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Origin of lymphocytic-choriomeningitis-virus-bearing mice in Japan

C Morita1, H Suzuki, T Tanikawa

  • 1Department of Veterinary Public Health, Rakuno-Gakuen University, Hokkaido, Japan.

Insights

Mice in Japan with antibodies to lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) may have southern Asian origins. This suggests potential migration of the Mus musculus castaneus subspecies into Japanese port areas.

Area of Science:

  • Zoology
  • Virology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) is a significant pathogen affecting various rodent populations.
  • Antibodies to LCMV have been detected in mice inhabiting Japanese port areas.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the potential origin of LCMV-positive mice found in Japanese ports.
  • To explore the subspecies of Mus musculus present in these areas and their relation to southern Asian populations.

Main Methods:

  • Serological analysis to detect LCMV antibodies in mice.
  • Subspecies identification based on genetic or morphological markers (details not provided in abstract).

Main Results:

  • Detection of LCMV antibodies in mice from Japanese port areas.
  • Evidence suggesting a possible origin or partial origin from the southern Asian subspecies, Mus musculus castaneus.

Conclusions:

  • The findings indicate a potential introduction of Mus musculus castaneus into Japan.
  • This subspecies may be a reservoir or vector for LCMV in Japanese port environments.

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