Ancient Ancestry of KFDV and AHFV Revealed by Complete Genome Analyses
Author Information
Author(s): Dodd Kimberly A., Bird Brian H., Khristova Marina L., Albariño César G., Carroll Serena A., Comer James A., Erickson Bobbie R., Rollin Pierre E., Nichol Stuart T.
Primary Institution: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Hypothesis
What is the evolutionary history of Alkhurma hemorrhagic fever virus (AHFV) and Kyasanur forest disease virus (KFDV)?
Conclusion
The study found that AHFV and KFDV diverged approximately 700 years ago, suggesting a broader geographic range for these viruses than previously thought.
Supporting Evidence
- AHFV and KFDV share a remarkably high sequence identity despite their distinct geographic ranges.
- Sequence analyses revealed higher genetic diversity within AHFVs isolated from ticks than human AHFV isolates.
- A Bayesian coalescent phylogenetic analysis demonstrated an ancient divergence of AHFV and KFDV of approximately 700 years ago.
- The presence of competent tick vectors in the surrounding regions indicates possible viral range expansion.
- The divergence of AHFV from KFDV nearly 700 years ago suggests other AHFV/KFDV-like viruses might exist in the regions between Saudi Arabia and India.
Takeaway
Scientists studied two viruses that make people sick and found out they are older and more diverse than we thought, which means they might spread to more places.
Methodology
The full-length genomes of 16 AHFV and 3 KFDV isolates were sequenced and analyzed using phylogenetic methods.
Limitations
The study's findings are based on a limited number of virus isolates and may not represent the full diversity of AHFV and KFDV.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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