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Updated: Jul 4, 2026
Plaque Assay for Murine Norovirus
Published on: August 22, 2012
Murine norovirus, a recently discovered and highly prevalent viral agent of mice
1Molecular Diagnostics, Charles River, Wilmington, MA, USA. ken.henderson@crl.com
Abstract:
Murine norovirus (MNV), a recently discovered viral agent of laboratory mice, is closely related to human norovirus, a contagious pathogen known to cause gastroenteritis. The prototype strain of MNV (MNV-1) was first isolated and characterized in 2003 as a sporadic, lethal pathogen in certain strains of immunocompromised knockout mice. Serological surveillance data from mouse colonies throughout the US and Canada have since shown that MNV is highly prevalent. Because MNV is unique among norovirus strains in its ability to replicate in cell culture, it serves as the most accessible model to elucidate the mechanisms of infection and replication of human norovirus. The author discusses the genetic diversity of MNV, its prevalence, pathology and potential research implications, as well as techniques for detection and eradication of this virus.
Insights
Murine norovirus (MNV), a prevalent pathogen in lab mice, offers a unique cell culture model for studying human norovirus gastroenteritis. Research highlights MNV
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Murine norovirus (MNV) is a recently identified viral agent in laboratory mice.
- MNV is genetically related to human norovirus, a common cause of gastroenteritis.
- MNV-1 was first isolated in 2003 and identified as a lethal pathogen in immunocompromised mice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the genetic diversity, prevalence, and pathology of MNV.
- To explore the research implications of MNV as a model for human norovirus.
- To review methods for MNV detection and eradication.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of MNV research.
- Analysis of serological surveillance data.
- Discussion of MNV replication in cell culture.
Main Results:
- MNV is highly prevalent in mouse colonies across North America.
- MNV serves as an accessible model for human norovirus due to its cell culture replication.
- Genetic diversity, pathology, and research potential of MNV are significant.
Conclusions:
- MNV is a prevalent and significant viral agent in laboratory mice.
- Its unique replication in cell culture makes it a valuable model for human norovirus research.
- Understanding MNV is crucial for mouse colony health and advancing norovirus research.
