Human adenovirus E (HAdV-E)

Human adenovirus E (HAdV-E) is a species of non-enveloped, double-stranded DNA viruses within the Adenoviridae family, uniquely represented by the single serotype Human adenovirus 4 (HAdV-4) (ICTV, 2023; NCBI Taxonomy, 2024). It is a significant human pathogen primarily responsible for acute respiratory disease (ARD), which manifests as fever, pharyngitis, and in severe cases, pneumonia, particularly in high-density environments such as military training centers (StatPearls, 2023). The virus initiates infection by binding to the Coxsackievirus and Adenovirus Receptor (CAR) on host cells, followed by internalization and transport of the viral genome to the nucleus for replication (PubMed: PMC7167110). Therapeutic intervention typically involves the use of broad-spectrum DNA polymerase inhibitors such as cidofovir or its oral prodrug brincidofovir, which prevent viral genome elongation (PubMed: PMC4324219). Additionally, a live, oral enteric-coated vaccine containing HAdV-4 is utilized by the U.S. military to provide effective prophylaxis against ARD by inducing mucosal and systemic immunity (FDA, 2011). Management of HAdV-E is critical for controlling respiratory outbreaks and preventing severe ocular complications like conjunctivitis.

Other names

Human mastadenovirus E (ICTV, 2023)Human adenovirus 4 (NCBI Taxonomy, 2024)HAdV-4Adenovirus type 4HAdV-E

Inhibition of viral DNA polymerase by cidofovir and brincidofovir to prevent DNA chain elongation (PubMed: PMC7167110); Induction of active mucosal and systemic immunity through exposure to live-attenuated virus (FDA, 2011).