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Pathogenic viruses are a constant threat to all organisms, including plants. However, in plants, a small group of cells (stem cells) protect themselves from viral invasion. Recently, Incarbone et al. uncovered a novel salicylic acid (SA) and RNAi mechanism of stem cell resistance, broadening our understanding of RNAi-mediated antiviral plant immunity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Chronic inflammation shapes normal and mutant hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) function. • Inflammatory cytokines affect HSC emergence, self-renewal, and differentiation. • Mutant HSCs may influence the microenvironment and limit normal hematopoiesis. • Interplay of inflammation, metabolism, and apoptosis drives mutant HSC expansion. • Targeting metabolism offers potential therapeutic strategies. Chronic inflammation, although subtle, puts the body in a constant state of alertness and is associated with many diseases, including cancer and cardiovascular diseases. It leads hematopoietic cells to produce and release proinflammatory cytokines, which trigger specific signaling pathways in hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) that cause changes in proliferation, differentiation, and migration. This response is essential when HSCs are needed to produce specific blood cells to eliminate an intruder, such as a pathogenic virus, but mutant HSCs can use these proinflammatory signals to their advantage and accelerate the development of hematologic disease or malignancy. Understanding this complex process is vital for monitoring and controlling disease progression in patients. In the 2023 International Society for Experimental Hematology winter webinar, Dr. Eric Pietras (University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, United States) and Dr. Katherine Y. King (Baylor College of Medicine, United States) gave a presentation on this topic, which is summarized in this review article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since many waterborne diseases are caused by human pathogenic viruses, virus monitoring of drinking water (DW) and DW sources is crucial for public health. Therefore, the aim of this review was to describe the occurrence of human pathogenic viruses in DW and DW sources; the occurrence of two viruses proposed as novel indicators of human faecal contamination (Pepper mild mottle virus and Tobacco mosaic virus) was also reported. This research was focused on articles that assessed viral occurrence using molecular methods in the surface water used for DW production (SW-D), groundwater used for DW production (GW-D), DW and bottled-DW (BW). A total of 1544 studies published in the last 10 years were analysed, and 79 were ultimately included. In considering the detection methods, filtration is the most common concentration technique, while quantitative polymerase chain reaction is the most common quantification technique. Regarding virus occurrence in SW-D, GW-D, and DW, high percentages of positive samples were reported for adenovirus, polyomavirus and Pepper mild mottle virus. Viral genomes were frequently detected in SW-D and rarely in GW-D, suggesting that GW-D may be a safe DW source. Viral genomes were also detected in DW, posing a possible threat to human health. The lowest percentages of positive samples were found in Europe, while the highest were found in Asia and South America. Only three articles assessed viral occurrence in BW. This review highlights the lack of method standardization and the need for legislation updates. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The function of sensory cells has been largely investigated in the field of neuroscience for how they report the physical and chemical changes of the environment ("exteroception") and of internal physiology ("interoception"). Investigations over the last century have largely focused on the morphological, electrical and receptor properties of sensory cells in the nervous system focusing on conscious perception of external cues or homeostatic regulation upon detection of internal cues. Research in the last decade has uncovered that sensory cells can often sense polymodal cues, such as mechanical, chemical, and/ or thermal. Furthermore, sensory cells in the peripheral as well as in the central nervous system can detect evidence associated with the invasion of pathogenic bacteria or viruses. The corresponding neuronal activation associated with the presence of pathogens can impact their classical functions within the nervous system and trigger the release of compounds modulating the response to intruders, either triggering pain to raise awareness, enhancing host defense or sometimes, aggravating the infection. This perspective brings to light the need for interdisciplinary training in immunology, microbiology and neuroscience for the next generation of investigators in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recently developed pathogenic virus, SARS-CoV-2, was found in the Hubei Province, China. Giving rise to a broad spectrum of symptoms, SARS-CoV-2 rapidly spread across the globe, causing multi-systemic and dangerous complications, with death in extreme cases. Thereby, the number of research cases increases every day on preventing infection and treating its resulting damage. Accumulating evidence suggests noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are necessary for modifying virus infection and antiviral immune reaction, along with biological processes regulating SARS-CoV-2 and subsequent disease states. Therefore, understanding these mechanisms might provide a further understanding of the pathogenesis and feasible therapy alternatives against SARS-CoV2. Consequently, the molecular biology of SARS-CoV-2, ncRNA's role in its infection, and various RNA therapy tactics against the virus have been presented in this review section. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycans are repeating carbohydrate structures added as post-translational modifications (PTMs) to proteins, forming glycoproteins. Self-glycans found on human cells, and viral glycoproteins produced in host cells, are generally weakly immunogenic, which is necessary to avoid autoimmunity. This feature is exploited by many pathogenic viruses, which glycosylate surface proteins to evade or reduce immune recognition. The HIV type-1 (HIV-1) envelope glycoprotein (Env) is heavily glycosylated, which broadly acts to shield neutralisation-relevant protein surfaces with immunorecessive self-glycans to hinder B cell recognition. However, a small subset of HIV-1-infected individuals develops potent broadly neutralising antibodies (bnAbs), many of which directly engage the glycan shield. This provides hope that such antibodies could be elicited via vaccination and help to provide protective immunity. However, HIV-1 vaccine candidates have thus far failed to fully recapitulate such glycan-specific neutralising responses. In this review we consider the fundamental glycoimmunology and structural biology that underpin glycans in antibody evasion and as antibody targets and discuss potential approaches to harness glycan targeting for HIV-1 vaccine design. Host-derived glycans are generally poorly immunogenic to avoid autoimmunity. Host glycosylation machinery is exploited by pathogenic viruses, like HIV type-1 (HIV-1), to shield protein surfaces on their envelope glycoproteins (Env) from B cell recognition and antibody attack. Broadly neutralising antibodies (bnAbs) isolated from HIV-1-infected individuals frequently engage conserved, heavily glycosylated surfaces by direct glycan contact, demonstrating that immune tolerance to Env glycans can be selectively broken. A variety of HIV-1 experimental vaccination design strategies are being pursued with the aim of recapitulating bnAb-like glycan-binding responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite antiretroviral therapy (ART), HIV-1 persists as proviruses integrated into the genomic DNA of CD4+ T cells. The mechanisms underlying the persistence and clonal expansion of these cells remain incompletely understood. Cases have been described in which proviral integration can alter host gene expression to drive cellular proliferation. Here, we review observations from other genome-integrating human viruses to propose additional putative modalities by which HIV-1 integration may alter cellular function to favor persistence, such as by altering susceptibility to cytotoxicity in virus-expressing cells. We propose that signals implicating such mechanisms may have been masked thus far by the preponderance of defective and/or nonreactivatable HIV-1 proviruses, but could be revealed by focusing on the integration sites of intact proviruses with expression potential. Integration of HIV-1 into the DNA of CD4+ T cells can alter cellular gene expression, but the contribution of this mechanism to the clonal expansion and persistence of HIV-1-infected cells remains unclear. HIV-1 provirus integration can affect host gene expression at the site of integration and directly induce benign but also, in rare cases, malignant cellular proliferation. HIV-1 can affect cellular gene expression through promoter/enhancer insertion, the formation of virus–host chimeric RNAs, the activation of cryptic cellular splice sites, as well as transcriptional interference. Multiple human pathogenic viruses, including human T lymphotropic virus type 1 (HTLV-1), hepatitis B virus (HBV), Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), and human papillomavirus (HPV), can affect human gene expression upon viral genomic integration by similar mechanisms to those used by HIV-1. Diverse cellular consequences of viral integration-mediated changes in host gene expression have recently been observed for HTLV-1, HBV, EBV, and HPV, but not yet for HIV-1. Observations of diverse virus-induced changes in host gene expression in the context of other human viruses can serve as a signpost for diverse persistence mechanisms that remain to be elucidated in the context of HIV-1 infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How to address public health priorities after COVID-19 is becoming a critical task. To this end, we conducted wastewater surveillance for six leading pathogens, namely, SARS-CoV-2, norovirus, rotavirus, influenza A virus (IAV), enteroviruses and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), in Nanchang city from January to April 2023. Metaviromic sequencing was conducted at the 1st, 4th, 7th, 9th, 12th and 14th weeks to reveal the dynamics of viral pathogens that were not covered by qPCR. Amplicon sequencing of the conserved region of norovirus GI and GII and the rotavirus and region encoding nonstructural protein of RSV was also conducted weekly. The results showed that after a rapid decrease in SARS-CoV-2 sewage concentrations occurred in January 2023, surges of norovirus, rotavirus, IAV and RSV started at the 6th, 7th, 8th and 11th weeks, respectively. The dynamics of the sewage concentrations of norovirus, rotavirus, IAV and RSV were consistent with the off-season resurgence of the above infectious diseases. Notably, peak sewage concentrations of norovirus GI, GII, rotavirus, IAV and RSV were found at the 6th, 3rd, 7th, 7th and 8th weeks, respectively. Astroviruses also resurge after the 7th week, as revealed by metaviromic data, suggesting that wastewater surveillance together with metaviromic data provides an essential early warning tool for revealing patterns of infectious disease resurgence. [Display omitted] • Wastewater surveillance reflected the unusual resurgence of infectious diseases. • Metaviromic data uncovered more pathogenic viruses but lack of enough resolution for genotyping. • Amplicon sequencing provided weekly dynamics of prevalent genotypes in the sewershed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Members of the Orthonairovirus genus (family Nairoviridae) include many tick-borne viruses of significant human and animal health impact, with several recently-documented pathogenic viruses lacking sufficient epidemiological information. We screened 215 adult ticks of seven species collected in Bulgaria, Georgia, Latvia and Poland for orthonairoviruses, followed by nanopore sequencing (NS) for genome characterization. Initial generic amplification revealed Sulina virus (SULV, Orthonairovirus sulinaense), for which an updated amplification assay was used, revealing an overall prevalence of 2.7% in Ixodes ricinus ticks from Latvia. Three complete and additional partial SULV genomes were generated, that consistently formed a separate, distinct clade with further intragroup divergence in the maximum likelihood analyses. Comparisons with previously described viruses from Romania exhibited similar genome topologies, albeit with divergent motifs and cleavage sites on the glycoprotein precursor. Preliminary evidence of recombination involving the S segment was documented, in addition to variations in predicted viral glycoproteins. Generic screening further identified Tacheng tick virus 1 (TCTV1, Orthonairovirus tachengense), with documented human infections, in Dermacentor reticulatus ticks from Poland, with a prevalence of 0.9%. Subsequent NS and assembly provided the first complete TCTV1 genome outside of China, where it was originally described. Phylogenetic analysis of virus genome segments revealed TCTV1-Poland as a discrete taxon within the TCTV1 cluster in the Orthonairovirus genus, representing a geographically segregated clade. Comparable genome topology with TCTV1 from China was observed, aside from minor variations in the M segment. Similar to SULV, TCTV1 exhibited several mismatches on previously described screening primer binding sites, likely to prevent amplification. These findings indicate presence of novel TCTV1 and SULV clades in Eastern Europe, confirming the expansion of orthonairoviruses with pathogenic potential. • We documented first complete SULV and TCTV1 genomes outside original locations. • SULV and TCTV1 genomes constituted novel clades within respective species. • Preliminary evidence for genetic exchange between SULV genomes was noted. • Expansion of the TCTV1 into Europe is confirmed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Therapeutic proteins have been employed for centuries and reached approximately 50 % of all drugs investigated. By 2023, they represented one of the top 10 largest-selling pharma products ($387.03 billion) and are anticipated to reach around $653.35 billion by 2030. Growth hormones, insulin, and interferon (IFN α, γ, and β) are among the leading applied therapeutic proteins with a higher market share. Protein-based therapies have opened new opportunities to control various diseases, including metabolic disorders, tumors, and viral outbreaks. Advanced recombinant DNA biotechnology has offered the production of therapeutic proteins and peptides for vaccination, drugs, and diagnostic tools. Prokaryotic and eukaryotic expression host systems, including bacterial, fungal, animal, mammalian, and plant cells usually applied for recombinant therapeutic proteins large-scale production. However, several limitations face therapeutic protein production and applications at the commercial level, including immunogenicity, integrity concerns, protein stability, and protein degradation under different circumstances. In this regard, protein-engineering strategies such as PEGylation, glycol-engineering, Fc-fusion, albumin conjugation, and fusion, assist in increasing targeting, product purity, production yield, functionality, and the half-life of therapeutic protein circulation. Therefore, a comprehensive insight into therapeutic protein research and findings pave the way for their successful implementation, which will be discussed in the current review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food safety is a global health issue. The major causes of foodborne diseases, including bacteria, viruses, parasites, prions, and chemicals in unsafe food, lead to severe outbreaks worldwide annually. Traditional detection technologies such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) rely on complex thermal apparatus, hindering their applications in novel integrated devices and high-throughput analysis for point-of-care tests for foodborne pathogenic bacteria and viruses. Isothermal nucleic acid amplification-based lab-on-a-chip (LOC) technology represents an alternative approach to on-site detection, as it does not require programmed temperature control. In addition, miniaturized microfluidic LOC can reduce the use of reagents and the need of other expensive equipment. We summarized the recent progress in the application of isothermal nucleic acid amplification-based microfluidic LOC devices used in agri-foods for the detection of pathogenic bacteria and viruses. The potential and limitations of these methods were also analyzed. Nucleic acid sequence-based amplification (NASBA), hybridization chain reaction (HCR), rolling circle amplification (RCA), recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA), and loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP)-based LOC devices have been successfully developed and applied for the detection of pathogenic bacteria and viruses in agri-foods due to their high sensitivity, specificity, and rapid response. By integrating sample pre-processing and extraction either before or on a single chip, it becomes possible to minimize interference signals from food sample matrix before the nucleic acid amplification step. Further optimization and development hold the potential to improve the performance of these devices, expanding their uses in the surveillance and control of foodborne or food-related diseases. • Isothermal nucleic acid amplification based LOC allows on-site detection. • Miniaturized microfluidic LOC reduces the use of reagents and equipment. • NASBA, HCR, RCA, RPA, and LAMP-based LOC devices are developed. • These devices achieve high sensitivity, specificity, and rapid response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Occupational exposure to pathogens can pose health risks. This study investigates the viral exposure of workers in a wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) and a swine farm by analyzing aerosol and surfaces samples. Viral contamination was evaluated using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assays, and target enrichment sequencing (TES) was performed to identify the vertebrate viruses to which workers might be exposed. Additionally, Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment (QMRA) was conducted to estimate the occupational risk associated with viral exposure for WWTP workers, choosing Human Adenovirus (HAdV) as the reference pathogen. In the swine farm, QMRA was performed as an extrapolation, considering a hypothetical zoonotic virus with characteristics similar to Porcine Adenovirus (PAdV). The modelled exposure routes included aerosol inhalation and oral ingestion through contaminated surfaces and hand-to-mouth contact. HAdV and PAdV were widespread viruses in the WWTP and the swine farm, respectively, by qPCR assays. TES identified human and other vertebrate viruses WWTP samples, including viruses from families such as Adenoviridae , Circoviridae , Orthoherpesviridae , Papillomaviridae, and Parvoviridae. In the swine farm, most of the identified vertebrate viruses were porcine viruses belonging to Adenoviridae , Astroviridae , Circoviridae , Herpesviridae , Papillomaviridae , Parvoviridae , Picornaviridae, and Retroviridae. QMRA analysis revealed noteworthy risks of viral infections for WWTP workers if safety measures are not taken. The probability of illness due to HAdV inhalation was higher in summer compared to winter, while the greatest risk from oral ingestion was observed in workspaces during winter. Swine farm QMRA simulation suggested a potential occupational risk in the case of exposure to a hypothetical zoonotic virus. This study provides valuable insights into WWTP and swine farm worker's occupational exposure to human and other vertebrate viruses. QMRA and NGS analyses conducted in this study will assist managers in making evidence-based decisions, facilitating the implementation of protection measures, and risk mitigation practices for workers. • Human pathogenic viruses from wastewater are present in WWTP aerosol and surfaces. • Swine farm workers are exposed to a high diversity of porcine viruses. • Occupational risk could be faced by WWTP workers if measures are not taken. • Monitoring and surveillance tools are crucial to detect emerging zoonotic pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Potential range of Dermacentor auratus is much wider than its distribution. • Islands of southeast Asia have suitable climates for D. auratus. • Parts of Africa and the Americas have suitable climates for D. auratus. • 52 species of associated hosts, 13 are new. • 4 associated bacteria genera, 3 associated viruses. Dermacentor (Indocentor) auratus Supino, 1897 occurs in many regions of Southeast Asia and South Asia. In many regions of Southeast Asia and South Asia, targeted tick sampling and subsequent screening of collected D. auratus ticks have detected pathogenic bacteria and viruses in D. auratus. These disease-causing pathogens that have been detected in D. auratus include Anaplasma, Bartonella, Borrelia, Rickettsia (including spotted fever group rickettsiae), African swine fever virus, Lanjan virus, and Kyasanur forest disease virus. Although D. auratus predominantly infests wild pigs, this tick is also an occasional parasite of humans and other animals. Indeed, some 91 % of human otoacariasis cases in Sri Lanka were due to infestation by D. auratus. With the propensity of this tick to feed on multiple species of hosts, including humans, and the detection of pathogenic bacteria and viruses from this tick, D. auratus is a tick of medical, veterinary, and indeed zoonotic concern. The geographic range of this tick, however, is not well known. Therefore, in the present paper, we used the species distribution model, BIOCLIM, to project the potential geographic range of D. auratus , which may aid pathogen and tick-vector surveillance. We showed that the potential geographic range of D. auratus is far wider than the current geographic distribution of this tick, and that regions in Africa, and in North and South America seem to have suitable climates for D. auratus. Interestingly, in Southeast Asia, Borneo and Philippines also have suitable climates for D. auratus , but D. auratus has not been found in these regions yet despite the apparent close proximity of these regions to Mainland Southeast Asia, where D. auratus occurs. We thus hypothesize that the geographic distribution of D. auratus is largely dependent on the movement of wild pigs and whether or not these wild pigs are able to overcome dispersal barriers. We also review the potential pathogens and the diseases that may be associated with D. auratus and provide an updated host index for this tick. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fowl adenovirus (FAdV), Avian influenza (AI), and Newcastle disease (ND) are prominent viral infectious diseases that pose a significant threat to the global poultry industry, resulting in substantial economic loss. To mitigate the occurrence of hydropericardium syndrome (HPS), a triple vaccine was developed by combining the nanoparticle-like fibre-2 protein with the inactivated H9N2 AI virus antigen derived from the A/chicken/Shandong/SZ/2008 strain, as well as the inactivated Newcastle disease virus (NDV) antigen obtained from the N7a strain, which was rescued from the NDV strain PLK-N-06. This particular strain was isolated during a chicken outbreak of ND and identified as velogenic. The immunological effect was evaluated by specific pathogen-free chicken challenge test. There was no significant difference in the specific antibody level in specific pathogen-free chickens between the triple vaccine and the monovalent vaccine (P > 0.05), which was significantly higher than that of the control group (P < 0.0001). The protective effect of triple vaccine against the 3 viruses could reach 100% after being challenged. No obvious lesions of FAdV, AI, or ND were observed in the target tissues and organs of the triple vaccine immunization group. Viral shedding test results showed that no three kinds of viruses were detected in larynx and cloaca on the fifth day after challenge. In conclusion, the immune protection effect against the 3 pathogens does not interfere with each other and can provide complete protection. The triple vaccine can be used as a candidate vaccine to prevent chickens from the three kinds of diseases, has high clinical application value, and can produce greater economic benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Bed bugs are blood-sucking insects that are not associated with disease transmission. • Little is known about the viruses that bed bugs naturally harbor. • We sequenced 22 bed bugs from a global sample including two bed bug species. • We found sequences from two known bed bug viruses, and three novel virus sequences. • Bed bug viruses follow unexpected patterns of diversity and distribution. (Hemiptera: Cimicidae) are a globally distributed hematophagous pest that routinely feed on humans. Unlike many blood-sucking arthropods, they have never been linked to pathogen transmission in a natural setting, and despite increasing interest in their role as disease vectors, little is known about the viruses that bed bugs naturally harbor. Here, we present a global-scale survey of the bed bug RNA virosphere. We sequenced the metatranscriptomes of 22 individual bed bugs (Cimex lectularius and Cimex hemipterus) from 8 locations around the world. We detected sequences from two known bed bug viruses (Shuangao bedbug virus 1 and Shuangao bedbug virus 2) which extends their geographical range. We identified three novel bed bug virus sequences from a tenui-like virus (Bunyavirales), a toti-like virus (Ghabrivirales), and a luteo-like virus (Tolivirales). Interestingly, some of the bed bug viruses branch near to insect-transmitted plant-infecting viruses, opening questions regarding the evolution of plant virus infection. When we analyzed the viral sequences by their host's collection location, we found unexpected patterns of geographical diversity that may reflect humans' role in bed bug dispersal. Additionally, we investigated the effect that Wolbachia, the primary bed bug endosymbiont, may have on viral abundance and found that Wolbachia infection neither promotes nor inhibits viral infection. Finally, our results provide no evidence that bed bugs transmit any known human pathogenic viruses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A variety of methods have been reported using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based nucleic acid testing (NAT) because of its potential to be used in highly sensitive inspection systems. Among these NATs, fusion-PCR (also called as overlap-extension-PCR) has been focused on this study and adopted to generate the fused amplicon composed of plural marker gene fragments for detection. Generally, conventional agarose gel electrophoresis followed by gel staining is employed to check the PCR results. However, these are time-consuming processes that use specific equipment. To overcome these disadvantages, the immunochromatographic test (ICT) for the detection of PCR amplicons with hapten-labels that were generated by PCR using hapten-labeled primers was also adopted in this study. Based on these concepts, we constructed the systems of hapten-labeled fusion-PCR (HL-FuPCR) followed by ICT (HL-FuPCR-ICT) for the two and three marker genes derived from pathogenic microbe. As a result, we successfully developed a two marker genes system for the pathogenic influenza A virus and a three marker genes system for the penicillin-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae. These detection systems of HL-FuPCR-ICT are characterized by simple handling and rapid detection within few minutes, and also showed the results as clear lines. Thus, the HL-FuPCR-ICT system introduced in this study has potential for use as a user-friendly inspection tool with the advantages especially in the detection of specific strains or groups expressing the characteristic phenotype(s) such as antibiotic resistance and/or high pathogenicity even in the same species. [Display omitted] • This study is on the construction and the evaluation for the hapten-labeled fusion-PCR followed by immunochromatographic test. • Hapten-labeled amplicons were specifically generated from the multiple marker gene fragments by fusion-PCR. • Detection of fusion product by immunochromatographic test is a useful with simplicity, rapidity, and well-defined results. • Hapten-labeled fusion-PCR is superior to versatility and its sole requirement is the specific primer sets for target. • Hapten-labeled fusion-PCR followed by immunochromatographic test has the potential for user-friendly inspection tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different types of pathogenic viruses that have common transmission path can be co-infected, inducing distinct disease procession in comparison to that infection of one. Also, in the post COVID-19 time, more types of respiratory infectious virus are becoming prevalent and are concurrent. Those bring an urgent need for detection of co-existing viruses. Here, we propose a visualized lateral flow assay for logic determination of co-existing viral RNA fragments. In the presence of specific viral RNA inputs, DNAzyme is de-blocked according to defined logic, and catalyzes the hydrolysis of hairpin-structural substrate. One of cleaved substrates contains DNAzyme domain to realize dual signal amplification, which obtains copious of the other cleaved substrates. The cleaved substrates act as linking strands for bridging DNA-modified gold nanoparticles onto lateral flow strip to induce coloration on test line. "AND", "OR" and "INHIBIT" controlled lateral flow assays are respectively demonstrated for co-existing viral RNA detection, and the visual results can be obtained by the same kind of prepared strip, without need of re-fabricating strips according to logic systems. The work provides a flexible, convenient, visual and logic-processing strategy for simultaneous analysis of co-existing viruses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large scale outbreaks of infectious respiratory disease have repeatedly plagued the globe over the last 100 years. The scope and strength of the outbreaks are getting worse as pathogenic RNA viruses are rapidly evolving and highly evasive to vaccines and anti-viral drugs. Germicidal UV-C is considered as a robust agent to disinfect RNA viruses regardless of their evolution. While genomic damage by UV-C has been known to be associated with viral inactivation, the precise relationship between the damage and inactivation remains unsettled as genomic damage has been analyzed in small areas, typically under 0.5 kb. In this study, we assessed genomic damage by the reduced efficiency of reverse transcription of regions of up to 7.2 kb. Our data seem to indicate that genomic damage was directly proportional to the size of the genome, and a single hit of damage was sufficient for inactivation of RNA viruses. The high efficacy of UV-C is already effectively adopted to inactivate airborne RNA viruses. • RNA viruses are highly sensitive to UV-C as they are inactivated by a single hit of genomic damage. • Viral inactivation rate of RNA viruses seems directly proportional to their genome size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As one of the high pathogenic influenza viruses, H1N1 virus easily induces to serious diseases, even leading to death. To date, all detection methods for H1N1 virus had shortcomings, including high equipment cost, time consumption, and etc. Therefore, a novel detection method should be established to achieve more convenient, rapid, and low-cost detection. In this work, an isomer of HPBmN-I with aggregation-induced emission characteristic was firstly synthesized on the basis of our previous reported HPBpN-I. The results showed that HPBmN-I only selectively binds to N1 in the presence of H1, while HPBpN-I can exhibit total fluorescence response to H1 and N1 in H1/N1 mixture. The limited of detection (LOD) of HPBmN-I to N1 was estimated to be 20.82 ng/mL in normal saline (NS) according to the IUPAC-based approach. The simulation calculations based on molecular docking revealed that four HPBmN-I molecules combine well with the hydrophobic cavity of N1 and achieve the fluorescence enhancement due to size matching with each other. The combination of HPBpN-I and HPBmN-I as probes was successfully used to quantitatively detect H1 and N1 in real H1N1 virus. Compared to enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method, the established method not only showed the same detection accuracy but also had the advantages of real-time, ease of preparation, and low-cost, demonstrating potential market prospects. [Display omitted] • HPBmN-I based on size matching only selectively binds to N1 in H1/N1 mixture. • The LOD of HPBmN-I to N1 was estimated to be 20.82 ng/mL. • The combination of HPBpN-I and HPBmN-I can quantitatively detect H1 and N1 in H1N1 viruses, respectively. • Compared with ELISA, the method is accurate, simple, rapid, and inexpensive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • SMU-CX1 was obtained as the specific TLR3 inhibitor by high-throughput screening of 15,700 compounds. • SMU-CX1 exhibits dual inhibitory activity against multiple subtypes influenza virus and SARS-CoV-2. • This study offers a novel approach for designing antiviral drugs against highly pathogenic viruses. Influenza and COVID-19 continue to pose global threats to public health. Classic antiviral drugs have certain limitations, coupled with frequent viral mutations leading to many drugs being ineffective, the development of new antiviral drugs is urgent. Meanwhile, the invasion of influenza virus can cause an immune response, and an excessive immune response can generate a large number of inflammatory storms, leading to tissue damage. Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) recognizes virus dsRNA to ignite the innate immune response, and inhibit TLR3 can block the excess immune response and protect the host tissues. Taking TLR3 as the target, SMU-CX1 was obtained as the specific TLR3 inhibitor by high-throughput screening of 15,700 compounds with IC 50 value of 0.11 µM. Its anti-influenza A virus activity with IC 50 ranged from 0.14 to 0.33 µM against multiple subtypes of influenza A virus and also showed promising anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity with IC 50 at 0.43 µM. Primary antiviral mechanism study indicated that SMU-CX1 significantly inhibited PB2 and NP protein of viruses, it can also inhibit inflammatory factors in host cells including IFN-β, IP-10 and CCL-5. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the potential of SMU-CX1 in inhibiting IAV and SARS-CoV-2 activity, thereby offering a novel approach for designing antiviral drugs against highly pathogenic viruses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The detection all pathogenic enteric viruses in water is expensive, time-consuming, and limited by numerous technical difficulties. Consequently, using reliable indicators such as F-specific RNA phages (FRNAPH) can be well adapted to assess the risk of viral contamination of fecal origin in surface waters. However, the variability of results inherent to the water matrix makes it difficult to use them routinely and to interpret viral risk. Spatial and temporal variability of surface waters can lead to underestimate this risk, in particular in the case of low loading. The use of bivalve mollusks as accumulating systems appears as a promising alternative, as recently highlighted with the freshwater mussel Dreissena polymorpha , but its capacity to accumulate and depurate FRNAPH needs to be better understood and described. The purpose of this study is to characterise the kinetics of accumulation and elimination of infectious FRNAPH by D. polymorpha in laboratory conditions, formalised by a toxico-kinetic (TK) mechanistic model. Accumulation and depuration experiments were performed at a laboratory scale to determine the relationship between the concentration of infectious FRNAPH in water and the concentration accumulated by D. polymorpha. The mussels accumulated infectious FRNAPH (3–5.4 × 104 PFU/g) in a fast and concentration-dependent way in only 48 h, as already recently demonstrated. The second exposure demonstrated that the kinetics of infectious FRNAPH depuration by D. polymorpha was independent to the exposure dose, with a T 90 (time required to depurate 90 % of the accumulated concentration) of approximately 6 days. These results highlight the capacities of D. polymorpha to detect and reflect the viral pollution in an integrative way and over time, which is not possible with point water sampling. Different TK models were fitted based on the concentrations measured in the digestive tissues (DT) of D. polymorpha. The model has been developed to formalise the kinetics of phage accumulation in mussels tissues through the simultaneous estimation of accumulation and depuration rates. This model showed that accumulation depended on the exposure concentration, while depuration did not. Standardized D. polymorpha could be easily transplanted to the environment to predict viral concentrations using the TK model defined in the present study to predict the level of contamination of bodies of water on the basis of the level of phages accumulated by the organisms. It will be also provide a better understanding of the dynamics of the virus in continental waters at different time and spatial scales, and thereby contribute to the protection of freshwater resources. [Display omitted] • D. polymorpha accumulates infectious FRNAPH rapidly, in a dose-dependent way. • D. polymorpha depurates infectious FRNAPH in a dose-independent way. • A toxicokinetic model was defined to estimate the T 90 and bioconcentration factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New pathogenic influenza virus strains are constantly emerging, posing a serious risk to both human health and economic growth. To effectively control the spread of this virus, there is an urgent need for early, rapid, sensitive, simple, and cost-effective detection technologies, as well as new and effective antiviral drugs. In this study, we have successfully achieved a significant milestone by successfully fusing the H7N9 influenza virus hemagglutinin (HA) protein with the nano-luciferase component, resulting in the development of a novel set of biosensors. This remarkable achievement marks the first instance of utilizing this biosensor technology for influenza antibody detection. Our biosensor technology also has the potential to facilitate the development of antiviral drugs targeting specific epitopes of the HA protein, providing a promising avenue for the treatment of H7N9 influenza virus infections. Furthermore, our biosensors have broad applications beyond H7N9 influenza virus detection, as they can be expanded for the detection of other pathogens and drug screening applications in the future. By providing a novel and effective solution to the detection and treatment of influenza viruses, our biosensors have the potential to revolutionize the field of infectious disease control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• PCR assays were designed for the three genera of Microviridae. • Microviridae (genome and infectious) were systematically detected in wastewater. • Microviridae represent 10 % to 30 % of infectious somatic coliphages in wastewater. • In case of UV tertiary treatment, the inactivation reached 4 log 10. • Microviridae inactivation was similar to that of other somatic coliphages. Somatic coliphages (SC) and F-specific RNA coliphages (FRNAPH) have been included in regulations or guidelines by several developed countries as a way of monitoring water safety and the microbiological quality of shellfish harvesting waters. SC are highly diverse in their morphology, size and genome. The Microviridae family contains three genera of phages (Alphatrevirus, Gequatrovirus , and Sinsheimervirus), all having a capsid of similar morphology (icosahedral) and size (25–30 nm in diameter) to that of common pathogenic enteric viruses. Three PCR assays specific for each genus of Microviridae were designed to study these phages in raw and treated wastewater (WW) in order to gain knowledge about the diversity and prevalence of Microviridae among SC, as well as their inactivation and removal during WW treatments. Among the four wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) monitored here, two WWTPs applied disinfection by UV light as tertiary treatment. First, we noticed that Microviridae represented 10 to 30 % of infectious SC in both raw and treated WW. Microviridae appeared to behave in the same way as all SC during these WW treatments. As expected, the highest inactivation, at least 4 log 10 , was achieved for infectious Microviridae and SC in both WWTPs using UV disinfection. PCR assays showed that the highest removal of Microviridae reached about 4 log 10 , but the phage removal can vary greatly between WWTPs using similar treatments. This work forms the basis for a broader evaluation of Microviridae as a viral indicator of water treatment efficiency and WW reuse. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coronaviruses (CoV) are a large family of viruses that cause illness ranging from the common cold to more severe diseases such as Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS-CoV) and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS-CoV). We succeeded in preparing disinfectant cellulose-based wipes treated with antimicrobial and antiviral silver nanoparticles to be used for prevention of contamination and transmission of several pathogenic viruses and microbes to human in critical areas such as hospitals and healthcare centers especially coronavirus. In this work, the antimicrobial and antiviral activities of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) prepared with four different techniques were investigated for the utilization as a disinfectant for cellulose-based wipes. These four methods are namely; 1) trisodium citrate with cotton yarn as a reducing agent, 2) preparing AgNP's using aqueous solution of PVA in the presence of glucose, 3) trisodium citrate with cotton fabric as a reducing agent, and 4) photochemical reaction of polyacrylic acid and silver nitrate solution. Polyester/viscose blended spunlace nonwoven fabrics as cellulose based fabrics were treated with the prepared silver nanoparticles to be used as surfaces disinfection wipes. The properties of the nonwoven fabrics were examined including thickness, tensile strength in dry and wet conditions in both machine direction (MD) and cross-machine direction (CMD), bursting strength, air permeability, water permeability and surface wettability. Characterization of the AgNPs was carried out in terms of UV-VIS spectroscopy, TEM, SEM, and Zeta potential analysis. The assessment of AgNPs active solutions for antimicrobial and antiviral activities was evaluated. The results obtained from the analyses of the AgNPs samples prepared with different techniques showed good uniformity and stability of the particles, as well uniform coating of the AgNPs on the fibers. Additionally, there is a significant effect of the AgNPs preparation method on their disinfectant performance that proved its effectiveness against coronavirus (MERS-CoV), S. aureus and B. subtilis as Gram-positive bacteria, E. coli and P. mirabilis as Gram-negative bacteria, A. niger and C. albicans fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For thousands of years, fungi have been a valuable and promising source of therapeutic agents for treatment of various diseases. Mushroom is a macrofungus which has been cultivated worldwide for its nutritional value and medicinal applications. Several bioactive molecules were extracted from mushroom such as polysaccharides, lectins and terpenoids. Lectins are carbohydrate-binding proteins with non-immunologic origin. Lectins were classified according to their structure, origin and sugar specificity. This protein has different binding specificity with surface glycan moiety which determines its activity and therapeutic applications. A wide range of medicinal activities such as antitumor, antiviral, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory and antidiabetic were reported from sugar-binding proteins. However, glycan-binding protein from mushroom is not well explored as antiviral agent. The discovery of novel antiviral agents is a public health emergency to overcome the current pandemic and be ready for the upcoming viral pandemics. The mechanism of action of lectin against viruses targets numerous steps in viral life cycle such as viral attachment, entry and replication. This review described the history, classification, purification techniques, structure-function relationship and different therapeutic applications of mushroom lectin. In addition, we focus on the antiviral activity, purification and physicochemical characteristics of some mushroom lectins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Laboratory diagnosis of pathologies caused by virus plays a critical role in outbreak response efforts and establishing safe and expeditious testing strategies. Detection of pathogenic virus using commercial solutions require specific tools and laborious laboratory procedures. This makes the day-to-day on time detection of virus infections the limiting step in any outbreak. The need for new diagnostic tools easily available to poor and rural underdeveloped areas where health infrastructure and trained personnel are scarce is highly desirable. The widely known intrinsic properties of Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) embody them with the potential to overcome some of the challenges inherent to virus detection. MOFs are already components of functional devices capable of perform an uninterrupted detection of molecular targets in real time. In this review, we summarise the few studies concerning the reported MOFs used as sensors for pathogenic virus. We emphasise the structural and physical properties of these materials which can open the possibility for their use in this type of sensors and conclude on how the field can progress to envisage the usage of MOFs by the pharmaceutical industry to develop new sensors for these sub-microscopic infectious agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Requirement for medication from pathogenic human viruses and cancer diseases are urgently considered, while, numerous reports were focused on investigating easily manufactured and excellently effective therapeutic reagents. Herein, CQDs were prepared with size of 2.1 nm from both of carrageenan and pullulan. CQDs nucleated from pullulan showed higher anti-proliferative effects against cancer cells, while, treatment with 100 μg/mL of CQDs colloids originated from pullulan and carrageenan separately resulted in diminishing of cancer cell viability percent to be 42.1 & 58.7%, respectively. Plaque reduction assay was also affirmed that, 2.5 μg/L of both of pullulan and carrageenan based CQDs exhibited viral inhibition with percent of 44.3& 59.5%, respectively. As a conclusion, pullulan showed seniority over carrageenan in nucleation of CQDs with higher anticancer activities. While, estimation of antiviral performance of the prepared CQDs confirmed the priority of carrageenan compared to pullulan in preparation of CQDs as antiviral laborer. Unlabelled Image • Carrageenan versus pullulan in nucleation of hydrophilic CQDs • Quite small mono-dispersed CQDs were obtained with size range of 2.1 nm. • CQDs showed anticancer potentiality against breast cancer cells. • Pullulan showed seniority over carrageenan in nucleation of CQDs with higher anticancer activity. • Carrageenan showed priority in preparation of CQDs as antiviral laborer of MERS-CoV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Dengue viral and hepatitis C viral RNAs recruit ribosomal subunits by non-canonical translation initiation mechanisms. • 5′ to 3′ end communications in viral genomes are dynamic and modulate the switch from translation to replication • Hepatitis C virus RNA binds miR-122 ′ to protect the RNA from degradation and to fold it into a translation-competent structure. • Specific subgenomic RNAs in the Dengue viral genome confer selective fitness in invertebrate and vertebrate hosts. Pathogenic RNA viruses continue to emerge owing to their rapid evolutionary rates. The family of the Flaviviridae contains enveloped, single-stranded, positive-sense RNA viruses that include mosquito borne viruses such as dengue virus and the blood-borne hepatitis C virus. Upon infection, the genomic viral RNA needs to first compete with a sea of host mRNAs for host ribosomes that synthesize the viral proteins. Then, the positive-sense template needs to be amplified and packaged into newly assembled virions. To accomplish these tasks, the virus subverts several biochemical machineries from the host. The participation of specific structures in the viral RNA mediates specific RNA–RNA and RNA–protein interactions that dictate many viral subversion strategies. In this review, we shall focus on the various mechanisms by which RNA elements in the dengue virus and hepatitis C virus untranslated regions aid the viral infectious cycle and contribute to viral fitness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• FicD genes are conserved in eukaryotes. • FicD genes are expanded in a few eukaryotes. • FicD genes of pathogenic viruses showed conserved enzymatic motifs. • HGTs are evident but likely impacted less conserved metazoan FicDs only. Many gene families are shared across the tree of life between distantly related species because of horizontal gene transfers (HGTs). However, the frequency of HGTs varies strongly between gene families and biotic realms suggesting differential selection pressures and functional bias. One gene family with a wide distribution are FIC-domain containing enzymes (FicDs). FicDs catalyze AMPylation, a post-translational protein modification consisting in the addition of adenosine monophosphate to accessible residues of target proteins. Beside the well-known conservation of FicDs in deuterostomes, we report the presence of a conserved FicD gene ortholog in a large number of protostomes and microbial eukaryotes. We also reported additional FicD gene copies in the genomes of some rotifers, parasitic worms and bivalves. A few dsDNA viruses of these invertebrates, including White spot syndrome virus, Cherax quadricarinatus iridovirus, Ostreid herpesvirus-1 and the beetle nudivirus, carry copies of FicDs, with phylogenetic analysis suggesting a common origin of these FicD copies and the duplicated FicDs of their invertebrate hosts. HGTs and gene duplications possibly mediated by endogenous viruses or genetic mobile elements seem to have contributed to the transfer of AMPylation ability from bacteria and eukaryotes to pathogenic viruses, where this pathway could have been hijacked to promote viral infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In low- and middle-income countries, plastic has become a major constituent of landfills and urban dump sites. Environmental plastic pollution can also provide a novel surface for the formation of microbial biofilm, which often includes pathogenic bacteria and viruses. Here, under conditions simulating a peri-urban waste pile typical of an African informal settlement, we aimed to determine if pathogenic Salmonella spp. can retain their virulence following a prolonged period of desiccation on the surfaces of environmental plastic and glass. We show that clinically (and environmentally) relevant strains of Salmonella including S. Enteritidis, S. Typhimurium and S. Typhi can persist on plastic and glass for at least 28-days and that temperature (which increases with the depth of an urban waste pile) is a key determinant of this survival. All three strains of Salmonella retained their pathogenicity (determined by using a Galleria mellonella model of infection) following their recovery from the plastisphere indicating that plastics in the environment can act as reservoirs for human pathogens and could facilitate their persistence for extended periods of time. Pathogens colonising environmental plastic waste therefore pose a heightened public health risk, particularly in areas where people are frequently exposed to plastic pollution. [Display omitted] • African strains of pathogenic Salmonella can persist on environmental plastic waste. • Temperature affects the duration of persistence of Salmonella in the plastisphere. • Salmonella retains virulence and pathogencitiy following recovery from the plastisphere. • Pathogens colonising plastic pose a heightened environmental and public health risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Livestock plays a crucial role in ensuring food security and driving the global economy. However, viral infections can have far-reaching consequences beyond economic productivity, affecting the health of cattle, as well as posing risks to human health and other animals. Identifying viruses present in fecal samples, a primary route of pathogen transmission, is essential for developing effective prevention, control, and surveillance strategies. Viral metagenomic approaches offer a broader perspective and hold great potential for detecting previously unknown viruses or uncovering previously undescribed agents. Ubaté Province is Colombia's dairy capital and a key center for livestock production in the country. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to characterize viral communities in fecal samples from cattle in this region. A total of 42 samples were collected from three municipalities in Ubaté Province, located in central Colombia, using a convenient non-probabilistic sampling method. We utilized metagenomic sequencing with Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT), combined with diversity and phylogenetic analysis. The findings revealed a consistent and stable viral composition across the municipalities, primarily comprising members of the Picornaviridae family. At the species level, the most frequent viruses were Enterovirus E (EVE) and Bovine Astrovirus (BoAstV). Significantly, this study reported, for the first time in Colombia, the presence of viruses with veterinary importance occurring at notable frequencies: EVE (59%), Bovine Kobuvirus (BKV) (52%), and BoAstV (19%). Additionally, the study confirmed the existence of Circular replicase-encoding single-stranded (CRESS) Virus in animal feces. These sequences were phylogenetically grouped with samples obtained from Asia and Latin America, underscoring the importance of having adequate representation across the continent. The virome of bovine feces in Ubaté Province is characterized by the predominance of potentially pathogenic viruses such as BoAstV and EVE that have been reported with substantial frequency and quantities. Several of these viruses were identified in Colombia for the first time. This study showcases the utility of using metagenomic sequencing techniques in epidemiological surveillance. It also paves the way for further research on the influence of these agents on bovine health and their frecuency across the country. [Display omitted] • First report of Bovine Astrovirus, Bovine Kobuvirus (BKV), and Enterovirus E in Colombian cattle. • A consistent and stable viral composition across sites. • BKV sequence phylogenetically clustered with Brazilian sequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amyloidoses are an array of diseases associated with the aggregation of proteins into fibrils. While it was previously thought that amyloid fibril-forming proteins are exclusively host-cell encoded, recent studies have revealed that pathogenic viruses can form amyloid-like fibrils too. Intriguingly, viral amyloids are often composed of virulence factors, known for their contribution to cell death and disease progression. In this review, we survey the literature about viral proteins capable of forming amyloid-like fibrils. The molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the formation of viral amyloid-like aggregates are explored. In addition, we discuss the functional implications for viral amplification and the complex interplay between viral amyloids, biological functions, virulence, and virus-induced pathologies. • Numerous viruses code for amyloid-like fibril-forming proteins. • Several viral amyloids have functional significance that can benefit viruses. • Interactomics of viral amyloid-forming proteins revealed few shared host partners. • Viral amyloids are potentially linked to neurodegeneration. • Targeting viral amyloids represents a promising antiviral strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• This review highlights recent advancements in electrochemical biosensors for the detection of pathogenic viruses. • The selection and functions of bio-recognition elements and nanomaterials are comprehensively discussed. • The utilization of electrochemical collision technique for virus detection is discussed. • The integration of electrochemical biosensors with AI and IoT technologies hold great promise in the development of POC devices for virus detection. Viruses, with high fatality rates, have posed significant threat to global public health recent decades, necessitating rapid and accurate diagnostic methods to cut off their transmission effectively. To meet with this ongoing demand, electrochemical biosensors have emerged as powerful tools for virus detection due to their high sensitivity, good selectivity, cost-effectiveness, and rapid response. In this review, the fundamental components in the design of electrochemical biosensors, including biological recognition elements, nanomaterials, and signal outputs are introduced and their respective advantages and limitations are discussed. Furthermore, the employment of emerging innovative techniques, such as electrochemical collision technique and artificial intelligence technology and their combination with electrochemical biosensors for virus detection are discussed, which will provide valuable insights into the future prospects of electrochemical biosensors in virus detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fresh root vegetables are one of the main causes of viral foodborne diseases; however, the associated risk has not been fully considered. Therefore, the prevalence of five foodborne viruses including norovirus (NoV), hepatitis A virus (HAV), rotavirus (RotaV), adenovirus (AdV), and astrovirus (AstroV) in pre- and post-washed root vegetables (potato, carrot, sweet potato, and radish) were investigated by RT-qPCR or qPCR, nested RT-PCR, and sequencing. AdV and NoV GII were only detected in pre-washed samples. NoV GII was found in 1% and 2% of the potatoes and carrots, respectively and AdV in 4% and 10% of the potatoes and radishes, respectively. HAV was detected in 5.8% and 1.3% of the pre-and post-washed sweet potatoes, respectively and in 8% and 2% of the post-washed carrots and radishes, respectively. NoV GI and AstroV was not detected in any of the root vegetables. Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis revealed that the genotypes of AdV, NoV, and HAV were belonged to human AdV 41, NoV GII.3, and HAV IA and IB, respectively. This molecular surveillance study clearly demonstrated that human pathogenic viruses are found in root vegetables, and it is possible that they may serve as a potential reservoir for such viruses. Therefore, further research is necessary to confirm this hypothesis. Nevertheless, washing produce can lower the risks of contracting diseases due to certain root vegetables. • HAV was detected in both pre-and post-washed root vegetables regardless of washing. • AdV and NoV GII were detected only in pre-washed root vegetables. • AstroV was not detected in any root vegetables. • Detected viruses were subsequently confirmed and characterized by sequencing. • AdV, NoV, and HAV genotypes belonged to human AdV 41, NoV GII.3, and HAV IA and IB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic in recent years has greatly changed people's lifestyles. Among this, daily protection has become an important step for protecting people from pathogenic viruses. To date, various kinds of antiviral materials have been reported, nano-hybrid materials have been demonstrated for treating infectious diseases caused by viruses or bacteria. However, there are still various problems with existing protective textiles, such as the huge resource consumption caused by their disposable use and their protective role without the ability kill virus. In this review, we summarized the selection and design principle of efficient antiviral nano-hybrid materials through four aspects, namely antiviral strategies, material design, safety and evaluation, and challenges and prospects. First, the description of the structure and inactivation mechanism of viruses are discussed with the coronavirus as an example. Subsequently, existing antiviral materials and their main antiviral mechanisms are briefly summarized. The research progress and applications of nano-hybrid antiviral materials, such as organic, inorganic, and metal-based nano-hybrid antiviral materials, and their derived antiviral fibers and fabrics, are explained in detail. Meanwhile, the safety evaluation of antiviral materials and their limitations are elucidated. Finally, we discussed the challenges and future development in the structural regulation and application of nano-hybrid antiviral materials. We envision that this review could provide significant guidance on the preparation of antiviral nano-hybrid materials, which for manufacturing protective fabrics with highly effective antiviral properties, along with their future design and application to combat viruses that might emerge in the future. [Display omitted] ● Selection and design principle of efficient antiviral nano-hybrid fiber materials were summarized through four aspects. ● The research progress of antiviral nanomaterials and their derived antiviral fibers, fabrics, are summarized in detail. ● The challenges and future development in structural regulation of antiviral nano-hybrid fiber materials is summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reprogramming lipid metabolic pathways is a critical feature of activating immune responses to infection. However, how these reconfigurations occur is poorly understood. Our previous screen to identify cellular deubiquitylases (DUBs) activated during influenza virus infection revealed Usp25 as a prominent hit. Here, we show that Usp25-deleted human lung epithelial A549 cells display a >10-fold increase in pathogenic influenza virus production, which was rescued upon reconstitution with the wild type but not the catalytically deficient (C178S) variant. Proteomic analysis of Usp25 interactors revealed a strong association with Erlin1/2, which we confirmed as its substrate. Newly synthesized Erlin1/2 were degraded in Usp25−/− or Usp25C178S cells, activating Srebp2, with increased cholesterol flux and attenuated TLR3-dependent responses. Our study therefore defines the function of a deubiquitylase that serves to restrict a range of viruses by reprogramming lipid biosynthetic flux to install appropriate inflammatory responses. [Display omitted] • Usp25 deficiency increases susceptibility to pathogenic RNA viruses • Usp25 stabilizes the Erlin1/2 complex in virus-infected cells • Erlin1/2 negatively regulates the SREBP2 pathway to block cholesterol synthesis • Reduced cholesterol levels can trigger TLR3 dependent inflammatory responses Teo et al. report that Usp25, a deubiquitylase, is able to restrict virus infection by stabilizing the Erlin1/2 complex, which in turn regulates intracellular cholesterol levels. Absence of Usp25 drives Erlin1/2 degradation and increased cholesterol flux, providing a conducive environment for the assembly and secretion of pathogenic viruses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2) being contagious illness with allegedly high potential for global transmission, low potential for morbidity and fatality, and certain impact on global public health. This study describes a novel bio-system reliability spatio-temporal approach, that is especially appropriate for multi-regional environmental, biological and health systems and that, when observed for a sufficient amount of time, produces a reliable long-term forecast of the likelihood of an outbreak of a highly pathogenic virus. Conventional statistical approaches do not have the benefit of effectively handling large regional dimensionality and cross-correlation between various regional observations. These methods deal with temporal observations of multi-regional phenomena. The most afflicted districts of England's COVID-19 daily counts of reported patients were used for this investigation. In order to extract the essential data from dynamically observed patient numbers while taking into consideration pertinent geographical mapping, this study utilized recently developed bio-reliability methodology. With the use of the spatio-temporal approach described in this study, future epidemic outbreak risks for multi-regional public health systems may be predicted with sufficient accuracy. Epidemiology and public health have obvious environmental relevance and significance, therefore accurate prediction and prognostic tools are of paramount importance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A false negative result is one of the major problems in nucleic acid detection. Failure to screen positive samples for pathogens or viruses poses a risk to public health. This situation will lead to more serious consequences for infectious pathogens or viruses. At present, the common solution is to introduce exogenous or endogenous internal control. Because it amplifies and is detected separately from the target gene, it cannot avoid false negative results caused by DNA extraction failure or reagent inactivation. There is an urgent need for a simple and reliable method to solve the false negative problem of nucleic acid detection. We established a chip and an on-chip detection method for the integrated detection of target genes and internal control using the CRISPR system in LAMP amplification products. The chip is processed from a low-cost PMMA board and has three chambers and some channels. After adding the sample, the chip only needs to be rotated twice, and the sample enters three chambers successively depending on its gravity for dual LAMP reaction and CRISPR detections. With a portable LED blue light exciter, visual fluorescence detection is realized. Whether the detection result is positive, negative, or invalid can be determined according to the fluorescence in the CRISPR chamber for target gene and CRISPR chamber for internal control. In this study, the detection of Salmonella enterica in Fenneropenaeus chinensis was taken as an example. The results showed good specificity and sensitivity. It could detect as low as 15 copies/μL of Salmonella enterica. The on-chip detection solves the problem of aerosol contamination and false negative results. It has the advantages of high sensitivity, high specificity, high accuracy, and low cost. This research will advance the development of nucleic acid detection technology, providing a new and reliable strategy for POCT detection of pathogenic bacteria and viruses. [Display omitted] • A nucleic acid detection method and a corresponding chip are developed. • Problems of aerosol pollution and false negative results are solved. • The integrated chip is portable, simple in structure and low in cost. • The on-chip detection integrates amplification and pseudo dual gene detection. • As low as 15 copies/μL of Salmonella can be detected by visible fluorescence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept that type I interferons (IFN-I) are essential to antiviral immunity derives from studies on animal models and cell lines. Virtually all pathogenic viruses have evolved countermeasures to IFN-I restriction, and genetic loss of viral IFN-I antagonists leads to virus attenuation. But just how important is IFN-I to antiviral defence in humans? The recent discovery of genetic defects of IFN-I signalling illuminates this and other questions of IFN biology, including the role of the mucosa-restricted type III IFNs (IFN-III), informing our understanding of the place of the IFN system within the concerted antiviral response. Here we review monogenic lesions of IFN-I signalling pathways and summarise the organising principles which emerge. Inborn errors of immunity affecting all key molecular components of the interferon (IFN)-I signalling pathway [IFN-alpha/beta receptor (IFNAR)1, IFNAR2, Janus kinase 1 (JAK1), tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2), signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)1, STAT2, and interferon regulatory factor 9 (IRF9)] have been identified in humans. Deficiency of IFNAR results in potentially fatal susceptibility to live-attenuated viral vaccines, but without general susceptibility to common childhood viral diseases. Clinically evident vulnerability to a broader spectrum of viral diseases, including respiratory viruses such as influenza as well as live-attenuated viral vaccines, often accompanies deficiency of STAT2 and IRF9. These molecules transduce signals downstream of IFN-I and IFN-III, suggesting that the latter provides compensatory antiviral defence in IFNAR-deficient patients. Children with defects in IFN-I and IFN-III signalling are not particularly susceptible to viruses such as cytomegalovirus (CMV), suggesting that this virus has successfully evolved mechanisms to overcome IFN-I/III restriction. STAT1-deficient patients, who lack signalling in response to all types of IFN (I, II, and III), show the widest viral susceptibility of all. Pathological dissemination of parenterally delivered live-viral vaccines in otherwise healthy children should signify an inborn error of IFN-I immunity until proved otherwise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Bats serve as natural reservoirs for a variety of viruses. • Transmission of highly pathogenic viruses from bats has been suspected and linked to a spectrum of emerging infectious diseases in humans and animals worldwide. • Examples of such viruses include Marburg, Ebola, Nipah, Hendra, Influenza A, Dengue, Equine Encephalitis viruses, Lyssaviruses, Madariaga, and Coronaviruses, involving the now pandemic Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). • Herein, we provide a comprehensive review on the diversity, reservoirs, and geographical distribution of the main bat viruses and their potential for cross-species transmission. Bats have populated earth for approximately 52 million years, serving as natural reservoirs for a variety of viruses through the course of evolution. Transmission of highly pathogenic viruses from bats has been suspected or linked to a spectrum of potential emerging infectious diseases in humans and animals worldwide. Examples of such viruses include Marburg, Ebolavirus, Nipah, Hendra, Influenza A, Dengue, Equine Encephalitis viruses, Lyssaviruses, Madariaga and Coronaviruses, involving the now pandemic Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Herein, we provide a narrative review focused in selected emerging viral infectious diseases that have been reported from bats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Viruses, as obligate intracellular parasites, exploit cellular pathways and resources in a variety of fascinating ways. A striking example of this is the remodelling of intracellular membranes into specialized structures that support the replication of positive-sense ssRNA (+RNA) viruses infecting eukaryotes. These distinct forms of virus-induced structures include double-membrane vesicles (DMVs), found during viral infections as diverse and notorious as those of coronaviruses, enteroviruses, noroviruses, or hepatitis C virus. Our understanding of these DMVs has evolved over the past 15 years thanks to advances in imaging techniques and modern molecular biology tools. In this article, we review contemporary understanding of the biogenesis, structure, and function of virus-induced DMVs as well as the open questions posed by these intriguing structures. Positive-sense RNA viruses utilize host membranes to generate viral replication organelles (ROs), inducing either invaginated spherules or double-membrane vesicles (DMVs) to support viral RNA synthesis. DMVs have emerged as a recurrent RO motif among important human pathogenic viruses. These include picornaviruses such as enteroviruses and poliovirus, hepatitis C virus, noroviruses, and coronaviruses such as Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS)- and severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS)-coronaviruses. Virus-induced DMVs appear to derive from membranes of the secretory pathway and form via several membrane remodelling steps coordinated by specific viral nonstructural proteins and host factors. Recent evidence demonstrates that DMVs are a central hub for the synthesis of viral RNA (vRNA), making them attractive targets for novel antiviral interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Viruses can infect all cell-based organisms, from bacteria to humans, animals, and plants. They are responsible for numerous cases of hospitalization, many deaths, and widespread crop destruction, all of which result in an enormous medical, economical, and biological burden. Each of the currently used decontamination methods has important drawbacks. Cold plasma (CP) has entered this field as a novel, efficient, and clean solution for virus inactivation. We present recent developments in this promising field of CP-mediated virus inactivation, and describe the applications and mechanisms of the inactivation. This is particularly relevant because viral pandemics, such as COVID-19, highlight the need for alternative virus inactivation methods to replace, complement, or upgrade existing procedures. Pathogenic viruses are becoming an increasing burden for health, agriculture, and the global economy. Classic disinfection methods have several drawbacks, and innovative solutions for virus inactivation are urgently needed. CP can be used as an environmentally friendly tool for virus inactivation. It can inactivate different human, animal, and plant viruses in various matrices. When using CP for virus inactivation it is important to set the correct parameters and to choose treatment durations that allow particles to interact with the contaminated material. Reactive oxygen and/or nitrogen species have been shown to be responsible for virus inactivation through effects on capsid proteins and/or nucleic acids. The development of more accurate methods will provide information on which plasma particles are crucial in each experiment, and how exactly they affect viruses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cyclic GMP-AMP (cGAMP) synthase (cGAS) is a major responder to the pathogenic DNA of viruses and bacteria. Upon DNA binding, cGAS becomes enzymatically active to generate the second messenger cGAMP, leading to activation of inflammatory genes, type I interferon production, autophagy, and cell death. Following genotoxic stress, cGAS can also respond to endogenous DNA, deriving from mitochondria, endogenous retroelements, and chromosomes to affect cellular signaling, secretion, and cell fate decisions. However, under unperturbed conditions, signaling from self-DNA is largely, but not completely, inhibited. Here we review how endogenous DNA is exposed to cGAS, how signaling is attenuated but activated under pathological conditions, and how low-level signaling under unperturbed conditions might prime antipathogenic responses. cGAS is the major innate immune sensor of pathogenic DNA, and triggers inflammatory gene expression, autophagy, and cell death in response to detecting pathogen DNA. cGAS can, in principle, also respond to all the major forms of self-DNA: mitochondrial DNA, DNA of endogenous retroelements, and chromosomal DNA. Under unperturbed conditions, cGAS activation by self-DNA is limited. Mitochondria are separated by mitochondrial membranes, endogenous retroelements are silenced, and activation by chromosomal self-DNA is limited by nonproductive binding of cGAS to nucleosomes. In response to stress, DNA damage, and cell cycle aberrations, self-DNA can eventually promote cGAS signaling, promoting inflammation, senescence, and cell death. Low-level activation of cGAS by self-DNA may boost baseline expression levels of antipathogenic genes to allow a faster response to infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recent pneumonia outbreak caused by a novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) is posing a great threat to global public health. Therefore, rapid and accurate identification of pathogenic viruses plays a vital role in selecting appropriate treatments, saving people's lives and preventing epidemics. It is important to establish a quick standard diagnostic test for the detection of the infectious disease (COVID-19) to prevent subsequent secondary spread. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is regarded as a gold standard test for the molecular diagnosis of viral and bacterial infections with high sensitivity and specificity. Isothermal nucleic acid amplification is considered to be a highly promising candidate method due to its fundamental advantage in quick procedure time at constant temperature without thermocycler operation. A variety of improved or new approaches also have been developed. This review summarizes the currently available detection methods for coronavirus nucleic acid. It is anticipated that this will assist researchers and clinicians in developing better techniques for timely and effective detection of coronavirus infection. The recent pneumonia outbreak caused by a novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) in China, poses a great threat to global public health. Therefore, rapid and accurate identification of pathogenic viruses plays a vital role in selecting appropriate treatments, saving people's lives and preventing epidemics. This review summarizes the currently available detection methods for coronavirus nucleic acid. It is anticipated that this will assist researchers and clinicians in developing better techniques for timely and effective detection of coronavirus infection. Image 1 • This review summarizes the currently available detection methods for coronavirus nucleic acid. • It will assist researchers in developing better techniques for timely and effective detection of coronavirus infection. • It will help the establishment of SARS-CoV-2 RNA detection method which is useful for the early diagnosis of COVID-19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• West Nile virus is a widespread mosquito-borne human and animal pathogenic virus of increasing importance. • In 1% of cases, WNV infection leads to a severe illness affecting the central nervous system (CNS). • The detection of anti-E IgM and IgG antibodies is widely used in serology to diagnose these infections. West Nile virus is a widespread mosquito-borne human and animal pathogenic virus of increasing importance. The E protein of the viral envelope is critical for attachment and entry into the host cell and has been the target for vaccine design and small molecule inhibitors. Furthermore, the detection of anti-E IgM and IgG antibodies is widely used in serology to diagnose these infections. Here we describe a strategy for the production of recombinant antibodies against the E protein of West Nile virus for research and immunodiagnostic purposes. Initially the fast and easy protocol previously developed for the similar Tick-borne encephalitis virus has been adapted to West Nile virus E antigen production and purification. A human naïve scFv phage library has been selected on the produced antigen, identifying a panel of highly specific anti-E protein antibodies. Once produced as scFv-Fc recombinant proteins, the selected antibodies have been characterized by mapping their binding sites and by defining their affinity for the target. The impact on neutralizing virus attachment and entry has been also evaluated. The obtained results demonstrate the potential of the produced reagents for research and diagnostic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New treatments for multiple sclerosis (MS) focused on B cells have created an atmosphere of excitement in the MS community. B cells are now known to play a major role in disease, demonstrated by the highly impactful effect of a B cell-depleting antibody on controlling MS. The idea that a virus may play a role in the development of MS has a long history and is supported mostly by studies demonstrating a link between B cell-tropic Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) and disease onset. Efforts to develop antiviral strategies for treating MS are underway. Although gaps remain in our understanding of the etiology of MS, the role, if any, of viruses in propagating pathogenic immune responses deserves attention. Clinical studies show that depletion of B cells reduces disease burden in both relapsing-remitting and progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. B cell-tropic viruses may trigger aberrant immune responses in MS in genetically susceptible individuals owing, in part, to a failure in viral surveillance and clearance. The most compelling data supporting an etiologic role for viral involvement in MS have emerged for Epstein–Barr virus (EBV). Targeting mechanisms by which EBV is thought to participate in MS pathogenesis provides an opportunity for new drug development in MS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the emergence of pathogenic viruses has dominated studies of virus evolution. However, new metagenomic studies imply that relatively few of an immense number of viruses may lead to overt disease. This suggests a change in emphasis, from viruses as habitual pathogens to integral components of ecosystems. Here we show how viruses alter interactions between host individuals, populations, and ecosystems, impacting ecosystem health, resilience, and function, and how host ecology in turn impacts viral abundance and diversity. Moving to an ecosystems perspective will put virus evolution and disease emergence in its true context, and enhance our understanding of ecological processes. The high abundance and diversity of viruses in nature, often in the apparent absence of disease, suggests that they are naturally embedded into global ecosystems at all ecological scales. Studies of virus ecology and evolution need to refocus to understand the role played by viruses in global ecosystems rather than only on pathogens that emerge following host jumping. Viruses alter interactions between host individuals, populations, and ecosystems, impacting ecosystem health, resilience, and function. Host ecology in turn impacts viral abundance and diversity. Viruses account for extensive biodiversity and have abundant links within ecosystems. An ecosystem with higher diversity has higher functional redundancy and is more resilient to change. The natural virome may therefore be beneficial to ecosystem function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wild bird migration and illegal trade of infected poultry, eggs, and poultry products have been associated with the spread of avian influenza viruses (AIV). During 1992–1996, H7N1 and H7N8 low pathogenic AIV (LPAIV) were identified from captive wild birds; such as Pekin robin (Leiothrix lutea), magpie robin (Copsychus saularis), flycatcher sp. (genus Empidonax), a species of softbill and parakeet, sun conure (Aratinga solstitialis), painted conure (Pyrrhura picta), fairy bluebird (Irena puella), and common iora (Aegithina tiphia), kept in aviaries or quarantine stations in England, The Netherlands, Singapore and the United States (U.S.). In this study, we sequenced these H7 viruses isolated from quarantine facilities and aviaries using next-generation sequencing and conducted a comparative phylogenetic analysis of complete genome sequences to elucidate spread patterns. The complete genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis suggested that H7 viruses originated from a common source, even though they were obtained from birds in distant geographical regions. All H7N1 and H7N8 viruses were LPAIV, except a H7N1 highly pathogenic AIV (HPAIV), A/Pekin robin/California/30412/1994(H7N1) virus. Our results support the continued need for regulation of the captive wild bird trade to reduce the risk of introduction and dissemination of both LPAIV and HPAIV throughout the world. • H7 avian influenza viruses were disseminated via captive bird trade during 1990's. • H7 originated from a common source even though they were detected in distant regions. • The A/Pekin robin/CA/30412/94(H7N1) virus is considered highly pathogenic virus. • Strict quarantine controls and monitoring for avian influenza should be continued. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Newcastle disease virus vectored H7 serotype-specific vaccines was generated. • Heterologous prime and boost immunization was conducted. • Vaccine candidates completely protected broiler chickens against H7N8 HPAI virus. Continuous outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses in commercial poultry have caused devastating losses to domestic poultry with a raising public health concern. The outbreaks of HPAI viruses have increased worldwide, including the North America. Therefore, vaccination has been considered as an alternative strategy for an efficient control of HPAI viruses. In this study, we aimed to generate Newcastle disease virus (NDV) vectored H7 serotype-specific vaccines by expressing the consensus sequence of the HA protein. Conventional NDV strain LaSota vector and a chimeric NDV vector containing the avian paramyxovirus type-2 F and HN protein were able to express the consensus sequence of HA protein. The protective efficacy of vaccines was evaluated in broiler chickens and in turkeys. One-day-old poults were prime immunized with the chimeric vector expressing the HA protein followed by boost immunization with LaSota vector expressing the HA protein or co-expressing the HA and NA proteins. Our vaccine candidates provided complete protection of broiler chickens from mortality and shedding of H7N8 HPAI challenge virus. Turkeys were better protected by boosting with the LaSota vector co-expressing the HA and NA proteins than the LaSota vector expressing only the HA protein. Our study demonstrated a potential use of heterologous prime and boost vaccination strategy to protect poultry against H7 HPAI viruses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]