Rotavirus infection

Abstract

Rotavirus infection causing gastroenteritis is one of the major health concerns throughout the world. Millions of children are affected by the disease. Studying molecular mechanism and pathophysiology of the disease is important to understand and interpret possible therapeutical targets. Studies suggest that rotavirus infection alters phosphorylation of p70S6K, mitogen activated kinase (MAPK/ERK) and myosin light chain; induced inflammatory agents such as prostaglandin E2 and nitric oxide levels; and enhanced corticosterone levels to damage villi enterocytes in the small intestine. These changes lead to malabsorption, abnormal motility and diarrhea. Although Rotarix and RotaTeq vaccines are available, proposals are emerged to produce new candidate vaccines.