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Updated: Sep 21, 2026
A Murine Model of Dengue Virus-induced Acute Viral Encephalitis-like Disease
Published on: April 28, 2019
First report of feline morbillivirus in mainland China
JiaJun Ou1,2,3, Shaotang Ye1,2,3, Haibin Xu1,2,3
1College of Veterinary Medicine, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, People's Republic of China.
Abstract:
Feline morbillivirus (FeMV) is an emerging member of the family Paramyxoviridae that is suspected to be involved in chronic kidney disease (CKD). FeMV was first discovered in Hong Kong in 2012 and has subsequently been detected in many countries. However, the prevalence of FeMV in mainland China is still unclear. To clarify the present status and examine the genetic diversity of FeMV in mainland China, in this study, we collected cat urine samples in veterinary hospitals in Guangdong Province in 2017 and 2018. Using reverse transcription (RT)-PCR, we found that the urine of six out of 64 cats tested positive for FeMV RNA. Sequencing and genetic analysis of the FeMV L gene showed that FeMV in mainland China is genetically diverse, and phylogenetic analysis showed that the viruses segregated into two clusters. Two isolates, GD5 and GD6, grouped in a branch that was separate from the one containing other previously reported FeMV isolates. These results will contribute to a better understanding of the evolution of FeMV in China.
Insights
Feline morbillivirus (FeMV) is now detected in mainland China, with genetic analysis revealing significant diversity. This emerging virus may be linked to feline chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Molecular Epidemiology
Background:
- Feline morbillivirus (FeMV), a Paramyxoviridae family member, is implicated in feline chronic kidney disease (CKD).
- FeMV was first identified in Hong Kong in 2012 and has since been found globally, but its prevalence in mainland China remained unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence and genetic diversity of FeMV in mainland China.
- To investigate the evolutionary characteristics of FeMV strains in the region.
Main Methods:
- Collection of cat urine samples from Guangdong Province between 2017 and 2018.
- Detection of FeMV RNA using reverse transcription (RT)-PCR.
- Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of the FeMV L gene.
Main Results:
- FeMV RNA was detected in 6 out of 64 cat urine samples (9.4% prevalence).
- Genetic analysis of the L gene indicated significant genetic diversity among FeMV strains in mainland China.
- Phylogenetic analysis revealed two distinct clusters, with two isolates (GD5 and GD6) forming a separate branch from previously reported FeMV isolates.
Conclusions:
- FeMV is circulating in mainland China with notable genetic diversity.
- The findings provide insights into the evolution of FeMV in China and its potential impact on feline health.
