Zika Virus Genetic and Physiopathological Evolution: Emergence of a Threat

1. VIRUS GENOTYPE: We will study whether mutations in the ZIKV genetic code result in a more severe outcome for the fetus in ZIKV-infected mice. To this end, we will use two ZIKV strains collected in Mexico in 2016 that behaved very differently in adult immunocompromised mice with regard to pathogenesis and survival (unpublished results). 2. HOST ENVIRONMENT: We will determine whether the oral administration of antibiotics to the pregnant mouse has an additional detrimental impact on ZIKV disease in the fetus.