Diversity of Murine Norovirus Strains Isolated from Asymptomatic Mice of Different Genetic Backgrounds within a Single U.S. Research Institute
2011

Diversity of Murine Norovirus Strains in Asymptomatic Mice

Sample size: 10 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Barron Elyssa L., Sosnovtsev Stanislav V., Bok Karin, Prikhodko Victor, Sandoval-Jaime Carlos, Rhodes Crystal R., Hasenkrug Kim, Carmody Aaron B., Ward Jerrold M., Perdue Kathy, Green Kim Y.

Primary Institution: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health

Hypothesis

What is the genetic diversity of murine noroviruses isolated from healthy laboratory mice in a single research institute?

Conclusion

The study found that murine noroviruses are widespread in animal facilities, with distinct strains isolated from different facilities.

Supporting Evidence

  • Ten distinct murine norovirus strains were isolated from asymptomatic mice.
  • The NIH MNV isolates showed little cytopathic effect in early passages.
  • The viruses were distinguishable according to facility location.
  • The study indicates that murine noroviruses are widespread despite strict animal care guidelines.

Takeaway

Scientists studied mice to see how many different types of a virus called murine norovirus were present, and they found many types in different groups of mice.

Methodology

The study involved isolating murine norovirus strains from tissues and feces of asymptomatic mice and analyzing their genetic diversity.

Limitations

The study was limited to a single research institute and may not represent murine norovirus diversity in other settings.

Participant Demographics

Asymptomatic wild type and immunodeficient (RAG 2−/−) mice from multiple animal facilities.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0021435

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