Browsing by Author "Batagoda, B. N. N. T."

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    Phylogenomic and Pangenome Analysis of Human Monkeypox Virus Strains in Recent Outbreaks Identifies Lineage-Specific Diversification
    (Department of Applied Sciences. Faculty of Humanities and Sciences,SLIIT, 2025-10-10) Batagoda, B. N. N. T.; Senanayake, K. S.
    Human monkeypox (Mpox) is a significant zoonotic disease that has seen a recent global resurgence, leading to a second WHO Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) declaration in August 2024. This study investigated the genomic diversity and evolutionary dynamics of MPXV using 197 novel complete genomes sequenced between December 2023 and April 2025, alongside two reference sequences. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that recent global outbreak strains predominantly cluster within the West African lineage, distinct from older Central African isolates. The tight clustering of newer isolates, particularly from the USA and Australia, suggests low mutation rates and localised transmission following multiple independent introductions. Pangenome analysis comparing the two reference genomes identified 189 core genes, with clade-specific genes highlighting their evolutionary divergence. The pangenome of the novel isolates contained 238 genes, including 181 highly conserved core genes, and a notable presence of accessory and rare genes. These findings provide insights into Mpox's genomic stability and ongoing diversification as well as lead to identifying potential targets for antivirals and vaccines, emphasising the importance of continuous genomic surveillance.