Detailed characterization of Redondovirus in saliva of SARS-CoV-2-infected individuals in Sao Paulo, Brazil

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da Costa, Antonio Charlys ; Mendes-Correa, Maria C. ; Tozetto-Mendoza, Tania Regina ; Villas-Boas, Lucy S. ; de Paula, Anderson Vicente ; Paiao, Heuder Gustavo Oliveira ; Leal, Fabio E. ; Ferreira, Noely E. ; Honorato, Layla ; Leal, Elcio ; Grandi, Giuliano ; Morais, Vanessa dos Santos ; Manuli, Erika R. ; Sabino, Ester C. ; Witkin, Steven S.

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: PLoS One; v. 18, n. 8, p. 10-pg., 2023-08-31.

Abstract

BackgroundRedondovirus (ReDoV) is a DNA virus present in the respiratory tract of many healthy individuals. Since SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, also primarily infects the same site, we evaluated whether ReDoV was present at increased frequency in patients with COVID-19 and influenced infection parameters.MethodsSaliva samples were collected weekly from 59 individuals with COVID-19 and from 132 controls. ReDoV was detected by polymerase chain reaction and the genotypes were identified by metagenomics. Torque Teno Virus (TTV) in these samples were previously reported.ResultsReDoV was detected in saliva more frequently from COVID-19 patients (72.9%) than from controls (50.0%) (p = 0.0015). There were no associations between ReDoV detection and either continuous or intermittent SARS-CoV-2 shedding, the duration of SARS-CoV-2 detection in saliva, patients' sex or if infection was by the B1 or Gamma strain. The two ReDoV strains, Brisavirus and Vientovirus, were present in equivalent frequencies in ReDoV-positive COVID-19 patients and controls. Phylogenetic analysis suggested that the two ReDoV strains in Brazil were similar to strains previously detected on other continents.ConclusionReDoV expression in saliva is increased in males and females in Brazil with mild COVID-19 but its presence does not appear to influence properties of the SARS-CoV-2 infection. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 20/05623-0 - SARS-CoV2 detection, in different biological specimens, among people infected with this virus
• Grantee: Maria Cássia Jacintho Mendes Corrêa
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants