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Published on: March 1, 2019
Isolation and pathogenicity of the mammalian orthoreovirus MPC/04 from masked civet cats
Zhijie Li1, Yuhao Shao1, Chunguo Liu1
1State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Biotechnology, Harbin Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Harbin 150001, China.
Abstract:
Mammalian reoviruses (MRVs) are associated with pulmonary infections and have been isolated from humans and various animals experiencing respiratory illness. We report here the first case of an MRV detected in the masked palm civet, which showed the highest similarity to the serotype 3 MRV. Reovirus particles were identified by electron microscopic examination of both negative-stain and thin-section. Genomic pattern analysis on SDS-PAGE showed that MPC/04 had 10-segmented double-strand RNA genome. Intranasal infection of four-week-old female BALB/c mice resulted in fatal respiratory distress but not other routes. Infections caused tissue damage and inflammation. MPC/04 grew to higher titers in the lungs than in other tissues. This research strongly suggests a need for additional experimentation to understand the pathogenic mechanisms of mammalian orthoreoviruses in infected animals and humans.
Insights
This study identifies mammalian reoviruses (MRVs) in a masked palm civet, closely resembling serotype 3. The virus caused fatal respiratory distress in mice, highlighting potential zoonotic risks of MRV infections.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Zoonotic Diseases
- Respiratory Pathogens
Background:
- Mammalian reoviruses (MRVs) are known respiratory pathogens in humans and animals.
- Previous studies have documented MRV infections in various mammalian species.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the first detection of MRV in a masked palm civet.
- To characterize the identified MRV isolate.
- To investigate the pathogenicity of the MRV isolate in a murine model.
Main Methods:
- Electron microscopy (negative-stain and thin-section) for particle identification.
- SDS-PAGE for genomic pattern analysis (10-segmented double-stranded RNA genome).
- Intranasal inoculation of BALB/c mice to assess pathogenicity and tissue tropism.
Main Results:
- MRV identified in a masked palm civet (MPC/04) showed highest similarity to serotype 3.
- Intranasal infection in mice led to fatal respiratory distress, tissue damage, and inflammation.
- MPC/04 replicated to higher titers in the lungs compared to other organs.
Conclusions:
- This is the first report of MRV in a masked palm civet, suggesting a potential role in wildlife respiratory illness.
- The identified MRV isolate is pathogenic in mice, causing severe respiratory disease.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the pathogenic mechanisms of MRVs in animal and human health.
