The third seminar of the LWNVIVAT seminar series on emerging pathogens with a special focus on flavivurses featured a presentation by Dr. Luisa Barzon, from the Department of Molecular Medicine – Padova University Hospital and the Microbiology and Virology Unit, Padova University Hospital. Dr. Barzon, explored the complex genotype-phenotype relationships in West Nile Virus (WNV) infections.

Tracing the Virus from Its Origins to Present-Day Threats

Dr. Barzon explained WNV’s trajectory from its discovery in Uganda in 1937 to its emergence as a significant public health concern across Europe and the Americas. She emphasized the virus’s extensive genetic variability, noting that while several lineages exist, only lineages 1 and 2 are known to cause human disease—of which lineage 2 now dominates in Europe.

Genomic Surveillance and Host-Virus Interactions

A key focus of Dr. Barzon’s research lies in the integration of molecular diagnostics with genomic surveillance. Her work has been instrumental in revealing how certain viral genotypes correlate with more severe disease outcomes. She also discussed how WNV interacts with host cells, utilizing receptors like beta integrins and the mannose receptor to facilitate entry—an area critical for understanding and potentially interrupting transmission.

The session concluded with a lively and thoughtful discussion, as attendees engaged with Dr. Barzon on various aspects of her research. The interactive nature of the seminar reflected both the relevance of the topic and the compelling presentation from the speaker.