Spoligotype patterns evolve through the deletion of spacer sequences that cannot be recovered and have provided Dr Mark Tanaka with a rich source of data with which to understand the transmission of disease.
Norovirus Replication and Epidemiology
Norovirus is an emerging virus that is the major cause of outbreak gastroenteritis worldwide. Major global epidemics of norovirus gastroenteritis occurred in 1996, 2002, 2004, 2006 and 2007. We have developed a number of norovirus detection tools over the last few years for molecular epidemiological studies. From our studies we have learnt that, like influenza, global outbreaks of norovirus are associated with new antigenic variants.
The aim of this project is to conduct a detailed molecular epidemiological analysis of Australian and New Zealand norovirus strains through the Australian and New Zealand Norovirus Surveillance Network. The project will determine if outbreaks are associated with the emergence of a novel virus variant.
References:
- Tu, E. T-V et al. 2008. Epidemics of acute gastroenteritis in 2006 were associated with the spread of norovirus GII.4 variants, 2006a and 2006b. Clinical Infectious Disease. 46:413-420.
- Bull, R. A., M. M. Tanaka and P. A. White. 2007. Norovirus recombination. Journal of General Virology. 88:3347-3359.
- Jones, L. A., L. E. Clancy, W. D. Rawlinson and P. A. White. 2006. High affinity aptamers to subtype 3a HCV polymerase display genotypic specificity. Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy 50:3019-2027.
BABS personnel that are responsible for this project