Characterization of the candiru antigenic complex (Bunyaviridae: Phlebovirus), a highly diverse and reassorting group of viruses affecting humans in tropical America

Gustavo Palacios, Robert Tesh, Amelia Travassos Da Rosa, Nazir Savji, Wilson Sze, Komal Jain, Robert Serge, Hilda Guzman, Carolina Guevara, Marcio R.T. Nunes, Joaquim P. Nunes-Neto, Tadeusz Kochel, Stephen Hutchison, Pedro F.C. Vasconcelos, W. Ian Lipkin

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

42 Scopus citations

Abstract

The genus Phlebovirus of the family Bunyaviridae consists of approximately 70 named viruses, currently assigned to nine serocomplexes (species) based on antigenic similarities. Sixteen other named viruses that show little serologic relationship to the nine recognized groups are also classified as tentative species in the genus. In an effort to develop a more precise classification system for phleboviruses, we are attempting to sequence most of the named viruses in the genus with the goal of clarifying their phylogenetic relationships. In this report, we describe the serologic and phylogenetic relationships of 13 viruses that were found to be members of the Candiru serocomplex; 6 of them cause disease in humans. Analysis of full genome sequences revealed branching inconsistencies that suggest five reassortment events, all involving the M segment, and thus appear to be natural reassortants. This high rate of reassortment illustrates the inaccuracy of a classification system based solely on antigenic relationships.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)3811-3820
Number of pages10
JournalJournal of virology
Volume85
Issue number8
DOIs
StatePublished - Apr 2011
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Microbiology
  • Immunology
  • Insect Science
  • Virology

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