A single amino acid substitution in NS5 protein enhances transplacental transmission of Zika virus

Background: The emergence of Zika virus (ZIKV) in the Americas has aroused global concern due to its unexpected ability to cause congenital diseases in the context of infection during pregnancy. Previously, we have demonstrated that a single amino acid substitution (S139N) in the prM protein of ZIKV enhances viral neurovirulence and contributes to fetal microcephaly. Yet, how ZIKV crosses the placental barrier to target the fetal brain remains largely unknown.
Source: International Journal of Infectious Diseases - Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Tags: 0520 Source Type: research