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Molecular characterization of a unique retrovirus associated with a fish tumor

D Martineau1, P R Bowser, R R Renshaw

  • 1Department of Avian and Aquatic Animal Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853.

Journal of Virology
|January 1, 1992
PubMed

Insights

Researchers identified a novel type C retrovirus in walleye dermal sarcoma, a fish tumor. This virus has a unique large genome and complex genetic structure, similar to spumaviruses and lentiviruses.

Area of Science:

  • * Veterinary Pathology
  • * Fish Oncology
  • * Retroviral Research

Background:

  • * Walleye dermal sarcoma (WDS) is a significant neoplastic disease affecting adult walleye (Stizostedion vitreum).
  • * This mesenchymal tumor arises multicentrically within the fish dermis.
  • * Seasonal outbreaks can impact up to 27% of adult walleye populations.

Purpose of the Study:

  • * To investigate the potential viral etiology of walleye dermal sarcoma.
  • * To characterize the molecular features of any identified retrovirus associated with WDS.
  • * To compare the novel retrovirus's genomic and transcriptional characteristics with known retroviral families.

Main Methods:

  • * Molecular cloning techniques were employed to isolate and sequence the retrovirus from tumor tissues.
  • * Viral genome size and structure were analyzed.
  • * Viral DNA integration status and transcriptional products were examined in tumor samples.

Main Results:

  • * A type C retrovirus was successfully molecularly cloned from walleye dermal sarcoma.
  • * The virus possesses a large genome (13.2 kb), exceeding that of most known retroviruses, with similarities to spumaviruses.
  • * Viral DNA in tumors exhibited a single-stranded gap region, characteristic of lentiviruses and spumaviruses, and at least four viral transcripts were detected.

Conclusions:

  • * A novel, large-genomed type C retrovirus is associated with walleye dermal sarcoma.
  • * The virus shares unique structural and transcriptional complexities with spumaviruses and lentiviruses.
  • * Further research into this retrovirus may provide insights into fish tumor development and retroviral evolution.

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