Mayaro Virus VLP

Mayaro virus (MAYV) is a positive-sense single stranded RNA virus that belongs to the genus Alphavirus, a member of the Togaviridae family of viruses. It is a member of the Semliki Forest antigenic sero-complex, a serological group within the Alphavirus genus, and is closely related to Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) (Esposito, D.L.A).

MAYV is recognised as an emerging virus with the potential to cause a major epidemic in Central and South American countries. Currently, there is no licensed prophylactic vaccine or specific treatment for MAYV fever. Prevention of MAYV is through vector control measures to reduce transmission of the virus. Given the geographical distribution of MAYV and the similarity of the symptoms of Mayaro fever to infections caused by other arboviruses such Dengue fever, Chikungunya and Zika virus, it is considered important to be able to differentiate diagnostically between these arboviral diseases (CDC). Diagnosis of MAYV infection may be achieved by serological testing for MAYV specific IgM antibodies using enzyme immunoassays (EIA). However, cross reactivity with related viruses can reduce assay sensitivity and prevent accurate diagnosis (Figueiredo, ML).

At The Native Antigen Company we have prepared recombinant Mayaro Virus-like particles utilising our proprietary mammalian cell expression system. These particles contain Capsid and E1 and E2 envelope proteins. They will find application for researchers and assay developers who are looking to develop assays to distinguish Mayaro virus infection from Chikugunya virus.

References

1. Esposito DLA and Fonseca BALD (2017). Will Mayaro virus be responsible for the next outbreak of an arthropod-borne virus in Brazil? Braz J Infect Dis.21(5):540-544
2. Figueiredo ML and Figueiredo LT (2014). Emerging alphaviruses in the Americas: Chikungunya and Mayaro. Rev Soc Bras Med Trop.47(6):677-83

Certificate of analysis