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The molecular biology of the morbillivirus (measles) group
1Institute for Animal Disease Research, Pirbright Laboratory, Surrey, U.K.
Abstract:
The morbilliviruses are a closely related group of important human and animal pathogens. The best known members of the group are measles virus in man and canine distemper virus in dogs. The group also includes two other serious animal diseases, rinderpest or cattle plague and peste des petits ruminants in sheep and goats. The latter viruses are of great economic importance in Africa, Asia and the Middle East. Persistence of these viruses in some form is a possible mechanism whereby life-long immunity is conferred on an infected individual. In addition to the severe, often fatal, acute disease these viruses can, in rare cases, lead to a fatal chronic disease of the CNS. Molecular biological studies will be described which are beginning to elucidate their evolutionary relationships and to provide a basis for understanding the role of individual virus genes in pathogenesis.
Insights
Morbilliviruses, including measles virus, cause significant human and animal diseases. Molecular studies are revealing their evolution and how virus genes contribute to severe acute and chronic neurological diseases.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Pathogenesis
Background:
- Morbilliviruses are a group of significant pathogens affecting humans and animals.
- Key members include measles virus, canine distemper virus, rinderpest, and peste des petits ruminants.
- These viruses cause economically important diseases in livestock and can lead to severe acute or chronic neurological conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the evolutionary relationships among morbilliviruses.
- To understand the role of individual virus genes in pathogenesis.
- To provide a molecular basis for disease mechanisms.
Main Methods:
- Molecular biological studies.
- Comparative genomics.
- Phylogenetic analysis.
Main Results:
- Revealing evolutionary relationships within the Morbillivirus genus.
- Identifying potential genetic factors influencing pathogenesis.
- Understanding virus persistence and lifelong immunity.
Conclusions:
- Molecular studies are crucial for understanding morbillivirus evolution and pathogenesis.
- Insights into virus-host interactions can inform disease control strategies.
- Further research into specific viral genes will enhance our understanding of disease mechanisms.