Mirusha virus: A novel sand fly-borne phlebovirus with evidence of neutralizing antibodies in humans and dogs in Kosovo.
Mirusha virus is a newly identified phlebovirus in Kosovo, with evidence of exposure in humans and dogs, underscoring the need for broader arbovirus surveillance.
Where it sits
this study against the rest of the ss-31 corpusSummary and findings
The study identified and isolated the Mirusha virus (MRSHV), a novel phlebovirus, from sand flies in Kosovo. Neutralizing antibodies were found in 2.0% of dogs and 0.8% of humans in the region. The virus shows limited replication in dog macrophage cells and no replication in mosquito cell lines.
Abstract
In Europe, phleboviruses are transmitted by phlebotomine sand flies, which are widely distributed in the Mediterranean basin, including the Balkan peninsula. We report the identification and isolation of Mirusha virus (MRSHV), a novel member of the <i>Phlebovirus corfouense</i> species within the <i>Phenuiviridae</i> family, based on a > 95% genetic identity at the aminoacid level for Large segment between MRSHV and Corfou virus. MRSHV was isolated from a <i>Phlebotomus perfiliewi</i> sand fly specimen collected in Kosovo in 2022. Whole genome sequencing of MRSHV the characteristic trisegmented genome architecture of phleboviruses. Mammalian cells, including green monkey cell lines, were susceptible to MRSHV, with limited replication in dog macrophage cells, whereas no replication was observed in mosquito cell lines, suggesting a vector-specific adaptation. Specific neutralizing antibodies were detected in dogs (2.0%) and in humans (0.8%) from various regions of Kosovo, indicating a broader geographic circulation. Our findings describe a previously uncharacterized phlebovirus and underscore the importance of considering sand fly-borne phlebovirus infections in cases of undiagnosed febrile illness during the vector-active season, as well as expanding arbovirus surveillance to include hematophagous arthropods beyond mosquitoes.
Background
This study addresses the identification of a novel phlebovirus, Mirusha virus (MRSHV), in the Balkan region, where phleboviruses are transmitted by sand flies. The research is significant as it expands the understanding of phlebovirus diversity and their potential impact on human and animal health. Prior to this study, the specific presence and characteristics of MRSHV were not documented.
Methods
The study involved the isolation of MRSHV from a Phlebotomus perfiliewi sand fly specimen collected in Kosovo in 2022. Whole genome sequencing was performed to confirm its identity and genetic relationship with other phleboviruses. The susceptibility of mammalian and insect cell lines to MRSHV was tested, and serological surveys were conducted to detect neutralizing antibodies in humans and dogs.
Results
MRSHV was found to have a >95% genetic identity with Corfou virus at the aminoacid level. The virus was isolated from sand flies and demonstrated limited replication in dog macrophage cells, with no replication in mosquito cell lines. Neutralizing antibodies were detected in 2.0% of dogs and 0.8% of humans in Kosovo, suggesting geographic circulation of the virus.
Interpretation
The findings suggest that MRSHV is a novel phlebovirus with potential implications for public health, given its presence in both human and animal populations. However, the clinical significance of these findings remains unclear due to the lack of data linking MRSHV to specific diseases. The study highlights the need for expanded surveillance of arboviruses beyond traditional vectors like mosquitoes.
Key findings
- >95% genetic identity at the aminoacid level for Large segment between MRSHV and Corfou virus
- MRSHV isolated from Phlebotomus perfiliewi sand fly specimen in Kosovo, 2022
- Neutralizing antibodies detected in dogs (2.0%) and humans (0.8%) in Kosovo
- Limited replication in dog macrophage cells
- No replication observed in mosquito cell lines
Limitations
- Focus on specific geographic region
- No clinical data linking MRSHV to human disease
- Limited replication observed in certain cell lines
- Absence of mosquito cell line replication
- Seroprevalence data only, no clinical correlation