Astrovirus is a small, non-enveloped virus that belongs to the Astroviridae family and primarily infects humans and various animals. First identified in the early 1970s, astroviruses were initially recognized as a cause of viral gastroenteritis, particularly in young children and immunocompromised individuals. The discovery of astrovirus was significant because it provided insight into a previously uncharacterized group of pathogens contributing to diarrhea outbreaks. Since its identification, several strains of astrovirus have been discovered, with Astrovirus 1 being the first recognized human strain. Over the years, research has revealed the virus's pivotal role in gastrointestinal illnesses, with ongoing studies focusing on its mechanisms of infection, epidemiology, and potential links to other health conditions. Astrovirus remains an important biomarker for assessing viral gastroenteritis and is increasingly being utilized in diagnostic tests to better understand its prevalence and impact on public health.

Elevated Astrovirus levels may indicate an active viral infection within the gastrointestinal tract, often associated with gastroenteritis symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting. This elevation can suggest recent exposure to the virus, and monitoring these levels can help assess the stage of infection or recovery. Conversely, low levels of Astrovirus typically suggest that the gastrointestinal system is not currently affected by this viral pathogen. However, persistently low levels could also imply a lack of acute viral infection, which might indicate a well-functioning immune response or the absence of other pathogenic factors in the gut, contributing to overall gut health.

Astrovirus is included in the Gut Zoomer panel, which assesses a comprehensive array of gut microbes and their impact on digestive health. As a viral biomarker, Astrovirus provides insights into gastrointestinal infections and overall gut function. Its detection is crucial for understanding the underlying causes of gastrointestinal symptoms, enabling practitioners to tailor interventions that support gut health and restore balance in the microbiome.