Variation in cardioviruses in rats and Microcebus griseorufus as a rodent-primate model for interspecific transmission of viruses

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Jörg U. Ganzhorn
• Co-Applicant: Professor Dr. Daniel S. Rakotondravony
• Subject Area: Virology
• Term: from 2013 to 2017
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 226350935

The goal of this study is to analyse spatial and seasonal variation in cardioviruses and enteroviruses in rats (Rattus rattus) and the primate Microcebus griseorufus. In addition we investigate the evidence of direct acquisition of rodent viruses by primates, as well as the population patterns associated with it. Based on the spatial, temporal, and physiological pattern of the host organisms we will formulate hypotheses on the role of contact intensity for interspecific transmission of viruses. We expect that evidence for sporadic transmission, either by direct virus detection or by serology, will be detectable but that the maintenance of virus in primates, once acquired, will depend on further population-dependent parameters such as group density or specific physical conditions such as age and reproduction. The results of this rodent – primate model will also be of relevance for land use management for human health and conservation management to maintain endemic species.

• DFG Programme: Priority Programmes
• Subproject of: SPP 1596: Ecology and Species Barriers in Emerging Viral Diseases
• International Connection: Madagascar
• Participating Persons: Professor Dr. Christian Drosten; Dr. Régis Angéline Loetitia Soarimalala; Professorin Dr. Simone Sommer