RNA fingerprinting of South American prototype aphthovirus strains

Aphthovirus strains used in South America for vaccine production or as reference for diagnostic purposes were analysed by RNA fingerprinting (RNase T1 maps, one- and two-dimensional gels). The results obtained constitute the basis for a data bank containing available information about the genome structure of strains of aphthovirus prevalent in this continent and can be used as an adjunct to serological and immunological information. These data are currently being used in South American countries to assess the genetic stability of strains during vaccine production; to establish possible vaccine origin of field outbreaks and to monitor the origin, behaviour and fate of new strains in the field.