PHYLOGENETIC ANALYSIS OF BOVINE PESTIVIRUSES DETECTED IN SIBERIA

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Virology
• Molecular Epidemiology
• Animal Health

Background:

• Bovine pestiviruses (BPV) are significant pathogens affecting cattle health and productivity.
• Understanding the genetic diversity and circulation of BPV is crucial for effective disease control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the genetic diversity and geographical distribution of bovine pestiviruses in Siberia.
• To identify BPV subtypes in cattle, cell cultures, and fetal bovine serum (FBS).

Main Methods:

• Phylogenetic analysis based on the 5' untranslated region (5'-UTR) of the viral genome.
• Detection of pestiviruses in cattle, persistently infected (PI) animals, cell cultures, and FBS samples.

Main Results:

• Five BVDV1 subtypes (a, b, d, f, r) and BVDV2 were identified in Siberian cattle, with BVDV1b being the most prevalent (48%).
• Geographical variations in virus distribution were observed, with different subtypes associated with specific clinical signs or host types.
• Atypical BVDV3 was detected in FBS from two manufacturers, but not found circulating in local animal populations.

Conclusions:

• The study reveals a complex landscape of bovine pestivirus circulation in Siberia, with implications for disease management.
• Molecular epizootology data is essential for developing targeted control strategies and optimizing vaccine use in the region.