Yaba-like disease virus

Updated : December 15, 2023

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  • Yaba monkey tumor virus is a poxvirus that mainly infects old-world monkeys, causing enormous histiocytomas to grow on primates’ extremities. The virus was discovered during an outbreak of cutaneous histiocytomas in rhesus macaques in Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria 1956. 
  • The Yaba monkey tumor virus is a poxvirus that typically infects old-world monkeys and has been linked to tumor formation in these primates. The virus was discovered during epizootics in primate centers in the United States in 1965 and 1966. While yatapoxviruses, particularly YMTV, primarily infect monkeys, there have been reports of accidental human infections since 1971. 
  • In humans, YMTV infection often manifests as a slight fever followed by the development of a few elevated and necrotic maculopapular nodules at the site of infection. Although the specific epidemiology of YMTV is unknown, it is thought to have a simian reservoir primarily found in Africa, particularly in Kenya & the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The virus can infect humans through close contact with infected primates or via arthropod vectors. So, at present, no transmission cases from person to person have been reported. 
  • YMTV infections in humans are rare, with only a few documented cases. The virus was first identified in a human case in the United States in 1972, where the individual had been in contact with an infected monkey. It is important to note that natural infections of YMTV in humans have not been reported. However, accidental infections and studies involving volunteers have demonstrated that YMTV can induce similar histiocytomas in humans. YMTV is the most significant poxviral disease affecting old (OWM) & new (NWM) monkeys. 
  • Kingdom: Virus  
  • Phylum: Nucleocytoviricota 
  • Class: Pokkesviricetes 
  • Family: Poxviridae 
  • Subfamily: Chordopoxvirinae 
  • Genus: Yatapoxvirus 
  • Species: Yaba-like disease virus 
  • Yaba-like disease virus (YLDV) is a poxvirus with a similar structural organization to other poxviruses. It has a complicated structure consisting of a linear double-stranded DNA genome encased within a core envelope and encircled by two lateral bodies. 
  • The YLDV genome is approximately 144,575 base pairs long and has special sections termed inverted terminal repeats (ITRs) that are 1883 bp long. These ITRs are involved in viral genome replication & bundling.  
  • The genome contains 151 open reading frames (ORFs) that encode different proteins. These proteins provide a variety of roles, such as enzymatic activity and transcriptional control as transcription factors. 
  • The structural proteins oversee the viral particle’s development, comprising the core envelope & the two lateral bodies. The core envelope encapsulates the viral DNA, while the lateral bodies are extra structures placed on the virus particle’s flanks. 
  • Several virulence genes in the Yaba-like disease virus (YLDV) contribute to its pathogenicity & modulation of the host immune response.  
  • The 7L gene encodes CCR8, a chemokine receptor implicated in chemotaxis and inflammation. The 9L gene may imitate the activity of MHC class I antigen by suppressing CD8+ T cell activation and evading immunological detection. Y136 Protein or Y136R gene inhibits the host’s inhibitory cells. 
  • OX-2, a membrane glycoprotein that interacts with the CD200 receptor, is encoded by the 10L gene. The activation of CD200 receptors inhibits the stimulation of macrophages & microglia, hence controlling the immunological response. The 11L gene codes for a protein like interleukin-10 (IL-10) or melanoma differentiation-associated gene 7 (mda-7).  
  • The 12L gene encodes poxvirus growth factor or PGF, which stimulates angiogenesis, vasodilation, and vascular permeability by binding to VEGF receptors. The 13L gene encodes a protein resembling serpins, which are serine protease inhibitors that regulate various biological processes, including inflammation and coagulation.  
  • The Yaba-like disease virus (YLDV) was discovered through the molecular sequencing of genes and proteins. To establish the virus’s presence, fragments of the genes for DNA polymerase, the intracellular mature virion (IMV) membrane protein, and insulin metalloprotease-like protein were sequenced. One of the discovered open reading frames, ORF 144 (Y144R), is anticipated to encode a polypeptide with a molecular mass of 30.8 kDa and 267 amino acid residues. This polypeptide has six possible N-glycosylation sites where sugar molecules can bind to the protein. These molecular properties contribute significantly to our understanding of the structure and composition of YLDV and facilitate future research. 
  • The pathogenesis of the Yaba-like disease virus (YLDV) entails the virus entering the host through mucosal surfaces or skin abrasions. Furthermore, although less effective, aerosol transfer is also a possibility. Once within the host, YLDV can infect many organs and tissues by migrating through the blood or lymphatic system. Endothelial cells can become infected by the virus, which causes angiogenesis (the development of new blood vessels), vasodilation (the widening of blood vessels), & enhanced vascular permeability. 
  • The emergence of skin lesions identified as histiocytomas is one of the YLDV infection’s defining symptoms. These lesions are distinguished by the development of fibrous tissue, which causes nodules on the skin that resemble tumors. These lesions are often benign and self-limiting, though they can ulcerate, leading to infection. Although they can originate anywhere on the body, histiocytomas frequently manifest on the extremities. They commonly start 2 to 4 days after the sickness begins and can linger for up to 6 weeks. While only one lesion is apparent when patients arrive, some may develop several lesions. 
  • YLDV infection might result in systemic symptoms in addition to localized skin lesions. Fever, headaches, backaches, & moderate prostration are a few of these symptoms. It is crucial to highlight that YLDV mainly results in minor diseases in people, and most sufferers recover without experiencing severe consequences. 
  • The host uses Multiple strategies to protect itself from the Yaba-like disease virus (YLDV) in humans. Activating cytokine signaling pathways upon exposure to type I or type III interferons (IFNs), like IL-10, IL-22, and IFN-γ receptor, is a crucial defense component.  
  • Interferons are cytokines that cause infected and surrounding cells to produce antiviral defenses. They cause genes to express that prevent viral replication, break down viral RNA, and cause apoptosis. Additionally, they improve immune cells’ cytotoxicity & antigen presentation. 
  • However, YLDV produces a glycoprotein called Y136 that binds to types I and III interferons and blocks their antiviral activity, potentially compromising this defense mechanism. CCR8 is expressed in T cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells and mediates chemotaxis and inflammation. The 7L protein of YLDV may interfere with chemokine signaling, thereby modulating the immune response and potentially evading immune cell recruitment to the infection site.   
  • Although the precise host defense mechanisms against YLDV in humans are poorly understood, the evidence suggests that the virus may impair important immune reactions. 
  • The clinical manifestations of Yaba-like disease virus (YLDV) in humans are mild symptoms. After an incubation period of several days, individuals infected with YLDV may experience a brief fever. The development of a few firms, elevated, round, necrotic maculopapular nodules at the site of infection typically follows it. These nodules are localized and can be found where direct contact with the virus occurs.  
  • The skin lesions associated with YLDV infection are often painless and may resemble small ulcers or abscesses. They may undergo necrosis, resulting in the formation of scabs or crusts. While these skin lesions are the primary clinical manifestation, systemic symptoms are generally absent or minimal. 
  • Virus Culture: It entails propagating the virus in particular cell types, like owl monkey kidney (OMK) cells. These cells are kept alive in Dulbecco’s modified Eagle medium (DMEM), supplemented with 10% heat-inactivated bovine fetal serum and OMK, BS-C-1, & CV-1 cells. The virus is diluted before being given to cells grown in DMEM with 2% FBS to begin the infection process. As a result, the virus can communicate with the cells and start the infection process.  
  • The OMK cells are seeded on culture plates or flasks to create a confluent monolayer. After that, the virus is customarily diluted and introduced to the culture, giving it time to infect the cells. Density gradient ultracentrifugation analyzes the virus, including the mature internal virion (IMV) & external enveloped virion (EEV). As the virus multiplies inside the cell culture, apparent cytopathic effects (CPE), like cell shape alterations, detachment, or cell death, develop over time. Under a microscope, these CPE can be seen & offer proof of viral infection.  
  • Immunoblotting technique: With a Mini-Protean 3 / Hoefer vertical electrophoresis gel device, samples, including YLDV proteins, are initially resolved through SDS-PAGE. The separated proteins are deposited on nitrocellulose membranes, which act as firm support. The target viral proteins are afterward specifically recognized by primary antibodies, which are then treated with the nitrocellulose membranes. In this instance, the principal antibodies utilized were rabbit anti-Y144R, rat monoclonal antibody 19C2, & mouse monoclonal antibody anti-GFP. 
  • Primary antibodies specific to target viral proteins are incubated with the samples. Following this, horseradish peroxidase-conjugated (HRP-) secondary antibodies are applied, which recognize and bind to the primary antibodies bound to the viral proteins on the nitrocellulose membrane. The HRP enzyme linked to the secondary antibodies catalyzes a reaction that generates a detectable signal. An ECL Western Blotting detection system is used to visualize the bound antibodies, which utilizes a chemiluminescent substrate that emits light upon interaction with the HRP enzyme. The emitted light is captured and recorded using specialized equipment. Quantity One software is then used to determine the apparent molecular mass of specific viral protein products. HRP-goat anti-rabbit, anti-rat, and anti-mouse IgG secondary antibodies are employed for detection, enabling the visualization and identification of the viral proteins on the membrane. 
  • The actin tail rescue assay: In this test, YLDV is used to infect host cells, and the appearance of actin tails—filamentous structures caused by the virus—is monitored. Infected cells’ ability to move and transmit YLDV depends heavily on actin tails. Fluorescence microscopy is used to see viral particles and actin filaments, and the presence of actin tails shows the presence of YLDV and its capacity to modify the actin cytoskeleton of the host cell. The actin tail rescue test contributes to the diagnosis and comprehension of YLDV‘s interactions with host cells by offering helpful information regarding the virulence and pathogenicity of the virus. 
  • People should reduce their direct contact with monkeys or other primates that might be infected with the virus. Handling monkeys or their tissues entails keeping a safe distance from them, dressing in protective gear (e.g., gloves and mask), and maintaining good personal cleanliness. 
  • Implementing strategies to manage vector populations is crucial since arthropod vectors like mosquitoes can spread YLDV. Using insect repellents, eliminating mosquito breeding grounds, & sleeping under bed nets can all help to lower the chance of getting bitten by mosquitoes. 
  • Increased biosafety precautions should be implemented in research or laboratory environments where YLDV may be handled. It entails working in a containment facility with a biosafety level (BSL) of 2 or above, adhering to strict guidelines for handling and storing viral samples, and putting suitable waste management practices in place. 

 

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Yaba-like disease virus

Updated : December 15, 2023

Mail Whatsapp PDF Image



  • Yaba monkey tumor virus is a poxvirus that mainly infects old-world monkeys, causing enormous histiocytomas to grow on primates’ extremities. The virus was discovered during an outbreak of cutaneous histiocytomas in rhesus macaques in Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria 1956. 
  • The Yaba monkey tumor virus is a poxvirus that typically infects old-world monkeys and has been linked to tumor formation in these primates. The virus was discovered during epizootics in primate centers in the United States in 1965 and 1966. While yatapoxviruses, particularly YMTV, primarily infect monkeys, there have been reports of accidental human infections since 1971. 
  • In humans, YMTV infection often manifests as a slight fever followed by the development of a few elevated and necrotic maculopapular nodules at the site of infection. Although the specific epidemiology of YMTV is unknown, it is thought to have a simian reservoir primarily found in Africa, particularly in Kenya & the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The virus can infect humans through close contact with infected primates or via arthropod vectors. So, at present, no transmission cases from person to person have been reported. 
  • YMTV infections in humans are rare, with only a few documented cases. The virus was first identified in a human case in the United States in 1972, where the individual had been in contact with an infected monkey. It is important to note that natural infections of YMTV in humans have not been reported. However, accidental infections and studies involving volunteers have demonstrated that YMTV can induce similar histiocytomas in humans. YMTV is the most significant poxviral disease affecting old (OWM) & new (NWM) monkeys. 
  • Kingdom: Virus  
  • Phylum: Nucleocytoviricota 
  • Class: Pokkesviricetes 
  • Family: Poxviridae 
  • Subfamily: Chordopoxvirinae 
  • Genus: Yatapoxvirus 
  • Species: Yaba-like disease virus 
  • Yaba-like disease virus (YLDV) is a poxvirus with a similar structural organization to other poxviruses. It has a complicated structure consisting of a linear double-stranded DNA genome encased within a core envelope and encircled by two lateral bodies. 
  • The YLDV genome is approximately 144,575 base pairs long and has special sections termed inverted terminal repeats (ITRs) that are 1883 bp long. These ITRs are involved in viral genome replication & bundling.  
  • The genome contains 151 open reading frames (ORFs) that encode different proteins. These proteins provide a variety of roles, such as enzymatic activity and transcriptional control as transcription factors. 
  • The structural proteins oversee the viral particle’s development, comprising the core envelope & the two lateral bodies. The core envelope encapsulates the viral DNA, while the lateral bodies are extra structures placed on the virus particle’s flanks. 
  • Several virulence genes in the Yaba-like disease virus (YLDV) contribute to its pathogenicity & modulation of the host immune response.  
  • The 7L gene encodes CCR8, a chemokine receptor implicated in chemotaxis and inflammation. The 9L gene may imitate the activity of MHC class I antigen by suppressing CD8+ T cell activation and evading immunological detection. Y136 Protein or Y136R gene inhibits the host’s inhibitory cells. 
  • OX-2, a membrane glycoprotein that interacts with the CD200 receptor, is encoded by the 10L gene. The activation of CD200 receptors inhibits the stimulation of macrophages & microglia, hence controlling the immunological response. The 11L gene codes for a protein like interleukin-10 (IL-10) or melanoma differentiation-associated gene 7 (mda-7).  
  • The 12L gene encodes poxvirus growth factor or PGF, which stimulates angiogenesis, vasodilation, and vascular permeability by binding to VEGF receptors. The 13L gene encodes a protein resembling serpins, which are serine protease inhibitors that regulate various biological processes, including inflammation and coagulation.  
  • The Yaba-like disease virus (YLDV) was discovered through the molecular sequencing of genes and proteins. To establish the virus’s presence, fragments of the genes for DNA polymerase, the intracellular mature virion (IMV) membrane protein, and insulin metalloprotease-like protein were sequenced. One of the discovered open reading frames, ORF 144 (Y144R), is anticipated to encode a polypeptide with a molecular mass of 30.8 kDa and 267 amino acid residues. This polypeptide has six possible N-glycosylation sites where sugar molecules can bind to the protein. These molecular properties contribute significantly to our understanding of the structure and composition of YLDV and facilitate future research. 
  • The pathogenesis of the Yaba-like disease virus (YLDV) entails the virus entering the host through mucosal surfaces or skin abrasions. Furthermore, although less effective, aerosol transfer is also a possibility. Once within the host, YLDV can infect many organs and tissues by migrating through the blood or lymphatic system. Endothelial cells can become infected by the virus, which causes angiogenesis (the development of new blood vessels), vasodilation (the widening of blood vessels), & enhanced vascular permeability. 
  • The emergence of skin lesions identified as histiocytomas is one of the YLDV infection’s defining symptoms. These lesions are distinguished by the development of fibrous tissue, which causes nodules on the skin that resemble tumors. These lesions are often benign and self-limiting, though they can ulcerate, leading to infection. Although they can originate anywhere on the body, histiocytomas frequently manifest on the extremities. They commonly start 2 to 4 days after the sickness begins and can linger for up to 6 weeks. While only one lesion is apparent when patients arrive, some may develop several lesions. 
  • YLDV infection might result in systemic symptoms in addition to localized skin lesions. Fever, headaches, backaches, & moderate prostration are a few of these symptoms. It is crucial to highlight that YLDV mainly results in minor diseases in people, and most sufferers recover without experiencing severe consequences. 
  • The host uses Multiple strategies to protect itself from the Yaba-like disease virus (YLDV) in humans. Activating cytokine signaling pathways upon exposure to type I or type III interferons (IFNs), like IL-10, IL-22, and IFN-γ receptor, is a crucial defense component.  
  • Interferons are cytokines that cause infected and surrounding cells to produce antiviral defenses. They cause genes to express that prevent viral replication, break down viral RNA, and cause apoptosis. Additionally, they improve immune cells’ cytotoxicity & antigen presentation. 
  • However, YLDV produces a glycoprotein called Y136 that binds to types I and III interferons and blocks their antiviral activity, potentially compromising this defense mechanism. CCR8 is expressed in T cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells and mediates chemotaxis and inflammation. The 7L protein of YLDV may interfere with chemokine signaling, thereby modulating the immune response and potentially evading immune cell recruitment to the infection site.   
  • Although the precise host defense mechanisms against YLDV in humans are poorly understood, the evidence suggests that the virus may impair important immune reactions. 
  • The clinical manifestations of Yaba-like disease virus (YLDV) in humans are mild symptoms. After an incubation period of several days, individuals infected with YLDV may experience a brief fever. The development of a few firms, elevated, round, necrotic maculopapular nodules at the site of infection typically follows it. These nodules are localized and can be found where direct contact with the virus occurs.  
  • The skin lesions associated with YLDV infection are often painless and may resemble small ulcers or abscesses. They may undergo necrosis, resulting in the formation of scabs or crusts. While these skin lesions are the primary clinical manifestation, systemic symptoms are generally absent or minimal. 
  • Virus Culture: It entails propagating the virus in particular cell types, like owl monkey kidney (OMK) cells. These cells are kept alive in Dulbecco’s modified Eagle medium (DMEM), supplemented with 10% heat-inactivated bovine fetal serum and OMK, BS-C-1, & CV-1 cells. The virus is diluted before being given to cells grown in DMEM with 2% FBS to begin the infection process. As a result, the virus can communicate with the cells and start the infection process.  
  • The OMK cells are seeded on culture plates or flasks to create a confluent monolayer. After that, the virus is customarily diluted and introduced to the culture, giving it time to infect the cells. Density gradient ultracentrifugation analyzes the virus, including the mature internal virion (IMV) & external enveloped virion (EEV). As the virus multiplies inside the cell culture, apparent cytopathic effects (CPE), like cell shape alterations, detachment, or cell death, develop over time. Under a microscope, these CPE can be seen & offer proof of viral infection.  
  • Immunoblotting technique: With a Mini-Protean 3 / Hoefer vertical electrophoresis gel device, samples, including YLDV proteins, are initially resolved through SDS-PAGE. The separated proteins are deposited on nitrocellulose membranes, which act as firm support. The target viral proteins are afterward specifically recognized by primary antibodies, which are then treated with the nitrocellulose membranes. In this instance, the principal antibodies utilized were rabbit anti-Y144R, rat monoclonal antibody 19C2, & mouse monoclonal antibody anti-GFP. 
  • Primary antibodies specific to target viral proteins are incubated with the samples. Following this, horseradish peroxidase-conjugated (HRP-) secondary antibodies are applied, which recognize and bind to the primary antibodies bound to the viral proteins on the nitrocellulose membrane. The HRP enzyme linked to the secondary antibodies catalyzes a reaction that generates a detectable signal. An ECL Western Blotting detection system is used to visualize the bound antibodies, which utilizes a chemiluminescent substrate that emits light upon interaction with the HRP enzyme. The emitted light is captured and recorded using specialized equipment. Quantity One software is then used to determine the apparent molecular mass of specific viral protein products. HRP-goat anti-rabbit, anti-rat, and anti-mouse IgG secondary antibodies are employed for detection, enabling the visualization and identification of the viral proteins on the membrane. 
  • The actin tail rescue assay: In this test, YLDV is used to infect host cells, and the appearance of actin tails—filamentous structures caused by the virus—is monitored. Infected cells’ ability to move and transmit YLDV depends heavily on actin tails. Fluorescence microscopy is used to see viral particles and actin filaments, and the presence of actin tails shows the presence of YLDV and its capacity to modify the actin cytoskeleton of the host cell. The actin tail rescue test contributes to the diagnosis and comprehension of YLDV‘s interactions with host cells by offering helpful information regarding the virulence and pathogenicity of the virus. 
  • People should reduce their direct contact with monkeys or other primates that might be infected with the virus. Handling monkeys or their tissues entails keeping a safe distance from them, dressing in protective gear (e.g., gloves and mask), and maintaining good personal cleanliness. 
  • Implementing strategies to manage vector populations is crucial since arthropod vectors like mosquitoes can spread YLDV. Using insect repellents, eliminating mosquito breeding grounds, & sleeping under bed nets can all help to lower the chance of getting bitten by mosquitoes. 
  • Increased biosafety precautions should be implemented in research or laboratory environments where YLDV may be handled. It entails working in a containment facility with a biosafety level (BSL) of 2 or above, adhering to strict guidelines for handling and storing viral samples, and putting suitable waste management practices in place. 

 

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