Molecular and Genetics-Based Systems for Tracing the Evolution and Exploring the Mechanisms of Human Norovirus Infections

Human noroviruses (HuNoV) are major causes of acute gastroenteritis around the world. The high mutation rate and recombination potential of noroviruses are significant challenges in studying the genetic diversity and evolution pattern of novel strains. In this review, we describe recent advances in the development of technologies for not only the detection but also the analysis of complete genome sequences of noroviruses and the future prospects of detection methods for tracing the evolution and genetic diversity of human noroviruses. The mechanisms of HuNoV infection and the development of antiviral drugs have been hampered by failure to develop the infectious virus in a cell model. However, recent studies have demonstrated the potential of reverse genetics for the recovery and generation of infectious viral particles, suggesting the utility of this genetics-based system as an alternative for studying the mechanisms of viral infection, such as cell entry and replication.

Automated summary

Human noroviruses (HuNoV) are a major cause of acute gastroenteritis worldwide, and their high mutation rate and recombination potential pose challenges in studying their genetic diversity and evolution. Recent advances in technology have allowed for the detection and analysis of complete genome sequences of noroviruses, as well as the tracing of their evolution and genetic diversity. The inability to cultivate infectious viruses in cell models has hindered the understanding of HuNoV infection mechanisms and the development of antiviral drugs. However, reverse genetics has shown promise in recovering and generating infectious viral particles, providing an alternative method for studying viral infection mechanisms.