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Atypical 'HoBi'-like pestiviruses--recent findings and implications thereof
K Ståhl1, M Beer, H Schirrmeier
1The Joint R&D Division in Virology, the National Veterinary Institute (SVA) & The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), Uppsala, Sweden. karl.stahl@bvf.slu.se
Veterinary Microbiology
|October 28, 2009
Summary
Atypical pestiviruses, including HoBi-like strains, are contaminating fetal calf serum (FCS) globally. This contamination impacts cell culture work and requires ongoing monitoring and characterization of these bovine viral diarrhea virus variants.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Food and Agricultural Science
Background:
- Atypical pestiviruses, such as HoBi-like strains, have been identified in fetal calf serum (FCS) from various global sources.
- These viruses pose a risk to cattle populations and research due to their widespread presence.
- Previous testing by manufacturers has not always detected these contaminants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current status of atypical HoBi-like pestiviruses.
- To report recent findings on pestivirus contamination in FCS.
- To discuss the implications of these findings for research and animal health.
Main Methods:
- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) for pestivirus detection.
- Nucleic acid sequencing for viral strain identification.
- Review of existing literature and recent findings on HoBi-like pestiviruses.
Main Results:
- Pestivirus contamination, including bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV)-1, BVDV-2, and HoBi-like strains, was detected in commercial FCS.
- Contaminated FCS was identified despite manufacturer testing indicating it was pestivirus-free.
- The study confirms the global spread of atypical pestiviruses in cattle populations.
Conclusions:
- Atypical HoBi-like pestiviruses represent a significant contamination risk in FCS, impacting cell culture and research.
- Continuous monitoring and improved detection methods for pestiviruses in biological products are crucial.
- Understanding the epidemiology and genetic diversity of these viruses is essential for effective control and prevention strategies.
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