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Characterization of antigenic variation among mink enteritis virus isolates
Abstract:
Three antigenic forms of natural field isolates of mink enteritis virus were revealed with a panel of monoclonal antibodies generated against the closely studied feline panleukopenia virus and canine parvovirus-2 virus. Two types (types 2 and 3) were shown to be closely related by agar-gel precipitin tests and by restriction enzyme mapping. However, types 2 and 3 differed from the type 1 isolates in the same tests. In cross-protection studies, inactivated viral vaccines made from any one of the 3 variant types of mink enteritis virus protected mink against challenge exposure by the homologous, as well as the heterologous, antigenic types.
Insights
Three antigenic forms of mink enteritis virus were identified. Vaccines from any form protected against all three, indicating broad cross-protection for mink parvovirus.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Veterinary Medicine
Background:
- Mink enteritis virus (MEV) is a significant pathogen in mink populations.
- Understanding MEV antigenic variation is crucial for vaccine development.
- Monoclonal antibodies are valuable tools for characterizing viral antigens.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize antigenic forms of natural field isolates of MEV.
- To evaluate the cross-protective immunity induced by inactivated MEV vaccines.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a panel of monoclonal antibodies against feline panleukopenia virus and canine parvovirus-2 to analyze MEV isolates.
- Employed agar-gel precipitin tests and restriction enzyme mapping to assess antigenic relationships.
- Conducted cross-protection studies using inactivated viral vaccines.
Main Results:
- Identified three distinct antigenic forms of MEV.
- Determined that MEV types 2 and 3 are closely related, but distinct from type 1.
- Demonstrated that inactivated vaccines from any of the three antigenic types conferred homologous and heterologous protection in mink.
Conclusions:
- MEV exhibits antigenic diversity, with at least three variant types.
- A single inactivated MEV vaccine formulation has the potential to protect against all identified antigenic types, simplifying vaccination strategies.