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07:35
Vaccinia Virus Infection & Temporal Analysis of Virus Gene Expression: Part 3
Published on: April 13, 2009
Genome of deerpox virus
C L Afonso1, G Delhon, E R Tulman
1Plum Island Animal Disease Center, Agricultural Research Service, USDA, P.O. Box 848, Greenport, NY 11944-0848, USA. cafonso@piadc.ars.usda.gov
Journal of Virology
|December 23, 2004
Summary
Deerpox virus (DPV), a novel poxvirus from mule deer, has had its genome sequenced. Analysis reveals unique genes for virulence and host interaction, suggesting DPV may represent a new poxvirus genus.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Genomics
- Comparative analysis of Poxviridae
Background:
- Deerpox virus (DPV) is an unclassified Poxviridae member.
- DPV causes mucocutaneous disease in North American free-ranging mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus).
Purpose of the Study:
- To perform genomic sequencing and comparative analysis of two pathogenic DPV isolates (W-848-83 and W-1170-84).
- To identify genes associated with virulence and host range.
- To determine the phylogenetic relationship of DPV to other poxviruses.
Main Methods:
- Whole-genome sequencing of two DPV isolates.
- Comparative genomic analysis to identify similarities and differences.
- Phylogenetic analysis to establish evolutionary relationships.
Main Results:
- The genomes of DPV isolates W83 and W84 are 166 and 170 kbp, with 169 and 170 putative genes, respectively.
- DPV shares 95% nucleotide identity between isolates and encodes genes similar to known virulence and host range factors, including cytokine receptors and binding proteins.
- DPV possesses unique genes, such as transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-beta1) homologues and cellular endothelin 2, potentially involved in host immune response manipulation.
- Phylogenetic analysis indicates DPV is distinct from other poxviral genera, suggesting it represents a new genus within Chordopoxvirinae.
Conclusions:
- DPV is a distinct poxvirus with a unique gene repertoire, including novel virulence factors.
- Genomic data supports the classification of DPV as a new genus within the Poxviridae family.
- Further research into DPV's pathogenesis and host interactions is warranted.
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