Feline Adenovirus Isolate Shows Silent Nucleotide Alterations, Alternative Receptor/Coreceptor Binding, High

Katalin Réka Tarcsai1, Krisztián Bányai2,3,4,5, Krisztina Bali2,6

  • 1Doctoral School, Semmelweis University, 1085 Budapest, Hungary.

Insights

A rare feline adenovirus (FeAdV) isolate in Hungary is a variant of human adenovirus C1. This finding suggests potential reverse zoonotic infections and highlights FeAdV as a possible oncolytic vector.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Adenovirus (AdV) infections are seldom reported in felines.
  • A Hungarian feline adenovirus (FeAdV) isolate shares genetic similarities with human adenovirus C1 (HAdV-C1).

Purpose of the Study:

  • To conduct comprehensive molecular and biological characterization of the Hungarian FeAdV isolate.
  • To evaluate its potential as an oncolytic vector.

Main Methods:

  • Whole-genome sequencing to identify genetic variations.
  • Competitive binding assays using known adenovirus receptors and integrin coreceptors.
  • Assessment of viral sensitivity to various environmental conditions and antiviral treatments.
  • Analysis of host immune response, specifically cytokine production (IL-10, TGF-β1).

Main Results:

  • The FeAdV isolate possesses two silent mutations compared to HAdV-C1.
  • While coreceptors are involved in binding, alternative entry routes exist.
  • The isolate exhibits differential sensitivity to heat, pH, detergents, disinfectants, and antiviral drugs compared to human adenoviruses.
  • Viral replication suppressed IL-10 and TGF-β1 production, indicating immunomodulatory effects.

Conclusions:

  • The Hungarian FeAdV isolate is a variant of HAdV-C1, suggesting potential for reverse zoonotic transmission from cats to humans.
  • Its unique properties, including immunomodulation, position it as a potential candidate for oncolytic virotherapy.
  • Further research is necessary to elucidate the clinical and epidemiological significance of FeAdV in felids.