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Dr. Francesca Colavita
National Institute for Infectious Diseases "Lazzaro Spallanzani" IRCCS, Via Portuense 292, 00149 Rome, Italy

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Review article
Published: 21 June 2021 in BioMed Research International
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Coronaviruses (CoVs) are enveloped nonsegmented positive-sense RNA viruses belonging to the family Coronaviridae that contain the largest genome among RNA viruses. Their genome encodes 4 major structural proteins, and among them, the Spike (S) protein plays a crucial role in determining the viral tropism. It mediates viral attachment to the host cell, fusion to the membranes, and cell entry using cellular proteases as activators. Several in vitro models have been developed to study the CoVs entry, pathogenesis, and possible therapeutic approaches. This article is aimed at summarizing the current knowledge about the use of relevant methodologies and cell lines permissive for CoV life cycle studies. The synthesis of this information can be useful for setting up specific experimental procedures. We also discuss different strategies for inhibiting the binding of the S protein to the cell receptors and the fusion process which may offer opportunities for therapeutic intervention.

ACS Style

Saeid Najafi Fard; Linda Petrone; Elisa Petruccioli; Tonino Alonzi; Giulia Matusali; Francesca Colavita; Concetta Castilletti; Maria Rosaria Capobianchi; Delia Goletti. In Vitro Models for Studying Entry, Tissue Tropism, and Therapeutic Approaches of Highly Pathogenic Coronaviruses. BioMed Research International 2021, 2021, 1 -21.

AMA Style

Saeid Najafi Fard, Linda Petrone, Elisa Petruccioli, Tonino Alonzi, Giulia Matusali, Francesca Colavita, Concetta Castilletti, Maria Rosaria Capobianchi, Delia Goletti. In Vitro Models for Studying Entry, Tissue Tropism, and Therapeutic Approaches of Highly Pathogenic Coronaviruses. BioMed Research International. 2021; 2021 ():1-21.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Saeid Najafi Fard; Linda Petrone; Elisa Petruccioli; Tonino Alonzi; Giulia Matusali; Francesca Colavita; Concetta Castilletti; Maria Rosaria Capobianchi; Delia Goletti. 2021. "In Vitro Models for Studying Entry, Tissue Tropism, and Therapeutic Approaches of Highly Pathogenic Coronaviruses." BioMed Research International 2021, no. : 1-21.

Brief report
Published: 16 June 2021 in Microorganisms
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Vaccination is the main public health measure to reduce SARS-CoV-2 transmission and hospitalization, and a massive worldwide scientific effort resulted in the rapid development of effective vaccines. This work aimed to define the dynamics of humoral and cell-mediated immune response in a cohort of health care workers (HCWs) who received a two-dose BNT162b2-mRNA vaccination. The serological response was evaluated by quantifying the anti-RBD and neutralizing antibodies. The cell-mediated response was performed by a whole blood test quantifying Th1 cytokines (IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-2), produced in response to spike peptides. The BNT162b2-mRNA vaccine induced both humoral and cell-mediated immune responses against spike peptides in virtually all HCWs without previous SARS-CoV-2 infection, with a moderate inverse relation with age in the anti-RBD response. Spike-specific T cells produced several Th1 cytokines (IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-2), which correlated with the specific-serological response. Overall, our study describes the ability of the BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine to elicit a coordinated neutralizing humoral and spike-specific T cell response in HCWs. Assessing the dynamics of these parameters by an easy immune monitoring protocol can allow for the evaluation of the persistence of the vaccine response in order to define the optimal vaccination strategy.

ACS Style

Chiara Agrati; Concetta Castilletti; Delia Goletti; Silvia Meschi; Alessandra Sacchi; Giulia Matusali; Veronica Bordoni; Linda Petrone; Daniele Lapa; Stefania Notari; Valentina Vanini; Francesca Colavita; Alessandra Aiello; Alessandro Agresta; Chiara Farroni; Germana Grassi; Sara Leone; Francesco Vaia; Maria Capobianchi; Giuseppe Ippolito; Vincenzo Puro; on behalf of the INMI COVID-190 Vaccine Study Group. Coordinate Induction of Humoral and Spike Specific T-Cell Response in a Cohort of Italian Health Care Workers Receiving BNT162b2 mRNA Vaccine. Microorganisms 2021, 9, 1315 .

AMA Style

Chiara Agrati, Concetta Castilletti, Delia Goletti, Silvia Meschi, Alessandra Sacchi, Giulia Matusali, Veronica Bordoni, Linda Petrone, Daniele Lapa, Stefania Notari, Valentina Vanini, Francesca Colavita, Alessandra Aiello, Alessandro Agresta, Chiara Farroni, Germana Grassi, Sara Leone, Francesco Vaia, Maria Capobianchi, Giuseppe Ippolito, Vincenzo Puro, on behalf of the INMI COVID-190 Vaccine Study Group. Coordinate Induction of Humoral and Spike Specific T-Cell Response in a Cohort of Italian Health Care Workers Receiving BNT162b2 mRNA Vaccine. Microorganisms. 2021; 9 (6):1315.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Chiara Agrati; Concetta Castilletti; Delia Goletti; Silvia Meschi; Alessandra Sacchi; Giulia Matusali; Veronica Bordoni; Linda Petrone; Daniele Lapa; Stefania Notari; Valentina Vanini; Francesca Colavita; Alessandra Aiello; Alessandro Agresta; Chiara Farroni; Germana Grassi; Sara Leone; Francesco Vaia; Maria Capobianchi; Giuseppe Ippolito; Vincenzo Puro; on behalf of the INMI COVID-190 Vaccine Study Group. 2021. "Coordinate Induction of Humoral and Spike Specific T-Cell Response in a Cohort of Italian Health Care Workers Receiving BNT162b2 mRNA Vaccine." Microorganisms 9, no. 6: 1315.

Brief report
Published: 08 June 2021 in Vaccines
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Vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 is considered the most effective method of prevention to contain the pandemic. While highly effective SARS-CoV-2 vaccines are being applied on a large-scale, whether and to what extent the strength of the vaccine-induced immune response could be further potentiated is still an object of debate. Several reports studied the effect of different vaccines on the susceptibility and mortality of COVID-19, with conflicting results. We aimed to evaluate whether previous influenza and/or pneumococcal vaccination had an impact on the specific immune response to the SARS-CoV-2 BNT162b2 mRNA vaccine. The study population consists of 710 workers from our Institute who completed the BNT162b2 schedule and have been tested at least once after the second dose, from 27 December 2020 up to 15 April 2021. Of these, 152 (21.4%) had received an influenza and 215 (30.3%) a concomitant influenza and pneumococcal vaccination, a median of 102 days before the second dose of BNT162b2. Overall, 100% of workers were tested for anti-Spike receptor-binding domain (anti-S/RBD) antibodies, 224 workers for neutralization titer (Micro-neutralization assay, MNA), and 155 workers for a spike-specific T cell interferon-γ response (IFN-γ). The levels of anti-S/RBD, MNA and IFN-γ were evaluated and compared according to sex, age, involvement in direct care of COVID-19 patients, and previous influenza/pneumococcal vaccination. At the univariate analysis, no statistically significant association was observed with regard to a previous influenza and pneumococcal vaccination. A significant lower anti-S/RBD response was observed according to an older age and male sex, while MNA titers were significantly associated to sex but not to age. At the multivariable analysis, workers receiving a concomitant influenza and pneumococcal vaccination or only influenza showed a 58% (p 0.01) and 42% (p 0.07) increase in MNA titers, respectively, compared to those who did not receive an influenza/pneumococcal vaccination. Female workers showed an 81% MNA and a 44% anti-S/RBD increase compared to male workers (p< 0.001). Compared to workers aged 21 to 49 years, those aged 50 or older were associated with a reduction in the anti-S/RBD (16%; p 0.005), MNA (31%; p 0.019), and IFN.g (32%) immune response. Maintaining the influenza and pneumococcal immunization program for the coming season, in which COVID-19 could still be spreading, remains strongly recommended to protect those who are more vulnerable and to limit the potential burden of these infections on the healthcare system.

ACS Style

Vincenzo Puro; Concetta Castilletti; Chiara Agrati; Delia Goletti; Sara Leone; Alessandro Agresta; Eleonora Cimini; Eleonora Tartaglia; Rita Casetti; Francesca Colavita; Silvia Meschi; Giulia Matusali; Daniele Lapa; Saeid Najafi Fard; Alessandra Aiello; Chiara Farrone; Paola Gallì; Maria Capobianchi; Giuseppe Ippolito; on behalf of the INMI COVID-19 Vaccine Study Group. Impact of Prior Influenza and Pneumoccocal Vaccines on Humoral and Cellular Response to SARS-CoV-2 BNT162b2 Vaccination. Vaccines 2021, 9, 615 .

AMA Style

Vincenzo Puro, Concetta Castilletti, Chiara Agrati, Delia Goletti, Sara Leone, Alessandro Agresta, Eleonora Cimini, Eleonora Tartaglia, Rita Casetti, Francesca Colavita, Silvia Meschi, Giulia Matusali, Daniele Lapa, Saeid Najafi Fard, Alessandra Aiello, Chiara Farrone, Paola Gallì, Maria Capobianchi, Giuseppe Ippolito, on behalf of the INMI COVID-19 Vaccine Study Group. Impact of Prior Influenza and Pneumoccocal Vaccines on Humoral and Cellular Response to SARS-CoV-2 BNT162b2 Vaccination. Vaccines. 2021; 9 (6):615.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Vincenzo Puro; Concetta Castilletti; Chiara Agrati; Delia Goletti; Sara Leone; Alessandro Agresta; Eleonora Cimini; Eleonora Tartaglia; Rita Casetti; Francesca Colavita; Silvia Meschi; Giulia Matusali; Daniele Lapa; Saeid Najafi Fard; Alessandra Aiello; Chiara Farrone; Paola Gallì; Maria Capobianchi; Giuseppe Ippolito; on behalf of the INMI COVID-19 Vaccine Study Group. 2021. "Impact of Prior Influenza and Pneumoccocal Vaccines on Humoral and Cellular Response to SARS-CoV-2 BNT162b2 Vaccination." Vaccines 9, no. 6: 615.

Journal article
Published: 10 April 2021 in Viruses
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SARS-CoV-2 serum neutralization assay represents the gold standard for assessing antibody-mediated protection in naturally infected and vaccinated individuals. In the present study, 662 serum samples collected from February 2020 to January 2021 from acute and convalescent COVID-19 patients were tested to determine neutralizing antibody (NAb) titers using a microneutralization test (MNT) for live SARS-CoV-2. Moreover, anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG, IgA, and IgM directed against different viral antigens were measured by high-throughput automated platforms. We observed higher levels of NAbs in elderly (>60 years old) individuals and in patients presenting acute respiratory distress syndrome. SARS-CoV-2 NAbs develop as soon as five days from symptom onset and, despite a decline after the second month, persist for over 11 months, showing variable dynamics. Through correlation and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis, we set up a testing algorithm, suitable for the laboratory workload, by establishing an optimal cutoff value of anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG for convalescent plasma donors to exclude from MNT samples foreseen to have low/negative NAb titers and ineligible for plasma donation. Overall, MNT, although cumbersome and not suitable for routine testing of large sample sizes, remains the reference tool for the assessment of antibody-mediated immunity after SARS-CoV-2 infection. Smart testing algorithms may optimize the laboratory workflow to monitor antibody-mediated protection in COVID-19 patients, plasma donors, and vaccinated individuals.

ACS Style

Giulia Matusali; Francesca Colavita; Daniele Lapa; Silvia Meschi; Licia Bordi; Pierluca Piselli; Roberta Gagliardini; Angela Corpolongo; Emanuele Nicastri; Andrea Antinori; Giuseppe Ippolito; Maria Rosaria Capobianchi; Concetta Castilletti. SARS-CoV-2 Serum Neutralization Assay: A Traditional Tool for a Brand-New Virus. Viruses 2021, 13, 655 .

AMA Style

Giulia Matusali, Francesca Colavita, Daniele Lapa, Silvia Meschi, Licia Bordi, Pierluca Piselli, Roberta Gagliardini, Angela Corpolongo, Emanuele Nicastri, Andrea Antinori, Giuseppe Ippolito, Maria Rosaria Capobianchi, Concetta Castilletti. SARS-CoV-2 Serum Neutralization Assay: A Traditional Tool for a Brand-New Virus. Viruses. 2021; 13 (4):655.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Giulia Matusali; Francesca Colavita; Daniele Lapa; Silvia Meschi; Licia Bordi; Pierluca Piselli; Roberta Gagliardini; Angela Corpolongo; Emanuele Nicastri; Andrea Antinori; Giuseppe Ippolito; Maria Rosaria Capobianchi; Concetta Castilletti. 2021. "SARS-CoV-2 Serum Neutralization Assay: A Traditional Tool for a Brand-New Virus." Viruses 13, no. 4: 655.

Journal article
Published: 02 April 2021 in Journal of Clinical Medicine
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Diagnostic methods based on SARS-CoV-2 antigens detection are a promising alternative to SARS-CoV-2 RNA amplification. We evaluated the automated chemiluminescence-based Lumipulse® G SARS-CoV-2 Ag assay on saliva samples, using Simplexa™ COVID-19 Direct assay as a reference test. Analytical performance was established on a pool of healthy donors’ saliva samples spiked with the 2019-nCoV/Italy-INMI1 isolate, whereas clinical performance was assessed on fresh saliva specimens collected from hospitalized patients with suspect or confirmed COVID-19 diagnosis. The limit of detection (LOD) was 0.65 Log TCID50/mL, corresponding to 18,197 copies/mL of SARS-CoV-2 RNA. Antigen concentrations and SARS-CoV-2 RNA were highly correlated (r = 0.99; p < 0.0001). Substantial agreement (80.3%) and significant correlation (r = −0.675; p = 0.0006) were observed between Lumipulse® G assay results and Ct values on clinical samples, with 52.4% sensitivity and specificity 94.1%. Sensitivity exceeded 90.0% when calculated on samples with Ct < 25, and specificity was 100% when excluding samples from recovered patients with previous COVID-19 diagnosis. Overall, chemiluminescence-based antigen assay may be reliably applied to saliva samples to identify individuals with high viral loads, more likely to transmit the virus. However, the low positive predictive value in a context of low SARS-CoV-2 prevalence underscores the need for confirmatory testing in SARS-CoV-2 antigen-positive cases.

ACS Style

Alessandra Amendola; Giuseppe Sberna; Eleonora Lalle; Francesca Colavita; Concetta Castilletti; Giulia Menchinelli; Brunella Posteraro; Maurizio Sanguinetti; Giuseppe Ippolito; Licia Bordi; Maria Capobianchi; on behalf of INMI COVID-19 Study Group. Saliva Is a Valid Alternative to Nasopharyngeal Swab in Chemiluminescence-Based Assay for Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Antigen. Journal of Clinical Medicine 2021, 10, 1471 .

AMA Style

Alessandra Amendola, Giuseppe Sberna, Eleonora Lalle, Francesca Colavita, Concetta Castilletti, Giulia Menchinelli, Brunella Posteraro, Maurizio Sanguinetti, Giuseppe Ippolito, Licia Bordi, Maria Capobianchi, on behalf of INMI COVID-19 Study Group. Saliva Is a Valid Alternative to Nasopharyngeal Swab in Chemiluminescence-Based Assay for Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Antigen. Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2021; 10 (7):1471.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Alessandra Amendola; Giuseppe Sberna; Eleonora Lalle; Francesca Colavita; Concetta Castilletti; Giulia Menchinelli; Brunella Posteraro; Maurizio Sanguinetti; Giuseppe Ippolito; Licia Bordi; Maria Capobianchi; on behalf of INMI COVID-19 Study Group. 2021. "Saliva Is a Valid Alternative to Nasopharyngeal Swab in Chemiluminescence-Based Assay for Detection of SARS-CoV-2 Antigen." Journal of Clinical Medicine 10, no. 7: 1471.

Journal article
Published: 13 March 2021 in Biomolecules
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COVID-19 pandemic is a dramatic health, social and economic global challenge. There is urgent need to maximize testing capacity. Rapid Antigen Tests (RAT) represent good candidates for point-of-care and mass surveillance testing to rapidly identify SARS-CoV-2-infected people, counterbalancing lower sensitivity vs. gold standard molecular tests with fast results and possible recurrent testing. We describe the results obtained with the testing algorithm implemented at points of entry (airports and ports) in the Lazio Region (Italy), using the STANDARD F COVID-19 Antigen Fluorescence ImmunoAssay (FIA), followed by molecular confirmation of FIA-positive samples. From mid-August to mid-October 2020, 73,643 RAT were reported to the Regional Surveillance Information System for travelers at points of entry in Lazio Region. Of these, 1176 (1.6%) were FIA-positive, and the proportion of RT-PCR-confirmed samples was 40.5%. Our data show that the probability of confirmation was directly dependent from the semi-quantitative FIA results. In addition, the molecularly confirmed samples were those with high levels of virus and that were actually harboring infectious virus. These results support public health strategies based on early mass screening campaigns by RAT in settings where molecular testing is not feasible or easily accessible, such as points of entry. This approach would contribute to promptly controlling viral spread through travel, which is now of particular concern due to the spread of SARS-CoV-2 variants.

ACS Style

Francesca Colavita; Francesco Vairo; Silvia Meschi; Maria Beatrice Valli; Eleonora Lalle; Concetta Castilletti; Danilo Fusco; Giuseppe Spiga; Pierluigi Bartoletti; Simona Ursino; Maurizio Sanguinetti; Antonino Di Caro; Francesco Vaia; Giuseppe Ippolito; Maria Rosaria Capobianchi. COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test as Screening Strategy at Points of Entry: Experience in Lazio Region, Central Italy, August–October 2020. Biomolecules 2021, 11, 425 .

AMA Style

Francesca Colavita, Francesco Vairo, Silvia Meschi, Maria Beatrice Valli, Eleonora Lalle, Concetta Castilletti, Danilo Fusco, Giuseppe Spiga, Pierluigi Bartoletti, Simona Ursino, Maurizio Sanguinetti, Antonino Di Caro, Francesco Vaia, Giuseppe Ippolito, Maria Rosaria Capobianchi. COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test as Screening Strategy at Points of Entry: Experience in Lazio Region, Central Italy, August–October 2020. Biomolecules. 2021; 11 (3):425.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Francesca Colavita; Francesco Vairo; Silvia Meschi; Maria Beatrice Valli; Eleonora Lalle; Concetta Castilletti; Danilo Fusco; Giuseppe Spiga; Pierluigi Bartoletti; Simona Ursino; Maurizio Sanguinetti; Antonino Di Caro; Francesco Vaia; Giuseppe Ippolito; Maria Rosaria Capobianchi. 2021. "COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test as Screening Strategy at Points of Entry: Experience in Lazio Region, Central Italy, August–October 2020." Biomolecules 11, no. 3: 425.

Journal article
Published: 20 October 2020 in Viruses
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Background: RT-PCR on nasopharyngeal (NPS)/oropharyngeal swabs is the gold standard for diagnosis of SARS-CoV-2 infection and viral load monitoring. Oral fluid (OF) is an alternate clinical sample, easy and safer to collect and could be useful for COVID-19 diagnosis, monitoring viral load and shedding. Methods: Optimal assay conditions and analytical sensitivity were established for the commercial Simplexa™ COVID-19 Direct assay adapted to OF matrix. The assay was used to test 337 OF and NPS specimens collected in parallel from 164 hospitalized patients; 50 bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) specimens from a subgroup of severe COVID-19 cases were also analysed. Results: Using Simplexa™ COVID-19 Direct on OF matrix, 100% analytical detection down to 1 TCID50/mL (corresponding to 4 × 103 copies (cp)/mL) was observed. No crossreaction with other viruses transmitted through the respiratory toute was observed. Parallel testing of 337 OF and NPS samples showed highly concordant results (κ = 0.831; 95 % CI = 0.771–0.891), and high correlation of Ct values (r = 0.921; p < 0.0001). High concordance and elevated correlation was observed also between OF and BAL. Prolonged viral RNA shedding was observed up to 100 days from symptoms onset (DSO), with 32% and 29% positivity observed in OF and NPS samples, respectively, collected between 60 and 100 DSO. Conclusions: Simplexa™ COVID-19 Direct assays on OF have high sensitivity and specificity to detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA and provide an alternative to NPS for diagnosis and monitoring SARS-CoV-2 shedding.

ACS Style

Licia Bordi; Giuseppe Sberna; Eleonora Lalle; Pierluca Piselli; Francesca Colavita; Emanuele Nicastri; Andrea Antinori; Evangelo Boumis; Nicola Petrosillo; Luisa Marchioni; Giulia Minnucci; Elena D’Agostini; Concetta Castilletti; Franco Locatelli; Alimuddin Zumla; Giuseppe Ippolito; Maria Capobianchi; on behalf of INMI ReCOVeRI Study Group. Frequency and Duration of SARS-CoV-2 Shedding in Oral Fluid Samples Assessed by a Modified Commercial Rapid Molecular Assay. Viruses 2020, 12, 1184 .

AMA Style

Licia Bordi, Giuseppe Sberna, Eleonora Lalle, Pierluca Piselli, Francesca Colavita, Emanuele Nicastri, Andrea Antinori, Evangelo Boumis, Nicola Petrosillo, Luisa Marchioni, Giulia Minnucci, Elena D’Agostini, Concetta Castilletti, Franco Locatelli, Alimuddin Zumla, Giuseppe Ippolito, Maria Capobianchi, on behalf of INMI ReCOVeRI Study Group. Frequency and Duration of SARS-CoV-2 Shedding in Oral Fluid Samples Assessed by a Modified Commercial Rapid Molecular Assay. Viruses. 2020; 12 (10):1184.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Licia Bordi; Giuseppe Sberna; Eleonora Lalle; Pierluca Piselli; Francesca Colavita; Emanuele Nicastri; Andrea Antinori; Evangelo Boumis; Nicola Petrosillo; Luisa Marchioni; Giulia Minnucci; Elena D’Agostini; Concetta Castilletti; Franco Locatelli; Alimuddin Zumla; Giuseppe Ippolito; Maria Capobianchi; on behalf of INMI ReCOVeRI Study Group. 2020. "Frequency and Duration of SARS-CoV-2 Shedding in Oral Fluid Samples Assessed by a Modified Commercial Rapid Molecular Assay." Viruses 12, no. 10: 1184.

Journal article
Published: 13 September 2020 in Viruses
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The Republic of Congo (RoC) declared a chikungunya (CHIK) outbreak on 9 February 2019. We conducted a ONE-Human-Animal HEALTH epidemiological, virological and entomological investigation. Methods: We collected national surveillance and epidemiological data. CHIK diagnosis was based on RT-PCR and CHIKV-specific antibodies. Full CHIKV genome sequences were obtained by Sanger and MinION approaches and Bayesian tree phylogenetic analysis was performed. Mosquito larvae and 215 adult mosquitoes were collected in different villages of Kouilou and Pointe-Noire districts and estimates of Aedes (Ae.) mosquitos’ CHIKV-infectious bites obtained. We found two new CHIKV sequences of the East/Central/South African (ECSA) lineage, clustering with the recent enzootic sub-clade 2, showing the A226V mutation. The RoC 2019 CHIKV strain has two novel mutations, E2-T126M and E2-H351N. Phylogenetic suggests a common origin from 2016 Angola strain, from which it diverged around 1989 (95% HPD 1985–1994). The infectious bite pattern was similar for 2017, 2018 and early 2019. One Ae. albopictus pool was RT-PCR positive. The 2019 RoC CHIKV strain seems to be recently introduced or be endemic in sylvatic cycle. Distinct from the contemporary Indian CHIKV isolates and in contrast to the original Central-African strains (transmitted by Ae. aegypti), it carries the A226V mutation, indicating an independent adaptive mutation in response to vector replacement (Ae. albopictus vs Ae. aegypti).

ACS Style

Francesco Vairo; Martin Aimè Coussoud-Mavoungou; Francine Ntoumi; Concetta Castilletti; Lambert Kitembo; Najmul Haider; Fabrizio Carletti; Francesca Colavita; Cesare Gruber; Marco Iannetta; Francesco Messina; Simone Lanini; Biez Ulrich Judicaël; Emanuela Giombini; Chiara Montaldo; Chantal Portella; Steve Diafouka-Diatela; Martina Rueca; Richard Kock; Barbara Bartolini; Leonard Mboera; Vincent Munster; Robert Fischer; Stephanie Seifert; César Muñoz-Fontela; Beatriz Escudero-Pérez; Sergio Gomez-Medina; Emily Nelson; Patrick Kjia Tungu; Emanuele Nicastri; Vincenzo Puro; Antonino Di Caro; Maria Capobianchi; Jacqueline Mikolo; Alimuddin Zumla; Giuseppe Ippolito; on behalf of the Pandora-ID-NET Consortium Chikungunya Outbreak Group Taskforce. Chikungunya Outbreak in the Republic of the Congo, 2019—Epidemiological, Virological and Entomological Findings of a South-North Multidisciplinary Taskforce Investigation. Viruses 2020, 12, 1020 .

AMA Style

Francesco Vairo, Martin Aimè Coussoud-Mavoungou, Francine Ntoumi, Concetta Castilletti, Lambert Kitembo, Najmul Haider, Fabrizio Carletti, Francesca Colavita, Cesare Gruber, Marco Iannetta, Francesco Messina, Simone Lanini, Biez Ulrich Judicaël, Emanuela Giombini, Chiara Montaldo, Chantal Portella, Steve Diafouka-Diatela, Martina Rueca, Richard Kock, Barbara Bartolini, Leonard Mboera, Vincent Munster, Robert Fischer, Stephanie Seifert, César Muñoz-Fontela, Beatriz Escudero-Pérez, Sergio Gomez-Medina, Emily Nelson, Patrick Kjia Tungu, Emanuele Nicastri, Vincenzo Puro, Antonino Di Caro, Maria Capobianchi, Jacqueline Mikolo, Alimuddin Zumla, Giuseppe Ippolito, on behalf of the Pandora-ID-NET Consortium Chikungunya Outbreak Group Taskforce. Chikungunya Outbreak in the Republic of the Congo, 2019—Epidemiological, Virological and Entomological Findings of a South-North Multidisciplinary Taskforce Investigation. Viruses. 2020; 12 (9):1020.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Francesco Vairo; Martin Aimè Coussoud-Mavoungou; Francine Ntoumi; Concetta Castilletti; Lambert Kitembo; Najmul Haider; Fabrizio Carletti; Francesca Colavita; Cesare Gruber; Marco Iannetta; Francesco Messina; Simone Lanini; Biez Ulrich Judicaël; Emanuela Giombini; Chiara Montaldo; Chantal Portella; Steve Diafouka-Diatela; Martina Rueca; Richard Kock; Barbara Bartolini; Leonard Mboera; Vincent Munster; Robert Fischer; Stephanie Seifert; César Muñoz-Fontela; Beatriz Escudero-Pérez; Sergio Gomez-Medina; Emily Nelson; Patrick Kjia Tungu; Emanuele Nicastri; Vincenzo Puro; Antonino Di Caro; Maria Capobianchi; Jacqueline Mikolo; Alimuddin Zumla; Giuseppe Ippolito; on behalf of the Pandora-ID-NET Consortium Chikungunya Outbreak Group Taskforce. 2020. "Chikungunya Outbreak in the Republic of the Congo, 2019—Epidemiological, Virological and Entomological Findings of a South-North Multidisciplinary Taskforce Investigation." Viruses 12, no. 9: 1020.

Journal article
Published: 10 July 2020 in International Journal of Infectious Diseases
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BackgroundIn Italy, dengue virus is the most frequent agent of imported viral infections. The use of rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) may be of help as a preliminary user-friendly quick assay to facilitate dengue diagnosis, as ordinary laboratory diagnosis of dengue fever may require special efforts in terms of tools availability, interpretation of results, and skilled personnel. The performance of RDTs, however, may vary according to different epidemiological and laboratory background.MethodsWe reviewed five years of laboratory records of two dengue RDT results (Colorimetric SD-Bioline Dengue-Duo-RDT and Fluorimetric SD-Biosensor-STANDARD-F-Dengue-RDT), able to detect viral NS1 antigen and specific IgM and IgG. Diagnostic parameters were calculated using as reference the results of molecular (RT-PCR) and serological (immunofluorescence, IFA) tests. Overall performance, calculated considering the final case definition, was included in the accuracy assessment of RDTs.ResultsThe combined use of NS1 and IgM/IgG RDT for the detection of acute dengue cases resulted in an overall sensitivity and specificity of 87.2% and 97.9% for Colorimetric RDT, 96.2% and 96.2% for Fluorimetric RDT. NS1 was the most reliable marker of acute infection, while IgM resulted falsely positive in nine samples, including sera derived from 2 Zika and 4 non-arbovirus infected patients.ConclusionsThe inclusion of RDT in the diagnostic algorithm is of undeniable help in the prompt management and surveillance of dengue infection in non-endemic areas. Confirmatory tests are, however, necessary to rule in or rule out dengue fever diagnosis.

ACS Style

Giulia Matusali; Francesca Colavita; Fabrizio Carletti; Eleonora Lalle; Licia Bordi; Francesco Vairo; Giuseppe Ippolito; Maria R. Capobianchi; Concetta Castilletti. Performance of rapid tests in the management of dengue fever imported cases in Lazio, Italy 2014-2019. International Journal of Infectious Diseases 2020, 99, 193 -198.

AMA Style

Giulia Matusali, Francesca Colavita, Fabrizio Carletti, Eleonora Lalle, Licia Bordi, Francesco Vairo, Giuseppe Ippolito, Maria R. Capobianchi, Concetta Castilletti. Performance of rapid tests in the management of dengue fever imported cases in Lazio, Italy 2014-2019. International Journal of Infectious Diseases. 2020; 99 ():193-198.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Giulia Matusali; Francesca Colavita; Fabrizio Carletti; Eleonora Lalle; Licia Bordi; Francesco Vairo; Giuseppe Ippolito; Maria R. Capobianchi; Concetta Castilletti. 2020. "Performance of rapid tests in the management of dengue fever imported cases in Lazio, Italy 2014-2019." International Journal of Infectious Diseases 99, no. : 193-198.

Other
Published: 26 May 2020
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Serological assays for anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies are now of critical importance to support diagnosis, guide epidemiological intervention, and understand immune response to natural infection and vaccine administration. We developed and validated new anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG, IgM and IgA ELISA tests (ENZY-WELL SARS-CoV-2 ELISA, DIESSE Diagnostica Senese S.p.a.) based on whole-virus antigens. We used a total of 553 serum samples including samples from COVID-19 suspected and confirmed cases, healthy donors, and patients positive for other infections or autoimmune conditions. Overall, the assays showed good concordance with the indirect immunofluorescence reference test in terms of sensitivity and specificity. Especially for IgG and IgA, we observed high sensitivity (92.5 and 93.6%, respectively); specificity was high (>96%) for all antibody types ELISAs. In addition, sensitivity was linked to the days from symptoms onset (DSO) due to the seroconversion window, and for ENZY-WELL SARS-CoV-2 IgG and IgA ELISAs resulted 100% in those samples collected after 10 and 12 DSO, respectively. The results showed that ENZY-WELL SARS-CoV-2 ELISAs may represent a valid option for both diagnostic and epidemiological purposes, covering all different antibody types developed in SARS-CoV-2 immune response.

ACS Style

Colavita Francesca; Brogi Alessandra; Lapa Daniele; Bordi Licia; Matusali Giulia; Meschi Silvia; Marsella Patrizia; Tesi Giulia; Bandini Tommaso; Di Caro Antonino; Capobianchi Maria Rosaria; Castilletti Concetta. Evaluation of ELISA tests for the qualitative determination of IgG, IgM and IgA to SARS-CoV-2. 2020, 1 .

AMA Style

Colavita Francesca, Brogi Alessandra, Lapa Daniele, Bordi Licia, Matusali Giulia, Meschi Silvia, Marsella Patrizia, Tesi Giulia, Bandini Tommaso, Di Caro Antonino, Capobianchi Maria Rosaria, Castilletti Concetta. Evaluation of ELISA tests for the qualitative determination of IgG, IgM and IgA to SARS-CoV-2. . 2020; ():1.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Colavita Francesca; Brogi Alessandra; Lapa Daniele; Bordi Licia; Matusali Giulia; Meschi Silvia; Marsella Patrizia; Tesi Giulia; Bandini Tommaso; Di Caro Antonino; Capobianchi Maria Rosaria; Castilletti Concetta. 2020. "Evaluation of ELISA tests for the qualitative determination of IgG, IgM and IgA to SARS-CoV-2." , no. : 1.

Journal article
Published: 12 September 2019 in Microorganisms
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An expansion of effector/activated Vδ2 T-cells was recently described in acute Zika virus (ZIKV)-infected patients, but their role in the protective immune response was not clarified. The aim of this study was to define the antiviral activity of Vδ2 T-cells against ZIKV-infected cells. The Vδ2 T-cells expansion and their cytotoxic activity against ZIKV-infected cells were tested in vitro and analyzed by RT-PCR and flow cytometry. We found that ZIKV infection was able to induce Vδ2 T-cells expansion and sensitized A549 cells to Vδ2-mediated killing. Indeed, expanded Vδ2 T-cells killed ZIKV-infected cells through degranulation and perforin release. Moreover, ZIKV infection was able to increase the expression on A549 cells of NKG2D ligands (NKG2DLs), namely MICA, MICB, and ULBP2, at both the mRNA and protein levels, suggesting the possible involvement of these molecules in the recognition by NKG2D-expressing Vδ2 T-cells. Indeed, the killing of ZIKV-infected cells by expanded Vδ2 T-cells was mediated by NKG2D/NKG2DL interaction as NKG2D neutralization abrogated Vδ2 cytotoxicity. Our data showed a strong antiviral activity of Vδ2 T-cells against ZIKV-infected cells, suggesting their involvement in the protective immune response. Other studies are necessary to investigate whether the lack of Vδ2 T-cells expansion in vivo may be associated with disease complications.

ACS Style

Eleonora Cimini; Alessandra Sacchi; Sara De Minicis; Veronica Bordoni; Rita Casetti; Germana Grassi; Francesca Colavita; Concetta Castilletti; Maria Rosaria Capobianchi; Giuseppe Ippolito; Maria Giovanna Desimio; Margherita Doria; Chiara Agrati. Vδ2 T-Cells Kill ZIKV-Infected Cells by NKG2D-Mediated Cytotoxicity. Microorganisms 2019, 7, 350 .

AMA Style

Eleonora Cimini, Alessandra Sacchi, Sara De Minicis, Veronica Bordoni, Rita Casetti, Germana Grassi, Francesca Colavita, Concetta Castilletti, Maria Rosaria Capobianchi, Giuseppe Ippolito, Maria Giovanna Desimio, Margherita Doria, Chiara Agrati. Vδ2 T-Cells Kill ZIKV-Infected Cells by NKG2D-Mediated Cytotoxicity. Microorganisms. 2019; 7 (9):350.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Eleonora Cimini; Alessandra Sacchi; Sara De Minicis; Veronica Bordoni; Rita Casetti; Germana Grassi; Francesca Colavita; Concetta Castilletti; Maria Rosaria Capobianchi; Giuseppe Ippolito; Maria Giovanna Desimio; Margherita Doria; Chiara Agrati. 2019. "Vδ2 T-Cells Kill ZIKV-Infected Cells by NKG2D-Mediated Cytotoxicity." Microorganisms 7, no. 9: 350.

Review
Published: 24 August 2019 in Viruses
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Filoviruses have become a worldwide public health concern, especially during the 2013-2016 Western Africa Ebola virus disease (EVD) outbreak-the largest outbreak, both by number of cases and geographical extension, recorded so far in medical history. EVD is associated with pathologies in several organs, including the liver, kidney, and lung. During the 2013-2016 Western Africa outbreak, Ebola virus (EBOV) was detected in the lung of infected patients suggesting a role in lung pathogenesis. However, little is known about lung pathogenesis and the controversial issue of aerosol transmission in EVD. This review highlights the pulmonary involvement in EVD, with a special focus on the new data emerging from the 2013-2016 Ebola outbreak.

ACS Style

Eleonora Lalle; Mirella Biava; Emanuele Nicastri; Francesca Colavita; Antonino Di Caro; Francesco Vairo; Simone Lanini; Concetta Castilletti; Martin Langer; Alimuddin Zumla; Gary Kobinger; Maria R. Capobianchi; Giuseppe Ippolito. Pulmonary Involvement during the Ebola Virus Disease. Viruses 2019, 11, 780 .

AMA Style

Eleonora Lalle, Mirella Biava, Emanuele Nicastri, Francesca Colavita, Antonino Di Caro, Francesco Vairo, Simone Lanini, Concetta Castilletti, Martin Langer, Alimuddin Zumla, Gary Kobinger, Maria R. Capobianchi, Giuseppe Ippolito. Pulmonary Involvement during the Ebola Virus Disease. Viruses. 2019; 11 (9):780.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Eleonora Lalle; Mirella Biava; Emanuele Nicastri; Francesca Colavita; Antonino Di Caro; Francesco Vairo; Simone Lanini; Concetta Castilletti; Martin Langer; Alimuddin Zumla; Gary Kobinger; Maria R. Capobianchi; Giuseppe Ippolito. 2019. "Pulmonary Involvement during the Ebola Virus Disease." Viruses 11, no. 9: 780.

Journal article
Published: 23 April 2019 in Viruses
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Ebola virus (EBOV) infection is characterized by an excessive inflammatory response, a loss of lymphocytes and a general paralysis of the immune system, however pathophysiological mechanisms are not fully understood. In a cohort of 23 fatal and 21 survivors of ebola virus disease (EVD) cases admitted to the Emergency Ebola-Treatment-Center in Goderich (Freetown, Sierra Leone) during the 2014 to 2016 EBOV epidemic in Western Africa, we analyzed the pathway-focused gene expression profile of secreted proteins involved in the immune response and the levels of specific anti-EBOV IgM and IgG from the time of admission till discharge or death. We observed a dysregulated inflammatory response in fatal patients as compared to survivors, mainly consisting of the upregulation of inflammatory mediators, whose extent directly correlated with viremia levels. The upregulation persisted and intensified during the late phase of infection. Relevant differences were also found in humoral immunity, as an earlier and more robust EBOV antibody response was observed in survivor patients.

ACS Style

Francesca Colavita; Mirella Biava; Concetta Castilletti; Simone Lanini; Rossella Miccio; Gina Portella; Francesco Vairo; Giuseppe Ippolito; Maria Rosaria Capobianchi; Antonino Di Caro; Eleonora Lalle. Inflammatory and Humoral Immune Response during Ebola Virus Infection in Survivor and Fatal Cases Occurred in Sierra Leone during the 2014–2016 Outbreak in West Africa. Viruses 2019, 11, 373 .

AMA Style

Francesca Colavita, Mirella Biava, Concetta Castilletti, Simone Lanini, Rossella Miccio, Gina Portella, Francesco Vairo, Giuseppe Ippolito, Maria Rosaria Capobianchi, Antonino Di Caro, Eleonora Lalle. Inflammatory and Humoral Immune Response during Ebola Virus Infection in Survivor and Fatal Cases Occurred in Sierra Leone during the 2014–2016 Outbreak in West Africa. Viruses. 2019; 11 (4):373.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Francesca Colavita; Mirella Biava; Concetta Castilletti; Simone Lanini; Rossella Miccio; Gina Portella; Francesco Vairo; Giuseppe Ippolito; Maria Rosaria Capobianchi; Antonino Di Caro; Eleonora Lalle. 2019. "Inflammatory and Humoral Immune Response during Ebola Virus Infection in Survivor and Fatal Cases Occurred in Sierra Leone during the 2014–2016 Outbreak in West Africa." Viruses 11, no. 4: 373.

Review
Published: 20 February 2019 in Viruses
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Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is a re-emerging mosquito-borne virus that displays a large cell and organ tropism, and causes a broad range of clinical symptoms in humans. It is maintained in nature through both urban and sylvatic cycles, involving mosquito vectors and human or vertebrate animal hosts. Although CHIKV was first isolated in 1953, its pathogenesis was only more extensively studied after its re-emergence in 2004. The unexpected spread of CHIKV to novel tropical and non-tropical areas, in some instances driven by newly competent vectors, evidenced the vulnerability of new territories to this infectious agent and its associated diseases. The comprehension of the exact CHIKV target cells and organs, mechanisms of pathogenesis, and spectrum of both competitive vectors and animal hosts is pivotal for the design of effective therapeutic strategies, vector control measures, and eradication actions.

ACS Style

Giulia Matusali; Francesca Colavita; Licia Bordi; Eleonora Lalle; Giuseppe Ippolito; Maria R. Capobianchi; Concetta Castilletti. Tropism of the Chikungunya Virus. Viruses 2019, 11, 175 .

AMA Style

Giulia Matusali, Francesca Colavita, Licia Bordi, Eleonora Lalle, Giuseppe Ippolito, Maria R. Capobianchi, Concetta Castilletti. Tropism of the Chikungunya Virus. Viruses. 2019; 11 (2):175.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Giulia Matusali; Francesca Colavita; Licia Bordi; Eleonora Lalle; Giuseppe Ippolito; Maria R. Capobianchi; Concetta Castilletti. 2019. "Tropism of the Chikungunya Virus." Viruses 11, no. 2: 175.

Journal article
Published: 17 January 2019 in Eurosurveillance
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Blood donation screening for West Nile virus (WNV) was mandatory in the Lazio region in 2017 and 2018 (June-November) according to the national surveillance plan. In these years, all five donations reactive in WNV nucleic acid amplification tests harboured instead Usutu virus (USUV). Clade ‘Europe 2’ was identified in four blood donations and a 2018 mosquito pool. The cocirculation of WNV and USUV in Lazio warrants increased laboratory support and awareness of possible virus misidentification.

ACS Style

Fabrizio Carletti; Francesca Colavita; Francesca Rovida; Elena Percivalle; Fausto Baldanti; Ida Ricci; Claudio De Liberato; Francesca Rosone; Francesco Messina; Eleonora Lalle; Licia Bordi; Francesco Vairo; Maria Rosaria Capobianchi; Giuseppe Ippolito; Giuseppina Cappiello; Alberto Spanò; Silvia Meschi; Concetta Castilletti. Expanding Usutu virus circulation in Italy: detection in the Lazio region, central Italy, 2017 to 2018. Eurosurveillance 2019, 24, 1800649 .

AMA Style

Fabrizio Carletti, Francesca Colavita, Francesca Rovida, Elena Percivalle, Fausto Baldanti, Ida Ricci, Claudio De Liberato, Francesca Rosone, Francesco Messina, Eleonora Lalle, Licia Bordi, Francesco Vairo, Maria Rosaria Capobianchi, Giuseppe Ippolito, Giuseppina Cappiello, Alberto Spanò, Silvia Meschi, Concetta Castilletti. Expanding Usutu virus circulation in Italy: detection in the Lazio region, central Italy, 2017 to 2018. Eurosurveillance. 2019; 24 (3):1800649.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Fabrizio Carletti; Francesca Colavita; Francesca Rovida; Elena Percivalle; Fausto Baldanti; Ida Ricci; Claudio De Liberato; Francesca Rosone; Francesco Messina; Eleonora Lalle; Licia Bordi; Francesco Vairo; Maria Rosaria Capobianchi; Giuseppe Ippolito; Giuseppina Cappiello; Alberto Spanò; Silvia Meschi; Concetta Castilletti. 2019. "Expanding Usutu virus circulation in Italy: detection in the Lazio region, central Italy, 2017 to 2018." Eurosurveillance 24, no. 3: 1800649.

Journal article
Published: 25 October 2018 in Open Forum Infectious Diseases
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Chikungunya fever is caused by Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) and is generally considered a self-limiting disease. However, severe clinical presentations with a high mortality rate have been reported in association with underlying medical conditions. This study reports the molecular characterization of the virus and an abnormal pattern of circulating cytokines in a unique lethal CHIKV case during the 2017 outbreak in Italy, which involved an elderly patient with underlying cardiac disease. Analysis of inflammatory cytokines revealed a strong increase of interferon (IFN)-α and IFN-β, as well as interleukin-6, suggesting a possible role of type-I IFN in the cytokine storm, which may be correlated with unfavorable prognosis of CHIKV infection.

ACS Style

Francesca Colavita; Serena Vita; Eleonora Lalle; Fabrizio Carletti; Licia Bordi; Donatella Vincenti; Irene Pozzetto; Massimo Aiuti; Francesco Vairo; Maria Rosaria Capobianchi; Miriam Lichtner; Concetta Castilletti. Overproduction of IL-6 and Type-I IFN in a Lethal Case of Chikungunya Virus Infection in an Elderly Man During the 2017 Italian Outbreak. Open Forum Infectious Diseases 2018, 5, 1 .

AMA Style

Francesca Colavita, Serena Vita, Eleonora Lalle, Fabrizio Carletti, Licia Bordi, Donatella Vincenti, Irene Pozzetto, Massimo Aiuti, Francesco Vairo, Maria Rosaria Capobianchi, Miriam Lichtner, Concetta Castilletti. Overproduction of IL-6 and Type-I IFN in a Lethal Case of Chikungunya Virus Infection in an Elderly Man During the 2017 Italian Outbreak. Open Forum Infectious Diseases. 2018; 5 (11):1.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Francesca Colavita; Serena Vita; Eleonora Lalle; Fabrizio Carletti; Licia Bordi; Donatella Vincenti; Irene Pozzetto; Massimo Aiuti; Francesco Vairo; Maria Rosaria Capobianchi; Miriam Lichtner; Concetta Castilletti. 2018. "Overproduction of IL-6 and Type-I IFN in a Lethal Case of Chikungunya Virus Infection in an Elderly Man During the 2017 Italian Outbreak." Open Forum Infectious Diseases 5, no. 11: 1.

Research article
Published: 03 June 2018 in Mediators of Inflammation
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The recent epidemic in the Americas caused by Zika virus (ZIKV), Asian lineage, spurred the research towards a better understanding of how ZIKV infection affects the host immune response. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Asian and East African ZIKV strain infection on the induction of IFN and proinflammatory and Th2 cytokines in human PBMC. We reported a slight modulation of type II IFN in PBMC exposed to Asian strain, but not to African strain, and a complete lack of type I and III IFN induction by both strains, suggesting the ability of ZIKV to evade the IFN system not only inhibiting the antiviral IFN response but also IFN production. Moreover, we highlighted a polyfunctional immune activation only in PBMC exposed to Asian strain, due to the induction of an inflammatory profile (IL-6, IL-8) and of a Th9 (IL-9) response. Overall, our data show a different ability of the ZIKV Asian strain, with respect to the African strain, to activate host immune response that may have pathogenetic implications for virus spread in vivo, including mother-to-child transmission and induction of severe fetal complications, as birth defects and neurological disorders.

ACS Style

Francesca Colavita; Veronica Bordoni; Claudia Caglioti; Mirella Biava; Concetta Castilletti; Licia Bordi; Serena Quartu; Marco Iannetta; Giuseppe Ippolito; Chiara Agrati; Maria Rosaria Capobianchi; Eleonora Lalle. ZIKV Infection Induces an Inflammatory Response but Fails to Activate Types I, II, and III IFN Response in Human PBMC. Mediators of Inflammation 2018, 2018, 1 -6.

AMA Style

Francesca Colavita, Veronica Bordoni, Claudia Caglioti, Mirella Biava, Concetta Castilletti, Licia Bordi, Serena Quartu, Marco Iannetta, Giuseppe Ippolito, Chiara Agrati, Maria Rosaria Capobianchi, Eleonora Lalle. ZIKV Infection Induces an Inflammatory Response but Fails to Activate Types I, II, and III IFN Response in Human PBMC. Mediators of Inflammation. 2018; 2018 ():1-6.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Francesca Colavita; Veronica Bordoni; Claudia Caglioti; Mirella Biava; Concetta Castilletti; Licia Bordi; Serena Quartu; Marco Iannetta; Giuseppe Ippolito; Chiara Agrati; Maria Rosaria Capobianchi; Eleonora Lalle. 2018. "ZIKV Infection Induces an Inflammatory Response but Fails to Activate Types I, II, and III IFN Response in Human PBMC." Mediators of Inflammation 2018, no. : 1-6.

Journal article
Published: 01 June 2018 in Clinical Microbiology and Infection
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Efficient interruption of Ebola virus disease (EVD) transmission chains critically depends on reliable and fast laboratory diagnosis. We evaluated the performance of the EBOLA Virus Antigen Detection K-SeT (EBOLA Ag K-SeT), a new rapid diagnostic antigen test (RDT)in field settings.The study was conducted in a field laboratory located in Freetown (Sierra Leone) by the Italian National Institute for Infectious Diseases "L. Spallanzani" and EMERGENCY Onlus NGO. The EBOLA Ag K-SeT was tested on 210 residual plasma samples (EVD prevalence 50%) from patients hospitalized at the EMERGENCY's Ebola Treatment Center in Goderich (Freetown), comparing the results with quantitative RT-PCR.Overall, the sensitivity of EBOLA Ag K-SeT was 88.6% (95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 82.5-94.7) and the corresponding specificity was 98.1% (95% CI: 95.5-100.7). The positive and negative predictive values were 97.9% (95% CI: 95.0-100.8) and 89.6% (95% CI: 84-95.2), respectively. The sensitivity strongly increased up to 98.7% (95% CI: 96.1-101.2) for those samples with high viral load (≥6.2 log RNA copies/ml).Our results suggest that EBOLA Ag K-SeT could represent a new effective diagnostic tool for EVD, meeting the need of minimal resources and rapid diagnosis for suspected EVD individuals.

ACS Style

Francesca Colavita; M. Biava; P. Mertens; Q. Gilleman; C. Borlon; M. Delli Guanti; A. Petrocelli; G. Cataldi; A.T. Kamara; S.A. Kamara; K. Konneh; D. Vincenti; C. Castilletti; S. Abdurahman; A. Mirazimi; M.R. Capobianchi; Giuseppe Ippolito; R. Miccio; A. Di Caro. EBOLA Ag K-SeT rapid test: field evaluation in Sierra Leone. Clinical Microbiology and Infection 2018, 24, 653 -657.

AMA Style

Francesca Colavita, M. Biava, P. Mertens, Q. Gilleman, C. Borlon, M. Delli Guanti, A. Petrocelli, G. Cataldi, A.T. Kamara, S.A. Kamara, K. Konneh, D. Vincenti, C. Castilletti, S. Abdurahman, A. Mirazimi, M.R. Capobianchi, Giuseppe Ippolito, R. Miccio, A. Di Caro. EBOLA Ag K-SeT rapid test: field evaluation in Sierra Leone. Clinical Microbiology and Infection. 2018; 24 (6):653-657.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Francesca Colavita; M. Biava; P. Mertens; Q. Gilleman; C. Borlon; M. Delli Guanti; A. Petrocelli; G. Cataldi; A.T. Kamara; S.A. Kamara; K. Konneh; D. Vincenti; C. Castilletti; S. Abdurahman; A. Mirazimi; M.R. Capobianchi; Giuseppe Ippolito; R. Miccio; A. Di Caro. 2018. "EBOLA Ag K-SeT rapid test: field evaluation in Sierra Leone." Clinical Microbiology and Infection 24, no. 6: 653-657.

Journal article
Published: 07 March 2018 in Zoonoses and Public Health
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Orthopoxviruses spill over from animal reservoirs to accidental hosts, sometimes causing human infections. We describe the surveillance and infection control measures undertaken during an outbreak due to an Orthopoxvirus occurred in January 2015 in a colony of Macaca tonkeana in the province of Rieti, Latio, Italy, which caused a human asymptomatic infection. According to the epidemiological investigation, the human transmission occurred after an unprotected exposure. The contacts among wild, captive and domestic animals and humans, together with decreased immunity against Orthopoxviruses in the community, may put animal handlers at risk of infection, especially after the cessation of smallpox vaccination. To reduce these threats, standard precautions including respiratory hygiene and transmission-based precautions should be carefully applied also in veterinary medicine.

ACS Style

V. Puro; F. M. Fusco; C. Castilletti; F. Carletti; Francesca Colavita; Chiara Agrati; A. Di Caro; M. R. Capobianchi; Giuseppe Ippolito. Occupational transmission of an Orthopoxvirus infection during an outbreak in a colony of Macaca tonkeana in Lazio Region, Italy, 2015. Zoonoses and Public Health 2018, 65, 578 -583.

AMA Style

V. Puro, F. M. Fusco, C. Castilletti, F. Carletti, Francesca Colavita, Chiara Agrati, A. Di Caro, M. R. Capobianchi, Giuseppe Ippolito. Occupational transmission of an Orthopoxvirus infection during an outbreak in a colony of Macaca tonkeana in Lazio Region, Italy, 2015. Zoonoses and Public Health. 2018; 65 (5):578-583.

Chicago/Turabian Style

V. Puro; F. M. Fusco; C. Castilletti; F. Carletti; Francesca Colavita; Chiara Agrati; A. Di Caro; M. R. Capobianchi; Giuseppe Ippolito. 2018. "Occupational transmission of an Orthopoxvirus infection during an outbreak in a colony of Macaca tonkeana in Lazio Region, Italy, 2015." Zoonoses and Public Health 65, no. 5: 578-583.

Journal article
Published: 01 March 2018 in The Journal of Rheumatology
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Here we provide experimental observation that may support and strengthen the notion of the ability of ZIKV to productively infect cells belonging to the bone lineage. Specifically, we investigated the ability of ZIKV to infect and replicate in human osteoblast-like SV-40 T antigen immortalized cell line (HOBIT; kindly provided by Professor M.C. Re, University of Bologna). For this study, ethical approval was not required, in accordance with the policy of the Italian National Institute for Infectious Diseases L. Spallanzani (Istituto Di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico).

ACS Style

Francesca Colavita; Giuseppina Musumeci; Claudia Caglioti. Human Osteoblast-like Cells Are Permissive for Zika Virus Replication. The Journal of Rheumatology 2018, 45, 443 -443.

AMA Style

Francesca Colavita, Giuseppina Musumeci, Claudia Caglioti. Human Osteoblast-like Cells Are Permissive for Zika Virus Replication. The Journal of Rheumatology. 2018; 45 (3):443-443.

Chicago/Turabian Style

Francesca Colavita; Giuseppina Musumeci; Claudia Caglioti. 2018. "Human Osteoblast-like Cells Are Permissive for Zika Virus Replication." The Journal of Rheumatology 45, no. 3: 443-443.