A pantropic canine coronavirus genetically related to the prototype isolate CB/05

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Virology
• Molecular Biology
• Pathology

Background:

• Canine coronavirus (CCoV) infections are common in dogs.
• Pantropic CCoV strains can cause severe disease, particularly in puppies.
• Understanding novel CCoV strains is crucial for disease management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To genetically and biologically characterize a novel pantropic canine coronavirus (CCoV) strain, designated 450/07.
• To investigate the pathogenicity and clinical signs associated with experimental infection by CCoV strain 450/07 in dogs.

Main Methods:

• Genetic analysis of the novel CCoV strain 450/07.
• Experimental infection of dogs with CCoV strain 450/07.
• Clinical observation, gross pathology, and histopathological examination of infected dogs.
• Detection of viral RNA in feces and internal organs.

Main Results:

• Strain 450/07 is genetically related to prototype CB/05 but has unique features.
• Experimental infection induced diarrhea and acute lymphopenia in most dogs.
• Lesions were primarily observed in the gut and lymphoid tissues, with some affecting parenchymatous organs.
• Viral RNA was detected in feces and/or internal organs, indicating systemic spread.

Conclusions:

• CCoV strain 450/07 is a pantropic virus capable of spreading to internal organs, mainly lymphoid tissues.
• The strain causes lymphopenia and mild disease despite systemic spread.
• Further research is needed to understand the full implications of this novel CCoV strain.