Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) is a severe hemorrhagic fever virus transmitted by ticks to animals and humans. Search in 2009, the virus is found in southeast Asian countries and has a fatal rate of up to 40%. By studying the virus in tick cells, the scientist of the Surrey University has identified two novel antiviral effectors. This discovery can help scientists to prevent future diseases from spreading to ticks.

Published in Nature Communications, analyzed rhipicephalus microplus tick cells, general carriers of SFTSV, analyzed using advanced multi-deta analysis to highlight cellular reactions of the ticks for the virus.

Researchers reported that two RNA helicopters found in all forms of life were important in reducing the replica of SFTSV within the ticks. Two RNA helices, UPF 1 and DHX 9, were actually found to interfere with the virus’s ability to copy themselves, essentially put a wrench in their reproductive cycle.

Understanding how ticks tolerate these viruses, vector control is important to develop strategies and block tick-to-humman transmission. By identifying the UPF1 and DHX9 as major antiviral players, we begin to highlight the complexity and uniqueness of the antiviral reaction of the ticks. It is extremely valuable for future prevention and control strategies. ,

Dr. Marine Petit, Lecturer in Virology, University of Surrey

Research expands the knowledge of tick biology, improves understanding of their immune systems and how they interact with pathogens.