La Crosse Virus Segment Reassortment in Nature
Author Information
Author(s): Sara M Reese, Bradley J Blitvich, Carol D Blair, Dave Geske, Barry J Beaty, William C Black IV
Primary Institution: Colorado State University
Hypothesis
Is segment reassortment occurring in naturally infected Aedes triseriatus mosquitoes?
Conclusion
The study found that approximately 25% of infected mosquitoes and viruses contained reassorted genome segments, indicating that LACV segment reassortment is frequent in nature.
Supporting Evidence
- The study analyzed 6,791 mosquitoes collected from 151 sites.
- 4.6% of the mosquitoes tested positive for LACV.
- Phylogenetic analysis showed significant genetic diversity among LACV segments.
Takeaway
Mosquitoes can mix and match parts of the La Crosse virus, which helps the virus adapt and survive better in nature.
Methodology
Mosquito eggs were collected, reared, and tested for LACV antigen; RNA was isolated and sequenced to analyze genome segments.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to environmental factors affecting virus isolation from field-collected mosquitoes.
Limitations
The study primarily analyzed RNA from mosquitoes rather than isolated viruses, which may affect reassortment frequency estimates.
Participant Demographics
Aedes triseriatus mosquitoes collected from Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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