Mpox Insights: From Structure to Human Cell Interaction

Zaman M.S. Sizemore R.C. Rodriguez D. Lopez E. Alam S.M.G. Tufa S. Lopez-Alvarenga J.C. Akimbekov N.S. Razzaque M.S.
December 2025 Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute (MDPI)

Journal of Molecular Pathology
2025 #6 Issue 4

Mpox, a zoonotic viral disease, has emerged as a global concern due to outbreaks in both endemic and non-endemic regions in 2022. Rodents, including African squirrels and Gambian pouched rats, are suspected key reservoirs, with human infections occurring through direct contact with infected animals or bushmeat consumption. Previously confined to rural Africa, mpox has spread via international travel and the exotic pet trade. Human-to-human transmission occurs mainly via respiratory droplets and direct contact with bodily fluids or lesions. The virus has a double-stranded DNA genome within a lipid envelope. Despite lower mutation rates in DNA viruses, mpox has developed mutations, particularly in genes like F8L, G9R, and F13L, facilitating viral replication and immune evasion. The virus targets immune cells such as monocytes and macrophages, weakening host defenses and prolonging infection. Immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk of severe complications. Although generally self-limiting, severe cases may require antiviral treatment. This article briefly summarizes the therapeutic and preventive strategies, and public health measures to combat zoonotic threats.

DNA virus , immune interaction , mpox , public health , smallpox , transmission , zoonotic diseases

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Department of Biological Sciences, Alcorn State University, Lorman, 39096, MS, United States
Department of Biology, South Texas College, McAllen, 78501, TX, United States
Heart Institute, Doctors Hospital at Renaissance, Edinburg, 78539, TX, United States
Department of Natural Sciences, San Jacinto College, Houston, 77049, TX, United States
Division of Population Health & Biostatistics, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), Edinburg, 78539, TX, United States
Scientific-Practical Center, West Kazakhstan Marat Ospanov Medical University, Maresyev Str. 68, Aktobe, 030019, Kazakhstan
Sustainability of Ecology and Bioresources, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University, Al-Farabi Ave. 71, Almaty, 050040, Kazakhstan
Department of Medical Education, School of Medicine, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), Edinburg, 78541, TX, United States

Department of Biological Sciences
Department of Biology
Heart Institute
Department of Natural Sciences
Division of Population Health & Biostatistics
Scientific-Practical Center
Sustainability of Ecology and Bioresources
Department of Medical Education

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