Probing orthobunyavirus reassortment using Bunyamwera and Batai viruses as models.

ABSTRACT: Reassortment is a critical evolutionary mechanism for segmented viruses, enabling the exchange of intact genome segments during co-infection and driving orthobunyavirus evolution; however, the molecular mechanisms underpinning this process remain unclear. With over 100 orthobunyavirus species, many of which are significant human and veterinary pathogens, understanding how reassortment influences transmissibility and virulence is essential for preempting the emergence of novel pathogens. Here, we use Bunyamwera virus (BUNV) and Batai virus (BATV) as models to explore orthobunyavirus reassortment through reverse genetics. We established the first reverse genetics system for BATV, generated reassortants, and employed minigenome assays to assess replication machinery compatibility. Additionall

SUBMITTER: Bowen JM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12169594 | biostudies-literature | 2025 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature