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Published on: January 24, 2025
Phylogenetic and biological characterization of Newcastle disease virus isolates from Pakistan
Taseer Ahmed Khan1, Cary A Rue, Shafqat Fatima Rehmani
1USDA-ARS, Southeast Poultry Research Laboratory, 934 College Station Rd., Athens, GA 30605, USA.
Abstract:
Eight Newcastle disease virus isolates from Pakistan were sequenced and characterized. A PCR matrix gene assay, designed to detect all avian paramyxovirus 1, did not detect four of the isolates. A new matrix gene test that detected all isolates was developed. Phylogenetic analysis and pathotyping confirmed that virulent viruses of different genotypes are circulating in Pakistan.
Insights
Newcastle disease virus (NDV) isolates from Pakistan were analyzed. A new diagnostic test was developed to accurately detect all circulating virulent NDV strains, improving disease surveillance.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Molecular Epidemiology
- Avian Pathology
Background:
- Newcastle disease virus (NDV) poses a significant threat to poultry globally.
- Effective diagnostics are crucial for controlling avian paramyxovirus 1 (APMV-1) outbreaks.
- Limited genetic and diagnostic data exist for NDV strains circulating in Pakistan.
Purpose of the Study:
- To sequence and characterize eight NDV isolates from Pakistan.
- To develop an improved diagnostic assay for Pakistani NDV strains.
- To determine the genetic diversity and virulence of circulating NDV genotypes.
Main Methods:
- Viral isolation and whole-genome sequencing of NDV.
- Development and validation of a novel matrix gene-based PCR assay.
- Phylogenetic analysis using established NDV reference strains.
- In vivo pathotyping to assess viral virulence.
Main Results:
- Sequencing revealed genetic diversity among the eight Pakistani NDV isolates.
- A standard PCR assay failed to detect four of the eight isolates.
- A newly developed matrix gene assay successfully detected all eight isolates.
- Phylogenetic and pathotyping data confirmed the circulation of virulent NDV genotypes in Pakistan.
Conclusions:
- Virulent Newcastle disease virus strains of diverse genotypes are actively circulating in Pakistan.
- Existing diagnostic tools may not detect all circulating NDV strains, necessitating improved assays.
- Enhanced molecular and pathotyping characterization is vital for effective NDV surveillance and control in the region.
