Characterization of a novel alloherpesvirus from Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua)

Alloherpesviruses affect freshwater and marine fish species. The aim of the current study was to characterize a novel alloherpesvirus in Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua). Samples were processed for histopathology, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), virus isolation, molecular characterization, and in situ hybridization (ISH). Histopathology revealed that the infection was restricted to the gills and that it induced cytomegaly in infected cells. By TEM, numerous viral particles with morphology compatible with a herpesvirus were observed inside the cytomegalic cells. To characterize this new agent, polymerase chain reaction amplified regions of the ATPase subunit of the terminase, and DNA polymerase genes were sequenced. Phylogenetic analysis revealed strongest similarity with alloherpesviruses belonging to the genus Ictalurivirus and Salmonivirus. The ISH showed specific labeling of nuclear inclusions in the cytomegalic cells. While virus isolation was unsuccessful, the results obtained through different diagnostic tests in the present study confirm the discovery of a new alloherpesvirus affecting Atlantic cod. The authors propose the formal species designation Gadid herpesvirus 1 (GaHV-1) to be considered for approval by the International Committee on the Taxonomy of Viruses.