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Isolation, identification, and plaque titration of parvovirus from Muscovy ducks in Japan
K Takehara1, K Hyakutake, T Imamura
1Laboratory of Poultry Diseases, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Kitasato University, Aomori, Japan.
Abstract:
Muscovy ducks (Cairina moschata) showed abnormal feathering, leg weakness, and high mortality. A virus was isolated from these ducks after several blind passages in embryonating Muscovy duck eggs. The isolate was resistant to chloroform, to pH 3.2, and to 65 C for 30 min. Electron microscopy showed that the isolate was an icosahedral and nonenveloped virus 20-22 nm in diameter. The isolate reacted with an antiserum against a goose parvovirus in agar gel precipitation tests. After 15 passages of the isolate in embryonating eggs, the isolate was adapted to Muscovy duck embryo fibroblasts. The adapted virus developed cytopathic effects and made clear plaques on sheets of the fibroblasts. When 5-iodo-2-deoxyuridine was added to the culture medium, virus growth was inhibited. From the data shown above, the isolate was identified as a goose parvovirus.
Insights
A novel goose parvovirus caused severe illness and mortality in Muscovy ducks. This avian virus identification has implications for poultry health and disease management strategies.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Avian Pathology
Background:
- Muscovy ducks (Cairina moschata) experienced significant mortality, abnormal feathering, and leg weakness.
- A previously unidentified virus was suspected as the causative agent.
Purpose of the Study:
- To isolate and identify the virus responsible for the observed disease in Muscovy ducks.
- To characterize the etiological agent and confirm its viral classification.
Main Methods:
- Virus isolation via blind passages in embryonating Muscovy duck eggs.
- Physicochemical property analysis (chloroform, pH, heat resistance).
- Electron microscopy for morphology, and agar gel precipitation tests for serological identification.
Main Results:
- The isolated virus was resistant to chloroform, low pH (3.2), and heat (65°C for 30 min).
- Electron microscopy revealed an icosahedral, nonenveloped virus (20-22 nm diameter).
- Serological tests confirmed reactivity with goose parvovirus antiserum, and cytopathic effects were observed in Muscovy duck embryo fibroblasts.
Conclusions:
- The isolated virus was identified as a goose parvovirus based on its physical, chemical, and serological properties.
- This finding establishes goose parvovirus as a pathogen affecting Muscovy ducks, necessitating further investigation into its epidemiology and control.