Coronavirus-like particles in nonhuman primate feces

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Virology
• Primate Gastroenterology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Coronaviruses are a diverse group of viruses known to infect various animal species.
• Primate models are frequently used to study viral infections and their pathogenesis.
• Age can influence susceptibility and shedding patterns of viral infections.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the presence and prevalence of coronavirus-like particles in the gastrointestinal tract of different primate species.
• To determine if there is an association between the presence of these particles and the age of the animals.
• To assess potential differences in particle shedding in normal versus diarrheal stool samples.

Main Methods:

• Electron microscopy was utilized to detect and visualize viral particles in stool specimens.
• Stool samples were collected from various primate species, including baboons, chimpanzees, macaques, and marmosets.
• Samples were categorized based on the animal's age (weaned vs. nonweaned) and stool consistency (normal vs. diarrheal).

Main Results:

• Coronavirus-like particles were identified in both normal and diarrheal stool samples across multiple primate species.
• A high prevalence of these particles was observed in older animals, irrespective of stool consistency.
• Nonweaned animals showed a significantly lower prevalence of coronavirus-like particles in their stools.

Conclusions:

• Age appears to be a significant factor in the shedding of coronavirus-like particles in primates.
• Older primates may serve as a reservoir or exhibit higher shedding rates of these particles.
• Further research is warranted to characterize these particles and their potential clinical significance in primate health.