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Amdoparvovirus Infection in Red Pandas ( Ailurus fulgens)
Charles E Alex1,2, Steven V Kubiski1,2, Linlin Li3,4
11 University of California, Davis, Davis, CA, USA.
Veterinary Pathology
|February 14, 2018
Summary
A novel amdoparvovirus (RpAPV) was discovered in red pandas, persisting in all tested animals. This virus shows variable clinical signs, including severe inflammation in one geriatric panda.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Wildlife Disease Ecology
- Conservation Genetics
Background:
- Aleutian mink disease virus (AMDV) causes immune-related diseases in Mustelidae.
- Amdoparvoviruses are known pathogens in mink and related species.
- The health of endangered red pandas is crucial for species survival.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize a novel amdoparvovirus in red pandas (Ailurus fulgens).
- To investigate the prevalence, tissue distribution, and disease association of this new virus.
- To assess the genetic diversity and persistence of the red panda amdoparvovirus (RpAPV).
Main Methods:
- Viral metagenomics for initial discovery.
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for detection and prevalence.
- In situ hybridization, electron microscopy, and histology for tissue analysis.
- Fecal shedding surveys and necropsy of affected animals.
Main Results:
- A novel amdoparvovirus (RpAPV) was detected in feces and tissues of all 6 red pandas studied.
- Infection was associated with pyogranulomatous inflammation (peritonitis, pancreatitis, myocarditis) in one geriatric animal.
- Low-level viral nucleic acid was found in lymph nodes and epithelial tissues of other animals.
- Full-length genome sequencing revealed 12% divergence between strains from in-contact animals, indicating genetic diversity.
Conclusions:
- RpAPV is a persistent infection in this red panda cohort with variable clinical manifestations.
- The discovery highlights potential parvovirus threats to endangered wildlife.
- Further research is needed to understand RpAPV transmission and pathogenicity in red pandas.
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