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Pan-lyssavirus Real Time RT-PCR for Rabies Diagnosis
Published on: July 10, 2019
Comparison of paramyxovirus isolates from snakes, lizards and a tortoise
Rachel E Marschang1, Tibor Papp, Jens W Frost
1Institut für Umwelt- und Tierhygiene, Hohenheim University, Garbenstr. 30, D-70599 Stuttgart, Germany. rachel.marschang@googlemail.com
Abstract:
Previously uncharacterized paramyxovirus (PMV) isolates from four snakes, three lizards and a tortoise were compared based on partial sequences of the L, HN, and U genes. Analysis of the sequences supported the classification of all reptilian PMVs in a separate genus (Ferlavirus) in the subfamily Paramyxovirinae. Within each of the gene segments, the squamatid isolates could be divided into two groups with a sequence divergence of 0.3-15.6% nt (0-6.8% aa) within the groups and 19.5-22.3% nt (5-7.4% aa) between the groups for the L gene, and 0.9-15.4% nt (0-6.9% aa) within the groups and 18.2-22.5% nt (4.4-9.5% aa) between the groups for the HN gene while higher values of 0.4-17.1% nt (0-13.3% aa) within the groups and 28.9-31.3% nt (25.5-27.8% aa) between the groups were found for the U gene. Isolates from lizards were found in both groups. There was no host species specificity in the grouping of the isolates from snakes and lizards. However, the L gene sequence obtained from the tortoise isolate differed significantly from the sequences obtained from the snake and lizard isolates. This isolate showed divergence values of 24.2-27% nt (18.5-20.9% aa) compared to the squamatid sequences. The tortoise isolate clustered together with the other reptilian PMVs, but not into any of the squamatid groups on the phylogenetic tree. It is hypothesized that this chelonian PMV has a more unique genome sequence as neither HN nor U gene parts could be amplified using newly designed consensus nested PCRs.
Insights
This study classifies reptilian paramyxoviruses (PMVs) into the Ferlavirus genus. A tortoise PMV isolate showed significant genetic divergence, suggesting a unique genome distinct from snake and lizard PMVs.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Herpetology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Paramyxoviruses (PMVs) infect various hosts, including reptiles.
- Previous classification of reptilian PMVs was limited.
- Genetic characterization of reptile-associated viruses is crucial for understanding viral evolution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To genetically characterize previously uncharacterized paramyxovirus (PMV) isolates from snakes, lizards, and a tortoise.
- To determine the phylogenetic relationships of these reptilian PMVs.
- To investigate potential host specificity and genomic uniqueness of reptilian PMVs.
Main Methods:
- Partial gene sequencing of L, HN, and U genes from reptilian PMV isolates.
- Phylogenetic analysis based on nucleotide and amino acid sequence divergence.
- Design and application of consensus nested PCR for gene amplification.
Main Results:
- All reptilian PMVs were classified into the genus Ferlavirus within the Paramyxovirinae subfamily.
- Squamate (snake and lizard) PMV isolates formed two distinct genetic groups.
- The tortoise PMV isolate exhibited significant genetic divergence from squamate isolates and could not be amplified using standard PCR, suggesting a unique genome.
Conclusions:
- Reptilian PMVs belong to the Ferlavirus genus, with squamate isolates forming two main clades.
- The tortoise PMV isolate represents a distinct lineage within Ferlavirus, potentially possessing a more unique genome.
- Further research is needed to fully characterize chelonian PMVs and their genomic properties.
