Chikungunya Virus Advances in Biology, Pathogenesis, and Treatment

This book describes the molecular biology, pathogenesis, epidemiology, and potential strategies for control of chikungunya virus (CHIKV) infection.

The mosquito-transmitted Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) is associated with increased morbidity and debilitating chronic musculoskeletal disease in infected humans. Aedes mosquitoes, responsible for CHIKV transmission, were previously restricted to the tropical and subtropical regions of the world but increased globalization has resulted in their worldwide spread. Currently, however, there are no vaccines or effective therapies for CHIKV infection, leaving infected people to rely on their immune system to fight the disease.

Chikungunya Virus: Advances in Biology, Pathogenesis, and Treatment details the exciting discoveries that have been made in various aspects of CHIKV research, including:

· epidemiology

· biology

· mechanisms of infection and pathogenesis

· host response to infection

· clinical syndromes and therapy

Written by leading experts, the book provides a unique resource on CHIKV, intended for researchers, clinicians, educators, public health officials, and the general public.

This book describes the molecular biology, pathogenesis, epidemiology, and potential strategies for control of chikungunya virus (CHIKV) infection. It offers insight into the structure and functions of CHIKV proteins as they relate to host response, interaction with the arthropod vector, and vaccination. A detailed account of both the epidemiological outlook and the clinical syndrome of CHIKV infection is provided. The complex host-virus interaction and the signaling pathways that mediate such interactions are also covered. Throughout the book, graphics and charts are used to provide stimulating discussion on important findings in the field of chikungunyalogy. The chapters are written with a global perspective by experts of CHIKV from around the world. This project is especially significant given that CHIKV is a pathogen of worldwide public health concern. Although the presence of CHIKV infection is not global yet, worldwide dissemination is predicted in the future due largely to the lack of effective treatment/therapy, efficient control of transmission, and knowledge about mechanisms of pathogenesis. Additionally, globalization of CHIKV is predicated on its mode of dissemination (mosquito vector) and cross border travel and migration.