Viral gene expression profile of goose haemorrhagic polyomavirus in susceptible primary cells
Eszter Kaszab1, Luca Szabadi2, Anett Kepner2
1Veterinary Medical Research Institute, Budapest, Hungary.
Abstract:
Routine culturing of goose haemorrhagic polyomavirus (GHPV) is cumbersome, and limited data are available about its replication and gene expression profile. In this study, goose embryo fibroblast cells were infected with GHPV for temporal measurement of the viral genome copy number and mRNA levels with quantitative PCR. Accumulation of small and large tumour antigen-encoding mRNAs was detected as early as 9 hours post-infection (hpi), while high level expression of the capsid protein encoding VP1-VP3, and ORF-X mRNAs was first detected at 24 hpi. Elevation of GHPV genome copy number was noted at 48 hpi. The results indicate that the gene expression profile of GHPV is similar to that described for mammalian polyomaviruses.RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS GHPV was propagated in culture of primary goose embryo fibroblast cells.The transcription commenced before the onset of viral DNA replication.The transcription patterns of GHPV and mammalian polyomaviruses were comparable.
Insights
Goose haemorrhagic polyomavirus (GHPV) gene expression begins early in infection, with transcription preceding viral DNA replication. This viral behavior is similar to mammalian polyomaviruses.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Genomics
Background:
- Goose haemorrhagic polyomavirus (GHPV) is difficult to culture, limiting research into its replication and gene expression.
- Understanding GHPV's molecular mechanisms is crucial for avian health and disease management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the temporal gene expression profile of GHPV in cell culture.
- To compare GHPV's replication and transcription patterns with those of mammalian polyomaviruses.
Main Methods:
- Goose embryo fibroblast cells were infected with GHPV.
- Quantitative PCR was used to measure viral genome copy number and mRNA levels over time.
- Temporal gene expression was analyzed from 9 to 48 hours post-infection.
Main Results:
- Small and large tumor antigen mRNAs were detected as early as 9 hours post-infection.
- VP1-VP3 and ORF-X mRNAs showed high expression starting at 24 hours post-infection.
- Viral genome copy number increased significantly at 48 hours post-infection.
Conclusions:
- GHPV transcription initiates before viral DNA replication.
- The gene expression profile of GHPV closely resembles that of mammalian polyomaviruses.
- These findings provide insights into GHPV's replication cycle and viral gene expression strategies.
