Coding-complete sequencing classifies parrot bornavirus 5 into a novel virus species

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Avian Pathology
• Molecular Phylogenetics

Background:

• Proventricular dilatation disease (PDD) is a severe neurological and gastrointestinal condition affecting birds.
• Avian bornaviruses are known causative agents of PDD, but their diversity and classification are still evolving.
• The blue-and-yellow macaw (Ara ararauna) is a susceptible species to PDD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the complete coding sequence of an avian bornavirus identified in a macaw exhibiting PDD.
• To analyze the genomic organization and phylogenetic relationships of this novel macaw bornavirus.
• To contribute to the classification and understanding of avian bornavirus diversity.

Main Methods:

• Nucleotide sequencing of the viral coding region from infected macaw tissue.
• Comparative sequence analysis with known avian and mammalian bornaviruses.
• Phylogenetic analysis using matrix protein coding sequences.

Main Results:

• The complete coding sequence of a novel avian bornavirus was determined.
• The macaw bornavirus shares genomic organization similar to other bornaviruses.
• Phylogenetic analysis revealed distinct clustering of macaw and parrot bornaviruses (PaBV-5, PaBV-6), suggesting a new species.

Conclusions:

• The identified macaw bornavirus is closely related to parrot bornaviruses (PaBV-5 and PaBV-6).
• These findings support the establishment of a new bornavirus species, provisionally named Psittaciform 2 bornavirus.
• This study enhances the understanding of bornavirus diversity and PDD etiology in psittacine birds.