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A natural reassortant and mutant serotype 3 reovirus from mink in China
Yong-Wu Zhang1, Ye Liu1, Hai Lian1
1Laboratory of Epidemiology, Institute of Military Veterinary, Academy of Military Medical Sciences, Key Laboratory of Jilin Province for Zoonosis Prevention and Control, 666 Liuying West Road, Changchun, 130122, Jilin, China.
Abstract:
Mammalian orthoreoviruses (MRVs) are widespread and infect virtually all mammals. We report here the first case of a natural mutant and reassortant serotype 3 reovirus from mink in China, known as MRV3 SD-14. Whole-genome sequence analysis showed that the MRV3 SD-14 may have resulted from a reassortment involving MRVs that infected swine, humans and mink. Interestingly, the S1 segment, which encodes the viral attachment protein σ1, which influences viral virulence and cell tropism in the host, had a stop codon mutation at amino acid 246. Surveillance of the virulence and evolution of MRVs in humans and other animals deserves more attention.
Insights
A novel reassortant mammalian orthoreovirus (MRV) was identified in mink in China. This natural mutant, MRV3 SD-14, exhibits a unique mutation in its S1 gene, impacting viral attachment and potentially virulence.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Genomics
- Animal Health
Background:
- Mammalian orthoreoviruses (MRVs) are common viruses infecting a wide range of mammals globally.
- Understanding MRV diversity and evolution is crucial for public and animal health surveillance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the first identification of a natural mutant and reassortant serotype 3 reovirus in mink.
- To characterize the genetic makeup and potential implications of this novel MRV strain.
Main Methods:
- Whole-genome sequencing of the isolated MRV3 SD-14 strain.
- Comparative genomic analysis to identify reassortment events and mutations.
- Analysis of the S1 gene segment encoding the viral attachment protein σ1.
Main Results:
- Identification of MRV3 SD-14, a novel reassortant serotype 3 reovirus from mink in China.
- Genomic analysis suggests reassortment involving swine, human, and mink MRV strains.
- A significant finding was a stop codon mutation at amino acid 246 in the S1 segment, affecting the viral attachment protein σ1.
Conclusions:
- The discovery of MRV3 SD-14 highlights the potential for MRV reassortment and mutation in natural reservoirs.
- The identified mutation in the S1 gene may influence MRV virulence and host tropism.
- Increased surveillance of MRV evolution and virulence in both animal and human populations is recommended.
