Dhori virus

Updated : December 26, 2023

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  • Dhori virus (DHOV) is an emerging tick-borne zoonotic virus belonging to the orthomyxovirus family. It can infect humans and domestic animals, leading to severe clinical consequences. DHOV is primarily transmitted through ticks, with Hyalomma species ticks commonly associated with the virus. In India, DHOV was isolated from Hyalomma dromedarii ticks collected from camels, suggesting a potential reservoir role of camels. Other tick species, such as H. plumbeum, have also been implicated in transmitting DHOV.  
  • According to studies, antibiotics to DHOV have been found in 4-9% of the population in southern Russia’s Volga River delta zone. These antibodies show that people in this area were exposed to DHOV and acquired an immunological response. In Kyrgyzstan, antibodies to DHOV have been detected in the sera of 0.3% of the human population.  
  • Antibodies to DHOV have been discovered in roughly 0.8% of the population in the south of Portugal. This decreased incidence compared to the Volga River delta zone shows that Portugal had a lower amount of DHOV exposure in the past. Variations in tick populations, regional ecological circumstances, human behavior, and degrees of awareness and prevention efforts against tick bites could contribute to this disparity. 
  • Kingdom: Viruses 
  • Phylum: Negarnaviricota 
  • Class: Orthornavirae 
  • Order: Mononegavirales 
  • Family: Orthomyxoviridae 
  • Genus: Thogotovirus 
  • Species: Dhori virus  
  • Dhori viruses are enveloped with a helical nucleocapsid containing viral RNA segments and associated nucleoprotein (NP). Size is approximately 2.5 Å.
  • Dhori virus exhibits a unique architecture consisting of three identical chains that combine to create an elongated bottle-shaped structure. The interchain interactions within DHOV are stabilized by a central helix bundle.
  • It is made up of trimers of class III virus-fusion glycoproteins Gps. Three interchain disulfide bonds at the Gps’s peripheral loop regions keep the trimeric configuration together. These disulfide bonds stabilize the contact between the chains, allowing the Gps to stay trimeric. 

 

  • Batken virus is a subtype of the Dhori virus. The prototypical strain of the Batken virus, LEIV-K306, was isolated from Hyalomma marginatum ticks collected from sheep near Batken in Kyrgyzstan in April 1970. Serological cross-reactions between the Batken virus & Dhori virus indicate a close phylogenetic relationship between these viruses.  
  • DHOV POTiP12 (SM1) and DHOV Turkey-07 are two known strains of the Dhori virus. 
  • The single-envelope glycoprotein (Gp) on the surface of DHOV is responsible for recognizing and binding to specific receptors on the host cell membrane. This attachment process is essential for the virus to enter the host cell.  
  • Dhori viruses can be internalized into host cells through a process called endocytosis. Endocytosis involves the formation of a membrane-bound cyst, known as an endosome, which engulfs the virus and brings it into the host cell. The endosomal compartment containing DHOV, and the viral envelope undergoes a series of interactions triggered by the acidic environment of the endosome. These interactions cause a conformational change in the viral glycoprotein, enabling the fusion of the viral envelope with the endosomal membrane. This membrane fusion process releases the viral genetic material into the host cell cytoplasm, initiating viral replication.  
  • DHOV replicates and transcriptions within the cell nucleus after entering the host cell. A viral polymerase complex formed by polymerase essential subunit 1, polymerase basic subunit 2, & polymerase acidic subunit facilitates this process by synthesizing negative-strand viral RNA, encapsulated polyadenylated mRNAs, along with complementary positive-strand RNA.   
  • Nucleoprotein (NP), encoded by segment 5 of the genome, is essential in this process. Segment 6 encodes the matrix protein and an M-long accessory protein that can disrupt the host’s innate immune response. Notably, the M1 protein, encoded by alternate splicing of segment 6, is accountable for activating the nuclear export protein to export genomic segments from the nucleus. At the plasma membrane, viral assembly & budding occur in the latter phases of DHOV pathogenesis. During this process, new viral particles are generated and discharged from the infected cell, allowing the virus to propagate and complete its replication cycle. 
  •  
  • The host defense against Dhori viruses (DHOV) involves the action of interferon-induced Mx GTPases, which inhibit the virus at an early stage of its replication cycle. Effector molecules induced by interferons are the Mx GTPase protein. Mx GTPases are a family of dynamin-like GTPases that are upregulated in response to interferon stimulation. When DHOV infects a host cell, the viral genetic material is released into the cytoplasm, where the virus attempts to hijack the cellular machinery to replicate itself. At this early stage of the virus replication cycle, Mx GTPases are activated and exert their antiviral effect.  
  • Mx GTPases can directly interact with viral components or replication complexes, inhibiting their proper function. Studies have shown that Mx GTPases can disrupt the formation of viral replication complexes, impair viral protein synthesis, or promote the degradation of viral components. 
  • The replication of the Dhori virus (DHOV) can be inhibited by actinomycin-D or α-amanitin, which are compounds that interfere with the synthesis of viral RNA. Actinomycin-D and α-amanitin are both inhibitors of RNA synthesis. They target the cellular machinery involved in transcription, the process by which genetic information stored in DNA is copied into RNA molecules. By interfering with RNA synthesis, these compounds can inhibit the replication of the Dhori virus.  
  • Actinomycin-D and α-amanitin exert their antiviral effect by binding to specific components of the cellular transcription machinery. Actinomycin-D binds to DNA and prevents the elongation of RNA chains, thereby inhibiting both cellular and viral RNA synthesis. α-amanitin specifically targets the RNA polymerase II enzyme; by binding to RNA polymerase II, α-amanitin blocks the synthesis of new RNA molecules. When actinomycin-D or α-amanitin is present in the infected cell, they interfere with the production of viral RNA, thus hampering the replication of DHOV. This inhibition limits the ability of the virus to produce new viral particles and slows the spread of the infection. 
  • The synthesis of key immunological molecules like macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1, monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1, & interferon (IFN)- is crucial for host defense against Dhori virus (DHOV). MIP-1 functions as a chemoattractant, attracting immune cells such as monocytes, neutrophils, & natural killer cells to the infection sites, assisting in viral control and clearance.   
  • Monocytes are drawn to the infection site by MCP-1, which acts as a chemoattractant. There, they can destroy virus-infected cells and launch adaptive immune responses. IFN-α influences the adaptive immune reaction by boosting the synthesis of virus-specific antibodies & cytotoxic T lymphocytes and inducing an antiviral state in nearby cells, limiting viral replication, activating NK cells for the direct death of infected cells, and limiting viral replication. These well-coordinated immune responses help the host fight off DHOV by concentrating on the virus, limiting its growth, and encouraging the death of infected cells. 

Dhori virus (DHOV) is associated with a febrile illness that can manifest with various clinical symptoms.  

  • Dhori virus fever: DHOV infection can lead to a febrile illness characterized by high fever. The fever is typically acute in onset and may be accompanied by chills and rigors. 
  • Encephalitis: Encephalitis, which refers to brain inflammation, is a severe manifestation of DHOV infection. It can result in neurological symptoms such as headaches, altered mental status, confusion, seizures, and focal neurological deficits. 
  • Meningitis: Some cases of DHOV infection may present with meningitis, which is inflammation of the membranes (meninges) encircling the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis can cause symptoms such as severe headache, neck stiffness, photophobia (light sensitivity), and meningeal irritation signs. 
  • Weakness and fatigue: Patients with DHOV infection often experience weakness and fatigue, which can be debilitating and contribute to the overall illness burden. 
  • Myalgia and arthralgia: Muscular pain (myalgia) and joint pain (arthralgia) are common symptoms of DHOV infection. Affected individuals may experience generalized body aches and muscle and joint pain.
  • Respiratory symptoms: Some individuals infected with DHOV may exhibit respiratory symptoms, such as cough and shortness of breath. These symptoms vary in severity and may be more pronounced in individuals with underlying respiratory conditions. 
  • Dhori virus is an emerging virus, and its recognition and awareness among healthcare professionals may be limited. As a result, the possibility of DHOV infection may not be initially considered, leading to delayed or missed diagnoses. Cross-reactivity with other related viruses or serological tests is another challenge in DHOV diagnosis. Due to the genetic and antigenic similarities between DHOV and other related viruses, serological tests may show cross-reactivity, leading to possible false-positive or false-negative results.  
  • Immunofluorescence assay: Patient sera are analyzed utilizing indirect immunofluorescence in this experiment. The DHOV variant [DHOV POTiP12, SM1] can be specifically propagated in cells of Vero E6 and put onto spot slides. The patient’s sera are subsequently exposed to these fixed viral antigens. A fluorescein-labeled conjugate that includes rabbit anti-human IgM & IgG is used to identify the presence of specific antibodies. For comparison, positive and negative baseline sera are included. For human samples, 1/32 (IgG) & 1/16 (IgM) titers are deemed positive. The IFA test detects DHOV-specific antibodies in the patient’s sera, indicating previous DHOV exposure or continuing illness. Suitable laboratory protocols and relevant controls must be followed for accurate and trustworthy results. 
  • Minimize exposure to ticks by avoiding tick-infested areas, especially during peak tick activity seasons. If entering tick-prone areas is necessary, use appropriate clothing like long sleeves, long pants tucked into socks, and closed shoes. Apply insect repellents containing DEET or picaridin to exposed skin and clothing.
  • Implement measures to protect livestock and pets from tick bites, as they can serve as hosts for the Dhori virus. Use acaricides or tick control products on animals as veterinarians or agricultural experts recommend. Regularly inspect and remove ticks from animals to reduce the risk of transmission. 
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Dhori virus

Updated : December 26, 2023

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  • Dhori virus (DHOV) is an emerging tick-borne zoonotic virus belonging to the orthomyxovirus family. It can infect humans and domestic animals, leading to severe clinical consequences. DHOV is primarily transmitted through ticks, with Hyalomma species ticks commonly associated with the virus. In India, DHOV was isolated from Hyalomma dromedarii ticks collected from camels, suggesting a potential reservoir role of camels. Other tick species, such as H. plumbeum, have also been implicated in transmitting DHOV.  
  • According to studies, antibiotics to DHOV have been found in 4-9% of the population in southern Russia’s Volga River delta zone. These antibodies show that people in this area were exposed to DHOV and acquired an immunological response. In Kyrgyzstan, antibodies to DHOV have been detected in the sera of 0.3% of the human population.  
  • Antibodies to DHOV have been discovered in roughly 0.8% of the population in the south of Portugal. This decreased incidence compared to the Volga River delta zone shows that Portugal had a lower amount of DHOV exposure in the past. Variations in tick populations, regional ecological circumstances, human behavior, and degrees of awareness and prevention efforts against tick bites could contribute to this disparity. 
  • Kingdom: Viruses 
  • Phylum: Negarnaviricota 
  • Class: Orthornavirae 
  • Order: Mononegavirales 
  • Family: Orthomyxoviridae 
  • Genus: Thogotovirus 
  • Species: Dhori virus  
  • Dhori viruses are enveloped with a helical nucleocapsid containing viral RNA segments and associated nucleoprotein (NP). Size is approximately 2.5 Å.
  • Dhori virus exhibits a unique architecture consisting of three identical chains that combine to create an elongated bottle-shaped structure. The interchain interactions within DHOV are stabilized by a central helix bundle.
  • It is made up of trimers of class III virus-fusion glycoproteins Gps. Three interchain disulfide bonds at the Gps’s peripheral loop regions keep the trimeric configuration together. These disulfide bonds stabilize the contact between the chains, allowing the Gps to stay trimeric. 

 

  • Batken virus is a subtype of the Dhori virus. The prototypical strain of the Batken virus, LEIV-K306, was isolated from Hyalomma marginatum ticks collected from sheep near Batken in Kyrgyzstan in April 1970. Serological cross-reactions between the Batken virus & Dhori virus indicate a close phylogenetic relationship between these viruses.  
  • DHOV POTiP12 (SM1) and DHOV Turkey-07 are two known strains of the Dhori virus. 
  • The single-envelope glycoprotein (Gp) on the surface of DHOV is responsible for recognizing and binding to specific receptors on the host cell membrane. This attachment process is essential for the virus to enter the host cell.  
  • Dhori viruses can be internalized into host cells through a process called endocytosis. Endocytosis involves the formation of a membrane-bound cyst, known as an endosome, which engulfs the virus and brings it into the host cell. The endosomal compartment containing DHOV, and the viral envelope undergoes a series of interactions triggered by the acidic environment of the endosome. These interactions cause a conformational change in the viral glycoprotein, enabling the fusion of the viral envelope with the endosomal membrane. This membrane fusion process releases the viral genetic material into the host cell cytoplasm, initiating viral replication.  
  • DHOV replicates and transcriptions within the cell nucleus after entering the host cell. A viral polymerase complex formed by polymerase essential subunit 1, polymerase basic subunit 2, & polymerase acidic subunit facilitates this process by synthesizing negative-strand viral RNA, encapsulated polyadenylated mRNAs, along with complementary positive-strand RNA.   
  • Nucleoprotein (NP), encoded by segment 5 of the genome, is essential in this process. Segment 6 encodes the matrix protein and an M-long accessory protein that can disrupt the host’s innate immune response. Notably, the M1 protein, encoded by alternate splicing of segment 6, is accountable for activating the nuclear export protein to export genomic segments from the nucleus. At the plasma membrane, viral assembly & budding occur in the latter phases of DHOV pathogenesis. During this process, new viral particles are generated and discharged from the infected cell, allowing the virus to propagate and complete its replication cycle. 
  •  
  • The host defense against Dhori viruses (DHOV) involves the action of interferon-induced Mx GTPases, which inhibit the virus at an early stage of its replication cycle. Effector molecules induced by interferons are the Mx GTPase protein. Mx GTPases are a family of dynamin-like GTPases that are upregulated in response to interferon stimulation. When DHOV infects a host cell, the viral genetic material is released into the cytoplasm, where the virus attempts to hijack the cellular machinery to replicate itself. At this early stage of the virus replication cycle, Mx GTPases are activated and exert their antiviral effect.  
  • Mx GTPases can directly interact with viral components or replication complexes, inhibiting their proper function. Studies have shown that Mx GTPases can disrupt the formation of viral replication complexes, impair viral protein synthesis, or promote the degradation of viral components. 
  • The replication of the Dhori virus (DHOV) can be inhibited by actinomycin-D or α-amanitin, which are compounds that interfere with the synthesis of viral RNA. Actinomycin-D and α-amanitin are both inhibitors of RNA synthesis. They target the cellular machinery involved in transcription, the process by which genetic information stored in DNA is copied into RNA molecules. By interfering with RNA synthesis, these compounds can inhibit the replication of the Dhori virus.  
  • Actinomycin-D and α-amanitin exert their antiviral effect by binding to specific components of the cellular transcription machinery. Actinomycin-D binds to DNA and prevents the elongation of RNA chains, thereby inhibiting both cellular and viral RNA synthesis. α-amanitin specifically targets the RNA polymerase II enzyme; by binding to RNA polymerase II, α-amanitin blocks the synthesis of new RNA molecules. When actinomycin-D or α-amanitin is present in the infected cell, they interfere with the production of viral RNA, thus hampering the replication of DHOV. This inhibition limits the ability of the virus to produce new viral particles and slows the spread of the infection. 
  • The synthesis of key immunological molecules like macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1, monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1, & interferon (IFN)- is crucial for host defense against Dhori virus (DHOV). MIP-1 functions as a chemoattractant, attracting immune cells such as monocytes, neutrophils, & natural killer cells to the infection sites, assisting in viral control and clearance.   
  • Monocytes are drawn to the infection site by MCP-1, which acts as a chemoattractant. There, they can destroy virus-infected cells and launch adaptive immune responses. IFN-α influences the adaptive immune reaction by boosting the synthesis of virus-specific antibodies & cytotoxic T lymphocytes and inducing an antiviral state in nearby cells, limiting viral replication, activating NK cells for the direct death of infected cells, and limiting viral replication. These well-coordinated immune responses help the host fight off DHOV by concentrating on the virus, limiting its growth, and encouraging the death of infected cells. 

Dhori virus (DHOV) is associated with a febrile illness that can manifest with various clinical symptoms.  

  • Dhori virus fever: DHOV infection can lead to a febrile illness characterized by high fever. The fever is typically acute in onset and may be accompanied by chills and rigors. 
  • Encephalitis: Encephalitis, which refers to brain inflammation, is a severe manifestation of DHOV infection. It can result in neurological symptoms such as headaches, altered mental status, confusion, seizures, and focal neurological deficits. 
  • Meningitis: Some cases of DHOV infection may present with meningitis, which is inflammation of the membranes (meninges) encircling the brain and spinal cord. Meningitis can cause symptoms such as severe headache, neck stiffness, photophobia (light sensitivity), and meningeal irritation signs. 
  • Weakness and fatigue: Patients with DHOV infection often experience weakness and fatigue, which can be debilitating and contribute to the overall illness burden. 
  • Myalgia and arthralgia: Muscular pain (myalgia) and joint pain (arthralgia) are common symptoms of DHOV infection. Affected individuals may experience generalized body aches and muscle and joint pain.
  • Respiratory symptoms: Some individuals infected with DHOV may exhibit respiratory symptoms, such as cough and shortness of breath. These symptoms vary in severity and may be more pronounced in individuals with underlying respiratory conditions. 
  • Dhori virus is an emerging virus, and its recognition and awareness among healthcare professionals may be limited. As a result, the possibility of DHOV infection may not be initially considered, leading to delayed or missed diagnoses. Cross-reactivity with other related viruses or serological tests is another challenge in DHOV diagnosis. Due to the genetic and antigenic similarities between DHOV and other related viruses, serological tests may show cross-reactivity, leading to possible false-positive or false-negative results.  
  • Immunofluorescence assay: Patient sera are analyzed utilizing indirect immunofluorescence in this experiment. The DHOV variant [DHOV POTiP12, SM1] can be specifically propagated in cells of Vero E6 and put onto spot slides. The patient’s sera are subsequently exposed to these fixed viral antigens. A fluorescein-labeled conjugate that includes rabbit anti-human IgM & IgG is used to identify the presence of specific antibodies. For comparison, positive and negative baseline sera are included. For human samples, 1/32 (IgG) & 1/16 (IgM) titers are deemed positive. The IFA test detects DHOV-specific antibodies in the patient’s sera, indicating previous DHOV exposure or continuing illness. Suitable laboratory protocols and relevant controls must be followed for accurate and trustworthy results. 
  • Minimize exposure to ticks by avoiding tick-infested areas, especially during peak tick activity seasons. If entering tick-prone areas is necessary, use appropriate clothing like long sleeves, long pants tucked into socks, and closed shoes. Apply insect repellents containing DEET or picaridin to exposed skin and clothing.
  • Implement measures to protect livestock and pets from tick bites, as they can serve as hosts for the Dhori virus. Use acaricides or tick control products on animals as veterinarians or agricultural experts recommend. Regularly inspect and remove ticks from animals to reduce the risk of transmission. 

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