Dogs, distemper and Paget's disease

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Bone Biology
• Genetics

Background:

• The etiology of Paget's disease remains elusive.
• A slow viral infection, possibly by Paramyxoviruses, has been hypothesized.
• Canine distemper virus is increasingly implicated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of canine distemper virus in Paget's disease.
• To explore the molecular mechanisms underlying viral-induced bone abnormalities.

Main Methods:

• Epidemiologic and molecular studies were conducted.
• Investigations were performed in the natural host of the virus.
• Analysis of viral effects on osteoclast gene expression.

Main Results:

• Evidence suggests canine distemper virus may cause Paget's disease.
• Studies in the natural host support this viral link.
• The virus may affect interleukin-6 and c-FOS production in osteoclasts via NF-kappa B.

Conclusions:

• Canine distemper virus is a potential causative agent of Paget's disease.
• Viral interference with osteoclastic pathways may explain bone pathology.
• This highlights a canine virus's capacity to cause human disease.