Novel Borna Virus in Birds with Proventricular Dilatation Disease
Author Information
Author(s): Honkavuori Kirsi S., Shivaprasad H.L., Williams Brent L., Quan Phenix-Lan, Hornig Mady, Street Craig, Palacios Gustavo, Hutchison Stephen K., Franca Monique, Egholm Michael, Briese Thomas, Lipkin W. Ian
Primary Institution: Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
Hypothesis
Is there a novel Borna virus associated with proventricular dilatation disease in birds?
Conclusion
The study identified two strains of a novel Borna virus in birds diagnosed with proventricular dilatation disease.
Supporting Evidence
- RNA sequencing revealed 96,698 reads related to Borna disease virus.
- Real-time PCR confirmed the presence of the virus in the brains and other organs of affected birds.
- Sequence analysis indicated at least two different strains of the virus.
Takeaway
Scientists found a new virus in sick birds that might be causing their illness.
Methodology
RNA was extracted from the brains of birds and analyzed using high-throughput sequencing and real-time PCR.
Limitations
The study did not determine if the virus directly causes proventricular dilatation disease.
Participant Demographics
The birds studied were captive animals from California, USA.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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