Characterization of Genetic Mutations in Epidemic Zika Virus Strains

by Sean Horan
The rise of Zika Virus (ZIKV) infections associated with neurological disorders has raised public health concerns. Mutations in pre-epidemic strains are hypothesized to be responsible for increased virulence of epidemic strains. We identified virulence-associated mutations in epidemic strains and introduced these mutations into the pre-epidemic MR766 strain, characterizing infection in vitro. Comparison of mutant viruses with pre-epidemic ZIKV suggests genomic regions coevolved to produce strains associated with neurological disease.
Major: 
Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Exhibition Category: 
Health and Life Sciences
Exhibition Format: 
Poster Presentation
Campus: 
University Park
Faculty Sponsor: 
Joyce Jose
Location: 
Alumni Hall, HUB-Robeson Center
Poster Number: 
281