Publications by authors named "Maria N Cortinas"

Human respiratory and enteric viruses are responsible for substantial morbidity and mortality worldwide. Wastewater-based epidemiology utilizing next-generation sequencing serves as an effective tool for monitoring viral circulation dynamics at the community level. However, these complex environmental samples are often laden with other microorganisms and host genomic material, which can hinder the sensitivity of viral detection.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

This study details a genomics-based approach for the early detection of mosquito-borne pathogens, marked by Uruguay's first ever complete genomic sequencing of Dengue Virus type I genotypes I and V. This pioneering effort has facilitated the prompt identification of these genotypes within the country, enabling Uruguayan public health authorities to develop timely and effective response strategies. Further integrated into this approach is a climate-driven suitability measure, closely associated with Dengue case reports and indicative of the local climate's role in the virus's transmission in the country within the changing climate context.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

We report the genomic analysis from early equine cases of the Western equine encephalitis virus outbreak during 2023-2024 in Uruguay. Sequences are related to a viral isolate from an outbreak in 1958 in Argentina. A viral origin from South America or continuous enzootic circulation with infrequent spillover is possible.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF
Article Synopsis
  • - Uruguay reported its first outbreak of the Chikungunya virus in 2023, which placed a heavy strain on the healthcare system.
  • - Researchers analyzed data from 30 new whole genomes to understand how the virus is transmitting locally and the ecological factors influencing its spread.
  • - The study aimed to provide quick insights into the outbreak to help manage and control its impact within the country.
View Article and Find Full Text PDF
Article Synopsis
  • The rising spread of arboviruses and increasing infection rates emphasize the urgent need for improved methods to rapidly and accurately detect these pathogens.
  • This study focuses on combining nanopore sequencing with reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to create a multiplex RT-PCR protocol.
  • The new protocol allows the simultaneous detection of multiple viruses, including Chikungunya, dengue, Zika, yellow fever, and West Nile, enhancing our ability to differentiate between arbovirus strains effectively.
View Article and Find Full Text PDF

We report the first whole-genome sequences of Dengue Virus type I genotypes I and V from Uruguay, including the first cases ever reported in the country. Through timely genomic analysis, identification of these genotypes was possible, aiding in timely public health responses and intervention strategies to mitigate the impact of dengue outbreaks.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF
Article Synopsis
  • Uruguay had its first Chikungunya virus outbreak in 2023, which put a lot of stress on its healthcare system.
  • Researchers analyzed 30 new whole genomes through real-time genomic surveillance.
  • The study aimed to provide insights into how the virus spread locally and the environmental factors contributing to its emergence.
View Article and Find Full Text PDF

The genetic variability of SARS-CoV-2 (genus , family ) has been scrutinized since its first detection in December 2019. Although the role of structural variants, particularly deletions, in virus evolution is little explored, these genome changes are extremely frequent. They are associated with relevant processes, including immune escape and attenuation.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Deletions frequently occur in the six accessory genes of SARS-CoV-2, but most genomes with deletions are sporadic and have limited spreading capability. Here, we analyze deletions in the ORF7a of the N.7 lineage, a unique Uruguayan clade from the Brazilian B.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF
Article Synopsis
  • Two significant COVID-19 variants, P.1 and P.2, originated in Brazil and have become more prevalent in South America due to their higher transmission rates and ability to evade immunity.
  • Recent genomic analyses have identified these variants in Uruguay, confirming their spread.
  • The genomes of the P.1 and P.2 variants in Uruguay contain all the key genetic mutations that define them.
View Article and Find Full Text PDF

The majority of Eucalyptus species are native to Australia, but worldwide there are over 3 million ha of exotic plantations, especially in the tropics and subtropics. Of the numerous known leaf diseases, three species of Phaeophleospora can cause severe defoliation of young Eucalyptus; Phaeophleospora destructans, Phaeophleospora eucalypti and Phaeophleospora epicoccoides. Phaeophleospora destructans has a major impact on seedling survival in Asia and has not, as yet, been found in Australia where it is considered a serious threat to the biosecurity of native eucalypts.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF