In conjunction with the National Institutes of Health (NIH), researchers from St. Jude Children's Research Hospital Center for Excellence in Influenza Research and Response (<a href="https://www.ceirr-network.org/centers/sjceirr" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">SJCEIRR</a>) characterized the transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) from humans into white-tailed deer in Ohio. <a href="https://vet.osu.edu/node/2135/about-us" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Dillon McBride</a>, a graduate student and lead author, along with <a href="https://vet.osu.edu/andrew-bowman" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Dr. Andrew Bowman</a>, SJCEIRR PI <a href="https://www.stjude.org/research/labs/webby-lab.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Dr. Richard Webby</a>, and others recently published their work in <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-40706-y" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Nature Communications</a>. In July 2021, free-ranging white-tailed deer were identified as a host for SARS-CoV-2 after at least 6 cases of human-to-deer transmissions were reported. Current consensus suggests that the SARS-CoV-2 virus that caused the COVID-19 pandemic originated in <a href="https://www.ceirr-network.org/news/construction-of-a-consensus-species-tree-suggests-severe-acute-respiratory-syndrome-coronavirus-2-sars-co-v-2-originated-from-bats-and-pangolins" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">animals</a>. As such, there is a need to fill our gaps in knowledge related to the evolution of the virus in non-human hosts and what interplay exists with humans.<figure class="image image-style-align-right"><img src="https://ceirr-public-website-static-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/Adobe_Stock_White_Tailed_Deer_350x177_770228222c.jpg?updated_at=2023-10-18T13:29:33.886Z"><figcaption>Herd of white-tailed deer grazing.</figcaption></figure>The SARS-CoV-2 virus continues to produce variants that have unpredictable characteristics. As the number of non-human hosts for SARS-CoV-2 increases, future mutations that occur within these populations may have implications for the health of humans and livestock. Culling livestock can slow the spread of an outbreak to limit devastation. However, wildlife populations that are free-ranging – such as white-tailed deer – present an even greater risk, as controlling viral spread is almost impossible. &nbsp;To investigate the status of SARS-CoV-2 in white-tailed deer, the authors conducted statewide surveillance in Ohio from November 2021 to March 2022. Ohio is the seventh most populous state in the United States and had the eighth highest recorded number of COVID-19 cases. 1522 nasal swabs were collected from 83 of 88 counties in a large-scale effort to understand the infection rate, spread, evolution, and persistence of the disease. &nbsp;The authors found that SARS-CoV-2 evolved around three times faster in white-tailed deer than in humans, with deer-to-deer transmission persisting for up to eight months and dispersing across hundreds of kilometers. Although evidence of SARS-CoV-2 transmission from white-tailed deer into humans exists, there have been no substantial outbreaks of deer-origin SARS-CoV-2 in humans. The results of this study are consistent with this – generally, the white-tailed deer origin virus had not undergone enough change to be a risk for infection in humans. This is important as there are approximately 30 million white-tailed deer in the United States, a population that is increasingly in contact with humans and livestock. Furthermore, the authors found that the overall rate of SARS-CoV-2 evolution in deer will likely decline over time, selecting for specific changes that are able to evade the immune system – similar to what has happened in humans. &nbsp;The findings from McBride et al. (2023) highlight the importance of continued surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in non-human hosts to understand new pathways for viral evolution. The authors propose that future studies should focus on integrating movement data with pathogen tracking to better understand animal-to-animal transmission in wild free-ranging populations. McBride et al. adds to the growing body of influenza and SARS-CoV-2 surveillance efforts led by SJCEIRR on transmission, evolution, and immunogenicity of these viruses that will aid in preventing future pandemics.<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-023-40706-y" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">McBride DS et al. (2023) Accelerated evolution of SARS-CoV-2 in free-ranging white-tailed deer. Nature Communications. 14: 5105.</a>

Publication Commentary

SARS-CoV-2

Surveillance

SJCEIRR

SJCEIRR researchers characterized the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from humans into white-tailed deer to aid in understanding the evolution of the virus in non-human hosts.

Herd of white-tailed deer grazing in field on a cold winter day looking at the camera 

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CEIRR Researchers Investigate the Evolution of the SARS-CoV-2 Virus in White-Tailed Deer and Implications for Human Spread

<figure class="image image-style-align-right"><img src="https://ceirr-public-website-static-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/Faten_Okda_headshot_2_350x241_f60b0901a1.jpg?updated_at=2023-10-16T18:52:49.982Z" alt="Dr. Faten Okda, Postdoctoral Fellow"><figcaption>Dr. Faten Okda, Postdoctoral Fellow</figcaption></figure>The CEIRR Network proudly spotlights Faten Okda, Ph.D., a postdoctoral fellow in <a href="https://www.stjude.org/webby" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Dr. Richard Webby’s Lab</a>, part of <a href="https://www.ceirr-network.org/centers/sjceirr" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">SJCEIRR</a>. Dr. Okda was awarded 1st place in Poster Session Two at the <a href="https://www.ceirr-network.org/news/ceirr-annual-network-meeting-2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">CEIRR Annual Network Meeting 2023</a> in Baltimore, Maryland, where she presented a poster titled “Comparative Analysis of Influenza Virus Replication Dynamics in Tonsil Epithelial Cells: Insights from Flow Cytometry and Cytokine Analysis.” &nbsp;Dr. Okda’s motivation to study influenza comes from a “deeply rooted desire to contribute to scientific knowledge and improve public health.” Viral diseases have impacted her life, which has driven her to “unravel the mysteries of viral infections” through “control[ling] the effects” of the disease and ultimately “develop[ing] an effective vaccine.” Her award-winning poster focused on investigating replication dynamics of different influenza strains in tonsil epithelial cells, and how this impacts cytokine secretion profiles. Dr. Okda also touched on her appreciation for the collaborative and multidisciplinary nature of the CEIRR Program, which “provides a unique platform for research trainees like me from diverse backgrounds to work together towards a common goal of understanding and combating pandemic respiratory viruses.”The iDPCC also asked Dr. Okda to answer some thought-provoking questions:&nbsp;1. Who/what inspired you to go into science in general?&nbsp;&nbsp;A. I was inspired by several great scientists whose work has transformed our understanding of the world. Notably, the curiosity-driven spirit of Marie Curie and the groundbreaking research of Dr. Robert Webster instilled in me a passion for science, specifically, Virology. Additionally, my parents' encouragement and guidance motivated me to pursue a career where I could contribute to medical advancements.2. What was your childhood dream job?&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A. My childhood dream job was to become a surgeon or a scientist.3. What are your plans following your training?&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A. Currently, I am a K99/R00 NIH/NIAID awardee. This year is the last year of K99 in Dr. Webby’s lab. I am at the step to establish my independent research laboratory at a top-tier academic institution using the R00 stage. I aspire to continue conducting research in virology, mentor the next generation of scientists, and collaborate with colleagues to advance our understanding of viral infections and their impact on public health. My dream is to have collaborative research funding with the CEIRR experts.4. Do you have advice for other trainees?&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A. My advice to fellow trainees is to embrace curiosity, determination, and resilience. Scientific research can be challenging, but curiosity is the driving force behind new discoveries. When faced with obstacles, remember that setbacks are opportunities for growth. Keep asking questions, seeking knowledge, and persevering in the pursuit of your scientific goals.5. What is your favorite lab technique?&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A. Among the various lab techniques I've used and loved, I have a particular fondness for fluorescence microscopy. It's like having a window into the microscopic world, where I can visualize cellular processes and interactions in real-time.6. Do you have any hobbies or special interests you'd like to share?&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;A. Outside of the lab, I enjoy spending time with my husband and my kids. Playing outdoors activities together like volleyball and fishing.

Spotlight

Influenza

Poster presenter awardee and postdoctoral researcher, Dr. Faten Okda provides insight into her research on influenza replication dynamics and answers some personal questions.&nbsp;

Headshot of Dr. Faten Okda, Postdoctoral Fellow.

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Dr. Okda, an Exceptional Researcher, Opens Up About Her Fascination for Influenza Research and Public Health

<figure class="image image-style-align-left"><img src="https://ceirr-public-website-static-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/Nahara_VM_CEIRR_updated_headshot_v2_350x316_cf5a3566af.png?updated_at=2023-10-06T17:41:23.128Z"><figcaption>Nahara Vargas-Maldonado, PhD Candidate</figcaption></figure>The CEIRR Network is excited to spotlight Nahara Vargas-Maldonado, an Immunology and Molecular Pathogenesis PhD Candidate in <a href="https://med.emory.edu/departments/microbiology-immunology/artdtp/training-faculty/lowen-anice.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Dr. Anice Lowen's</a> lab, part of <a href="https://www.ceirr-network.org/centers/emory-ceirr" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Emory-CEIRR</a>. Prior to starting her PhD, Vargas-Maldonado earned a BS from the University of Puerto Rico and then worked with Dr. Jacob Yount at The Ohio State University as an NIH PREP scholar. At the <a href="https://www.ceirr-network.org/news/ceirr-annual-network-meeting-2023" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">CEIRR Annual Network Meeting 2023</a> in Baltimore, MD, Vargas-Maldonado presented a poster titled "Evidence of positive selection acting on within-host influenza A virus populations following experimental human challenge." Her presentation was voted 1st place in Poster Session One by CEIRR faculty and peers! But Vargas-Maldonado didn't stop there; she also earned 1st place by networking with the most CEIRR faculty in the trading card networking game at the same meeting.Vargas-Maldonado has "always been interested in human health," so studying the spread of influenza virus and "exploring options to limit its spread allowed me to put into action all my passions: science, creativity, service, and education." Her dissertation research covers the transmission and infection dynamics of influenza A virus (IAV). She's particularly interested in investigating how IAV transmits and how different modes of transmission change with context (hosts, viral, and environmental factors) using the guinea pig, ferret, and human challenge models. Vargas-Maldonado appreciates the CEIRR Program's collaborative research environment and “how it brings together the flu community from diverse backgrounds and areas of study to address different aspects of influenza virus infection and transmission.”The iDPCC also asked some very challenging questions:1. Who/what inspired you to go into science in general?A. My father. He worked as a nurse for many years, and I enjoyed having conversations about his experiences at the hospital. I loved how he combined his knowledge and skills in health sciences to help people in our community and abroad.2. What is one thing on your bucket list?A. I want to visit Mexico and sing with a mariachi band.3. What was your childhood dream job?A. Since I was four years old, I wanted to be an obstetrician-gynecologist. It blew my mind how women’s bodies could grow and sustain a human.4. Do you have advice for other trainees?A. First and foremost, your life’s worth is not determined by how much you produce on the bench. There will be seasons where experiments or classes will not go as you desire but keep showing up and trying. Also, search for a mentor and a laboratory group that chooses to connect with you. Having a sound support system is crucial to your journey in graduate school.5. What is your favorite mundane lab chore?A. I enjoy cleaning and organizing my lab space. It allows me to think clearly.6. Do you have any hobbies or special interests you'd like to share?A. I enjoy watching baking shows but don’t know how to bake. I should probably add learning how to bake to my bucket list!

Emory-CEIRR

Outstanding poster presenter and expert networker, Vargas-Maldonado discusses her research on influenza A virus spread and answers some thought-provoking questions.

Headshot of Nahara Vargas-Maldonado, PhD Candidate.

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Nahara Vargas-Maldonado, an Outstanding Researcher with a Passion for Human Health

<figure class="image image-style-align-left"><img src="https://ceirr-public-website-static-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/Roll_up_banner_final_cropped_325x582_7b00b0408f.png?updated_at=2023-09-22T17:04:08.985Z"><figcaption>CEIRR-branded vertical banner.</figcaption></figure>The 2nd CEIRR Annual Network Meeting was a successful event, with over 300 members from the Network attending to discuss and share their research on influenza and SARS-CoV-2. The meeting took place at the Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor Hotel from August 28th - 31st. The first day of the Annual Network Meeting featured five breakout sessions that covered data management, clinical research, risk assessment, communications, and computational modeling. The Influenza Data Processing and Communication Center (<a href="https://www.ceirr-network.org/centers/idpcc" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">iDPCC</a>) hosted its first Communications Trainee, Dr. Rabeh El-Shesheny of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital CEIRR (<a href="https://www.ceirr-network.org/centers/sjceirr" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">SJCEIRR</a>), through the CEIRR Training Program, who helped develop the first communications breakout session on Best Practices in Giving a Scientific Presentation. The first day ended with each of our six CEIRR research Centers hosting individual networking sessions.Over the course of the Annual Network Meeting, we heard from over 50 session speakers sharing cutting-edge research across topics related to Immunology, Human-Animal Interface &amp; Animal Surveillance, Molecular Virology &amp; Pathogenesis, Human Cohorts &amp; Surveillance, and Immunology &amp; Vaccines.&nbsp;Two poster sessions highlighted the strong trainee presence at the meeting, with over 165 poster presentations and nearly 50 flash talks. This year, two awards for outstanding posters went to Nahara Vargas-Maldonado, a PhD candidate from Dr. Anice Lowen's lab (<a href="https://www.ceirr-network.org/centers/emory-ceirr" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Emory-CEIRR</a>), and Dr. Faten Okda, a post-doctoral fellow from Dr. Richard Webby's lab (<a href="https://www.ceirr-network.org/centers/sjceirr" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">SJCEIRR</a>), from Poster Sessions 1 &amp; 2, respectively.In addition to scientific research sessions, a variety of social and networking activities took place throughout the meeting. Each CEIRR Center competed for a Teambuilding Prize and earned points from CEIRR trivia, a trading card networking game, outstanding poster presentation nominations, and more! Graduate student Nahara Vargas-Maldonado (<a href="https://www.ceirr-network.org/centers/emory-ceirr" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Emory-CEIRR</a>) took home the prize for most trading cards collected, while SJCEIRR won the Center Competition prize! Overall, it was an amazing experience that brought together experts from around the world who are passionate about advancing our understanding of influenza, SARS-CoV-2, and other emerging viruses with pandemic potential.We look forward to another successful meeting in 2024!

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iDPCC

CIDER

Penn-CEIRR

JH-CEIRR

The second CEIRR Annual Network Meeting featured over 50 speakers, 165 posters, and plenty of networking among researchers.

CEIRR conference and outreach materials, including postcards, stickers, pins, and topic cards.

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