Revisão sobre novos antivirais contra parvovírus, análise genética e desenvolvimento in silico de uma vacina candidata contra a parvovirose canina

Abstract

The family Parvoviridae comprises the smallest known DNA viruses and is characterized by the absence of a lipid envelope. This family is divided into three subfamilies, each with distinct characteristics regarding hosts and replication cycles. Viruses from the subfamily Parvovirinae infect vertebrates and cause various diseases, including canine parvovirus infection, which is caused by canine parvovirus type 2 (CPV-2). This highly contagious disease results in severe acute gastroenteritis in dogs, especially puppies. This study reviewed existing therapeutic strategies and evaluated compounds with potential antiviral activity against significant members of the subfamily Parvovirinae, in both human and veterinary medicine. Despite the lack of a specific treatment, research is increasingly focused on filling this clinical gap and finding effective therapeutic solutions. Additionally, several mutations in the VP2 protein of CPV-2 were selected and analyzed, including F267Y, S297A, V300G, D305Y, Y324I, N426D, N426E, and T440A, due to their impact on viral replication. Mutations such as N426D, N426E, and T440A showed potential to increase the viral fitness. An analysis of CPV-2 variants in Brazil was also conducted, highlighting the virus's ongoing evolution and the need for updated vaccines. Therefore, an in silico multi-epitope vaccine adapted to Brazilian variants was proposed, selecting five epitope regions within the VP2 protein. In simulations, this vaccine demonstrated high antigenicity, absence of toxicity, and potential to stimulate a robust immune response, including increased antibody production and activity of helper T cells. This study provides a deeper understanding of canine parvovirus, offering valuable information for developing future therapeutic strategies and updated vaccines, ensuring effective protection against current virus variants in Brazil. [resumo fornecido pelo autor]