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Genetic Variation and Strain Dynamics in Chronic Wasting Disease
Irina Zemlyankina1,2,3, Melissa Razcon-Echeagaray1,2,3, Gokhan Yilmaz1,2,3
1Calgary Prion Research Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB T2N 1N4, Canada.
Viruses
|October 29, 2025
Summary
Chronic wasting disease (CWD) in cervids is complex due to prion protein gene (Prnp) variations. These genetic differences influence disease progression and strain emergence, impacting surveillance and zoonotic risk.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Neurology
- Prion Disease Research
- Wildlife Health
Background:
- Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is an emerging prion disease affecting cervids.
- CWD exhibits increasing strain diversity and variable host susceptibility.
- Prion protein gene (Prnp) polymorphisms are central to CWD pathogenesis and strain evolution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of Prnp polymorphisms in shaping CWD strain diversity.
- To understand how host genetics influence prion protein misfolding and PrPSc conformer selection.
- To assess the impact of host-PrPSc interactions on transmission barriers and disease phenotypes.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of cervid Prnp genotypes and their association with CWD strains.
- Utilizing transgenic rodent models to study Prnp polymorphism effects on prion conversion.
- Evaluating the influence of specific Prnp variants on PrP stability and PrPSc selection.
Main Results:
- Individual Prnp polymorphisms modulate PrP stability and conversion efficiency.
- Most Prnp variants confer partial resistance to CWD but do not provide complete protection.
- Host-strain interactions, governed by Prnp genotype, determine transmission barriers and disease phenotypes.
Conclusions:
- Prnp genotype is a critical determinant of CWD strain diversity and evolution.
- Understanding these host-genetic factors is essential for predicting CWD spread and zoonotic potential.
- Refining CWD surveillance and management strategies requires knowledge of Prnp-driven host-pathogen interactions.
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