Research

10 pages, 281 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Is the Physiological Composition of the Vaginal Microbiome Altered in High-Risk HPV Infection of the Uterine Cervix?

by Tomas Rokos, Veronika Holubekova, Zuzana Kolkova, Andrea Hornakova, Terezia Pribulova, Erik Kozubik, Kamil Biringer and Erik Kudela

Viruses 2022, 14(10), 2130; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/v14102130 - 27 Sep 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1797

Abstract

Background: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common malignancy and fourth leading cause of cancer death in women worldwide. More than 99.7% of cases are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), while HPV types 16 and 18 cause over 70% of all cervical cancer [...] Read more.

Background: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common malignancy and fourth leading cause of cancer death in women worldwide. More than 99.7% of cases are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), while HPV types 16 and 18 cause over 70% of all cervical cancer cases. In this preliminary study, we aimed to investigate the presence of HPV infection and diversity of bacteria associated with bacterial vaginosis. Methods: Cervical swabs (n = 21) taken from women aged 21–47 years, in seventeen cases, with different degrees of cervical abnormality, and from four healthy women, were tested for the presence of HPV DNA, as well as the bacterial strains associated with bacterial vaginosis, using the real-time PCR method. Results: HPV16 was the dominant genotype in 53% (9/17) of patients with confirmed precancerous lesions (ASCUS, LSIL, and HSIL). In specimens with confirmed cytological abnormalities and hrHPV infection, we detected a wide diversity of microbes, while the most common species were Gardnerella vaginalis, Atopobium vaginae, Prevotella bivia, Ureaplasma parvum, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Leptotrichia amnionii, Bacteroides ureolyticus, and Sneathia sanguinegens. The presence of pathogens did not differ, depending on the degree of precancerous lesions or HPV type. Conclusion: In our work, HPV16 dominated in patients with cervical precancerous lesions. We also suggest an increased bacterial diversity of the vaginal microbiome in patients with cervical lesions, for which the HPV virus is largely responsible. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Virology Research in Slovakia)

11 pages, 1998 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Surveillance Program of Clinical Samples for Polio and Non-Polio Enteroviruses in the Slovak Republic during the 1958–2020 Period

by Renata Kissova, Katarina Pastuchova, Viera Lengyelova, Marek Svitok, Jan Mikas, Shubhada Bopegamage and Cyril Klement

Viruses 2022, 14(9), 1957; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/v14091957 - 03 Sep 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1299

Abstract

Enteroviruses (EVs) are associated with a wide spectrum of diseases involving various organs. Our aim was to give a historical overview of the genesis of clinical sample processing for EVs in the Slovak Republic (SR) during the 1958–2020 period, within the framework of [...] Read more.

Enteroviruses (EVs) are associated with a wide spectrum of diseases involving various organs. Our aim was to give a historical overview of the genesis of clinical sample processing for EVs in the Slovak Republic (SR) during the 1958–2020 period, within the framework of the World Health Organization (WHO) polio program. Further, analyses were made of the data obtained from the archives of processed clinical sample surveillance using statistical methods. We used generalized additive models (GAM) with binomial distribution and logit link functions and an autoregressive moving average (ARMA) to analyze the data obtained during this 63-year period. Our results show trends in the composition of EV strains circulating in the population. Furthermore, statistically significant increasing trends of the non-polio enteroviruses (NPEVs) were observed over the studied time, represented by echoviruses (E) and coxsackieviruses A and B (CVA and CVB), with a cyclical pattern of occurrence. The most prevalent serotype over this period was CVB5, which became significantly more prevalent after 2000. While PVs, CVB1, and CVB3 were present in the second half of the studied period, CVA10, CVA16, E3, E25, and E30 appeared more frequently. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Virology Research in Slovakia)

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14 pages, 294 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Vaccination, Risk Factors and Outcomes of COVID-19 Infection in Patients with Psoriasis—A Single Centre Real-Life Experience from Eastern Slovakia

by Janette Baloghová, Tomáš Kampe, Peter Kolarčik and Elena Hatalová

Viruses 2022, 14(8), 1646; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/v14081646 - 27 Jul 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1493

Abstract

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) represents a threat for people with immune-mediated diseases. It seems that patients with psoriasis appear to have a similar SARS-CoV-2 infection rate as the general population. Our study aimed to identify factors associated with contracting COVID-19 and determining the severity [...] Read more.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) represents a threat for people with immune-mediated diseases. It seems that patients with psoriasis appear to have a similar SARS-CoV-2 infection rate as the general population. Our study aimed to identify factors associated with contracting COVID-19 and determining the severity of COVID-19 among psoriatic patients in a real practice setting. We conducted a cross-sectional study with 379 respondents. About one-quarter (n = 78; 25.8%) of the respondents who provided information on their COVID-19 (n = 302) status had contracted COVID-19. Most variables tested for their effect on getting COVID-19 proved to be statistically insignificant, except education, age and gender. Our study proved the protective effect of vaccination, especially the third dose, against the COVID-19 outcome. From all the potential variables, we found that non-Roma ethnicity increased the chance of being vaccinated at least once by 2.6-fold. Patients with a longer psoriasis duration had a higher chance of being vaccinated. We consider biological treatment of psoriasis safe during COVID-19. Vaccination of patients was a statistically significant protector against COVID-19. It is important to point out that only three doses of vaccine decreased with statistical significance the chance of getting the illness. Our findings should be confirmed on larger samples in further studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Virology Research in Slovakia)

10 pages, 1245 KiB

Open AccessArticle

History of the Wastewater Assessment of Polio and Non-Polio Enteroviruses in the Slovak Republic in 1963–2019

by Renata Kissova, Katarina Pastuchova, Viera Lengyelova, Marek Svitok, Jan Mikas, Cyril Klement and Shubhada Bopegamage

Viruses 2022, 14(8), 1599; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/v14081599 - 22 Jul 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1473

Abstract

We describe the genesis of poliovirus (PV) and non-polio enterovirus (NPEV) surveillance program of sewage wastewaters from its inception to the present in the Slovak Republic (SR). Sampling procedures and evolution of the methodology used in the SR for the detection of PVs [...] Read more.

We describe the genesis of poliovirus (PV) and non-polio enterovirus (NPEV) surveillance program of sewage wastewaters from its inception to the present in the Slovak Republic (SR). Sampling procedures and evolution of the methodology used in the SR for the detection of PVs and NPEVs are presented chronologically. For statistical data processing, we divided our dataset into two periods, the first period from 1963 to 1998 (35 years), and the second period from 1999 to 2019 (21 years). Generalized additive models were used to assess temporal trends in the probability of occurrence of major EV serotypes during both periods. Canonical correspondence analysis on relative abundance data was used to test temporal changes in the composition of virus assemblages over the second period. The probability of occurrence of major viruses PV, coxsackieviruses (CVA, CVB), and Echoviruses (E)) significantly changed over time. We found that 1015 isolated PVs were of vaccine origin, called “Sabin-like” (isolates PV1, PV2, PV3). The composition of EV assemblages changed significantly during the second period. We conclude that during the whole period, CVB5, CVB4, and E3 were prominent NPEVS in the SR. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Virology Research in Slovakia)

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15 pages, 2111 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of New Polyclonal Antibody Developed for Serological Diagnostics of Tomato Mosaic Virus

by Michaela Mrkvová, Richard Hančinský, Simona Grešíková, Šarlota Kaňuková, Ján Barilla, Miroslav Glasa, Pavol Hauptvogel, Ján Kraic and Daniel Mihálik

Viruses 2022, 14(6), 1331; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/v14061331 - 18 Jun 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2375

Abstract

Plant viruses threaten agricultural production by reducing the yield, quality, and economical benefits. Tomato mosaic virus (ToMV) from the genus Tobamovirus causes serious losses in the quantity and quality of tomato production. The management of plant protection is very difficult, mainly due to [...] Read more.

Plant viruses threaten agricultural production by reducing the yield, quality, and economical benefits. Tomato mosaic virus (ToMV) from the genus Tobamovirus causes serious losses in the quantity and quality of tomato production. The management of plant protection is very difficult, mainly due to the vector-less transmission of ToMV. Resistant breeding generally has low effectiveness. The most practical approach is the use of a rapid diagnostic assay of the virus’ presence before the symptoms occur in plants, followed by the eradication of virus-infected plants. Such approaches also include serological detection methods (ELISA and Western immunoblotting), where antibodies need to be developed for an immunochemical reaction. The development and characterization of polyclonal antibodies for the detection of ToMV with appropriate parameters (sensitivity, specificity, and cross-reactivity) were the subjects of this study. A new polyclonal antibody, AB-1, was developed in immunized rabbits using the modified oligopeptides with antigenic potential (sequences are revealed) derived from the coat protein of ToMV SL-1. the developed polyclonal antibody. AB-1, showed higher sensitivity when compared with commercially available analogs. It also detected ToMV in infected pepper and eggplant plants, and detected another two tobamoviruses (TMV and PMMoV) and ToMV in soil rhizosphere samples and root residues, even two years after the cultivation of the infected tomato plant. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Virology Research in Slovakia)

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Review

Jump to: Research, Other

13 pages, 1090 KiB

Open AccessReview

Cellular Lipids—Hijacked Victims of Viruses

by Bozena Omasta and Jana Tomaskova

Viruses 2022, 14(9), 1896; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/v14091896 - 27 Aug 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1561

Abstract

Over the millions of years-long co-evolution with their hosts, viruses have evolved plenty of mechanisms through which they are able to escape cellular anti-viral defenses and utilize cellular pathways and organelles for replication and production of infectious virions. In recent years, it has [...] Read more.

Over the millions of years-long co-evolution with their hosts, viruses have evolved plenty of mechanisms through which they are able to escape cellular anti-viral defenses and utilize cellular pathways and organelles for replication and production of infectious virions. In recent years, it has become clear that lipids play an important role during viral replication. Viruses use cellular lipids in a variety of ways throughout their life cycle. They not only physically interact with cellular membranes but also alter cellular lipid metabolic pathways and lipid composition to create an optimal replication environment. This review focuses on examples of how different viruses exploit cellular lipids in different cellular compartments during their life cycles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Virology Research in Slovakia)

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24 pages, 818 KiB

Open AccessReview

The Contribution of Viral Proteins to the Synergy of Influenza and Bacterial Co-Infection

by Miriam Mikušová, Karolína Tomčíková, Katarína Briestenská, František Kostolanský and Eva Varečková

Viruses 2022, 14(5), 1064; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/v14051064 - 16 May 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3312

Abstract

A severe course of acute respiratory disease caused by influenza A virus (IAV) infection is often linked with subsequent bacterial superinfection, which is difficult to cure. Thus, synergistic influenza–bacterial co-infection represents a serious medical problem. The pathogenic changes in the infected host are [...] Read more.

A severe course of acute respiratory disease caused by influenza A virus (IAV) infection is often linked with subsequent bacterial superinfection, which is difficult to cure. Thus, synergistic influenza–bacterial co-infection represents a serious medical problem. The pathogenic changes in the infected host are accelerated as a consequence of IAV infection, reflecting its impact on the host immune response. IAV infection triggers a complex process linked with the blocking of innate and adaptive immune mechanisms required for effective antiviral defense. Such disbalance of the immune system allows for easier initiation of bacterial superinfection. Therefore, many new studies have emerged that aim to explain why viral–bacterial co-infection can lead to severe respiratory disease with possible fatal outcomes. In this review, we discuss the key role of several IAV proteins—namely, PB1-F2, hemagglutinin (HA), neuraminidase (NA), and NS1—known to play a role in modulating the immune defense of the host, which consequently escalates the development of secondary bacterial infection, most often caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae. Understanding the mechanisms leading to pathological disorders caused by bacterial superinfection after the previous viral infection is important for the development of more effective means of prevention; for example, by vaccination or through therapy using antiviral drugs targeted at critical viral proteins. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Virology Research in Slovakia)

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15 pages, 961 KiB

Open AccessReview

Alimentary Infections by Tick-Borne Encephalitis Virus

by Martina Ličková, Sabína Fumačová Havlíková, Monika Sláviková and Boris Klempa

Viruses 2022, 14(1), 56; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/v14010056 - 30 Dec 2021

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 5347

Abstract

Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) causes serious the neurological disease, tick-borne encephalitis (TBE). TBEV can be transmitted to humans by ticks as well as by the alimentary route, which is mediated through the consumption of raw milk products from infected ruminants such as sheep, [...] Read more.

Tick-borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) causes serious the neurological disease, tick-borne encephalitis (TBE). TBEV can be transmitted to humans by ticks as well as by the alimentary route, which is mediated through the consumption of raw milk products from infected ruminants such as sheep, goats, and cows. The alimentary route of TBEV was recognized in the early 1950s and many important experimental studies were performed shortly thereafter. Nowadays, alimentary TBEV infections are recognized as a relevant factor contributing to the overall increase in TBE incidences in Europe. This review aims to summarize the history and current extent of alimentary TBEV infections across Europe, to analyze experimental data on virus secretion in milk, and to review possible alimentary infection preventive measures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Virology Research in Slovakia)

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Other

Jump to: Research, Review

10 pages, 2378 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Intrauterine Fetal Demise After Uncomplicated COVID-19: What Can We Learn from the Case?

by Pavel Babal, Lucia Krivosikova, Lucia Sarvaicova, Ivan Deckov, Tomas Szemes, Tatiana Sedlackova, Michal Palkovic, Anna Kalinakova and Pavol Janega

Viruses 2021, 13(12), 2545; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/v13122545 - 19 Dec 2021

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3199

Abstract

Background: SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnant women can lead to placental damage and transplacental infection transfer, and intrauterine fetal demise is an unpredictable event. Case study: A 32-year-old patient in her 38th week of pregnancy reported loss of fetal movements. She overcame mild COVID-19 [...] Read more.

Background: SARS-CoV-2 infection in pregnant women can lead to placental damage and transplacental infection transfer, and intrauterine fetal demise is an unpredictable event. Case study: A 32-year-old patient in her 38th week of pregnancy reported loss of fetal movements. She overcame mild COVID-19 with positive PCR test 22 days before. A histology of the placenta showed deposition of intervillous fibrinoid, lympho-histiocytic infiltration, scant neutrophils, clumping of villi, and extant infarctions. Immunohistochemistry identified focal SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid and spike protein in the syncytiotrophoblast and isolated in situ hybridization of the virus’ RNA. Low ACE2 and TMPRSS2 contrasted with strong basigin/CD147 and PDL-1 positivity in the trophoblast. An autopsy of the fetus showed no morphological abnormalities except for lung interstitial infiltrate, with prevalent CD8-positive T-lymphocytes and B-lymphocytes. Immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization proved the presence of countless dispersed SARS-CoV-2-infected epithelial and endothelial cells in the lung tissue. The potential virus-receptor protein ACE2, TMPRSS2, and CD147 expression was too low to be detected. Conclusion: Over three weeks’ persistence of trophoblast viral infection lead to extensive intervillous fibrinoid depositions and placental infarctions. High CD147 expression might serve as the dominant receptor for the virus, and PDL-1 could limit maternal immunity in placental tissue virus clearance. The presented case indicates that the SARS-CoV-2 infection-induced changes in the placenta lead to ischemia and consecutive demise of the fetus. The infection of the fetus was without significant impact on its death. This rare complication of pregnancy can appear independently to the severity of COVID-19’s clinical course in the pregnant mother. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Virology Research in Slovakia)

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