Whole genome characterization of two human group C Rotaviruses isolated in China

Rotavirus C (RVC) is a major concern for acute gastroenteritis in both humans and animals. Infection with RVC has been reported in children and adults, making this Rotavirus (RV) species an important part of ongoing research. While RVC has been detected in humans worldwide, only 35 whole genome sequences have been described in literature. To investigate a potential genetic diversity of RVC, we have analyzed two complete RVC strains from China detected in specimens from children with acute gastroenteritis in 2011 and 2013. After next generation sequencing, both strains were determined as G4P[2]-I2-R2-C2-M3-A2-N2-T2-E2-H2. Both strains cluster in lineage I for most genes, except for VP4 where they cluster in lineage II. The average nucleotide difference between both strains is 0.88% whereas the average amino acid difference is 1.25%. The highest difference could be seen in the NSP4 gene. The data obtained here is contributing to characterize RVC strains worldwide. This work can help in our understanding of RVC genetic evolution as well as standardize genotyping for inter- and intra-lineage classification similar to Rotavirus A (RVA). • Rotavirus Group C (RVC) can infect a variety of species, including humans, and can lead to sporadic and large outbreaks. • To date, the full genome of only 35 full-length human RVC strains are reported making the identification of novel human RVC strains an important part of research. • We have identified two full length RVC strains from China (2011 and 2013) that cluster with other Asian RVC strains, but also strains from Russia and Hungary • VP4 from the here identified strains are highly diverse from other Asian strains indicating a potential recombination event. • In addition, we are proposing a classification system and lineage cut off value according to RCWG recommendation for Rotavirus A.