Rotavirus infection causing gastroenteritis is one of the major health concerns throughout the
world. Millions of children are affected by the disease. Studying molecular mechanism and
pathophysiology of the disease is important to understand and interpret possible therapeutical
targets. Studies suggest that rotavirus infection alters phosphorylation of p70S6K, mitogen
activated kinase (MAPK/ERK) and myosin light chain; induced inflammatory agents such as
prostaglandin E2 and nitric oxide levels; and enhanced corticosterone levels to damage villi
enterocytes in the small intestine. These changes lead to malabsorption, abnormal motility and
diarrhea. Although Rotarix and RotaTeq vaccines are available, proposals are emerged to
produce new candidate vaccines.
vacuolated villi, diarrhea, intestine, rotavirus infection, gastroenteritis