Using Liver Samples to Detect Antibodies Against Yellow Fever Virus
Author Information
Author(s): Costa Thaís Alkifeles, Arruda Matheus Soares, Garcia-Oliveira Gabriela Fernanda, Reis Erik Vinicius de Sousa, Guimarães Anna Catarina Dias Soares, Moreira Gabriel Dias, Arias Nidia Esther Colquehuanca, Beirão Marina do Vale, Vasilakis Nikos, Hanley Kathryn A., Drumond Betânia Paiva
Primary Institution: Laboratório de Vírus, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
Hypothesis
Can liver homogenates from non-human primates be used to detect antibodies against yellow fever virus and other arboviruses?
Conclusion
The study demonstrates that liver homogenates can effectively be used to detect neutralizing antibodies against yellow fever virus in non-human primates.
Supporting Evidence
- Neutralizing antibodies were detected in liver homogenates from non-human primates.
- Seven out of 25 liver samples tested positive for yellow fever virus antibodies.
- ROC curve analyses showed high sensitivity and specificity in differentiating infected from mock groups.
- Median virus neutralization values effectively distinguished between infected and uninfected samples.
- Adapted PRNT using liver homogenates is a viable method for serological investigation.
- Cross-neutralization tests indicated no significant cross-reactivity with Zika virus.
- Results support the use of liver homogenates in viral epidemiologic surveillance.
- Findings suggest a new approach for serological testing when serum samples are unavailable.
Takeaway
Scientists found that they can use liver samples from animals to check for viruses instead of just blood, which helps in tracking diseases.
Methodology
The study used liver homogenates from infected mice and non-human primate carcasses to perform plaque reduction neutralization tests (PRNT) to detect antibodies.
Potential Biases
Potential bias may arise from the selection of carcasses and the interpretation of serological results.
Limitations
The study's findings may be limited by the preservation status of carcasses and the potential for nonspecific neutralization.
Participant Demographics
The study involved liver samples from 25 non-human primates collected during a yellow fever outbreak in Brazil.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI ≥ 0.89–1.0
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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