Assessing the utility of antivirals for preventing maternal-fetal transmission of zika virus in pregnant mice

In this study, we developed a mouse model of ZIKV infection that specifically establishes vertical maternal-fetal transmission of ZIKV in 40–60% of fetuses when the dams acquire ZIKV infection during pregnancy. This mouse model somewhat mirrors the experience in humans at the peak of the epidemic in the Americas. Using this model, we demonstrate that a well-documented directly acting antiviral (DAA) compound that targets flaviviral RNA synthesis can completely prevent fetal infection when the treatment is started at the time of infection. Notably, we show that the treatment commenced at the time of peak viremia is still able to reduce the risk of fetal infection concomitant with significant reduction in placental viral load. Our results show for the first time the potential for clinical development of antiviral drugs for preventing vertical maternal-fetal transmission of ZIKV.
Source: Antiviral Therapy - Category: Virology Source Type: research