushi Yoshikawa, Koki Taniguchi and Satoshi Komoto

Viruses 2024, 16(8), 1198; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16081198 - 25 Jul 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1185

Abstract

The live attenuated human rotavirus vaccine strain RIX4414 (Rotarix^®) is used worldwide to prevent severe rotavirus-induced diarrhea in infants. This strain was attenuated through the cell culture passaging of its predecessor, human strain 89-12, which resulted in multiple genomic mutations. However, [...] Read more.

The live attenuated human rotavirus vaccine strain RIX4414 (Rotarix^®) is used worldwide to prevent severe rotavirus-induced diarrhea in infants. This strain was attenuated through the cell culture passaging of its predecessor, human strain 89-12, which resulted in multiple genomic mutations. However, the specific molecular reasons underlying its attenuation have remained elusive, primarily due to the absence of a suitable reverse genetics system enabling precise genetic manipulations. Therefore, we first completed the sequencing of its genome and then developed a reverse genetics system for the authentic RIX4414 virus. Our experimental results demonstrate that the rescued recombinant RIX4414 virus exhibits biological characteristics similar to those of the parental RIX4414 virus, both in vitro and in vivo. This novel reverse genetics system provides a powerful tool for investigating the molecular basis of RIX4414 attenuation and may facilitate the rational design of safer and more effective human rotavirus vaccines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rotaviruses and Rotavirus Vaccines)

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14 pages, 1833 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Chimeric Viruses Enable Study of Antibody Responses to Human Rotaviruses in Mice

by Sarah Woodyear, Tawny L. Chandler, Takahiro Kawagishi, Tom M. Lonergan, Vanshika A. Patel, Caitlin A. Williams, Sallie R. Permar, Siyuan Ding and Sarah L. Caddy

Viruses 2024, 16(7), 1145; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16071145 - 16 Jul 2024

Viewed by 1387

Abstract

The leading cause of gastroenteritis in children under the age of five is rotavirus infection, accounting for 37% of diarrhoeal deaths in infants and young children globally. Oral rotavirus vaccines have been widely incorporated into national immunisation programs, but whilst these vaccines have [...] Read more.

The leading cause of gastroenteritis in children under the age of five is rotavirus infection, accounting for 37% of diarrhoeal deaths in infants and young children globally. Oral rotavirus vaccines have been widely incorporated into national immunisation programs, but whilst these vaccines have excellent efficacy in high-income countries, they protect less than 50% of vaccinated individuals in low- and middle-income countries. In order to facilitate the development of improved vaccine strategies, a greater understanding of the immune response to existing vaccines is urgently needed. However, the use of mouse models to study immune responses to human rotavirus strains is currently limited as rotaviruses are highly species-specific and replication of human rotaviruses is minimal in mice. To enable characterisation of immune responses to human rotavirus in mice, we have generated chimeric viruses that combat the issue of rotavirus host range restriction. Using reverse genetics, the rotavirus outer capsid proteins (VP4 and VP7) from either human or murine rotavirus strains were encoded in a murine rotavirus backbone. Neonatal mice were infected with chimeric viruses and monitored daily for development of diarrhoea. Stool samples were collected to quantify viral shedding, and antibody responses were comprehensively evaluated. We demonstrated that chimeric rotaviruses were able to efficiently replicate in mice. Moreover, the chimeric rotavirus containing human rotavirus outer capsid proteins elicited a robust antibody response to human rotavirus antigens, whilst the control chimeric murine rotavirus did not. This chimeric human rotavirus therefore provides a new strategy for studying human-rotavirus-specific immunity to the outer capsid, and could be used to investigate factors causing variability in rotavirus vaccine efficacy. This small animal platform therefore has the potential to test the efficacy of new vaccines and antibody-based therapeutics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rotaviruses and Rotavirus Vaccines)

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17 pages, 2497 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Whole-Genome Characterization of Rotavirus G9P[6] and G9P[4] Strains That Emerged after Rotavirus Vaccine Introduction in Mozambique

by Benilde Munlela, Eva D. João, Amy Strydom, Adilson Fernando Loforte Bauhofer, Assucênio Chissaque, Jorfélia J. Chilaúle, Isabel L. Maurício, Celeste M. Donato, Hester G. O’Neill and Nilsa de Deus

Viruses 2024, 16(7), 1140; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16071140 - 16 Jul 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1065

Abstract

Mozambique introduced the Rotarix^® vaccine into the National Immunization Program in September 2015. Following vaccine introduction, rotavirus A (RVA) genotypes, G9P[4] and G9P[6], were detected for the first time since rotavirus surveillance programs were implemented in the country. To understand the emergence [...] Read more.

Mozambique introduced the Rotarix^® vaccine into the National Immunization Program in September 2015. Following vaccine introduction, rotavirus A (RVA) genotypes, G9P[4] and G9P[6], were detected for the first time since rotavirus surveillance programs were implemented in the country. To understand the emergence of these strains, the whole genomes of 47 ELISA RVA positive strains detected between 2015 and 2018 were characterized using an Illumina MiSeq-based sequencing pipeline. Of the 29 G9 strains characterized, 14 exhibited a typical Wa-like genome constellation and 15 a DS-1-like genome constellation. Mostly, the G9P[4] and G9P[6] strains clustered consistently for most of the genome segments, except the G- and P-genotypes. For the G9 genotype, the strains formed three different conserved clades, separated by the P type (P[4], P[6] and P[8]), suggesting different origins for this genotype. Analysis of the VP6-encoding gene revealed that seven G9P[6] strains clustered close to antelope and bovine strains. A rare E6 NSP4 genotype was detected for strain RVA/Human-wt/MOZ/HCN1595/2017/G9P[4] and a genetically distinct lineage IV or OP354-like P[8] was identified for RVA/Human-wt/MOZ/HGJM0644/2015/G9P[8] strain. These results highlight the need for genomic surveillance of RVA strains detected in Mozambique and the importance of following a One Health approach to identify and characterize potential zoonotic strains causing acute gastroenteritis in Mozambican children. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rotaviruses and Rotavirus Vaccines)

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18 pages, 3384 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Human Rotaviruses of Multiple Genotypes Acquire Conserved VP4 Mutations during Serial Passage

by Maximilian H. Carter, Jennifer Gribble, Julia R. Diller, Mark R. Denison, Sara A. Mirza, James D. Chappell, Natasha B. Halasa and Kristen M. Ogden

Viruses 2024, 16(6), 978; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16060978 - 18 Jun 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1495

Abstract

Human rotaviruses exhibit limited tropism and replicate poorly in most cell lines. Attachment protein VP4 is a key rotavirus tropism determinant. Previous studies in which human rotaviruses were adapted to cultured cells identified mutations in VP4. However, most such studies were conducted using [...] Read more.

Human rotaviruses exhibit limited tropism and replicate poorly in most cell lines. Attachment protein VP4 is a key rotavirus tropism determinant. Previous studies in which human rotaviruses were adapted to cultured cells identified mutations in VP4. However, most such studies were conducted using only a single human rotavirus genotype. In the current study, we serially passaged 50 human rotavirus clinical specimens representing five of the genotypes most frequently associated with severe human disease, each in triplicate, three to five times in primary monkey kidney cells then ten times in the MA104 monkey kidney cell line. From 13 of the 50 specimens, we obtained 25 rotavirus antigen-positive lineages representing all five genotypes, which tended to replicate more efficiently in MA104 cells at late versus early passage. We used Illumina next-generation sequencing and analysis to identify variants that arose during passage. In VP4, variants encoded 28 mutations that were conserved for all P[8] rotaviruses and 12 mutations that were conserved for all five genotypes. These findings suggest there may be a conserved mechanism of human rotavirus adaptation to MA104 cells. In the future, such a conserved adaptation mechanism could be exploited to study human rotavirus biology or efficiently manufacture vaccines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rotaviruses and Rotavirus Vaccines)

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14 pages, 3247 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phylogenetic Analyses of Rotavirus A, B and C Detected on a Porcine Farm in South Africa

by Amy Strydom, Neo Segone, Roelof Coertze, Nikita Barron, Muller Strydom and Hester G. O’Neill

Viruses 2024, 16(6), 934; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16060934 - 8 Jun 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1120

Abstract

Rotaviruses (RVs) are known to infect various avian and mammalian hosts, including swine. The most common RVs associated with infection in pigs are A, B, C and H (RVA-C; RVH). In this study we analysed rotavirus strains circulating on a porcine farm in [...] Read more.

Rotaviruses (RVs) are known to infect various avian and mammalian hosts, including swine. The most common RVs associated with infection in pigs are A, B, C and H (RVA-C; RVH). In this study we analysed rotavirus strains circulating on a porcine farm in the Western Cape province of South Africa over a two-year period. Whole genomes were determined by sequencing using Illumina MiSeq without prior genome amplification. Fifteen RVA genomes, one RVB genome and a partial RVC genome were identified. Phylogenetic analyses of the RVA data suggested circulation of one dominant strain (G5-P[6]/P[13]/P[23]-I5-R1-C1-M1-A8-N1-T7-E1-H1), typical of South African porcine strains, although not closely related to previously detected South African porcine strains. Reassortment with three VP4-encoding P genotypes was detected. The study also reports the first complete RVB genome (G14-P[5]-I13-R4-C4-M4-A10-T4-E4-H7) from Africa. The partial RVC (G6-P[5]-IX-R1-C1-MX-A9-N6-T6-EX-H7) strain also grouped with porcine strains. The study shows the continued circulation of an RVA strain, with a high reassortment rate of the VP4-encoding segment, on the porcine farm. Furthermore, incidents of RVB and RVC on this farm emphasize the complex epidemiology of rotavirus in pigs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rotaviruses and Rotavirus Vaccines)

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12 pages, 2327 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Reverse Genetics of Murine Rotavirus: A Comparative Analysis of the Wild-Type and Cell-Culture-Adapted Murine Rotavirus VP4 in Replication and Virulence in Neonatal Mice

by Takahiro Kawagishi, Liliana Sánchez-Tacuba, Ningguo Feng, Harry B. Greenberg and Siyuan Ding

Viruses 2024, 16(5), 767; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16050767 - 12 May 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1556

Abstract

Small-animal models and reverse genetics systems are powerful tools for investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying viral replication, virulence, and interaction with the host immune response in vivo. Rotavirus (RV) causes acute gastroenteritis in many young animals and infants worldwide. Murine RV replicates efficiently [...] Read more.

Small-animal models and reverse genetics systems are powerful tools for investigating the molecular mechanisms underlying viral replication, virulence, and interaction with the host immune response in vivo. Rotavirus (RV) causes acute gastroenteritis in many young animals and infants worldwide. Murine RV replicates efficiently in the intestines of inoculated suckling pups, causing diarrhea, and spreads efficiently to uninoculated littermates. Because RVs derived from human and other non-mouse animal species do not replicate efficiently in mice, murine RVs are uniquely useful in probing the viral and host determinants of efficient replication and pathogenesis in a species-matched mouse model. Previously, we established an optimized reverse genetics protocol for RV and successfully generated a murine-like RV rD6/2-2g strain that replicates well in both cultured cell lines and in the intestines of inoculated pups. However, rD6/2-2g possesses three out of eleven gene segments derived from simian RV strains, and these three heterologous segments may attenuate viral pathogenicity in vivo. Here, we rescued the first recombinant RV with all 11 gene segments of murine RV origin. Using this virus as a genetic background, we generated a panel of recombinant murine RVs with either N-terminal VP8* or C-terminal VP5* regions chimerized between a cell-culture-adapted murine ETD strain and a non-tissue-culture-adapted murine EW strain and compared the diarrhea rate and fecal RV shedding in pups. The recombinant viruses with VP5* domains derived from the murine EW strain showed slightly more fecal shedding than those with VP5* domains from the ETD strain. The newly characterized full-genome murine RV will be a useful tool for dissecting virus–host interactions and for studying the mechanism of pathogenesis in neonatal mice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rotaviruses and Rotavirus Vaccines)

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13 pages, 1593 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Histo-Blood Group Antigen-Producing Bacterial Cocktail Reduces Rotavirus A, B, and C Infection and Disease in Gnotobiotic Piglets

by Sergei A. Raev, Maryssa K. Kick, Maria Chellis, Joshua O. Amimo, Linda J. Saif and Anastasia N. Vlasova

Viruses 2024, 16(5), 660; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16050660 - 24 Apr 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1420

Abstract

The suboptimal performance of rotavirus (RV) vaccines in developing countries and in animals necessitates further research on the development of novel therapeutics and control strategies. To initiate infection, RV interacts with cell-surface O-glycans, including histo-blood group antigens (HBGAs). We have previously demonstrated [...] Read more.

The suboptimal performance of rotavirus (RV) vaccines in developing countries and in animals necessitates further research on the development of novel therapeutics and control strategies. To initiate infection, RV interacts with cell-surface O-glycans, including histo-blood group antigens (HBGAs). We have previously demonstrated that certain non-pathogenic bacteria express HBGA^- like substances (HBGA⁺) capable of binding RV particles in vitro. We hypothesized that HBGA⁺ bacteria can bind RV particles in the gut lumen protecting against RV species A (RVA), B (RVB), and C (RVC) infection in vivo. In this study, germ-free piglets were colonized with HBGA⁺ or HBGA^- bacterial cocktail and infected with RVA/RVB/RVC of different genotypes. Diarrhea severity, virus shedding, immunoglobulin A (IgA) Ab titers, and cytokine levels were evaluated. Overall, colonization with HBGA⁺ bacteria resulted in reduced diarrhea severity and virus shedding compared to the HBGA^- bacteria. Consistent with our hypothesis, the reduced severity of RV disease and infection was not associated with significant alterations in immune responses. Additionally, colonization with HBGA⁺ bacteria conferred beneficial effects irrespective of the piglet HBGA phenotype. These findings are the first experimental evidence that probiotic performance in vivo can be improved by including HBGA⁺ bacteria, providing decoy epitopes for broader/more consistent protection against diverse RVs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rotaviruses and Rotavirus Vaccines)

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15 pages, 9888 KiB

Open AccessArticle

ML241 Antagonizes ERK 1/2 Activation and Inhibits Rotavirus Proliferation

by Jinlan Wang, Xiaoqing Hu, Jinyuan Wu, Xiaochen Lin, Rong Chen, Chenxing Lu, Xiaopeng Song, Qingmei Leng, Yan Li, Xiangjing Kuang, Jinmei Li, Lida Yao, Xianqiong Tang, Jun Ye, Guangming Zhang, Maosheng Sun, Yan Zhou and Hongjun Li

Viruses 2024, 16(4), 623; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16040623 - 17 Apr 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1186

Abstract

Rotavirus (RV) is the main pathogen that causes severe diarrhea in infants and children under 5 years of age. No specific antiviral therapies or licensed anti-rotavirus drugs are available. It is crucial to develop effective and low-toxicity anti-rotavirus small-molecule drugs that act on [...] Read more.

Rotavirus (RV) is the main pathogen that causes severe diarrhea in infants and children under 5 years of age. No specific antiviral therapies or licensed anti-rotavirus drugs are available. It is crucial to develop effective and low-toxicity anti-rotavirus small-molecule drugs that act on novel host targets. In this study, a new anti-rotavirus compound was selected by ELISA, and cell activity was detected from 453 small-molecule compounds. The anti-RV effects and underlying mechanisms of the screened compounds were explored. In vitro experimental results showed that the small-molecule compound ML241 has a good effect on inhibiting rotavirus proliferation and has low cytotoxicity during the virus adsorption, cell entry, and replication stages. In addition to its in vitro effects, ML241 also exerted anti-RV effects in a suckling mouse model. Transcriptome sequencing was performed after adding ML241 to cells infected with RV. The results showed that ML241 inhibited the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 in the MAPK signaling pathway, thereby inhibiting IκBα, activating the NF-κB signaling pathway, and playing an anti-RV role. These results provide an experimental basis for specific anti-RV small-molecule compounds or compound combinations, which is beneficial for the development of anti-RV drugs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rotaviruses and Rotavirus Vaccines)

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17 pages, 3794 KiB

Open AccessArticle

VP4 Mutation Boosts Replication of Recombinant Human/Simian Rotavirus in Cell Culture

by Roman Valusenko-Mehrkens, Katja Schilling-Loeffler, Reimar Johne and Alexander Falkenhagen

Viruses 2024, 16(4), 565; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16040565 - 5 Apr 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1686

Abstract

Rotavirus A (RVA) is the leading cause of diarrhea requiring hospitalization in children and causes over 100,000 annual deaths in Sub-Saharan Africa. In order to generate next-generation vaccines against African RVA genotypes, a reverse genetics system based on a simian rotavirus strain was [...] Read more.

Rotavirus A (RVA) is the leading cause of diarrhea requiring hospitalization in children and causes over 100,000 annual deaths in Sub-Saharan Africa. In order to generate next-generation vaccines against African RVA genotypes, a reverse genetics system based on a simian rotavirus strain was utilized here to exchange the antigenic capsid proteins VP4, VP7 and VP6 with those of African human rotavirus field strains. One VP4/VP7/VP6 (genotypes G9-P[6]-I2) triple-reassortant was successfully rescued, but it replicated poorly in the first cell culture passages. However, the viral titer was enhanced upon further passaging. Whole genome sequencing of the passaged virus revealed a single point mutation (A797G), resulting in an amino acid exchange (E263G) in VP4. After introducing this mutation into the VP4-encoding plasmid, a VP4 mono-reassortant as well as the VP4/VP7/VP6 triple-reassortant replicated to high titers already in the first cell culture passage. However, the introduction of the same mutation into the VP4 of other human RVA strains did not improve the rescue of those reassortants, indicating strain specificity. The results show that specific point mutations in VP4 can substantially improve the rescue and replication of recombinant RVA reassortants in cell culture, which may be useful for the development of novel vaccine strains. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rotaviruses and Rotavirus Vaccines)

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13 pages, 6768 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Recent Molecular Characterization of Porcine Rotaviruses Detected in China and Their Phylogenetic Relationships with Human Rotaviruses

by Mengli Qiao, Meizhen Li, Yang Li, Zewei Wang, Zhiqiang Hu, Jie Qing, Jiapei Huang, Junping Jiang, Yaqin Jiang, Jinyong Zhang, Chunliu Gao, Chen Yang, Xiaowen Li and Bin Zhou

Viruses 2024, 16(3), 453; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16030453 - 14 Mar 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2034

Abstract

Porcine rotavirus A (PoRVA) is an enteric pathogen capable of causing severe diarrhea in suckling piglets. Investigating the prevalence and molecular characteristics of PoRVA in the world, including China, is of significance for disease prevention. In 2022, a total of 25,768 samples were [...] Read more.

Porcine rotavirus A (PoRVA) is an enteric pathogen capable of causing severe diarrhea in suckling piglets. Investigating the prevalence and molecular characteristics of PoRVA in the world, including China, is of significance for disease prevention. In 2022, a total of 25,768 samples were collected from 230 farms across China, undergoing porcine RVA positivity testing. The results showed that 86.52% of the pig farms tested positive for porcine RVA, with an overall positive rate of 51.15%. Through the genetic evolution analysis of VP7, VP4 and VP6 genes, it was revealed that G9 is the predominant genotype within the VP7 segment, constituting 56.55%. VP4 genotypes were identified as P[13] (42.22%), P[23] (25.56%) and P[7] (22.22%). VP6 exhibited only two genotypes, namely I5 (88.81%) and I1 (11.19%). The prevailing genotype combination for RVA was determined as G9P[23]I5. Additionally, some RVA strains demonstrated significant homology between VP7, VP4 and VP6 genes and human RV strains, indicating the potential for human RV infection in pigs. Based on complete genome sequencing analysis, a special PoRVA strain, CHN/SD/LYXH2/2022/G4P[6]I1, had high homology with human RV strains, revealing genetic reassortment between human and porcine RV strains in vivo. Our data indicate the high prevalence, major genotypes, and cross-species transmission of porcine RVA in China. Therefore, the continuous monitoring of porcine RVA prevalence is essential, providing valuable insights for virus prevention and control, and supporting the development of candidate vaccines against porcine RVA. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rotaviruses and Rotavirus Vaccines)

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19 pages, 6556 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Novel Universal Recombinant Rotavirus A Vaccine Candidate: Evaluation of Immunological Properties

by Dmitriy L. Granovskiy, Nelli S. Khudainazarova, Ekaterina A. Evtushenko, Ekaterina M. Ryabchevskaya, Olga A. Kondakova, Marina V. Arkhipenko, Marina V. Kovrizhko, Elena P. Kolpakova, Tatyana I. Tverdokhlebova, Nikolai A. Nikitin and Olga V. Karpova

Viruses 2024, 16(3), 438; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16030438 - 12 Mar 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2084

Abstract

Rotavirus infection is a leading cause of severe dehydrating gastroenteritis in children under 5 years of age. Although rotavirus-associated mortality has decreased considerably because of the introduction of the worldwide rotavirus vaccination, the global burden of rotavirus-associated gastroenteritis remains high. Current vaccines have [...] Read more.

Rotavirus infection is a leading cause of severe dehydrating gastroenteritis in children under 5 years of age. Although rotavirus-associated mortality has decreased considerably because of the introduction of the worldwide rotavirus vaccination, the global burden of rotavirus-associated gastroenteritis remains high. Current vaccines have a number of disadvantages; therefore, there is a need for innovative approaches in rotavirus vaccine development. In the current study, a universal recombinant rotavirus antigen (URRA) for a novel recombinant vaccine candidate against rotavirus A was obtained and characterised. This antigen included sequences of the VP8* subunit of rotavirus spike protein VP4. For the URRA, for the first time, two approaches were implemented simultaneously—the application of a highly conserved neutralising epitope and the use of the consensus of the extended protein’s fragment. The recognition of URRA by antisera to patient-derived field rotavirus isolates was proven. Plant virus-based spherical particles (SPs), a novel, effective and safe adjuvant, considerably enhanced the immunogenicity of the URRA in a mouse model. Given these facts, a URRA + SPs vaccine candidate is regarded as a prospective basis for a universal vaccine against rotavirus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rotaviruses and Rotavirus Vaccines)

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13 pages, 2633 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Production of OSU G5P[7] Porcine Rotavirus Expressing a Fluorescent Reporter via Reverse Genetics

by Anthony J. Snyder, Chantal A. Agbemabiese and John T. Patton

Viruses 2024, 16(3), 411; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16030411 - 7 Mar 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1780

Abstract

Rotaviruses are a significant cause of severe, potentially life-threatening gastroenteritis in infants and the young of many economically important animals. Although vaccines against porcine rotavirus exist, both live oral and inactivated, their effectiveness in preventing gastroenteritis is less than ideal. Thus, there is [...] Read more.

Rotaviruses are a significant cause of severe, potentially life-threatening gastroenteritis in infants and the young of many economically important animals. Although vaccines against porcine rotavirus exist, both live oral and inactivated, their effectiveness in preventing gastroenteritis is less than ideal. Thus, there is a need for the development of new generations of porcine rotavirus vaccines. The Ohio State University (OSU) rotavirus strain represents a Rotavirus A species with a G5P[7] genotype, the genotype most frequently associated with rotavirus disease in piglets. Using complete genome sequences that were determined via Nanopore sequencing, we developed a robust reverse genetics system enabling the recovery of recombinant (r)OSU rotavirus. Although rOSU grew to high titers (~10⁷ plaque-forming units/mL), its growth kinetics were modestly decreased in comparison to the laboratory-adapted OSU virus. The reverse genetics system was used to generate the rOSU rotavirus, which served as an expression vector for a foreign protein. Specifically, by engineering a fused NSP3-2A-UnaG open reading frame into the segment 7 RNA, we produced a genetically stable rOSU virus that expressed the fluorescent UnaG protein as a functional separate product. Together, these findings raise the possibility of producing improved live oral porcine rotavirus vaccines through reverse-genetics-based modification or combination porcine rotavirus vaccines that can express neutralizing antigens for other porcine enteric diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rotaviruses and Rotavirus Vaccines)

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14 pages, 5529 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Safety, Immunogenicity, and Mechanism of a Rotavirus mRNA-LNP Vaccine in Mice

by Chenxing Lu, Yan Li, Rong Chen, Xiaoqing Hu, Qingmei Leng, Xiaopeng Song, Xiaochen Lin, Jun Ye, Jinlan Wang, Jinmei Li, Lida Yao, Xianqiong Tang, Xiangjun Kuang, Guangming Zhang, Maosheng Sun, Yan Zhou and Hongjun Li

Viruses 2024, 16(2), 211; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16020211 - 31 Jan 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2754

Abstract

Rotaviruses (RVs) are a major cause of diarrhea in young children worldwide. The currently available and licensed vaccines contain live attenuated RVs. Optimization of live attenuated RV vaccines or developing non-replicating RV (e.g., mRNA) vaccines is crucial for reducing the morbidity and mortality [...] Read more.

Rotaviruses (RVs) are a major cause of diarrhea in young children worldwide. The currently available and licensed vaccines contain live attenuated RVs. Optimization of live attenuated RV vaccines or developing non-replicating RV (e.g., mRNA) vaccines is crucial for reducing the morbidity and mortality from RV infections. Herein, a nucleoside-modified mRNA vaccine encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles (LNP) and encoding the VP7 protein from the G1 type of RV was developed. The 5′ untranslated region of an isolated human RV was utilized for the mRNA vaccine. After undergoing quality inspection, the VP7-mRNA vaccine was injected by subcutaneous or intramuscular routes into mice. Mice received three injections in 21 d intervals. IgG antibodies, neutralizing antibodies, cellular immunity, and gene expression from peripheral blood mononuclear cells were evaluated. Significant differences in levels of IgG antibodies were not observed in groups with adjuvant but were observed in groups without adjuvant. The vaccine without adjuvant induced the highest antibody titers after intramuscular injection. The vaccine elicited a potent antiviral immune response characterized by antiviral clusters of differentiation CD8⁺ T cells. VP7-mRNA induced interferon-γ secretion to mediate cellular immune responses. Chemokine-mediated signaling pathways and immune response were activated by VP7-mRNA vaccine injection. The mRNA LNP vaccine will require testing for protective efficacy, and it is an option for preventing rotavirus infection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rotaviruses and Rotavirus Vaccines)

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13 pages, 4041 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Isolation and Pathogenicity Analysis of a G5P[23] Porcine Rotavirus Strain

by Liguo Gao, Hanqin Shen, Sucan Zhao, Sheng Chen, Puduo Zhu, Wencheng Lin and Feng Chen

Viruses 2024, 16(1), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16010021 - 22 Dec 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1821

Abstract

(1) Background: Group A rotaviruses (RVAs) are the primary cause of severe intestinal diseases in piglets. Porcine rotaviruses (PoRVs) are widely prevalent in Chinese farms, resulting in significant economic losses to the livestock industry. However, isolation of PoRVs is challenging, and their pathogenicity [...] Read more.

(1) Background: Group A rotaviruses (RVAs) are the primary cause of severe intestinal diseases in piglets. Porcine rotaviruses (PoRVs) are widely prevalent in Chinese farms, resulting in significant economic losses to the livestock industry. However, isolation of PoRVs is challenging, and their pathogenicity in piglets is not well understood. (2) Methods: We conducted clinical testing on a farm in Jiangsu Province, China, and isolated PoRV by continuously passaging on MA104 cells. Subsequently, the pathogenicity of the isolated strain in piglets was investigated. The piglets of the PoRV-infection group were orally inoculated with 1 mL of 1.0 × 10⁶ TCID50 PoRV, whereas those of the mock-infection group were fed with an equivalent amount of DMEM. (3) Results: A G5P[23] genotype PoRV strain was successfully isolated from one of the positive samples and named RVA/Pig/China/JS/2023/G5P[23](JS). The genomic constellation of this strain was G5-P[23]-I5-R1-C1-M1-A8-N1-T1-E1-H1. Sequence analysis revealed that the genes VP3, VP7, NSP2, and NSP4 of the JS strain were closely related to human RVAs, whereas the remaining gene segments were closely related to porcine RVAs, indicating a reassortment between porcine and human strains. Furthermore, infection of 15-day-old piglets with the JS strain resulted in a diarrheal rate of 100% (8 of 8) and a mortality rate of 37.5% (3 of 8). (4) Conclusions: The isolated G5P[23] genotype rotavirus strain, which exhibited strong pathogenicity in piglets, may have resulted from recombination between porcine and human strains. It may serve as a potential candidate strain for developing vaccines, and its immunogenicity can be tested in future studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rotaviruses and Rotavirus Vaccines)

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13 pages, 2519 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Novel Rotavirus Reverse Genetics Platform Supports Flexible Insertion of Exogenous Genes and Enables Rapid Development of a High-Throughput Neutralization Assay

by Jiajie Wei, Scott Radcliffe, Amanda Pirrone, Meiqing Lu, Yuan Li, Jason Cassaday, William Newhard, Gwendolyn J. Heidecker, William A. Rose II, Xi He, Daniel Freed, Michael Citron, Amy Espeseth and Dai Wang

Viruses 2023, 15(10), 2034; https://doi.org/10.3390/v15102034 - 30 Sep 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1940

Abstract

Despite the success of rotavirus vaccines, rotaviruses remain one of the leading causes of diarrheal diseases, resulting in significant childhood morbidity and mortality, especially in low- and middle-income countries. The reverse genetics system enables the manipulation of the rotavirus genome and opens the [...] Read more.

Despite the success of rotavirus vaccines, rotaviruses remain one of the leading causes of diarrheal diseases, resulting in significant childhood morbidity and mortality, especially in low- and middle-income countries. The reverse genetics system enables the manipulation of the rotavirus genome and opens the possibility of using rotavirus as an expression vector for heterologous proteins, such as vaccine antigens and therapeutic payloads. Here, we demonstrate that three positions in rotavirus genome—the C terminus of NSP1, NSP3 and NSP5—can tolerate the insertion of reporter genes. By using rotavirus expressing GFP, we develop a high-throughput neutralization assay and reveal the pre-existing immunity against rotavirus in humans and other animal species. Our work shows the plasticity of the rotavirus genome and establishes a high-throughput assay for interrogating humoral immune responses, benefiting the design of next-generation rotavirus vaccines and the development of rotavirus-based expression platforms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rotaviruses and Rotavirus Vaccines)

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Review

Jump to: Editorial, Research

14 pages, 977 KiB

Open AccessReview

Rotavirus Sickness Symptoms: Manifestations of Defensive Responses from the Brain

by Arash Hellysaz and Marie Hagbom

Viruses 2024, 16(7), 1086; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16071086 - 6 Jul 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1102

Abstract

Rotavirus is infamous for being extremely contagious and for causing diarrhea and vomiting in infants. However, the symptomology is far more complex than what could be expected from a pathogen restricted to the boundaries of the small intestines. Other rotavirus sickness symptoms like [...] Read more.

Rotavirus is infamous for being extremely contagious and for causing diarrhea and vomiting in infants. However, the symptomology is far more complex than what could be expected from a pathogen restricted to the boundaries of the small intestines. Other rotavirus sickness symptoms like fever, fatigue, sleepiness, stress, and loss of appetite have been clinically established for decades but remain poorly studied. A growing body of evidence in recent years has strengthened the idea that the evolutionarily preserved defensive responses that cause rotavirus sickness symptoms are more than just passive consequences of illness and rather likely to be coordinated events from the central nervous system (CNS), with the aim of maximizing the survival of the individual as well as the collective group. In this review, we discuss both established and plausible mechanisms of different rotavirus sickness symptoms as a series of CNS responses coordinated from the brain. We also consider the protective and the harmful nature of these events and highlight the need for further and deeper studies on rotavirus etiology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rotaviruses and Rotavirus Vaccines)

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13 pages, 623 KiB

Open AccessReview

Update on Early-Life T Cells: Impact on Oral Rotavirus Vaccines

by Catherine Montenegro, Federico Perdomo-Celis and Manuel A. Franco

Viruses 2024, 16(6), 818; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16060818 - 22 May 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1233

Abstract

Rotavirus infection continues to be a significant public health problem in developing countries, despite the availability of several vaccines. The efficacy of oral rotavirus vaccines in young children may be affected by significant immunological differences between individuals in early life and adults. Therefore, [...] Read more.

Rotavirus infection continues to be a significant public health problem in developing countries, despite the availability of several vaccines. The efficacy of oral rotavirus vaccines in young children may be affected by significant immunological differences between individuals in early life and adults. Therefore, understanding the dynamics of early-life systemic and mucosal immune responses and the factors that affect them is essential to improve the current rotavirus vaccines and develop the next generation of mucosal vaccines. This review focuses on the advances in T-cell development during early life in mice and humans, discussing how immune homeostasis and response to pathogens is established in this period compared to adults. Finally, the review explores how this knowledge of early-life T-cell immunity could be utilized to enhance current and novel rotavirus vaccines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rotaviruses and Rotavirus Vaccines)

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19 pages, 5114 KiB

Open AccessReview

Rotavirus NSP2: A Master Orchestrator of Early Viral Particle Assembly

by Sarah L. Nichols, Cyril Haller, Alexander Borodavka and Sarah M. Esstman

Viruses 2024, 16(6), 814; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16060814 - 21 May 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1504

Abstract

Rotaviruses (RVs) are 11-segmented, double-stranded (ds) RNA viruses and important causes of acute gastroenteritis in humans and other animal species. Early RV particle assembly is a multi-step process that includes the assortment, packaging and replication of the 11 genome segments in close connection [...] Read more.

Rotaviruses (RVs) are 11-segmented, double-stranded (ds) RNA viruses and important causes of acute gastroenteritis in humans and other animal species. Early RV particle assembly is a multi-step process that includes the assortment, packaging and replication of the 11 genome segments in close connection with capsid morphogenesis. This process occurs inside virally induced, cytosolic, membrane-less organelles called viroplasms. While many viral and cellular proteins play roles during early RV assembly, the octameric nonstructural protein 2 (NSP2) has emerged as a master orchestrator of this key stage of the viral replication cycle. NSP2 is critical for viroplasm biogenesis as well as for the selective RNA–RNA interactions that underpin the assortment of 11 viral genome segments. Moreover, NSP2’s associated enzymatic activities might serve to maintain nucleotide pools for use during viral genome replication, a process that is concurrent with early particle assembly. The goal of this review article is to summarize the available data about the structures, functions and interactions of RV NSP2 while also drawing attention to important unanswered questions in the field. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rotaviruses and Rotavirus Vaccines)

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15 pages, 1867 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Role of the Host Cytoskeleton in the Formation and Dynamics of Rotavirus Viroplasms

by Janine Vetter, Melissa Lee and Catherine Eichwald

Viruses 2024, 16(5), 668; https://doi.org/10.3390/v16050668 - 25 Apr 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1926

Abstract

Rotavirus (RV) replicates within viroplasms, membraneless electron-dense globular cytosolic inclusions with liquid–liquid phase properties. In these structures occur the virus transcription, replication, and packaging of the virus genome in newly assembled double-layered particles. The viroplasms are composed of virus proteins (NSP2, NSP5, NSP4, [...] Read more.

Rotavirus (RV) replicates within viroplasms, membraneless electron-dense globular cytosolic inclusions with liquid–liquid phase properties. In these structures occur the virus transcription, replication, and packaging of the virus genome in newly assembled double-layered particles. The viroplasms are composed of virus proteins (NSP2, NSP5, NSP4, VP1, VP2, VP3, and VP6), single- and double-stranded virus RNAs, and host components such as microtubules, perilipin-1, and chaperonins. The formation, coalescence, maintenance, and perinuclear localization of viroplasms rely on their association with the cytoskeleton. A stabilized microtubule network involving microtubules and kinesin Eg5 and dynein molecular motors is associated with NSP5, NSP2, and VP2, facilitating dynamic processes such as viroplasm coalescence and perinuclear localization. Key post-translation modifications, particularly phosphorylation events of RV proteins NSP5 and NSP2, play pivotal roles in orchestrating these interactions. Actin filaments also contribute, triggering the formation of the viroplasms through the association of soluble cytosolic VP4 with actin and the molecular motor myosin. This review explores the evolving understanding of RV replication, emphasizing the host requirements essential for viroplasm formation and highlighting their dynamic interplay within the host cell. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Rotaviruses and Rotavirus Vaccines)

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