Search Results (119)

The Guinea Pig X Virus (GPXV), a newly identified gammaherpesvirus, provides an opportunity to study viral evolution and host–virus dynamics. This study characterizes the GPXV genome and investigates its phylogenetic relationships and divergence from related viruses through comparative genomic and phylogenetic analyses. Virus propagation was conducted in Vero cells, followed by genomic DNA extraction and pan-herpesvirus nested PCR. Sanger sequencing filled gaps in the initial genome assembly, and whole-genome sequencing was performed using the Illumina MiSeq platform. Phylogenetic analyses focused on ORF8 (glycoprotein B), ORF9 (DNA polymerase catalytic subunit), ORF50 (RTA: replication and transcription activator), and ORF73 (LANA: latency-associated nuclear antigen). Results showed that GPXV ORFs showed variable evolutionary relationships with other gammaherpesviruses, including divergence from primate-associated viruses and clustering with bovine and rodent viruses. In addition to phylogenetics, a comprehensive comparative analysis of protein-coding genes between GPXV and the previously described Guinea Pig Herpes-Like Virus (GPHLV) revealed divergence. Twenty-four non-ORF genomic features were unique to GPXV, while 62 shared ORFs exhibited low to high sequence divergence. These findings highlight GPXV’s distinct evolutionary trajectory and its potential role as a model for studying host-specific adaptations and gammaherpesvirus diversity. Full article

Periodontal diseases in pediatric subjects represent a challenging and relatively underexplored area compared to the extensive data available about periodontal diseases in adults. The present narrative review aims to explore the periodontal status and the related subgingival and/or salivary microbial profiles in pediatric subjects (≤18 years), focusing also on the state of health or systemic diseases. In healthy periodontium, early colonizers, such as Streptococcus and Actinomyces spp., dominate the subgingival microbiota, supporting an eubiosis state. Low levels of Candida albicans and latent Herpesviridae may be detected. In gingivitis, the microbial profile shifts towards more pathogenic species, including Prevotella intermedia and Fusobacterium nucleatum. In necrotizing gingivitis, typically affecting systemically compromised children, the microbial profile is characterized by spirochetes, Fusobacterium, and Prevotella intermedia. Viral coinfections—especially with HSV, CMV, and EBV—are more frequently detected. In periodontitis, the microbiota was dominated by red complex pathogens along with Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans in the aggressive forms, especially in systemically compromised children, as Herpesviridae reactivation and co-infections. Fungal involvement is less well characterized; Candida albicans may be present, particularly in cases of severe immune suppression. Nevertheless, the lack of pediatric longitudinal studies investigating periodontal disease progression after periodontal treatment and related changes in microbiological composition limited the understanding and exploration of the oral microbiota over time. Full article

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a prevalent and persistent human pathogen belonging to the family Herpesviridae and classified as an alpha-herpesvirus. It comprises two distinct types, HSV-1 and HSV-2, which together infect a significant portion of the global population and pose substantial public health challenges. HSV-1 is typically associated with oral herpes, while HSV-2 primarily causes genital herpes; both are characterized by recurrent lesions, latent infection, and mucocutaneous discomfort. Conventional antiviral drugs such as acyclovir and its derivatives are limited by drug resistance, potential toxicity, and their inability to eradicate latent viral reservoirs. These limitations have prompted increasing interest in alternative therapeutic strategies. Phenolic acids and tannins, plant-derived polyphenolic compounds, have attracted considerable attention due to their potent antiviral properties against various viruses, including HSV. This review summarizes current research on phenolic acids and tannins as promising natural antivirals against HSV, with a focus on their mechanisms of action and efficacy in disrupting multiple stages of the HSV life cycle. Full article

Human activities and land use changes have a major impact on the distribution and diversity of mosquito vectors and their associated viruses. This study describes the diversity and differential abundance of viruses associated with mosquito species from four habitats of the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. Using next-generation sequencing (NGS), we analyzed 61 genomic libraries belonging to 20 mosquito species to characterize the viral community. A total of 16 viral species were identified, representing 14 different viral families. Most identified viruses were associated with insects, plants, and fungi. Additionally, vertebrate associated viral families, including Herpesviridae, Peribunyaviridae, Nairoviridae, and Arenaviridae, were detected in mosquitoes from urban habitats. Notably, insect-associated viruses like Hubei mosquito virus 4 and Hubei virga-like virus 2 were identified, along with the first report of Mercadeo virus in Mexico. Variations in viral community composition were primarily driven by mosquito species, with species of the same genus maintaining similar viromes despite occupying different habitats. These findings reinforce that intrinsic traits of mosquito species play a key role in shaping viral community composition. To our knowledge, this is the first study that describes the viral community in mosquitoes in Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. This study provides essential baseline data for the surveillance of mosquitoes and associated viruses from a biodiverse tropical region that faces strong land use modifications. Full article

Duck plague (DP), caused by duck plague virus (DPV), is a highly contagious and fatal disease among waterfowl. UL3.5, an unconserved gene belonging to the Herpesviridae family, Alphaherpesvirinae subfamily, and Mardivirus genus, is located downstream of UL3 and exhibits high variability in size and sequence, with an absence in herpes simplex virus (HSV). Currently, there is little understanding of DPV UL3.5. In this study, we determined that DPV pUL3.5 is distributed within the cytoplasm and co-located with multiple organelles. In addition, we investigated the genetic type of DPV UL3.5 and found that it is an early gene encoding an early viral protein. To further explore the function of DPV UL3.5, we constructed DPV-BAC-δUL3.5 and discovered that the deletion of UL3.5 significantly impacts the viral secondary envelopment and release processes. Furthermore, the UL3.5-deleted virus shows defects in cell-to-cell spread. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate, for the first time, that the early viral protein encoded by DPV UL3.5 plays a crucial role in promoting viral replication. This offers fundamental insights for further investigations into the function of DPV UL3.5. Full article

We aim to investigate the role of the Herpesviridae family (HHV) in the onset and progression of prostate cancer (PCa) and to profile the local PCa immunological status. A total of 116 “tru-cut” biopsies (58 PCa and 58 benign prostatic hyperplasia [BPH]) and 49 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) instances of PCa were analysed using real-time qPCR and histological examination. Infection with CMV, EBV, HHV6, and HHV7 was detected in 11.5% of the “tru-cut” biopsies (25.9% in BPH and 6.9% in the PCa group). In the formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples, infection was detected in 69.4% of the patients, with individual rates of EBV (47%), HHV6 (38%), HHV7 (41%), CMV (2.9%), HSV2 (2.9%), and VZV (5.8%). In the HHV-infected PCa cases, the histopathological landscape included intratumor lymphocyte infiltration with fibrosis and necrosis, periductal chronic inflammatory reaction and granulomatous lesions with foci of abscesses and necrosis, as well as inflammatory infiltration, chronic lymphadenitis, prostatic intraepithelial atrophy (PIA), and high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN). The majority of HHV-infected PCa patients were predominantly classified as grade G3/G4/G5 tumours, exhibiting perineural, perivascular, and lymphovascular invasion, seminal vesicle invasion, senile vesicle amyloidosis, and lymph node metastasis. Statistical analysis demonstrated a significant association between HHV infection and PCa (χ² ≈ 20.3, df = 1, p < 0.0001; Fisher’s exact test, p < 0.0001) with an odds ratio of 6.50 (95% CI: 2.80–15.12). These findings suggest that long-term HHV infection could contribute to a complicated and potentially altered immune PCa tumour environment due to inflammation. This may serve as a predictor of aggressive disease progression. Full article

Herpesviruses are prevalent pathogens affecting lactating women, yet the safety and efficacy of antiviral therapies in this population remain underexplored. This systematic review evaluates the safety and efficacy of antiviral therapies for Herpesviridae infections, including CMV, VZV, EBV, and HSV, in lactating mothers. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Scopus, alongside specialized databases like LactMed. Twelve studies were included, comprising three randomized control trials, five observational studies, and four case reports. Quality assessment using Joanna Briggs Institute tools indicated moderate-to-high methodological quality for the trials and consistent strengths in case reports, though some limitations were noted. Results suggest that antiviral agents, particularly acyclovir and valacyclovir, are generally safe for breastfeeding mothers, with minimal infant exposure and low risk of adverse effects. However, the virologic benefits appear modest, and most studies focused on HIV co-infected populations, limiting generalizability to lactating women without HIV. In conclusion, while current evidence supports the use of specific antivirals during lactation, there is a critical need for further research to address existing knowledge gaps and optimize treatment strategies for both mothers and infants. Full article

Corneal endotheliitis is an inflammatory process, most commonly of viral etiology, that manifests clinically with features including corneal edema, keratic precipitates, and a mild anterior chamber reaction. Several studies have implicated human herpesviruses from the Herpesviridae family as primary causes of corneal endotheliitis, including cytomegalovirus (CMV), varicella zoster virus (VZV), and herpes simplex viruses 1 and 2 (HSV-1 and HSV-2). This review critically evaluates the present literature surrounding herpesvirus infections of the corneal endothelium. Full article

Background: Gingivitis and periodontitis are microbially associated diseases, with some features characteristic of pediatric age and others linked to systemic diseases. While the role of periodontal pathogenic bacteria is well recognized, the contribution of fungi and viruses, particularly Herpesviridae, remains controversial. Studies in adults have highlighted the presence of Herpesviridae, but evidence in pediatric subjects, especially systemically compromised, is limited. This systematic review aimed to assess periodontal status (e.g., health, gingivitis, periodontitis, necrotizing gingivitis, and/or periodontitis) and the subgingival and/or salivary microbial (bacterial, viral, and fungal) profile in systemically compromised pediatric (≤18 years) subjects with gingivitis and/or periodontitis compared to clinical periodontal health. Methods: The review protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42024597695) and followed the PRISMA statement. Data from eight studies were descriptively analyzed and qualitatively assessed through ROBINS-I and JBI tools. Results: CMV was frequently detected, particularly in necrotizing gingivitis (19.40%). EBV was found in necrotizing gingivitis (20.69%) and periodontitis (10.34%); HSV was mainly associated with gingivitis and necrotizing gingivitis. Bacteria species in periodontitis included Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, Fusobacterium, and Campylobacter species. Candida albicans was detected in periodontitis, suggesting a fungal involvement in the disease’s pathogenesis. Although the bacterial and fungal profile was not investigated, limited viral presence was noted in subjects with healthy periodontium, indicating a stable microbiome. Conclusions: These findings underscore the dynamics of microbial interactions in the progression of periodontal disease in systemically compromised pediatric subjects. Full article

Respiratory avian viral diseases significantly impact the world poultry sector, leading to notable economic losses. The highly contagious DNA virus, infectious laryngotracheitis virus, and the RNA virus, avian metapneumovirus, are well known for their prevalent effects on avian respiratory systems. The infectious laryngotracheitis virus (ILTV), stemming from the Herpesviridae family, manifests as an upper respiratory disease within birds. Characterized by acute respiratory signs, it sporadically emerges worldwide, presenting a persistent threat to poultry health. Avian metapneumovirus (aMPV), belonging to the Pneumoviridae family is identified as the cause behind severe rhinotracheitis in turkeys and swollen head syndrome in chickens. This disease can lead to heightened mortality rates, especially when coupled with secondary bacterial infections. This review offers a comprehensive analysis and understanding of the general properties of these specific avian respiratory viruses, control measures, and their global status. Full article

Objectives: This systematic review assesses and compares the presence and relative abundance of periodontal pathogens, human herpesviruses (HHVs), and fungi in subgingival and/or saliva samples from pediatric subjects (≤18 years of age) with periodontally healthy status and with gingivitis and/or periodontitis. Methods: The study protocol was conducted under the PRISMA statement and registered on PROSPERO (CRD42024593007). Data from seven studies were descriptively analyzed and qualitatively assessed through the ROBINS-1 and JBI tools. Results: Pediatric subjects with clinically healthy periodontium exhibited a balanced microbiome, with early colonizers (Streptococcus species) supporting biofilm development and late colonizers like Fusobacterium nucleatum, Treponema denticola (82.35%), and Porphyromonas gingivalis (29.7%) present at low levels, suggesting subclinical dysbiosis. Viruses such as HSV-I (100%), CMV (17.8%), and EBV-I (22.09%) coexisted in a likely latent state, maintained by effective immune responses. In pediatric periodontitis, biofilms were more diverse and pathogenic, with increased prevalence of A. actinomycetemcomitans (56.09%), P. gingivalis (55.4%), and T. forsythia (35.9%). Generalized periodontitis showed higher CMV (36.36%) and EBV-I (36.24%) prevalence than gingivitis (HSV-I 18.75%). Coinfections were frequent in periodontitis, suggesting bacterial–viral synergy in exacerbating inflammation and tissue destruction. Fungi, although not studied, may also contribute under specific conditions. Conclusions: These findings highlight the role of microbial interactions in periodontal health and disease progression. Full article

Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) is a highly effective molecular diagnostic technique, particularly advantageous for point-of-care (POC) settings. In recent years, LAMP has expanded to include various adaptations such as DARQ-LAMP, QUASR, FLOS-LAMP, displacement probes and molecular beacons. These methods enable multiplex detection of multiple targets in a single reaction, enhancing cost-effectiveness and diagnostic efficiency. Consequently, LAMP has gained significant traction in diagnosing diverse viruses, notably during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, its application for detecting Herpesviridae remains relatively unexplored. This group of viruses is of particular interest due to their latency and potential reactivation, crucial for immunocompromised patients, including organ and hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients. This review highlights recent advancements in LAMP for virus diagnosis and explores current research trends and future prospects, emphasizing the detection challenges posed by Herpesviridae. Full article

Background The facial nerve (FN) plays a pivotal role in human life; apart from its sensory and parasympathetic functions, it innervates the facial muscles, and it is therefore involved in non-verbal communication, allowing us to express emotions and reactions. Especially in the case of childhood onset, FN dysfunction can severely affect the quality of life. Methods The aim of this review is to analyze the most recent literature, focusing on the acute onset of peripheral FN palsy among pediatric patients, discussing the different etiologies, prognoses, and management strategies. A total of 882 papers were initially identified, but only 7 met the selection criteria. Therefore, data on 974 children in total were pooled and analyzed. Results According to the findings of this review, FN palsy is idiopathic in most cases, while an infective etiology was identified as the second most common. The main pathogen agents identified were Borrelia Burgdorferi, especially in endemic areas, and Herpesviridae. Respiratory tract infections and/or ear infections were also described. Head trauma or direct injury of the FN accounted for 2% of all cases. Conclusions The overall FN recovery rate is high, even though the etiology remains unknown for most patients. Therapeutic indications are still lacking, especially in the case of non-recovering FN palsy. In our opinion, large, prospective studies are necessary for improving our knowledge of this disorder and establishing evidence-based approaches. Full article

Apical lesions are diseases of infectious origin that can cause destruction of the surrounding periapical tissue, including bone tissue and periodontal ligaments, resulting in the loss of the affected teeth. Currently, the microorganisms present in pulp and apical disease are mostly studied as bacteria. However, in recent years, interest has been aroused in the study of viruses that could be present in apical lesions, and how these could affect the progression of disease. In the present study, we conducted a systematic review of the literature to evaluate and synthesize the scientific evidence on the presence of viruses and their possible role in pulpal and apical disease. This systematic review was performed according to the PRISMA reporting guidelines. The search for studies was performed in the PubMed and Web of Science databases. A total of seven studies published in the last 10 years were included. The types of samples used for virus analysis varied from one study to another. In all the included studies, the presence of any of the types of viruses studied was found, either in pulp or apical tissue. Herpesviridae family, Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) and Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) stood out as the most commonly present in apical lesions. Further studies are required to clarify and understand the pathogenic role of viruses in pulpal and periapical disease. Full article