6533b830fe1ef96bd1296819

RESEARCH PRODUCT

Evolution of DS-1-like human G2P[4] rotaviruses assessed by complete genome analyses

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Group A rotaviruses (RVAs) are a leading cause of viral gastroenteritis in children, with G2P[4] RVA being one of the most common human strain worldwide. The complete genome sequences of nine G2P[4] RVA strains, selected from a 26-year archival collection (1985-2011) established in Palermo/Italy, were determined. A strain associated with a peak of G2P[4] RVA activity in 1996 resembled a reassortant strain identified in Kenya in 1982 and completely differed in the genomic make up from more recent strains that circulated during 2004-2011. Conversely, the 2004-2011 G2P[4] RVAs were genetically more similar to contemporary RVA strains circulating globally. Recent G2P[4] strains possessed either single or multiple genome segments (VP1, VP3 and/or NSP4) likely derived from ruminant viruses through intra-genotype reassortment. Amino acid substitutions were selected and maintained over time in the VP7 and VP8* antigenic proteins, allowing to distinguish the circulation of two contemporary G2P[4] variants. Altogether, these findings suggest that major changes in the genomic composition of recent G2P[4] RVAs occurred in the early 2000s leading to the appearance of a novel variant of the DS-1-like genotype constellation. Whether the modifications observed in the neutralizing antigens and in the genome composition of modern G2P[4] RVAs may affect the long term effectiveness of the vaccination programs remains to be explored. ispartof: Journal of General Virology vol:95 issue:Pt 1 pages:91-109 ispartof: location:England status: published