Distinct Virologic Properties of African and Epidemic Zika Virus Strains: The Role of the Envelope Protein in Viral Entry, Immune Activation, and Neuropathogenesis.

ABSTRACT: The 2016 Zika virus (ZIKV) epidemic has largely subsided, but a key question remains. How did ZIKV evolve to become a virulent human pathogen compared to the virus of its original discovery? What specific virologic and pathologic changes contributed to increased pathogenicity in humans? Phylogenetic studies have identified two genetically distinct ZIKV, the African and Asian lineages, which differ in their pathogenicity. Previous studies including ours suggest that the envelope (E) protein plays a key role in viral entry, immune activation, and neuropathogenesis. This study aimed to further elucidate virologic and pathogenic differences between these lineages by assessing their ability to bind and replicate in host cells, induce apoptotic cell death, trigger inflammatory responses, and inf

SUBMITTER: Roozitalab A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12298065 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature