Novel subtypes and unexpected heterogeneity of hepatitis E viral strains in wild boar captured in a small area in Central Italy

Abstract

Wild boar is the main sylvatic reservoir of the genotype 3 of hepatitis E virus (HEV). The occurrence of HEV-3 human cases has been linked to the consumption of raw or undercooked pig and wild boar meat and liver. The zoonotic transmission of HEV-3 has been confirmed by sequencing identical or strictly related viral strains in humans, wild boar, and derived food. The HEV sequences classified within the HEV-3 genotype are highly variable, and although only one serotype has been identified so far, the observed differences allow for the further classification of the HEV-3 genotype into subtypes, named in alphabetical order. Compared to human and pig strains, an even higher heterogeneity is observed among strains infecting wild boar. In the present study, the genetic variability of eight HEV-3 strains detected in wild boars living in a small geographical area in central Italy (Lazio and Umbria regions) was investigated by full genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis. The strains were classified within the HEV-3a, HEV-3c, HEV-3f subtypes and within two new recently proposed subtypes. Results demonstrate – despite the relatively small geographic area of origin – an unexpected divergence within HEV-3 strains hosted by the investigated wild boar population and highlights the need for extensive sequencing of HEV in reservoirs to fully understand diversity, geographical distribution and evolution of this group of viruses.