Virology Flashcards

1
Q

What is a virus?

A

Very small obligate intracellular parasite - non living.
Can have either single/double stranded RNA/DNA genomes
Capsid encoding organisms.

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2
Q

How were viruses first distinguished from other microorganisms?

A

1892 Ivanovsky ground up leaf tissue + filtered it -> filtered liquid had agent of disease not the concentrated filtrate

1898 Beijerinck repeated but said filterable agent was not a small bacterium

Electron microscope allowed for x100,000-fold magnification

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3
Q

What does the Baltimore classification scheme demonstrate?

A

7 genome types based on replication strategies - all must make mRNA that can be translated by host ribosomes.

DNA genomes - 2kb ssDNA Circovirus -> 2.8 Mb Pandoravirus

RNA genomes - 1.7kb -ssRNA hepatitis -> 31kb -ssRNA Coronavirus

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4
Q

Escape/progressive hypothesis for viral origins

A

Mobile genetic elements exited one cell + entered another via acquisition of structural protein.
Retrotransposons move via RNA intermediate like retrovirus.

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5
Q

Reduction/regressive hypothesis for viral origins

A

Viruses degenerate so retain genetic info for parasitic way of life -> loss of previously indispensable genes + reduction in genome size

  • obligate intracellular parasites (Chlamydia + Rickettsia bacteria) evolved from free living ancestors, cant make ATP or proteins
  • Mimivirus has relics of genes encoding tRNAs, aminoacyl tRNA synthetase + TFs so previously non-parasitic BUT evidence of horizontal gene transfer
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6
Q

Virus first hypothesis for viral origins

A

Independent entities evolved parallel/before cellular life from self-replicating mols in RNA world BUT all viruses need cellular host for replication

  • 1st replicating mol had RNA not DNA, maybe circular ssRNA of ribozymes could infect first cells
  • complex enveloped DNA virus became resident of emerging eukaryotic cell (endosymbiotic event)
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7
Q

What is the general structure of a virus?

A

Metastable structures (non-covalent bonding)
- extracellular virions stable to protect genome
- intracellular virion must open to release genomic contents

Watson + Crick 1956 EM studies showed rod vs spherical viruses - later helical & icosahedral symmetry.

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8
Q

TMV structure

A

Helical, +ssRNA 6.4 kB, single protein capsid
Each protein subunit binds 3 nucleotides + adjacent subunits, hollow helix w/ pore.

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9
Q

Parvovirus structure

A

60 subunits, very small (18-26nm) - 12 pentons/capsomers at vertices
3 subunits per face in head-head + tail-tail gives rotational symmetry.
T=3

Subunit proteins about 100kDa -> larger viruses need increased subunit number + increase triangulation value.

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10
Q

Triangulation values + icosahedral structure with examples

A

Always 12 pentamers but number of hexamers varies w/ size.

T=1, 20 faces + 60 subunits
T=3, 60 faces + 180 subunits
T=4, 80 faces + 240 subunits

  • Nodamura virus (T=3), coat proteins defined by occupancy of structurally distinct environments.
  • Brome mosaic virus (T=3), pentons + hexons composed of same subunit.
  • Adenovirus (T=25), pentons + hexons composed of different subunit proteins.
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11
Q

What is the role of glycoproteins in membrane bound viruses?

A

Membrane from host cell but studded w/ glycoproteins in bilayer -> most are oligomers
e.g. influenza HA is trimeric

Glycoproteins act as receptors, antigenic determinants + mediators of cell fusion.

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12
Q

Examples of Membrane bound viruses

A

Measles (-ssRNA) helical sym, membrane has HA & fusion protein (F)

Herpes simplex (dsDNA) has icosahedral sym.

Influenza: 8 separate helical nucleocapsids interact w/ ribonuclear proteins -> organise each RNA into helix, further folding by viral P proteins (sequence specific) at 5’ & 3’ end.
Matrix protein holds structure together.
Has HA to bind respiratory epithelial cells + NA enzyme allows exit

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13
Q

What are the requirements for replication to occur in a cell?

A

Susceptible cells have functional receptor for given virus - may or may not support replication (HIV cant infect primate cells)
-> resistant cells have no receptor

Permissive cells can support replication.

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14
Q

What did Ellis & Delbruck develop in 1939?

A

Study of bacteriophages in E.coli. Multiplicity infection (10 phage:1 bacteria) - diluted to prevent further absorption.
Sample taken at intervals, virions counted using plaque assay

-> one step growth curve formulated

Avg burst size is 100 phage from 1 E.coli

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15
Q

What happens in the latent phase of a growth curve?

A

Eclipse - no viral particles detected, uncoating, viruses actively transcribed + replicating, protein synthesis starts

Intracellular accumulation - proteins + viral genome self-assemble into virions that accumulate in cytoplasm-> viruses CAN be detected

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16
Q

What happens in the rise period of a growth curve?

A

Viral particles accumulate to threshold level -> triggers lysis, virions released increasing extracellular phage conc rapidly.

BUT adenovirus bucks trend: membrane bound (needs to acquire membrane so we see extracellular virus before intracellular

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17
Q

Receptors for viral attachment

A

Protein receptors tissue specific - tropism receptors dictate host range

Carb receptors less specific - presence determines cells resistance (co-receptors can be required e.g. HIV)

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18
Q

Polio virus receptor (Pvr)

A

CD122 indentified by transfecting mouse cells w/ human cDNA library.
Polio is pseudo T=3, VP1/VP2/VP3 form subunits of capsid
-> 5 VP1 form 5-fold symmetry axis, penton has canyon in capsid which is recognition site for receptor

1 polio interacts w/ 60 receptors

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19
Q

How does Influenza virus attach to cells?

A

Via a carb receptor - HA binds -ve terminal sialic acid on surface glycoproteins

Human HA binds a2-6 sialic acid, Avian HA binds a2-3 sialic acid. Sialic acid ubiquitous.

Adhesion triggers entry across membranes -> genome injection, membrane fusion, endocytosis (dictated by whether virus enveloped or not).

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20
Q

Methods of entry by naked and enveloped viruses

A

Naked - genome injection (bacteriophages), endocytosis (adenovirus, polio)

Enveloped - plasma membrane fusion (Sendai, HIV), endocytosis followed by endosome membrane fusion (influenza)

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21
Q

Entry into cells via membrane fusion

A

Unique to membrane bound viruses.
e.g. Measles (RNA), Herpes (DNA)

Membranes fuse together emptying virion into cytoplasm - then uncoated to release nucleocapsid.

DNA must translocate to nucleus membrane via filaments to be uncoated.

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22
Q

Receptor mediated endocytosis

A

Used by both membrane bound + naked viruses.

  • Viruses bind receptor + accumulate in clathrin coated pit in membrane.
  • Pit forms enclave which is enclosed by dynamin -> clathrin coated vesicle
  • virus uncoated + released into cytoplasm
  • ligands bound to receptor remain in vesicle (pH~7.0)
  • fuses w/ endosome
  • protons added lowering pH (~6.0) + fuses w/ lysosome to be degraded
  • receptors recycled
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23
Q

Define uncoating in viral replication

A

Releasing of viral genomic material for replication to occur.
Occurs simultaneously w/ entry in measles.

  • DNA viruses complete uncoating at nuclear pore
  • RNA viruses uncoat by fusing w/ plasma membrane/endocytic vesicle membrane -> releasing genome into cytoplasm
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24
Q

How does uncoating work at the plasma membrane?

A

Enveloped RNA only e.g. Paramyxoviridae - Sendai, Measles, Respiratory synctial.

  • HA adheres to surface receptors
  • Fusion of protein F engages + viral/host membrane fuse
  • Viral nucleocapsid (-ssRNA) + viral proteins released into cytoplasm
  • Synthesis of +sense mRNA occurs followed by translation
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25
Q

What are the details of Paramyxoviridae fusion?

A

F protein synthesised as F0 precursor - cleaved to F1 & F2 (connected by disulphide bond) by host cell protease.
- fusion peptide buried between F1 & F2 subunits
- Binding of HN causes conformational change exposing fusion peptide -> highly hydrophobic so embeds in host membrane

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26
Q

How does uncoating via the formation of a pore in the endosome work?

A

Polio binds to PVR (CD155) + conformational change occurs.
- Pocket lipid lost & hydrophobic N termini of VP1 + VP4 displaced to surface so inserts into endosome membrane
- Pore formed which +ssRNA genome bound w/ VPg protein passes through

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27
Q

How does uncoating of the Influenza virus take place? (Stage 1: fusion)

A
  • HA1 binds receptors w/ sialic acid -> endocytosis.
  • Import of H+ ions acidifies endosome causing HA conformational change, reveals fusion peptide in HA2
  • Loop region in HA2 becomes coiled coil, fusion peptides reoriented towards endosome membrane
  • Alpha helices pack down bringing 2 membranes closer together allowing fusion
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28
Q

How does uncoating of the Influenza virus take place? (Stage 2: release of RNA genome segments)

A
  • M2 ion channel homotetramer, forms pore at low pH allowing protons to enter viral capsid
  • drop in pH causes conformational change of M1-> breaks bond which tethers vRNP to M1
  • M1-M1 bonds broken so capsid dissociates
  • release of vRNP reveals nuclear location signals allowing nuclear import
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29
Q

How does uncoating in the cytoplasm by ribosomes work?

A

e.g. Semiliki Forest virus

  • enters via clathrin-dependent endocytosis
  • acidification of endosome triggers fusion of viral + endosome membranes
  • viral nucleocapsid released into cytoplasm but still tethered to cytosolic endosome membrane
  • ribosomes bind nucleocapsid + hydrolyse
  • each ribosome binds 3-6 mols of C protein causing detachment
  • ribosomes bind +ssRNA genome & translation begins (still tethered to membrane)
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30
Q

How does uncoating at the nuclear pore work?

A

e.g. stepwise in adenovirus

  • integrin contacts fiber receptor bound to penton -> triggers clathrin mediated endocytosis
  • endosome acidifies, fibres released from virus + penton bases drop off leaving only hexons
  • protein VI causes endosome lysis, embeds in membrane destabilising it
  • binds MTs in host to traffic to nuclear pore
  • hexon proteins interact w/ histone proteins
  • importin-7 + importin-B bind histone H1 -> import of protein into nucleus triggering capsid disassembly

Transportin + protein VII help DNA import

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31
Q

Why is nuclear import easier for parvoviruses & hepadnoviruses?

A

Very small so can just enter via nuclear pores.

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32
Q

What are the methods of leaving the host cell?

A

Naked viruses - cell lysis

Membrane bound - budding/ exocytosis as need to acquire a membrane from ER/golgi/plasma mem

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33
Q

How do naked viruses leave host cells?

A

Normally results in cell lysis:
Adenoviruses + Polio shut down production of cellular proteins.
- eIF4A cleaved by viral protease 2A (encoded P2) so subunit lost from IF complex + ribosome cannot bind

Polio alters membrane permeability (2Bpro tetramer forms pores in membrane)

Bacteriophage release cytolytic molecules.

  • large quantities of virions accumulate prior to release
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34
Q

Describe how Polio induces lysis

A

Shuts down protein synthesis:
- eIF4F which binds 5’-7-methyl guanosine CAP is cleaved by viral protease 2A (encoded by P2)
- eIF4G subunit lost from IF complex preventing cellular RNA from binding ribosomes

Alters membrane permeability of host cells -> 2Bpro is tetramer of 99aa peptide, forms pores in membrane -> lysis

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35
Q

What does the Polio virus genome consist of?

A

Polio genome (T=3)

  • P1 encodes capsid units
  • P2 encodes proteins for interaction w/ the host (e.g. protease 2A)
  • P3 encodes proteins which participate in genome replication
  • IRES (internal ribosome entry site) 500bp allows ribosome binding + translation
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36
Q

Describe how Polio can induce its non-lytic release in the GI tract

A
  • upon replication in polarised epithelial cells, only released from apical surface
  • virions enclosed in autophagosome vesicles (formed by 2BC & 3A proteins from Golgi membranes) - happens during late infection
  • fusion of vesicle w/ mem -> non-destructive from cell
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37
Q

Where do various enveloped viruses acquire their membrane from?

A

Exocytosis - via budding

Envelope acquired from plasma membrane (influenza) or internal membranes of secretory pathway (herpes)

Can (rhabdovirus, paramyxovirus, togavirus) or can not (retrovirus) cause cell death.

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38
Q

How does exocytosis take place for the influenza virus?

A

Acquires membrane from host cell membrane. Viral membrane studded w/ proteins: HA, NA + M2.
Proteins synthesised & delivered via secretory systems:
- synthesis + co-translational membrane insertion into ER
- glycosylation stars in rER + continues in Golgi - glycoproteins transported to membrane via vesicle

Virus w/ nucleocapsid migrates to virus modified membrane + buds off to form free infectious virus.

** matrix, capsid + replication enzymes synthesised by free ribosomes vs viral mem proteins translated on ribosomes associated w/ ER

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39
Q

How does assembly & exocytosis occur in Herpes virus?

A

2 cycles of envelopment.

  • UL31 & UL34 bind lamina prteins when phosphorylated by US3 (kinase) -> catalyses disruption of nuclear lamina + promotes budding.
    UL51 helps virus leave ER, nucleocapsid has associated tegument proteins -> amass around nucleocapsid + important for replication cycle.
  • glycoproteins (gE, gI, gM, gD) interact w/ Tegument proteins in trans Golgi network
  • virus formed at Golgi + is exocytosed

**virus acquires nuclear & golgi membrane

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40
Q

Maturation of virus particles

A

-> when virus becomes infectious

Viral proteins need to proteolytically processed post-assembly.
Happens late in assembly (Polio) or following release of immature virions from host cell (retrovirus)

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41
Q

How are retrovirus particles rearranged after exocytosis?

A

Gag polyprotein layer beneath viral mem found in immature virus
-> cleaved by HIV protease -> infectious HIV

Protease used as drug target for HIV treatments.

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42
Q

DNA packing signals

A

e.g. Polyoma & adenoviruses use short sequence repeats close to origin

SV40 in regulatory region - has 6 tandem binding sites for viral TF sp1.
Bound sp1 interacts w/ capsid proteins + stimulates assembly

Adenovirus IVa2 proteins recognises packing signals.

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43
Q

RNA packing signals

A

e.g. HIV type 1 genome

signal-psi recognised nucleocapsid proteins - necessary but not sufficient for HIV packaging, only found in unspliced genomic RNA
-> binds DIS + part of DLS

TAR + poly A loops also required

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44
Q

Packing of segmented genomes

A

Each of 8 genome segments in Influenza has unique signal at both ends.

Segments arranged in virus in specific pattern -> interactions between the segments

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45
Q

What does virion assembly depend on?

A

Concentration - components concentrated in ‘factories’ -> internal membranes can be sites of assembly providing means of concentrating proteins

Can be either independent or dependent on host machinery.

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46
Q

Host dependent assembly

A
  • chaperones catalyse/assist folding of individual proteins + assembly of capsid/nucleocapsid
  • viral proteins + nucleic acids from sites of assembly
  • host secretory pathways processes + moves viral particles
  • host nuclear import/export machinery moves viral nuclear proteins + nucleic acid in & out of nucleus
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47
Q

What are the types of addresses embedded in amino acid sequences?

A

Signal - target correct membranes
Retention - remain in appropriate membranes
Nuclear localisation - go to nucleus
Nuclear export - ensure viral mRNA/ribonuclear proteins moved into cytoplasm

Components can travel short (across membrane) or long (to site of replication, or assembly) distances across the cell.

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48
Q

How are protein shells assembled in viruses? (give examples)

A

Self assembly:
- from individual protein mols
e.g. Simian virus, need large excess of VP1 to VP2/3 (stoichiometry) for spontaneous formation

-from polyprotein precursor
e.g. Polio, gets around need for high conc. -> VP1-4 joined together, protease then cleaves bonds between subunits except VP1-4, 2 & 4 not cleaved until whole virus assembled w/ RNA genome

Assisted assembly: uses chaperones
e.g. Adenovirus, 3 protein IIs generate hexon timer, requires 100kDa L4 chaperone host cell protein

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49
Q

Sequential assembly (in bacteriophage T4)

A

Genome inserted into pre-formed protein shell e.g. Herpes, Adenovirus

In bacteriophage T4:
It ensures orderly formation of viral particles + virion subunits.
Discrete intermediate structures formed, cannot proceed unless previous structure formed.
- head, tail & tail fibres formed separately by sequential reactions, then assembled in ordered manner.

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50
Q

Concerted assembly (Polio in cytoplasmic compartment)

A

Structural subunits assemble productively hen nucleic acid present.

For Polio:
- +ssRNA translated immediately -> produces P1-3
- P1 has VP0, VP1 & VP3, spontaneously assemble into 5S subunit + polymerises forming 14S penton
- Pentamer stabilised by protein interactions + interactions mediated by mysterate chains on N-terminus of VP0
- Pentons can self-assemble, viral genome required to catalyse proteolysis of VP0 -> VP2 & VP4
-> produces infectious Polio from provirion

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51
Q

Concerted assembly of influenza A

A

HA, NA + M2 envelope proteins translated by ribosomes associated w/ ER
- delivered to plasma mem by host secretory pathway.

Ribonuclear proteins (nuclear export, M1) translated by free ribosomes, imported back to nucleus
- protein migrates to plasma mem to sites enriched w/ glycolipids, M1 protein genome binds C-terminal domain of HA
-> virus particle forms

8 genomic segments packaged into each capsid accurately

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52
Q

Self assembly of viruses (give examples)

A

TMV + Polio form spontaneously from capsid subunit + RNA

HA of influenza expressed in cells can bud spontaneously + form particles

Hepatitis B (HBV) surface antigen forms into virus like particles

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53
Q

What does assisted assembly require to be successful?

A

Need protein scaffolds to form capsid structure.
e.g. Herpes simplex, Adenovirus

  • they establish intermediate structures, not present in mature virus but needed for accurate assembly of icosahedral virus
  • subject to proteolytic degradation by viral proteases prior to entry of DNA genome into capsid
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54
Q

Assisted assembly in Herpes simplex

A

linear dsDNA encodes approx 80 proteins, membrane bound, icosahedral capsid.
Targets mucosal epithelial cells but can lie dormant in neurones. T=16, 969 subunits

pre-VP22a self association (forms internal scaffold stimulates VP5 (hexamers + pentamers) binding followed by triplet protein (VP23 + VP19C)
VP24 protease in core activated + cleaves short C-terminal sequence from scaffold protein

-> scaffold disintegrates + is further degraded which promotes conformational change allowing DNA entry

*only 1 UL6 portal protein - allows scaffold ejection + DNA entry into virus

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55
Q

List 3 requirements for ensuring successful infection

A

1) sufficient viral particles (shedding)
2) cells at primary infection site must be accessible, susceptible + permissive
3) local host of antiviral defences must be absent or initially defective

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56
Q

How do virions defend against hostile environments?

A
  • large number of virions overcome sensitivity to heat, drying + sunlight
  • many virions stable at low pH & protease resistant
  • no exposure to environment via vector transmission or direct physical contact (e.g. zika, yellow fever)
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57
Q

Local vs systemic infection

A

Local - replication occurs at site of infection, no systemic spread
e.g. influenza, rhinovirus

Systemic - replication occurs at primary site of infection + disseminated via blood, lymph + nerves to secondary site of infection where replicate further. Can shed back into blood + disseminate further
e.g. measles, chickenpox

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58
Q

Viral entry via skin

A

Epidermis cannot support infection (dead keratinised cells)
Viral entry via skin abrasions, needle puncture, insect/animal bites
-> dermis + subdermal tissues highly vascularised

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59
Q

Viral entry via respiratory tract

A

e.g. rubella, influenza, mumps measles, varicella zoster

Alveoli targeted, entry into lymphatic/blood vessels. Goblet cells in mucociliary escalator has secretory IgA - aggregates pathogens.

Viruses either affect upper or lower tract

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60
Q

Viral entry via GI tract

A

Has innate defences - lysozyme in mouth, low pH + proteolytic enzymes in stomach

Systemic inc enterovirus, reovirus, adenovirus.
Localised infections inc coronavirus, rotavirus.

Polio virus binds M cells in Peyer’s patches to move across into lymphatics/blood, use it to cross epithelial mucosal barrier.

Enveloped viruses do not initiate GI tract infections except coronavirus (mainly naked)

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61
Q

Viral entry via urogenital tract

A

Less well protected, has mucus + low pH.
Minute abrasions in sex may allows entry via epithelial cells.

Systemic inc HIV, hepatitis B, herpes simplex can infect sensory + autonomic neurons.
Localised - human papillomavirus

Lymph provides access to blood stream -> haematogenous spread

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62
Q

Compare active and passive viremias

A

Viremia is when viruses enter blood stream + can access rest of body (either free or contained within infected cells - lymphocytes)

Active - replication in tissue prior to bloodstream access

Passive - viruses enter bloodstream without replication in host tissue e.g. direct inoculation by mosquitoes, don’t replicate until they reach permissive tissue

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63
Q

Compare primary and secondary viremias

A

Primary - release of virions after replication at initial site of entry into bloodstream, conc of virions low but allows spread to secondary sites

Secondary - replication at secondary sites results in large number of virions being released into blood -> spread to organs

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64
Q

List the different features of neural spread

A

Neurotropic - infect neural cells via neural/haematogenous route

Neuroinvasive - can enter CNS after infection of peripheral site (low in herpes, high in mumps + rabies)

Neurovirulent - can cause disease of nervous tissue -> neurological systems -> death (low in mumps, high in herpes + rabies)

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65
Q

How does neural spread take place and what are the two types?

A

Infection initiated in muscles or other innervated tissue. Can enter afferent /efferent nerve fibres + spread through axons to cell bodies + primary neurones.

  • can only replicate in cell bodies

Anterograde spread: moves along MTs using kinesin (cell body -> axon)

Retrograde spread: moves along MTs using dynein (axon -> cell body)

e.g. Rabies targets muscle cells to initiate CNS infection + replicate

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66
Q

How do viruses cross the blood-brain barrier and what areas do they target for entry into brain?

A

e.g. Zika, Measles, West Nile, Polio
Can hijack lymphocytes or use transcytosis (vesicles), others replicate in endothelial cells lining blood vessel.

Meningeal blood vessel, cerebral blood vessels, choroid plexus blood vessel, meninges.

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67
Q

Poliomyelitis

A

Enterovirus, Picornaviridae (+ssRNA), 3 serotypes: Brunhilde, Lansing + Leon. Pseudo T=3 non-enveloped capsid, icosahedral symmetry.

  • Humans only known reservoir, faecal/oral transmission (peaks warm months)
  • Can enter CNS + replicate in motor neurones in spinal chord

Complications : post-Polio syndrome (25%-40%) 30-40 yr interval, caused by long term damage to motor neurones

Paralytic 1% cases (flaccid paralysis).
Bulbar poliomyelitis has max fatality as brain stem neurons involved.

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68
Q

Pathogenesis of Polio

A

Ingested + replicates in orapharynx + intestinal mucosal surface. Targets M cells w/ PVR CD155.
Enters via cervical/mesenteric lymph nodes -> viremia.

Can migrate to muscle (replicates) + reach motor endplate (access to CNS)

Moves down axon (12cm/day) - cytoplasmic C-terminal tail of CD155 associated w/ Tctex-1 (light chain subunit of dynein motor complex)
-> retrograde transmission

Replication:
-Polio cleaves translation initiation complex eIF4E, ribosomes cannot be recruited to capped mRNAs
- only uncapped Polio virus mRNA which has IRES is translated

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69
Q

Rabies virus structure

A

Neurotropic lyssavirus, -ssRNA genome encodes 5 proteins, membrane bound, helical.

Bullet shape - glycoproteins act as adhesin, animal to human transmission. Can be transmitted via latrogenic cornea transplant or saliva (bites)

Spreads by retrograde axonal transport.
-> zoonotic virus

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70
Q

Rabies pathogenesis & symptoms

A

Varied incubation 7 days - many years (depends of wound, inoculum size + distance from CNS)
Replicates in striated/connective tissue + enters peripheral nerves via NMJs (retrograde).
Can replicate in dorsal root ganglion + travels up spinal chord to brain.
Spreads to CNS in endoneurium of Schwann cells (anterograde transport)

Symptoms:
Furious form 80% infections.
Non-specific prodrome period: fever, malaise, anorexia, nausea, sore throat, myalgia + headache

  • acute encephalitic phase: hydrophobia + excitement, virus sheds in saliva
  • numb form (20%): weakness, flaccid paralysis

After onset, survival rarely > 7 days

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71
Q

How does rabies virus navigate muscle cells, NMJs and enter neurones?

A

Glycoprotein dimer binds nAchRs at post synaptic muscle membrane.

Entry via endocytosis, fusion w/ endosomal membrane, ribonucleocapsid released into cytoplasm.

Virus moves across NMJ to neurons + enters via neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM)

Either via capsid release or whole virus remains in endosome + transported to cell body.

Retrograde axonal transport to cell body

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72
Q

What characterizes persistent smoldering viruses?

A

They replicate constantly
E.g. lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus

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73
Q

What are acute infections?

A

Short duration infections that are cleared in 1-2 days. Eliminated by immune system.

Transient then adaptive immune response (long lasting)

E.g. rhinovirus, rotavirus + influenza, rabies, polio, measles

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74
Q

What are latent viruses?

A

Viruses that can exist in a non-replicative form and are activated by environmental factors
E.g. Herpes simplex

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75
Q

What is the role of innate defenses in viral infections?

A

They help eliminate virions and infected cells early on
E.g. interferon gamma by cytokine response

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76
Q

What are examples of zoonotic infections?

A
  • COVID
  • H5N1
  • Ebola
  • Zika
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77
Q

What is the duration of persistent infections?

A

They can last a long time, often characterized by slow progression

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78
Q

Fill in the blank: The threshold level of _______ is required to activate the adaptive immune response.

A

[virus]

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79
Q

What is the difference between innate and adaptive immune responses?

A

Innate is immediate and non-specific, while adaptive takes time and is specific

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80
Q

Short vs long incubation

A

Short - virus replicates + causes disease at primary site of infection
e.g. influenza (1-2 days)

Long - requires sytemic spread of virus from primary site (primary + secondary viremia) e.g. measles, chckenpox

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81
Q

Descirbe an inapparent acute infection

A

Succesful acute infections that have no/mild symptoms.
- enough to maintain infection but insufficient to cause disease
- caused by well adapted pathogen
- detcted by increase in antiviral antibodies

> 90% Polio infections inapparent

82
Q

Why is Tamiflue useless unless given early on?

A

Most acute infections complete before immune response detected.
- virus has spread to next host
- difficult to diagnose prior to symptoms

Tamiflu beneficial within 2 days

83
Q

Define R & r

A

r is the growth rate in a population

R is the number of people 1 person will infect

84
Q

Measles structure + characteristics

A

-ssRNA human specific, evolved from rinderpest, only 1 serotype
R = 16 so very contagious - 40 mil infections a yr

large pop required to maintain the virus

85
Q

Pathogenesis of measles

A

Infects epithelium, infected alveolar macrophages + dendritic cells migrate to lymph nodes where B + T cells infected (1 viremia)

Infected B/T cells replicate in spleen, thymus + lymphoid organs then re-eenter circulation (2 viremia)

Can spread to all body surfaces - respriratory (cough), mouth (Kopliks spots, rash)

86
Q

Timeline of measles infection

A

Most infectious 2-4 days before & 2-5 days after rash develops

  • viral numbers largest in prodromal phase (non-specific symptoms), when virus shedding lots
  • 1o & 2o viremia effectively incubation period
87
Q

Outcomes & treatment of measles

A
  • affected by noruishment e.g. vitA can reduce mortality
  • immunosuppression can cause secondary infections (60% deaths due to pneumonia)
  • subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE), degeneration of NS - rare
  • immune amnesia (memory cells destroyed, 2-3 yrs)

100 a year chronically disabled (chronic encephalitis)
- endmeic transmission stopped in 2000 by MMR vaccine

Wakefield 1998 -> decreased immunisation, so increased outbreaks

88
Q

Why do acute infections reoccur?

A
  • antigenic variation by mutations of structural proteins (antiody resistance)
  • strcutural plasticity, can tolerate many a.a.cid subs + remain infectious (rhinovirus, 100 serotypes)

WHEREAS polio, measles + yellow virus have rigid structure + few serotypes so long asting effective vaccines used

89
Q

Antigenic drift

A

Error prone replication of RNA genomes in viruses (no proof reading)
Cna improve/reduce fitness

90
Q

Antigenic shift

A

Major change in surface protein of a virion following acquisition of new genes.

e.g Influenza A - new pandemic strain

influenza - genome reassortment when mutliple viruses coinfect cells
porcine cells can be infected w/ bird + human influenza

92
Q

List the initial symptoms of influenza.

A

Incubation 1-5 days

Abrupt onset headache
* Chills
* Dry cough
* High fever
* Myalgia
* Malaise
* Anorexia

93
Q

When does fever typically decline in influenza?

A

Day 2-3, gone by day 6

94
Q

What antiviral drug is effective against influenza if taken within 2 days of infection?

95
Q

What are some complications associated with influenza?

A
  • Primary viral pneumonia
  • Secondary bacterial pneumonia
  • Generalized muscle pain
  • Cardiac involvement
  • Reye syndrome
96
Q

What is Reye syndrome associated with?

A

Encephalopathy and liver problems

97
Q

What role do cytotoxic lymphocytes play during an influenza infection?

A

They cause damage while clearing the infection

98
Q

What is haemagglutinin (HA) in the context of influenza?

A

Trimeric glycoproteins that promote adhesion of virus to alpha 2,6-linked sialic receptors

99
Q

What is the function of neuraminidase (NA) in influenza?

A

Catalyzes hydrolysis of terminal sialic residues from newly formed virions and host cell receptors

100
Q

What are the subtypes of influenza A based on HA and NA?

A

18 HA subtypes and 11 NA subtypes

101
Q

Name the three combinations of influenza A that circulate in humans.

A
  • H1N1
  • H2N2
  • H3N2
102
Q

What is antigenic drift in the context of H1N1?

A

Variants appear every 3-8 years

103
Q

How often do variants of H3N2 appear?

A

Every 2-5 years

104
Q

How many serotypes of influenza B exist?

A

1 serotype

2 major lineages are Victoria and Yamagata - diverged 1970s, Yamagata outcompeted by COVID

105
Q

What is the mutation rate of influenza B compared to influenza A?

A

2-3x slower

106
Q

What drives zoonotic transfer?

A

Mutations - some may have gene that allows progenitor jump into new host
- relies on standing variation in original host

de novo mutations in new host promote adapation -> undetected sustained transmission

108
Q

What are the two classes of HIV that cause clinically indistinguishable disease?

A
  • HIV1
  • HIV2

Both are members of the lentivurus class of retroviruses

HIV1 is responsible for the global pandemic, while HIV2 is restricted to West Africa.

109
Q

What is the origin of HIV1 and HIV2?

A
  • HIV1: SIV from chimps/gorillas
  • HIV2: SIV from Sooty Mangabeys

Both viruses integrate into the host genome as a provirus.

110
Q

What significant health issues were reported in young males in San Francisco and New York City in 1981?

A
  • Kaposi’s sarcoma
  • Pneumocystis pneumonia

Luc Montangnier isolated HIV 1984

These conditions were indicators of AIDS.

111
Q

What type of cells does HIV destroy, weakening the immune system?

A

CD4 T-cells

The depletion of these cells leads to immunodeficiency.

112
Q

How many people were living with AIDS in 2023?

A

39.9 million

This is an increase from 29.4 million in 2001, attributed to higher survival rates.

113
Q

What is the structure of the HIV genome?

A

2 identical copies of a 9749 nucleotide (+) ssRNA molecule, encoding 15 proteins

The genome is key to the virus’s replication and function.

114
Q

What is the significance of the gp120 spikes in HIV?

A

Enables targeting of CD4

These spikes are crucial for the virus to attach to host cells.

115
Q

What protein forms the capsid structure of HIV?

A

p24 protein

This protein is key for diagnosis of HIV.

116
Q

What is the composition of the HIV capsid?

A
  • 216 protein hexons
  • 12 protein pentons

The pentons are formed at positions where tightly rounded corners occur on the capsid.

117
Q

What role does water play in the HIV capsid?

A

Associates w/ capsid - helps the virus dissociate when inside the cell

This is important for the viral entry into host cells.

118
Q

Genomic organisation of HIV-1

A

9 ORFs but 15 proteins made -> cleavage of 3 primary products (Gag, Pol + env polyproteins)

Separated ORFs subject to alternative splicing -> splice variance allows tat & rev to associate w/ each other

119
Q

Function of Gag, Pol & Env in HIV-1

A

Gag - matrix, capsid nucleocapsid, p6

Pol: reverse transcriptase (RNA -> dsDNA), integrase, protease (cleaves Pol + Gag encoded polyproteins)

env - Gp160 proteolytically cleaved -> gp120 + gp41by a furin (golgi-dependent protease)

120
Q

TAT protein

A

Trans-activator trancription

Binds downstream sequence of LTR + stimulates transcription, secreted + taken up by healthy cells -> upregulates CCR5 + CCrX4

121
Q

REV protein

A

Regulator of Virion protein expression

Dictates whether RNA translated or packaged into virions.
High - protein synthesis rises
Low - ensures full length RNA for packaging

122
Q

NEF protein

A

Negative regulatory factor

  • myristolated, anchored to inner mem surface
  • binds C-terminus CD4, endocytosed + destroyed preventing super infection cells
  • prevents MHC class I presentation by binding golgi mem (undetected by host immune cells)
  • increases NFkB activation, increasing HIV transcription
  • triggers apoptosis bystander T cells
123
Q

VIF

A

Protein infectivity factor- protects HIV from antiviral defences

ApoBec3G polyubiquinylated -> degraded in proteasomes

IF VIF absent, ApoBec3G binds viral RNA + converts C->U in synthesised cDNA -> hypermutation (C to A transversion) or degradtaion of cDNA
It would also inhibit reverse transcription

124
Q

VPU protein

A

Viral protein U
- enables release of HIV from plasma mem
- prevents export of DC4 to cell surface, trasp it in ER for degradation

125
Q

VPR

A

Viral protein R
- promotes entry of cDNA into nucleus -> cell cycle arrest

126
Q

Describe the phases of HIV infection

A

Acute - virus tire rises + initial fall in CD4/rise in CD8 T cells, M tropic (CCR5) viruses predominate (homogenous pop)

Asymptomatic phase - 3-4 months after infection, replication continues in lymph nodes, virus binds follicular dendritic cells, latent reservoir in quiscent T cells, accumulated mutations -> population becomes more heterogenous

Development of AIDS - CD4 count below 200/mm3 blood, virus titre rises again, immune competecy declines -> opportunistic infections.

127
Q

Attachent + entry of HIV

A
  • specifc binding gp120 to CD4+ -> confromational change exposes variable loop 3 promoting co-receptor binding
  • gp120 dissociates from gp41 which assumes haiprin conformation
  • allows membranes to fuse (fusion target of antiviral drugs -> T-20/enfuvirtide)

Env protein is only target of neutralising antibodies -> drives evolution in response to selection pressure

128
Q

Reverse transcription in HIV

A

Capsid enters cytoplasm + reverse transcription occurs in capsid.

Pro-virus (DNA) imported + integrated in nucleus. Cell does not need to be actively replicating as VPR as nuclear localisation signal in C terminus -> binds nuclear import receptors.

HIV matrix + integrase also have NLS

129
Q

Integration in HIV

A

Virus uncoats at nuclear membrane + DNA enters nucleus (both linear + circular forms found).

Linear viral genome cropped by integrase (2bp removed) revealing 5’-TG & 3’-CA
- dsDNA then integrates into chromosome using integrase

Transcribed using host Pol-II

130
Q

Assembly + maturation of HIV

A

Gag proteins asscoiate w/ plasma mem + RNA genome.
- core assembled
- fusion of membrane releases immature non-infectious viral particle

Proteolytic cleavage of Gag & Gag-Pol polyproteins completes maturation -> infectious
SO protease key target for antivrial drugs (Atazanavir ATV, Darunavir DRV)

131
Q

Why can HIV infection not be mimicked in macaques?

A

Trim5a blocks HIV replication by binding to capsid + targeting it for degradation by proteosome.

132
Q

HIV induced apoptosis

A

Infected activated T cells transcribes caspase-3 triggering cell death.

5% cell death

133
Q

HIV induced pyroptosis

A

Infected quiescent T cells dont have enough nucletoides for reverse trasncription.
- incomplete rev trascripts detected by IFI16 binding - activating caspase-1
- caspase-1 cleaves pore forming gasdermin -> osmotic lysis
- pro-inflammatory cytokine (IL-1B) attracts more T cells -> exacerbates process

134
Q

What causes clinical latency?

A

Strong immune repsonse to acute phase -> decline of virus in blood.
BUT still replicates in lymph nodes dendritic cells + macrophages.

Difefrent latent reservoir in quiescent memory T cells (no replication)

135
Q

What is the set point?

A

Stable level of HIV in the plasma of an infected person after the initial sharp increase in viral load during acute phase
-> determines speed of progression (length of asymptomatic period)

136
Q

Rotavirus general structure

A

11 segment dsRNA genome
VP7- G antigen, VP4 - P antigen
10 G + 11 P serotypes - 42 P&G combinations identified

Causes 30-50% diarrhoea in infants worldwide

137
Q

Pathogenesis of rotaviruses

A

Transmitted by faecal/oral route through fomites, very stable on environemntal surfaces.

Resistant to hand washing -> 3 layer capsid structure

Infants at risk of dehydration - electrolyte replacement therapy essential

Incubation period - 1-3 days, infection can last 5-7 days

138
Q

Role of M1 protein in inluenza

A

tethers the ribonucleoprotein to HA and NA at the plasma membrane

terminates transcription and translation of the viral genome

controls budding of the mature virus from the cell

139
Q

Latent/proviral infection characteristics

A

No replication, some transcripts made -> only proteins for maintaining latency + inactive state

  • initial acute infection followed by quiescent phase
  • reactivation can occur + always sheds virus but symptoms not always present
140
Q

Persistent/chronic infection characteristics

A

Long term infections w/ low level virus production
- not cleared effectively by adaptive immune response

LCV - Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis virus

e.g. LCV mice infected congenitally or at birth -> shed virions, not recognised as foreign + infection not cytopathic

141
Q

What causes persistance?

A
  • Inhibition of apoptosis
  • Neutralisation of CTL response prevents detection
  • Inhibition of T cell activation by modulation of MHC class I & II antigen presenting pathway
  • Ineffective stimulation of host iterferon response
  • modulation of viral gene expression
142
Q

Give some examples of latent viral infections

A

(gamma) Epstein Barr - novel transcription + replication pattern, no new viurs but genome replicates

(B) Cytomegalovirus - restricted transcription, genome does not replicate

(a) Herpes Simplex & VZV - restricted transcription, genome does not replicate

^All Herpesviridae

143
Q

Describe the structure of alphaherpes

A

200nm diameter, linear dsDNA genome, icosahedral nucleocapsid.

Lipid envelope w/ 10 viral glycoproteins, tegument layer - 15 viral proteins

Very well adapated to humans

PNS is a latent reservoir - neurones do not replicate DNA or divide (immunologically priveliged niche)

144
Q

HSV-1 pathogenesis

A
  • spreads locally in epithelial cells, taken up by lymphatic system.
  • replicates in oral mucosal ep. cells + enters nerve termini of sensory neuronewhich innervate primary infection site
  • HSV travels to neuron cell bodies in trigeminal ganglia, via fast axonal transport
  • lytic genes repressed + latency occurs
145
Q

How does HSV-1 induce latency?

A

In sensory ganglia, it become slatent as a non-integrated, nucleosome associated episome in host cell nucleus.

Transcription of virla genome silenced apart from LAT
- LATs prevent expression of genes needed for lytic phase of HSV-1 replication

LAT - latency associated transcript

147
Q

What is the role of gD in HSV1 infection?

A

gD interacts with nectin-1

gD is a glycoprotein that facilitates the binding of the virus to host cell receptors.

148
Q

What extracellular matrix components does HSV1 bind to?

A

gB and gC bind heparin sulphate and chondroitin sulphate

These components are crucial for the initial attachment of the virus to the host cell.

149
Q

Which HSV1 glycoproteins mediate membrane fusion?

A

gD, gB, gH, and gL

Nucleocapsid and tegunent proteins then released into cytoplas

These glycoproteins play a key role in the fusion of the viral and plasma membranes.

150
Q

How are HSV1 nucleocapsids transported to the nucleus?

A

They attach to microtubules along with VP16 (teg protein)

This transport mechanism is vital for delivering the viral genome to the nucleus.

151
Q

What does VP16 stimulate?

A

Transcription of immediate early genes

Products translated and imported into nucleus - activate transcription of proteins need for DNA replication

VP16 is a tegument protein that activates early viral gene expression.

152
Q

What are long concatomers of DNA in HSV1 replication?

A

Made in replication, encode structural and assembly proteins

These serve as templates for late gene expression.

153
Q

Where are mature glycoproteins transported?

A

To the Golgi and then to the plasma membrane

This process is important for the final assembly and release of the virus.

154
Q

Fill in the blank: The viral genome is delivered to the nucleus, activating viral gene expression dependent on _______.

A

Tegument protein VP16

VP16 is crucial for initiating the expression of early genes.

155
Q

Latency of HSV-1 in neurones

A

Viral genome circularise + transcription repressed (except LAT), ICP0 repressed + VP16 does not enter nucleus

LAT transcript spliced -> lariot structure, trasncripts produce ant-sense RNAs (4 miRNAs + 2 sRNAs) that prevent ICP0 transcription
- 2 of miRNAs prevent translation of 2 proteins needed for apoptosis so cell not killed

vhs (virion host shutoff) encoded by HSV gene UL41 is mRNA specific RNAse - rapidly shuts down host cell protein synthesis

no viral proteins produced so not detected

156
Q

Why does HSV-1 normally remain in the latent phase?

A

tegument proteins transported ineffficiently (interaction w/ fast axonal transport system - genes not upregulated so no VP16 to exit latent phase

Reactivation poorly understood - cortisol maybe involved (stress + chromatin remodelling)
-> requires de novo VP16 synthesis, may be done by relapse of chromatin repression elements

VP16 not transported effiiently to nucleus (trasncriptional silencing)

157
Q

Varicella Zoster & latency

A

125kb genome encode 68 ORFs

Primary infection -> chicken pox, then remains dormant in trigeminal + dorsal root ganglia
Can reactivate as shingles later in life (10-20%)

Viral gene transcription epigenetically regulated + restricted to ab 5 genes.
- ORF63 inhibits apoptosis + most abundantly expressed
- accumulates in neurone cytoplasm

158
Q

Epstein Barr virus & latency

A

172kb linear dsDNA, subclinical in children - causes infectious monnucleosis in 50% adolescents. 80% adults seropositive
- lies latent in non-proliferating B-lymphocytes
- subpahryngeal epithelia cells infected by saliva

EBV genome maintained as circular episome + associates w/ ncuelosomes. It is methylated at CpG residues
- expresses only LMP2A & EBNA-1
- infected B cells sequestered to bone marrow + lymphoid tissues

Not seen by CTLs or antibodies - virus only procuded in small fraction of cells

Reactivation involves Zta protein - activates host gene erg1

159
Q

What are the stages of viral infection relevant for antiviral intervention?

A

1) Binding to viral receptor
2) Penetration of cell
3) mRNA function
4) DNA/RNA synthesis
5) Viral assembly
6) Transport & release of virus

160
Q

What is needed to identify an agent that can target attachment and entry of a virus?

A

Identification of agents that mimic viral adhesin or receptor to bind to adhesin.

161
Q

What is Maraviroc and its function?

A

A CCR5 antagonist that prevents interaction with gp120.

162
Q

What does Enfuvirtide bind to and what is its effect?

A

Binds gp41 and interferes with HIV’s ability to catalyze membrane fusion.

163
Q

What is the role of Amantadine in antiviral treatment?

A

Interferes with formation of pores in influenza virus particle by M2 protein.
Targets uncoating

164
Q

True or False: Widespread resistance in influenza A and B is due to single amino acid mutations in M2.

165
Q

What is Pleconaril used for?

A

An anti-rhinovirus drug that binds hydrophobic pocket in VP1 to prevent uncoating.

166
Q

What is Acyclovir and its mechanism of action?

A

A pro-drug activated by phosphorylation, treating Herpesviridae by causing chain termination in viral DNA.

167
Q

What type of analogue is Acyclovir?

A

Guanosine analogue.

168
Q

What is the function of Zidovudine (AZI)?

A

An antiretroviral drug that terminates DNA synthesis to abort replication.
T analogue, highly toxic + y-Pol in Mt DNA highly sensitive

169
Q

What type of analogue is Zidovudine?

A

Thymidine analogue.

170
Q

What is Molnupiravir and its mechanism?

A

A pro-drug metabolized into nucleoside analogue N4-hydroxycytidine 5-triphosphate, incorporated into viral RNA instead of cytosine.

171
Q

What does Molnupiravir mimic in viral RNA?

A

Cytosine, but can swap between cytosine and uracil-like structures.

172
Q

What is the function of protease inhibitors in antiviral therapy?

A

Competitively inhibit viral protease, preventing maturation of released virions.

HIV - atazanavir + darunavir
SARS-Cov2 - ritonavir

173
Q

Name a protease inhibitor that targets SARS-CoV-2 protease.

A

Lopinavir/ritonavir.

174
Q

What are integrase inhibitors used for?

A

To block further spread of HIV virus (raltegravir) and used in salvage therapy when resistance to other drugs has occurred.

Must be combined with other drugs that target specific steps.

175
Q

How many integrase inhibitors are currently licensed?

A

4 drugs licensed + 1 in development with a greater half-life.

The drug in development is intended for pre-exposure prophylaxis.

176
Q

What did the discovery in 1974 reveal about DANA?

A

DANA was discovered to be a neuraminidase inhibitor.

This discovery led to the development of antiviral drugs targeting neuraminidase.

177
Q

What are Relenza and Tamiflu?

A

DANA derivatives with high specificity for the catalytic site of neuraminidase, inhibiting the release of budding viruses from cells.

Relenza is delivered by inhalation, while Tamiflu is taken orally.

178
Q

Against which viruses are Relenza and Tamiflu effective?

A

Effective against influenza A & B.

Both drugs target the neuraminidase enzyme critical for viral replication.

179
Q

What is Baloxavir marboxil?

A

A new anti-influenza drug delivered orally that acts as a cap-dependent endonuclease inhibitor.

It stops viral replication within 24 hours, faster than Tamiflu.

180
Q

What does the endonuclease do in viral mRNA synthesis?

A

Snips off the 5-end of a host capped, methylated mRNA which serves as a primer for viral mRNA synthesis.

181
Q

What is the ‘Kick & Kill’ strategy in HIV treatment?

A

Triggers transcription of latent HIV virus, allowing latently infected cells to be targeted and killed by the immune system.

SAHA (Suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid) is one drug that facilitates this process.
- inhibits HDAC so acetylated histones accumulate
- induces apoptosis by cleaving Bid protein + produces reactive oxygen species

182
Q

What is BCX4430?

A

A synthetic adenine analogue that inhibits replication of 20 viruses including Coronavirus and Ebola.

It is considered a broad-spectrum antiviral.

183
Q

What is T-705 known for?

A

It is effective in vitro and in vivo with ongoing human trials for treatment of Influenza and Ebola.

T-705 is another broad-spectrum antiviral.

184
Q

What is CMXO01?

A

A lipid conjugate of the nucleoside analogue, cidofovir, showing activity against multiple DNA viruses including Herpesviridae and Papillomaviruses.

185
Q

What do drugs targeting cytokine storms aim to treat?

A

They aim to treat general symptoms that accompany acute viral infections.

Cytokine storms can lead to severe inflammation and other complications during viral infections.

Immunosuppressant - azathriopine

186
Q

How are antiviral drugs discovered?

A

Mechanism based cellular screens targeted to a particular viral encoded enzyme or interaction.
e.g. transcription, membrane fusion

High throughput screens allow large numbers of compounds to be automatically screened - uses fluorescence markers.

187
Q

Principle of live attenuated vaccines & potential problems

A

From attenuated straisn devoid of pathogenicity but can induce immune response.
- forced to undergo mutations in unnatural host (monkeys) or at sub optimal temps

Problems: under-attenuation, revrsion, instability, heat labile, contamination of viral cell culture.

measles vaccine, forced human specific virus to replicate in chick embryo lines under 32C

188
Q

Attenuated influenza vaccine

A

Cold adaptation in co-infected chicken kidney cells at 25C (master strain) -produced in embryonated eggs.
- only healthy individuals 2-49yrs old
- administered by nasal spray
- cross reactive againsts drifted strains
- IgG + IgA production, strong immunity

189
Q

Attenutaed polio vaccine

A

Sabin
Type 1 & 3 generated by serial passage in mokey cells for reduced neurovirulence strains

Type 2 is naturally ocurring attenuated isolate, requires 3 doses -> >98% immunity for recipients

BUT oral polio vaccine can revert to nurovirulent form + shed in faeces, 1/750,000 associated w/ paralytic polio

used where risk of wild Polio very high, replaced by IPV as incidence decreased

190
Q

Priciple of inactivated vaccines

A

Inactivated by heat or chemical (formulin, B-propiolactone)

Need optimal treatment for sufficient immunogenicity.
- excessive treatment can destroy immunogenicity
- insufficient can leave virus still pathogenic

requires boosters as less immunogenic

191
Q

Inactivated influenza virus

A

Trivalent vaccines made in embryonated eggs BUT takes several weeks, viral yield can be poor + major egg supply limitations.

Safe + can be given to anyone, requires adjuvant (alum used in 5 influenza vaccines) to boost immune response.

192
Q

Inactivated Polio vaccine

A

1955 Salk injected inactivated Polio

Based on 3 wild virulent reference strains, grow in monkey kidney cells (Vero cell line is inactivated w/ formulin)

IgG mediated immunity in blood prevents viremia, does not affect motor neurone

preferred in regions w/ no wild polio risk

193
Q

Inactivated vaccines differences w/ live attenuated

A
  • needs higher + multiple doses
  • needs adjuvant (e.g. alum)
  • shorter immunity duration (unknown)
  • no IgA response
  • poor cell mediated immune response
  • reversion to virulence not possible
  • possible for incomplete inactivation

live vaccine -> replication of virus in host

194
Q

Principles of subunit vaccines

A

Purified immunogenic viral surface proteins used to iinduce immunity via antibody interaction.

1st HepB vaccine used HBsAg purified from blood of carriers - has excess coat proteins -> form speherical + tubular particles
- cloned subunit produced in yeast cells

extensive purification needed to remove infectious viral particles

195
Q

Pro and cons of subunit vaccines

A

Pros:
- suitable for those w/ comproised immune systems
- no live components so does not cause disease
- relatively stable

Cons:
- complex to manufacture
- needs adjuvants + boosters
- determining best antugen combination takes time

196
Q

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) subunit vaccine

A

Capsid has 2 VPs: L1 (major) + L2 (minor)
Recombinant HPV L1 used to assemble hollow virus like particle. Cloned into baculovirus vectors + expressed in insect cells
- NHS uses Gardasil (for 9 serotypes)

  • L1 expressed in yeast/baculovirus infected insect cells
  • L1 folds correctly + self assembles into VLPs when expressed in eukaryotes

HPV16 & HPV18 cause 70% all cervical cancers

197
Q

FluBok subunit vaccine

A

Quadravalent rHA vaccine (2 type A & 2 type B)

Produced using baculovirus exoression system.
- produced 3x more HA than trivalent inactivated vaccine
- no egg protein or preservatives (mercury), so higher doses w/o risk of side effects

Approved for seasonal flu 2020/21 in UK

198
Q

Principles of mRNA vaccines

A

Synthetic mRNA directs production of immunogenic protein.
Can include viral replicase genes -> amplify intracellular RNA

mRNA contains modified nucleosides:
uridine replaced by pseudouridine, C replaced w/ 5-methyl cytosine
- prveents RNA sensors (TLR7/8) recognising foreign RNA + triggering inflam response

Incorporation in lipid particles prevents degradation + helps endocytosis into APCs.

199
Q

Describe the 3 main COVID-19 vaccines

A

Pfizer - nucleoside modified RNA encoding spike protein in lipid nanoparticles (stored at -70C)

Moderna - modRNA encoding spike protein in lipid nanorparticle, stored at 2-8C, can be frozen + stable for several hours at room temp

AstraZeneca - replication deficient chimp andenovirus vector carrying full length spike protein gene (DNA vaccine)

200
Q

mRNA based universal influenza vaccine

A

Ideally gives cross strain protection
- periodic vaccination needed that targets common epitopes

vaccine using conserved stalk portion of HA started clinical trial in US may 2023 so bypasses serotype variation
-> gives immune response to 20 diferent strains in mice + ferrets

201
Q

Herd Immunity

A

Virus stops spread when probability of infection drops < critical threshold
e.g. measles is 93-95% (very infectious)

Can be reduced by social opposition
e.g. 2003 Nigerian religious leaders claimed polio vaccine had contraceptives derailing vaccination campaign so incidence rose
e.g. MMR & autism Wakefiled 1998

no vaccine 100% effective