Pandurang Kolekar

Population genetics and evolution of Rhinoviruses

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This project involved the analysis of complete genomes of Rhinoviruses using a model-based population genetics approach, which provided a strong evidence for existence of seven genetically distinct subpopulations. As a result of diversification, Rhinovirus A and -C populations are divided into four and two subpopulations, respectively. Genetically, the Rhinovirus B population was found to be homogeneous. Intra-species recombination was observed to be prominent in Rhinovirus A and -C species.

 

 In summary, the Rhinovirus population is an ensemble of seven distinct lineages. In case of Rhinovirus A, intraspecies recombination and episodic positive selection contribute to its further diversification. In case of Rhinovirus C, intra- and inter-species recombinations are responsible for observed diversity. Population genetics approach was further useful to analyze phylogenetic tree topologies pertaining to recombinant strains, especially when trees are derived using complete genomes.

 

Understanding of population structure serves as a foundation for designing new vaccines and drugs as well as to explain emergence of drug resistance amongst subpopulations.