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Gene expression changes in BVDV2-infected MDBK cells
John D Neill1, Julia F Ridpath
1National Animal Disease Center, USDA, ARS, Ames, IA 50010, USA. jneill@nadc.ars.usda.gov
Summary
Bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV) infection alters host gene expression, downregulating cell division and energy metabolism genes. This benefits viral replication but hinders cellular function.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV) is a widespread cattle pathogen.
- Non-cytopathic BVDV strains establish persistent, subclinical infections.
- The mechanism of BVDV-induced immune tolerance is not understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate host gene expression changes following BVDV infection.
- To identify cellular pathways affected by BVDV.
Main Methods:
- Utilized Serial Analysis of Gene Expression (SAGE), a global gene expression profiling technique.
- Compared gene expression in BVDV2-infected and non-infected bovine cell cultures.
- Analyzed sequence data from 14-base DNA tags representing mRNA transcripts.
Main Results:
- Identified significant alterations in host gene expression post-BVDV infection.
- Observed downregulation of alpha and beta tubulins, suggesting impaired cell division.
- Noted decreased expression of genes involved in energy metabolism (ATP synthesis).
- Found upregulation of genes related to protein translation and modification.
Conclusions:
- BVDV infection induces gene expression changes that favor viral replication.
- Host cells experience a metabolic disadvantage due to altered gene expression.
- Findings provide insight into BVDV pathogenesis and host-virus interactions.