Recent developments in norovirus interactions with bacteria

• Published in: Current opinion in food science Vol. 48; p. 100926
• Main Authors: Soorneedi, Anand R, Moore, Matthew D
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.12.2022
• ISSN: 2214-7993; 2214-8000
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cofs.2022.100926

Human norovirus is the leading cause of foodborne illness in the United States. Among many of the challenges related to understanding and controlling noroviruses, the influence of host microbiota on viral pathogenesis has continued to remain the subject of increased focus. Foundational work previously suggested that some bacteria may directly interact with noroviruses and promote infection. However, continuing limitations in understanding exist due to challenges with animal and in vitro norovirus models, as well as the inherent complexity of host–microbiota interactions. Recent work implicates the microbiota in both promoting and inhibiting norovirus pathogenesis. Additional recent findings have been reported that have considerable implications for understanding microbiota–norovirus interactions. Work has also continued on the potential implications of norovirus–bacteria interactions on viral control with conflicting results. The purpose of this review is to explore and compare recent developments in understanding the bacterial influence on norovirus pathogenesis and control. •Norovirus–microbiota interactions can promote or inhibit infection.•Complexities in studying host microbiota complicate conclusions on viral infection.•Challenges with current norovirus models can limit comparison/conclusions.•Interactions with environmental microbiota may affect the efficacy of disinfectants.•Noroviruses present in extracellular vesicles have implications on their study.