Study of Recombinant Bovine Herpesviruses in Calves
Author Information
Author(s): Del Medico Zajac Maria P, Romera Sonia A, Ladelfa María F, Kotsias Fiorella, Delgado Fernando, Thiry Julien, Meurens François, Keil Günther, Thiry Etienne, Muylkens Benoît
Primary Institution: Virology Institute, Veterinary and Agricultural Science Research Center, National Institute of Agricultural Technology, Hurlingham, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Hypothesis
The study aims to characterize the in vivo behavior of interspecific recombinant viruses between bovine herpesviruses 1 and 5 in calves.
Conclusion
Both BoHV-1/-5 recombinants and the BoHV-1 parental strain are attenuated in calves, although they are able to replicate in animals at low rates and to establish latent infections.
Supporting Evidence
- Three out of four animals from the BoHV-5 infected group excreted virus for 4-10 days.
- None of the infected animals developed neurological signs.
- Latent viral DNA was detected in at least one calf from each infected group.
- Serum and/or mucosal antibodies were detected in all groups.
Takeaway
Researchers tested two modified viruses in calves to see how they behave, and found that while they don't make the calves sick, they can still live in the animals for a long time.
Methodology
Eighteen 3-month-old calves were intranasally inoculated with recombinant or parental viruses, and their viral excretion and immune response were monitored.
Limitations
The study's findings may not fully represent the behavior of these viruses in natural settings due to controlled experimental conditions.
Participant Demographics
Eighteen 3-month-old calves of both genders.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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