Evolutionary analysis of JC polyomavirus in Misiones’ population yields insight into the population dynamics of the early human dispersal in the Americas

Abstract

BackgroundJC polyomavirus (JCV) has an ethno-geographical distribution across human populations. ObjectiveStudy the origins of the population of Misiones (Argentina) by using JCV as genetic marker. MethodsViral detection and characterization was conducted by PCR amplification and evolutionary analysis of the intergenic region sequences. Results22 out of 121 samples were positive for JCV, including 5 viral lineages: MY (n = 8), Eu-a (n = 7), B1-c (n = 4), B1-b (n = 2) and Af2 (n = 1). MY sequences clustered within a branch of Native American origin that diverged from its Asian counterpart about 21,914 years ago (HPD 95% interval 15,383–30,177), followed by a sustained demographic expansion around 5000 years ago. ConclusionsJCV in Misiones reflects the multiethnic origin of the current population, with an important Amerindian contribution. Analysis of the MY viral lineage shows a pattern consistent with the arrival of early human migrations to the Americas and a population expansion by the pre-Columbian native societies.