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Updated: Jun 26, 2026
10:55
Rescue of Recombinant Newcastle Disease Virus from cDNA
Published on: October 11, 2013
Newcastle disease virus: an evolving pathogen?
1Australian Animal Health Laboratory, CSIRO Livestock Industries, PO Bag 24, Geelong, Victoria 3220, Australia.
Avian Pathology : Journal of the W.V.P.A
|February 3, 2009
Summary
Australia faced virulent Newcastle disease (ND) outbreaks in chickens from 1998-2000. Genetic analysis revealed the virulent ND virus likely originated from a local lentogenic strain, leading to eradication and vaccination strategies.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Avian Pathology
- Molecular Epidemiology
Background:
- Australia experienced virulent Newcastle disease (ND) outbreaks in chickens between 1998 and 2000, marking a return after decades.
- Previous detections of avirulent and lentogenic Newcastle disease virus (NDV) strains in Australia were noted.
Purpose of the Study:
- To genetically characterize Australian NDV isolates.
- To investigate the origin of the virulent NDV strains responsible for recent outbreaks.
- To inform disease control strategies.
Main Methods:
- Nucleotide sequence analysis of haemagglutinin and fusion protein genes.
- Comparison of Australian NDV isolates with international strains.
- Epidemiological investigation of disease outbreaks.
Main Results:
- Australian chicken NDV strains were genetically distinct from those found elsewhere.
- Recent virulent NDV isolates were closely related to the Australian "Peat's Ridge" lentogenic strain, suggesting it as the precursor.
- An eradication campaign was implemented, later supplemented by vaccination.
Conclusions:
- The virulent Newcastle disease outbreaks in Australia were caused by a virus with an Australian lentogenic precursor.
- Control involved "stamping out" and strategic vaccination.
- Ongoing national surveys aim to map the distribution of the precursor strain.
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