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Browsing by Subject "Zika Virus Infection"
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Item An Epidemic Zika Virus Isolate Drives Enhanced T Follicular Helper Cell and B Cell-Mediated Immunity(The American Association of Immunologists, 2022) Pardy, Ryan D.; Gentile, Maria E.; Carter, Alexandria M.; Condotta, Stephanie A.; King, Irah L.; Richer, Martin J.; Microbiology and Immunology, School of MedicineZika virus (ZIKV) is a mosquito-borne pathogen that recently caused a series of increasingly severe outbreaks. We previously demonstrated that, compared with a pre-epidemic isolate (ZIKVCDN), a Brazilian ZIKV isolate (ZIKVBR) possesses a novel capacity to suppress host immunity, resulting in delayed viral clearance. However, whether ZIKVBR modulates CD4 T cell responses remains unknown. In this study, we show that, in comparison with ZIKVCDN infection, CD4 T cells are less polarized to the Th1 subtype following ZIKVBR challenge in mice. In contrast, we observed an enhanced accumulation of T follicular helper cells 10, 14, and 21 d postinfection with ZIKVBR This response correlated with an enhanced germinal center B cell response and robust production of higher avidity-neutralizing Abs following ZIKVBR infection. Taken together, our data suggest that contemporary ZIKV strains have evolved to differentially induce CD4 T cell, B cell, and Ab responses and this could provide a model to further define the signals required for T follicular helper cell development.Item Mosquito control practices and perceptions: An analysis of economic stakeholders during the Zika epidemic in Belize, Central America(Public Library of Science, 2018-07-19) Duman-Scheel, Molly; Eggleson, Kathleen K.; Achee, Nicole L.; Grieco, John P.; Hapairai, Limb K.; Medical and Molecular Genetics, School of MedicineThe tourist-based economy of Belize, a tropical hub for eco-tourism, is at high risk to be disproportionately impacted by established and emerging mosquito-borne diseases such as Zika. An online survey was used to probe economic stakeholders working in the Belize tourism industry about their mosquito control practices and perceptions. Responses demonstrated that the respondents have good working knowledge of mosquitoes and mosquito-borne illnesses. Most businesses surveyed engage in some means of mosquito control, either through larval source reduction or use of insecticides on the premises. Larvicide use was significantly correlated with a general willingness to use insecticides, as well as belief that treatment of water will reduce mosquito densities and disease transmission. A majority of the respondents agreed that they would be interested in buying a new larvicide to be used on the business premises if it were shown to be safe and effective. The safety of mosquito control products for humans, animals, plants, and the environment in general, followed by product effectiveness, are the most critical determinants of mosquito control purchasing decisions. A majority of respondents agreed that control of mosquitoes and mosquito-borne illnesses is central to the success of their tourist-based industry. Respondents expressed significant concern that the Zika epidemic was over-sensationalized by the media, and that this negatively impacted their livelihoods. The respondents, many of whom are associated with eco/sustainable businesses, also voiced concerns that chemical pesticides could have a negative impact on human health and the environment and expressed a desire for balance between effective mosquito control and preservation of the rich biodiversity of Belize. This study provided a framework for further engagement activities in Belize and other Caribbean nations, uncovered both concerns and support for emerging mosquito control technologies, and revealed opportunities for further debate and educational outreach efforts.