Complete Genome Sequence of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus Type A Circulating in Bangladesh

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Virology
• Molecular Biology
• Genomics

Background:

• Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is a highly contagious viral disease affecting cloven-hoofed animals.
• FMDV type A strains pose a significant threat to livestock health and global trade.
• Understanding genetic variations in circulating FMDV strains is crucial for effective disease control and vaccine development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To perform a complete genome sequencing of a novel FMDV type A strain isolated in Bangladesh.
• To identify genetic variations in the sequenced strain compared to existing vaccine strains.
• To analyze potential implications of these genetic changes on viral properties.

Main Methods:

• Whole-genome sequencing of the FMDV type A strain (BAN/GA/Sa-197/2013).
• Bioinformatic analysis to compare the complete genome sequence with reference vaccine strains (e.g., GenBank accession no. HM854025).
• Identification and characterization of genetic alterations, including nucleotide insertions and amino acid substitutions.

Main Results:

• The complete genome sequence of the FMDV type A strain BAN/GA/Sa-197/2013 was determined.
• An 84-nucleotide insertion was identified in the 5'-untranslated region (UTR).
• A lengthened poly(C) tract and amino acid substitutions in the VP1 region were observed compared to the vaccine strain.

Conclusions:

• The sequenced FMDV type A strain exhibits distinct genetic features compared to the vaccine strain.
• These genetic variations, particularly in the 5'-UTR and VP1, may influence viral fitness, antigenicity, or virulence.
• Further studies are warranted to assess the impact of these genetic differences on FMDV epidemiology and vaccine efficacy in Bangladesh.