Genetic Diversity and Geographic Spread of Henipaviruses

Authors: Yakhouba Kane, Betty Nalikka, Alexander Tendu, Victor Omondi, Kathrina Mae Bienes, Abdou Padane, Veasna Duong, Nicolas Berthet, Gary Wong

Year: 2024

Journal: Emerging Infectious Diseases

DOI: 10.3201/eid3103.241134

Summary

This paper analyzes the genetic diversity and geographic spread of Henipaviruses, including Hendra and Nipah viruses, using data from National Center for Biotechnology Information Virus and VIRION databases. The study found that bats and shrews are dominant hosts, with key henipavirus hosts in Asia, Australia, and Africa.

Key Findings

Approximately 1,117 henipavirus sequences and 142 complete genomes were analyzed.
Bats (64.7%) and shrews (11.7%) dominated the host species record.
The genera Pteropus and Crocidura contained key henipavirus hosts in Asia, Australia, and Africa.
Henipaviruses found in the Eidolon bat genus exhibited the highest within-host genetic distance.
Batborne and rodent- or shrew-derived henipaviruses diverged approximately 11,000 years ago and the first known lineage originating in Eidolon genus bats ≈9,900 years ago.

Methodology

Study Type: Database Analysis
Sample Size: 1,117 sequences and 142 complete genomes

Topics

Epidemiology, Virology

Relevance

The findings suggest the need to include atypical hosts and regions in future investigations to control future outbreaks of Henipaviruses.

Source

View the entire paper: File:24-1134.pdf