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Mutant and recombinant avian retroviruses with extended host range
Summary
Three novel avian retrovirus variants infect both chicken and turkey cells, a significant host range expansion. These viruses exhibit altered env genes, potentially analogous to mouse leukemia-associated polytropic recombinants.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Avian retroviruses exhibit subgroup-specific host cell tropism.
- Subgroups B and D avian retroviruses efficiently infect chicken cells but not turkey cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize novel avian retrovirus variants with altered host cell tropism.
- To investigate the genetic basis for expanded host range in avian retroviruses.
Main Methods:
- T1 oligonucleotide fingerprinting to analyze viral genomes.
- Host range analysis using infection of selectively resistant cells.
- Interference testing to determine receptor usage.
Main Results:
- Three variants of subgroup B and D avian retroviruses were identified that infect both chicken and turkey cells.
- Two variants (NTRE-4, SR-DE-1) were recombinants with minor env gene alterations conferring dual tropism.
- A third variant (hrBO1Pr-B) showed host range expansion likely due to mutation.
- All variants utilized subgroup B receptor on chicken cells and subgroup E receptor on turkey cells.
Conclusions:
- Avian retrovirus host range can be expanded through recombination or mutation affecting the env gene.
- These viruses may serve as models for polytropic recombinant viruses found in other species.