Progress on ovine lentivirus and its resistant genes

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Virology
• Animal Genetics
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Small Ruminant Lentiviruses (SRLVs), including Maedi-Visna Virus (MVV) and Caprine Arthritis Encephalitis Virus (CAEV), cause significant economic losses in sheep and goats globally.
• Genetic diversity in sheep influences susceptibility to MVV, indicating a potential for selective breeding.
• Previous studies suggested genetic factors contributing to resistance against SRLVs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the progress and impact of the E35K mutation in the ovine TMEM154 gene on resistance to MVV.
• To explore other potential lentivirus resistance genes in sheep.
• To provide guidance for breeding sheep resistant to SRLVs.

Main Methods:

• Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS) to identify genetic markers associated with MVV resistance.
• Review of scientific literature on TMEM154 gene mutations and other lentivirus resistance genes.
• Analysis of epidemic status and genetic diversity of SRLVs in sheep.

Main Results:

• A single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), E35K, in the ovine TMEM154 gene is significantly associated with sheep resistance to MVV.
• The E35K mutation can serve as a valuable molecular marker for selecting MVV-resistant sheep.
• Several other genes, including zinc finger cluster, CCR5, TRIM5Α, APOBEC3, DPPA2, and DPPA4, are also implicated in lentivirus resistance.

Conclusions:

• The E35K mutation in TMEM154 is a key genetic factor for breeding MVV-resistant sheep.
• Understanding these genetic resistance factors is crucial for managing SRLV infections in small ruminants.
• Further research into these genes can enhance selective breeding programs for disease resistance in sheep and goats.