Genomic sequences encoding for an attenuated mutant Zika virus

Abstract

The present invention relates to a genomic sequences encoding for an attenuated mutant Zika virus. The inventors have introduced some specific substitutions at very specific positions in the epidemic genomic sequence for restoring some fixation sites for miR-4279 that were originally present in the endemic genomic sequence. Moreover the inventors have additionally introduced mutation leading to the abrogation of the N-glycosylation site on the E protein which will prevent the generation of auto-antibodies responsible for Guillain-Barre syndrome. The inventors have produced additional mutations of the virus that result to a dramatic reduction of the cytopathic effects without affecting the capacity to produce high titers of virus. In particular the present invention relates to a genomic sequence characterized by the sequence represented by SEQ ID NO:1 wherein at least one site of fixation for miR-4279 is restored.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.