A novel group A rotavirus G serotype: serological and genomic characterization of equine isolate FI23

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Virology
• Microbiology
• Animal Health

Background:

• Equine rotaviruses cause significant gastrointestinal disease in foals.
• Rotavirus G serotypes are classified based on the VP7 outer capsid protein.
• Previous studies have identified various G serotypes in equine rotavirus strains.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the novel equine rotavirus strain FI23.
• To determine the G serotype of the equine rotavirus FI23 strain.
• To compare the VP7 protein of FI23 with other known rotavirus strains.

Main Methods:

• Cross-neutralization assays were performed to assess serological relationships.
• VP7 gene sequencing was utilized for genetic characterization.
• Amino acid sequence comparison of VP7 proteins was conducted.

Main Results:

• Equine rotavirus FI23 was identified as prototypic of a novel G serotype, provisionally designated G14.
• Sequence analysis revealed that the VP7 protein of FI23 differs from G3 rotaviruses by only six amino acid residues.
• These differences are located within the VP7 antigenic regions.

Conclusions:

• Equine rotavirus FI23 represents a distinct and novel G serotype (G14).
• The close genetic relationship between FI23 (G14) and G3 rotaviruses is highlighted by minimal amino acid variations in VP7.
• Further research is warranted to understand the full antigenic and epidemiological implications of this new equine rotavirus G serotype.