A new Paramyxovirus isolated from cynomolgus monkeys

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Microbiology

Background:

• A novel virus was isolated from cynomolgus monkeys imported from Indonesia in 1973.
• The virus exhibited hemagglutinating and hemolytic properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize a newly isolated virus.
• To determine the virus's classification and potential relationships to known viral families.

Main Methods:

• Isolation and culture of the virus.
• Hemagglutination and hemolysis assays.
• Ether sensitivity and nucleic acid analysis (RNA).
• Electron microscopy for morphology.
• Serological examination for classification.

Main Results:

• The virus agglutinated avian and mammalian erythrocytes and hemolyzed chick erythrocytes.
• Neuraminidase activity was observed.
• Ether inactivation and RNA genome confirmed.
• Electron microscopy revealed enveloped particles (250-400 nm) with surface projections and an inner helical structure (18 nm).
• Serological tests suggested a relationship with Yucaipa or Bangore viruses.

Conclusions:

• The observed characteristics indicate the virus belongs to the paramyxovirus group.
• The new virus is designated "Murayama virus" based on its isolation location.
• Murayama virus represents a distinct, yet related, paramyxovirus with potential implications for primate and avian health.