Human monkeypox: epidemiology, transmission, pathogenesis, immunology, diagnosis and therapeutics

Mol Cell Biochem. 2023 Sep;478(9):2097-2110. doi: 10.1007/s11010-022-04657-0. Epub 2023 Jan 10.

Abstract

"Zoonoses" describe diseases that may be acquired by humans from animals. Due to the constant contact between humans and other animals, many infectious diseases are disseminated. This may happen via direct contact, such as bites or scratches, or by indirect contact, such as when eating bush meat or using contaminated animal parts. Monkeypox disease is one such zoonotic infection which is now emerging as a disease of global concern, and the World Health Organization has already labelled it a public health emergency. The virus is related to other orthopox viruses and may be further classified into two genetically separate clades, the West African and the Central African. The latter is far more pathogenic than the former. Utilizing virotransducer and virostealth proteins, the virus is able to control the host's T-cell-mediated responses and impede the release of cytokines and chemokines.Monkeypox may be treated with tecovirimat, cidofovir, or brincidofovir, and prevention with the vaccination JYNNEOS is recommended. The disease's fast global expansion warrants concern despite the fact that it is less fatal than that caused by the variola virus. Before the sickness reaches catastrophic proportions, we must draw on our prior experiences and act prudently. This article serves as an introduction to the monkeypox virus and its associated pathology, treatments, diagnostics, and preventative measures.

Keywords: Diagnosis; Immunomodulation; Monkeypox; Pathology; Treatment; Vaccines.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Benzamides
  • Cidofovir
  • Cytokines
  • Humans
  • Mpox (monkeypox)* / diagnosis
  • Mpox (monkeypox)* / drug therapy
  • Mpox (monkeypox)* / epidemiology
  • Smallpox Vaccine*

Substances

  • Benzamides
  • Cidofovir
  • Cytokines
  • Smallpox Vaccine