Characterization of insect-specific Culex flavivirus (Flaviviridae) nucleotide sequences in mosquitoes from urban parks in São Paulo, Brazil

ABSTRACT

Background:

Despite their worldwide occurrence, the distribution and role of insect-specific flaviviruses (ISFs) remain unclear.

Methods:

We evaluated the presence of ISFs in mosquitoes collected in São Paulo, Brazil, using reverse transcription and semi-nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Some of the positive samples were subjected to nanopore sequencing.

Results:

Twelve mosquito pools (2.8%) tested positive for flavivirus infection. Nanopore sequencing was successfully performed on six samples. Phylogenetic analysis grouped these sequences into genotype 2 of Culex flavivirus (CxFV).

Conclusions:

The identification of CxFV genotype 2 at new locations in São Paulo highlights the importance of understanding the role of ISFs in mosquito vector competence.

Keywords:
Culex flavivirus; Insect-specific flavivirus; Mosquito; Urban park