Reproduction of postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS) in immunostimulated and non-immunostimulated 3-week-old piglets experimentally infected with porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2)

Development of a Gold Nanoparticle-Based ELISA for Detection of PCV2

In this new methodology, plasmonic ELISA (pELISA) was used to detect Circovirus porcine2 (PCV2) in serum samples without the need for plate reading equipment. This process occurs by adapting the conventional ELISA test with gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) to promote a color change on the plate and quickly identify this difference with the naked eye, generating a dark purple-gray hue when the samples are positive and red when the samples are negative. The technique demonstrated high efficiency in detecting samples with a viral load ≥ 5 log10 copies/mL. Plasmonic ELISA offers user-friendly, cost-effective, and reliable characteristics, making it a valuable tool for PCV2 diagnosis and potentially adaptable for other pathogen detection applications.

Revisiting Porcine Circovirus Infection: Recent Insights and Its Significance in the Piggery Sector

Porcine circovirus (PCV), a member of the Circoviridae family within the genus Circovirus, poses a significant economic risk to the global swine industry. PCV2, which has nine identified genotypes (a-i), has emerged as the predominant genotype worldwide, particularly PCV2d. PCV2 has been commonly found in both domestic pigs and wild boars, and sporadically in non-porcine animals. The virus spreads among swine populations through horizontal and vertical transmission routes. Despite the availability of commercial vaccines for controlling porcine circovirus infections and associated diseases, the continuous genotypic shifts from a to b, and subsequently from b to d, have maintained PCV2 as a significant pathogen with substantial economic implications. This review aims to provide an updated understanding of the biology, genetic variation, distribution, and preventive strategies concerning porcine circoviruses and their associated diseases in swine.

Experimental infection of high health pigs with porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) and Lawsonia intracellularis

Background

Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) and Lawsonia intracellularis infections can cause enteritis in pigs. A Danish study showed a significantly higher probability of detecting PCV2 without concurrent L. intracellularis infection, indicating that one of these pathogens has an impact on the dynamics of the other. Therefore, a delayed co-infection model was set up, initially aiming at investigating the interaction between PCV2 and L. intracellularis in pigs challenged with PCV2 and 2 weeks later with L. intracellularis. But due to PCV2 contamination of the L. intracellularis inoculum the aim was revisited to describing the infection dynamics and pathogenesis of pigs infected with PCV2 followed by delayed simultaneous exposure to PCV2 and L. intracellularis. Twenty-four high-health piglets were divided into three groups of eight pigs (A, B, C) and inoculated at experimental day (EXD) 0 with mock (groups A and B) or PCV2 (group C), and at EXD 14 with mock (group A) or L. intracellularis/PCV2 (groups B and C). The pigs underwent daily clinical examination, and were necropsied at EXD 51–52. Furthermore, histology, immunohistochemistry, serology and PCR for PCV2 and L. intracellularis, and measurement of C-reactive protein were carried out.

Results

Group A remained negative for PCV2 and L. intracellularis. Following inoculation with L. intracellularis/PCV2, no significant differences were observed between group B and C, however pigs already infected with PCV2 (group C) showed milder clinical signs and exhibited milder intestinal lesions, less shedding of L. intracellularis and developed higher L. intracellularis antibody titers than the pigs in group B that only received the combined infection. Though the differences between group B and C were non-significant, all results pointed in the same direction, indicating that the pigs in group B were more affected by the L. intracellularis infection compared to the pigs in group C.

Conclusions

Previous exposure to PCV2 had limited impact on the subsequent exposure to a combined L. intracellularis/PCV2 inoculation. However, there was a tendency that the infection dynamics of PCV2 and development of antibodies to PCV2 and L. intracellularis were altered in pigs previously exposed to PCV2. These differences should be confirmed in further experimental trials.

Experimental Infections of Pigs with African Swine Fever Virus (Genotype II); Studies in Young Animals and Pregnant Sows

African swine fever is an important viral disease of wild and domestic pigs. To gain further knowledge of the properties of the currently circulating African swine fever virus (ASFV), experimental infections of young pigs (approximately 8 weeks of age) and pregnant sows (infected at about 100 days of gestation) with the genotype II ASFV Georgia/2007 were performed. The inoculated young pigs developed typical clinical signs of the disease and the infection was transmitted (usually within 3–4 days) to all of the “in contact” animals that shared the same pen. Furthermore, typical pathogical lesions for ASFV infection were found at necropsy. Inoculation of pregnant sows with the same virus also produced rapid onset of disease from post-infection day three; two of the three sows died suddenly on post-infection day five, while the third was euthanized on the same day for animal welfare reasons. Following necropsy, the presence of ASFV DNA was detected in tonsils, spleen and lymph nodes of some of the fetuses, but the levels of viral DNA were much lower than in these tissues from the sows. Thus, only limited transplacental transmission occurred during the course of this experiment. These studies contribute towards further understanding about the spread of this important viral disease in domestic pigs.

Colorimetric Kit for Rapid Porcine Circovirus 2 (PCV-2) Diagnosis

The aim of the current study is to present a low-cost and easy-to-interpret colorimetric kit used to diagnose porcine circovirus 2 (PCV-2) to the naked eye, without any specific equipment. The aforementioned kit used as base hybrid nanoparticles resulting from the merge of surface active maghemite nanoparticles and gold nanoparticles, based on the deposition of specific PCV-2 antibodies on their surface through covalent bonds. In total, 10 negative and 40 positive samples (≥102 DNA copies/µL of serum) confirmed by qPCR technique were tested. PCV-1 virus, adenovirus, and parvovirus samples were tested as interferents to rule out likely false-positive results. Positive samples showed purple color when they were added to the complex, whereas negative samples showed red color; they were visible to the naked eye. The entire color-change process took place approximately 1 min after the analyzed samples were added to the complex. They were tested at different dilutions, namely pure, 1:10, 1:100, 1:1000, and 1:10,000. Localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images were generated to validate the experiment. This new real-time PCV-2 diagnostic methodology emerged as simple and economic alternative to traditional tests since the final price of the kit is USD 4.00.

Fast and reliable detection of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies based on surface plasmon resonance

Researchers worldwide have been studying alternatives to detect SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), and accurate and timely diagnosis is crucial for controlling the outbreaks of the disease. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) is an effective strategy based on antibodies, and it can be used for simple and fast detection of antibodies due to COVID-19 infection. Accordingly, this paper reports on the highly sensitive and specific detection of antibody responses to SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) and nucleocapsid (N) proteins in COVID-19 patients. In this methodology, spike (S) and nucleocapsid (N) proteins belonging to the coronavirus genome were immobilized on the surface of a gold sensor using self-assembled monolayers. Previously, serum from COVID-19 patients was screened by immunochromatography-based COVID-19 IgG rapid test and/or ELISA in house to determine the presence of IgG titers. Serum from COVID-19-positive patients presenting with IgG were added on the surface and, at the time they bound to proteins, they caused refractive changes in the SPR angle. The antibody detection limit was determined through successive injections into the SPR apparatus - these injections ranged from pure (without dilution) to 1 : 200 μL. The system has shown good reproducibility between runs after coated surface regeneration with 0.1 M glycine-HCl solution (pH 3.0); all experiments were tested in triplicate. The antibodies targeted both S and N fragments and gave a high assay sensitivity by identifying 19 out of 20 COVID-19-positive patients. Most importantly, the assay time took less than 10 min. The results of this study indicate that the proposed simple strategy demonstrates high sensitivity and time-saving in the detection of SARS-CoV-2 response antibodies.

Porcine circovirus type 2 infection attenuates the K63-linked ubiquitination of STING to inhibit IFN-β induction via p38-MAPK pathway

Porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) has been proved to increase the risk of other pathogens infection via immunosuppression. Although the co-infection of PCV2 and porcine parvovirus (PPV) is commonly observed in worldwide, the relative immune mechanisms promoting PPV infection in PCV2-infected piglets are currently unknown. Herein, we found that PCV2 infection suppressed IFN-β expression and promoted PPV infection in the piglets. Consistent with this finding, we confirmed that PCV2 infection significantly inhibited the induction of IFN-β to promote PPV replication in cell level. Furthermore, PCV2 infection attenuated the K63-linked ubiquitination of STING induced by PPV, blocked the formation of complex of STING, TBK1 and IRF3, and further prevented the phosphorylation of TBK1 and IRF3, resulting in a decreased IFN-β transcription response to PPV infection. Consistently, using cGAMP to direct stimulate STING also appeared a reduced STING-K63 ubiquitination and IFN-β induction in PCV2-infected cells. However, we noted that knockdown of p38-MAPK signaling could markedly attenuate the inhibitory effect of PCV2 on STING-K63 ubiquitination, and improve the induction of IFN-β in PCV2-infected whenever theses cells were challenged with PPV infection or cGAMP stimulation. Meanwhile, we found that PCV2 infection promoted the phosphorylation of USP21 to inhibit the K63 ubiquitination of STING and the transcription of IFN-β via activation of p38-MAPK signaling. Taken together, our results demonstrate that PCV2 infection activates the p38-MAPK signaling pathway-mediated USP21 phosphorylation to inhibit the K63 ubiquitination of STING, which prevents the phosphorylation and transportation to the nucleus of IRF3, leading to an increase risk for PPV infection.

Analysis of Virus Population Profiles within Pigs Infected with Virulent Classical Swine Fever Viruses: Evidence for Bottlenecks in Transmission but Absence of Tissue-Specific Virus Variants

Classical swine fever virus (CSFV) contains a specific motif within the E2 glycoprotein that differs between strains of different virulence. In the highly virulent CSFV strain Koslov, this motif comprises residues S763/L764 in the polyprotein. However, L763/P764 represent the predominant alleles in published CSFV genomes. In this study, changes were introduced into the CSFV strain Koslov (here called vKos_SL) to generate modified CSFVs with substitutions at residues 763 and/or 764 (vKos_LL, vKos_SP, and vKos_LP). The properties of these mutant viruses, in comparison to those of vKos_SL, were determined in pigs. Each of the viruses was virulent and induced typical clinical signs of CSF, but the vKos_LP strain produced them significantly earlier. Full-length CSFV cDNA amplicons (12.3 kb) derived from sera of infected pigs were deep sequenced and cloned to reveal the individual haplotypes that contributed to the single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) profiles observed in the virus population. The SNP profiles for vKos_SL and vKos_LL displayed low-level heterogeneity across the entire genome, whereas vKos_SP and vKos_LP displayed limited diversity with a few high-frequency SNPs. This indicated that vKos_SL and vKos_LL exhibited a higher level of fitness in the host and more stability at the consensus level, whereas several consensus changes were observed in the vKos_SP and vKos_LP sequences, pointing to adaptation. For each virus, only a subset of the variants present within the virus inoculums were maintained in the infected pigs. No clear tissue-dependent quasispecies differentiation occurred within inoculated pigs; however, clear evidence for transmission bottlenecks to contact animals was observed, with subsequent loss of sequence diversity.IMPORTANCE The surface-exposed E2 protein of classical swine fever virus is required for its interaction with host cells. A short motif within this protein varies between strains of different virulence. The importance of two particular amino acid residues in determining the properties of a highly virulent strain of the virus has been analyzed. Each of the different viruses tested proved highly virulent, but one of them produced earlier, but not more severe, disease. By analyzing the virus genomes present within infected pigs, it was found that the viruses which replicated within inoculated animals were only a subset of those within the virus inoculum. Furthermore, following contact transmission, it was shown that a very restricted set of viruses had transferred between animals. There were no significant differences in the virus populations present in various tissues of the infected animals. These results indicate mechanisms of virus population change during transmission between animals.

A Methodology for Porcine Circovirus 2 (PCV-2) Quantification Based on Gold Nanoparticles

The aim of the current study is to introduce a methodology aimed at producing a biosensor that uses gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) to detect porcine circovirus 2 (PCV-2). This biosensor was based on AuNPs, which were modified with self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) and antibodies. The AuNPs’ surface and virus modification process applied to enable antibody binding was accompanied by localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR), surface plasmon resonance (SPR), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Virus quantification was possible by the light absorption difference in the spectrum at concentrations of 10⁵, 10⁶, 10⁷, 10⁸, and 10⁹ DNA copies/mL PCV-2 in relation to quantitative PCR (qPCR), with an R² value >0.98. The visualization of colorimetric changes in the different PCV-2 concentrations was possible without the use of equipment. The biosensor production methodology presented reproducibility and specificity, as well as easy synthesis and low cost. An enhanced version of it may be used in the future to replace traditional tests such as PCR.

Isolation of PCV3 from Perinatal and Reproductive Cases of PCV3-Associated Disease and In Vivo Characterization of PCV3 Replication in CD/CD Growing Pigs

Porcine circovirus 3 (PCV3) has been identified as a putative swine pathogen with a subset of infections resulting in stillborn and mummified fetuses, encephalitis and myocarditis in perinatal, and periarteritis in growing pigs. Three PCV3 isolates were isolated from weak-born piglets or elevated stillborn and mummified fetuses. Full-length genome sequences from different passages and isolates (PCV3a1 ISU27734, PCV3a2 ISU58312, PCV3c ISU44806) were determined using metagenomics sequencing. Virus production in cell culture was confirmed by qPCR, IFA, and in situ hybridization. In vivo replication of PCV3 was also demonstrated in CD/CD pigs (n = 8) under experimental conditions. Viremia, first detected at 7 dpi, was detected in all pigs by 28 dpi. IgM antibody response was detected between 7–14 dpi in 5/8 PCV3-inoculated pigs but no IgG seroconversion was detected throughout the study. Pigs presented histological lesion consistent with multi systemic inflammation characterized by myocarditis and systemic perivasculitis. Viral replication was confirmed in all tissues by in situ hybridization. Clinically, all animals were unremarkable throughout the study. Although the clinical relevance of PCV3 remains under debate, this is the first isolation of PCV3 from perinatal and reproductive cases of PCV3-associated disease and in vivo characterization of PCV3 infection in a CD/CD pig model.

Development of a high-throughput real-time PCR system for detection of enzootic pathogens in pigs

Respiratory and intestinal diseases in pigs can have significant negative influence on productivity and animal welfare. A wide range of real-time PCR (rtPCR) assays are used in our laboratory (National Veterinary Institute, Technical University of Denmark) for pathogen detection, and PCR analyses are performed on traditional rtPCR platforms in which a limited number of samples can be analyzed per day given limitations in equipment and personnel. To mitigate these restrictions, rtPCR assays have been optimized for the high-throughput rtPCR BioMark platform (Fluidigm). Using this platform, we developed a high-throughput detection system that can be used for simultaneous examination of 48 samples with detection specificity for 18 selected respiratory and enteric viral and bacterial pathogens of high importance to Danish pig production. The rtPCR assays were validated and optimized to run under the same reaction conditions using a BioMark 48.48 dynamic array (DA) integrated fluidic circuit chip, and the sensitivity and specificity were assessed by testing known positive samples. Performance of the 48.48DA was similar to traditional rtPCR analysis, and the specificity of the 48.48DA was high. Application of the high-throughput platform has resulted in a significant reduction in cost and working hours and has provided production herds with a new innovative service with the potential to facilitate the optimal choice of disease control strategies such as vaccination and treatment.

A viral metagenomic analysis reveals rich viral abundance and diversity in mosquitoes from pig farms

Mosquitoes harbour a diversity of viruses and are responsible for several mosquito-borne viral diseases of humans and animals, thereby leading to major public health concerns, and significant economic losses across the globe. Viral metagenomics offers a great opportunity for bulk analysis of viral genomes retrieved directly from environmental samples. In this study, we performed a viral metagenomic analysis of five pools of mosquitoes belonging to Aedes, Anopheles and Culex species, collected from different pig farms in the vicinity of Shanghai, China, to explore the viral community carried by mosquitoes. The resulting metagenomic data revealed that viral community in the mosquitoes was highly diverse and varied in abundance among pig farms, which comprised of more than 48 viral taxonomic families, specific to vertebrates, invertebrates, plants, fungi, bacteria and protozoa. In addition, a considerable number of viral reads were related to viruses that are not classified by host. The read sequences related to animal viruses included parvoviruses, anelloviruses, circoviruses, flavivirus, rhabdovirus and seadornaviruses, which might be taken up by mosquitoes from viremic animal hosts during blood feeding. Notably, sample G1 contained the most abundant sequence related to Banna virus, which is of public health interest because it causes encephalitis in humans. Furthermore, non-classified viruses also shared considerable virus sequences in all the samples, presumably belonging to unexplored virus category. Overall, the present study provides a comprehensive knowledge of diverse viral populations carried by mosquitoes at pig farms, which is a potential source of diseases for mammals including humans and animals. These viral metagenomic data are valuable for assessment of emerging and re-emerging viral epidemics.

Systemic immune response of gnotobiotic mice infected with porcine circovirus type 2 after administration of Lactobacillus reuteri L26 Biocenol™

In our previous study we confirmed an antiviral activity of probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri L26 which was mediated by stimulation of local intestinal immunity. The aim of this paper was to evaluate the influence of L. reuteri L26 on the systemic immune response in gnotobiotic mice infected with porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2). A total of 30 germ-free mice were divided into 3 groups and animals in noninfected and infected control groups (NC and IC; n=10) received sterile de Man-Rogosa-Sharpe broth for 7 days and animals in experimental group L+PCV (n=10) were inoculated with L. reuteri L26. Subsequently, mice in L+PCV and IC groups were infected with PCV2; however, mice in the control group received virus cultivation medium (mock). The results showed an increase of percentage of cytotoxic cells (CD8+ and CD49b+CD8-) and oxidative burst of phagocytes, up-regulation of the gene expression of RANTES, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, interferon-γ and immunoglobulin A in blood above all in the later phase of infection (14 dpi) in L+PCV group accompanied by higher load of PCV2 in the serum. These findings indicate that L. reuteri L26 has a potential to induce systemic immune reaction, but in gnotobiotic mice immune stimulation can increase virus replication.

In vitro and in silico studies reveal capsid-mutant Porcine circovirus 2b with novel cytopathogenic and structural characteristics

Porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) is an icosahedral, non-enveloped, and single-stranded circular DNA virus that belongs to the family Circoviridae, genus Circovirus, and is responsible for a complex of different diseases defined as porcine circovirus diseases (PCVDs). These diseases - including postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS), enteric disease, respiratory disease, porcine dermatitis and nephropathy syndrome (PDNS), and reproductive failure - are responsible for large economic losses in the pig industry. After serial passages in swine testicle (ST) cells of a wild-type virus isolated from an animal with PMWS, we identified three PCV2b viruses with capsid protein (known as Cap protein) cumulative mutations, including two novel mutants. The mutant viruses were introduced into new ST cell cultures for reisolation and showed, in comparison to the wild-type PCV2b, remarkable viral replication efficiency (> 10¹¹ DNA copies/ml) and cell death via necrosis, which were clearly related to the accretion of capsid protein mutations. The analysis of a Cap protein/capsid model showed that the mutated residues were located in solvent-accessible positions on the external PCV2b surface. Additionally, the mutated residues were found in linear epitopes and participated in pockets on the capsid surface, indicating that these residues could also be involved in antibody recognition. Taking into account the likely natural emergence of PCV2b variants, it is possible to consider that the results of this work increase knowledge of Circovirus biology and could help to prevent future serious cases of vaccine failure that could lead to heavy losses to the swine industry.

Influence of Lactobacillus reuteri L26 Biocenol™ on immune response against porcine circovirus type 2 infection in germ-free mice

Probiotic bacteria are frequently used for prevention of bacterial infections of the gastrointestinal tract, but there are only limited studies on their efficacy against viral gut infections in animals. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri L26 Biocenol^TM on the innate and adaptive immune responses in germ-free Balb/c mice, experimentally infected by porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2), which confers immunosuppressive effect. A total of 30 six-week-old female mice were divided into 3 groups and animals in experimental group LPCV (n=10) were inoculated with L. reuteri L26, animals in the control group (C; n=10) and experimental group PCV (n=10) received sterile De Man-Rogosa-Sharpe broth for 7 days. Subsequently, mice from both experimental groups were infected with PCV2; however, mice in the control group received virus cultivation medium (mock). Virus load in faeces, ileum and mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN); as well as gene expression of selected cytokines, immunoglobulin A (IgA) and polymeric Ig receptor (PIgR) in the ileum, and percentage of CD8+, CD19+ and CD49b+CD8- cells in the MLN were evaluated. Our results showed that L. reuteri significantly decreased the amount of PCV2 in faeces and in the ileum, and up-regulated the gene expression of chemokines, interferon (IFN)-γ, IgA and PIgR in the ileum. Increased IFN-γ mRNA level was accompanied by higher proportion of natural killer cells and up-regulated IgA and PIgR gene expressions were in accordance with significantly higher percentage of CD19+ lymphocytes in the MLN. These findings indicate that probiotic L. reuteri has an antiviral effect on PCV2 in the intestine which is mediated by stimulation of local gut immune response.

Development of Isothermal Recombinase Polymerase Amplification Assay for Rapid Detection of Porcine Circovirus Type 2

Porcine circovirus virus type II (PCV2) is the etiology of postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS), porcine dermatitis, nephropathy syndrome (PDNS), and necrotizing pneumonia. Rapid diagnosis tool for detection of PCV2 plays an important role in the disease control and eradication program. Recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) assays using a real-time fluorescent detection (PCV2 real-time RPA assay) and RPA combined with lateral flow dipstick (PCV2 RPA LFD assay) were developed targeting the PCV2 ORF2 gene. The results showed that the sensitivity of the PCV2 real-time RPA assay was 10² copies per reaction within 20 min at 37°C and the PCV2 RPA LFD assay had a detection limit of 10² copies per reaction in less than 20 min at 37°C. Both assays were highly specific for PCV2, with no cross-reactions with porcine circovirus virus type 1, foot-and-mouth disease virus, pseudorabies virus, porcine parvovirus, porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus, and classical swine fever virus. Therefore, the RPA assays provide a novel alternative for simple, sensitive, and specific identification of PCV2.

Effect of porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) on the function of splenic CD11c+ dendritic cells in mice

Porcine circovirus-associated disease (PCVAD) caused by porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) is an important disease in the global pig industry. Dendritic cells (DCs) are the primary immune cells capable of initiating adaptive immune responses as well as major target cells of PCV2. To determine whether PCV2 affects the immune functions of DCs, we evaluated the expression of endocytosis and co-stimulatory molecules on DCs (CD11c⁺) from PCV2-infected mouse spleen by flow cytometry (FCM). We also analyzed the main cytokines secreted by DCs (CD11c⁺) and activation of CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells by DCs (CD11c⁺) through measurement of cytokine secretion, using ELISA. Compared with control mice, PCV2 did not affect the endocytic activity of DCs but it significantly enhanced TNF-α secretion and markedly decreased IFN-α secretion. Subsets of CD40⁺, MHCII⁺ CD40⁺ and CD137L⁺ CD86⁺ DCs did not increase obviously, but MHCII⁺ CD40^- and CD137L^- CD80⁺/CD86⁺ DCs increased significantly in PCV2-infected mouse spleen. Under the stimulation of DCs from PCV2-infected mouse, secretion of IFN-γ by CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells and of IL-12 by CD8⁺ T cells was significantly lower than in control mice, while secretion of IL-4 by CD4⁺ T cells was remarkably higher. These results indicate that PCV2 modulates cytokine secretion and co-stimulatory molecule expression of DCs, and alters activation of CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cells by DCs. The immunomodulatory effects of PCV2 on DCs might be related to the host's immune dysfunction and persistent infection with this virus.

Experimental Reproduction of Postweaning Multisystemic Wasting Syndrome in Pigs by Dual Infection with Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae and Porcine Circovirus Type 2

The objectives of this study were to investigate the interactions between Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae and porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) and to establish a model for studying the pathogenesis of and testing intervention strategies for the control of PCV2-associated porcine respiratory disease complex (PRDC). Sixty-seven pigs were randomly assigned to four groups. Group 1 ( n = 17) pigs served as controls, group 2 ( n = 17) pigs were inoculated with M. hyopneumoniae, group 3 ( n = 17) pigs were dual infected with M. hyopneumoniae and PCV2, and group 4 ( n = 16) pigs were inoculated with PCV2. Pigs were inoculated intratracheally with M. hyopneumoniae at 4 weeks of age followed by intranasal inoculation with PCV2 at 6 weeks of age. Dual-infected pigs had moderate dyspnea, lethargy, and reduced weight gain. The overall severity of macroscopic lung lesions, PCV2-associated microscopic lesions in lung and lymphoid tissues, and the amount of PCV2-antigen associated with these lesions were significantly ( P < 0.05) higher in dual-infected pigs compared with all other groups. Four of 17 (23.5%) dual-infected pigs had decreased growth rate and severe lymphoid depletion and granulomatous lymphadenitis associated with high amounts of PCV2-antigen consistent with postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS). PCV2-antigen in lung tissue was most often associated with M. hyopneumoniae-induced peribronchial lymphoid hyperplasia, suggesting that this is an important site for PCV2 replication in the lung. This study indicates that M. hyopneumoniae potentiates the severity of PCV2-associated lung and lymphoid lesions, increases the amount and prolongs the presence of PCV2-antigen, and increases the incidence of PMWS in pigs.

Characteristics of Porcine Circovirus—2 Replication in Lymphoid Organs of Pigs Inoculated in Late Gestation or Postnatally and Possible Relation to Clinical and Pathological Outcome of Infection

In this study, the characteristics of porcine circovirus–2 (PCV2) replication (infectious virus titrations, distribution, and immunophenotyping of infected cells) in lymphoid organs were examined and related to the development of clinical signs and histological lesions in 26 piglets that had been inoculated with PCV2 either in utero or at 1 day of age. Piglets inoculated in utero at 92 or 104 gestational days ( n = 12) were collected by Caesarean section at term and either sacrificed immediately or kept in isolators and allowed to live postnatally until 35 days postinoculation (PI). Caesarean-derived piglets inoculated at 1 day of age ( n = 14) were sacrificed at 10, 21, 35, 42, and 49 days PI. Spleen and lymph nodes were collected for virologic and histopathological examinations. Clinical signs were not observed in any of the piglets. High virus titers (104.5–5.7 TCID50/g [TCID refers to tissue culture infectious dose]) were detected in 6 of the 26 piglets. Three of these 6 piglets were euthanized at 10 days PI, and infected cells of the monocyte–macrophage lineage (SWC3+, CD14+, and sialoadhesin [Sa]+ cells) and infected cells bearing lymphocyte markers (CD4+, CD8+, and immunoglobulin M+ cells) were identified by double-immunofluorescence labeling on serial cryostat sections. The other 3 piglets were euthanized at 21 and 35 days PI, and the majority of infected cells were SWC3+, CD14+, and Sa–. The absence of Sa in these infected cells, together with their localization in lymphocyte-dependent regions, suggests that they were infiltrating monocytic cells. Sialoadhesin is highly expressed in differentiated macrophages and not in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. In all 6 piglets with high virus titers, lymphocyte depletion and infiltration of monocytic cells were observed. In the remaining 20 piglets with virus titers less than 1045 TCID50/g, the majority of infected cells were SWC3+, CD14+, and Sa+. In conclusion, it can be stated that high PCV2 titers in lymphoid organs may lead to the development of histological lesions similar to those observed in pigs with postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome without causing disease. Furthermore, in lymphoid organs with high virus titers, infection occurs mainly in infiltrating monocytic cells and to a limited extent in cells bearing lymphocyte markers.

Characterization of the immune response and evaluation of the protective capacity of rSsnA against Streptococcus suis infection in pigs

The efforts made to develop vaccines against Streptococcus suis have failed because of lack of common antigens cross-reactive against different serotypes of this species. The cell wall-anchored proteins can be good vaccine candidates due to their high expression and accessibility to antibodies, among these, a cell-wall protein, DNA-nuclease (SsnA), present in most of the S. suis serotypes and clinical isolates collected from infected pigs, was selected. An experimental challenge against S. suis serotype 2 in a pig model was used to validate the efficacy of recombinant SsnA combined with aluminium hydroxide plus Quil A as adjuvants, previously tested in mice by our research group with good results. In our study, clinical characteristics, bacterial load and spread, haematological and immunological parameters and the antibody response, including the opsonophagocytosis analysis of the sera were evaluated. Moreover the composition of peripheral blood leukocyte populations was studied in infected animals. The results show that the immunization of piglets with rSsnA elicits a significant humoral antibody response. However, the antibody response is not reflected in protection of pigs that are challenged with a virulent strain in our conventional vaccination model. Further studies are necessary to evaluate the use of rSsnA as a vaccine candidate for swine.

A review of fibropapillomatosis in Green turtles (Chelonia mydas)

Despite being identified in 1938, many aspects of the pathogenesis and epidemiology of fibropapillomatosis (FP) in marine turtles are yet to be fully uncovered. Current knowledge suggests that FP is an emerging infectious disease, with the prevalence varying both spatially and temporally, even between localities in close proximity to each other. A high prevalence of FP in marine turtles has been correlated with residency in areas of reduced water quality, indicating that there is an environmental influence on disease presentation. Chelonid herpesvirus 5 (ChHV5) has been identified as the likely aetiological agent of FP. The current taxonomic position of ChHV5 is in the family Herpesviridae, subfamily Alphaherpesvirinae, genus Scutavirus. Molecular differentiation of strains has revealed that a viral variant is typically present at specific locations, even within sympatric species of marine turtles, indicating that the disease FP originates regionally. There is uncertainty surrounding the exact path of transmission and the conditions that facilitate lesion development, although recent research has identified atypical genes within the genome of ChHV5 that may play a role in pathogenesis. This review discusses emerging areas where researchers might focus and theories behind the emergence of FP globally since the 1980s, which appear to be a multi-factorial interplay between the virus, the host and environmental factors influencing disease expression.

Comparative clinical sample preparation of DNA and RNA viral nucleic acids for a commercial deep sequencing system (Illumina MiSeq(®))

Sequence-independent methods for viral discovery have been widely used for whole genome sequencing of viruses. Different protocols for viral enrichment, library preparation and sequencing have increasingly been more available and at lower costs. However, no study to date has focused on optimization of viral sample preparation for commercial deep sequencing. Accordingly, the aim of the present study was to evaluate an In-House enzymatic protocol for double-stranded DNA (dsDNA) synthesis and also compare the use of a commercially available kit protocol (Nextera XT, Illumina Inc, San Diego, CA, USA) and its combination with a library quantitation kit (Kapa, Kapa Biosystems, Wilmington, MA, USA) for deep sequencing (Illumina Miseq). Two RNA viruses (canine distemper virus and dengue virus) and one ssDNA virus (porcine circovirus type 2) were tested with the optimized protocols. The tested method for dsDNA synthesis has shown satisfactory results and may be used in laboratory setting, particularly when enzymes are already available. Library preparation combining commercial kits (Nextera XT and Kapa) has yielded more reads and genome coverage, probably due to a lack of small fragment recovering at the normalization step of Nextera XT. In addition, libraries may be diluted or concentrated to provide increase on genome coverage with Kapa quantitation.

Exposure to environmental stressors result in increased viral load and further reduction of production parameters in pigs experimentally infected with PCV2b

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Environmental stress increases viral load of PCV2b in serum and tissue.

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Environmental stress exacerbates PCV2b induced weight loss.

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Environmental stress and PCV2b reduce ADG and impact negatively on FCR.

Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) has been identified as the essential, but not sole, underlying infectious component for PCV-associated diseases (PCVAD). Several co-factors have been suggested to convert an infection with PCV2 into the clinical signs of PCVAD, including co-infection with a secondary pathogen and the genetic background of the pig. In the present study, we investigated the role of environmental stressors in the form of changes in environmental temperature and increased stocking-density on viral load in serum and tissue, average daily weight gain (ADG) and food conversion rate (FCR) of pigs experimentally infected with a defined PCV2b strain over an eight week period. These stressors were identified recently as risk factors leading to the occurrence of severe PCVAD on a farm level. In the current study, PCV2-free pigs were housed in separate, environmentally controlled rooms, and the experiment was performed in a 2 × 2 factorial design. In general, PCV2b infection reduced ADG and increased FCR, and these were further impacted on by the environmental stressors. Furthermore, all stressors led to an increased viral load in serum and tissue as assessed by qPCR, although levels did not reach statistical significance. Our data suggest that there is no need for an additional pathogen to develop PCVAD in conventional status pigs, and growth retardation and clinical signs can be induced in PCV2 infected pigs that are exposed to environmental stressors alone.

Porcine circovirus-2 capsid protein induces cell death in PK15 cells

Studies have shown that Porcine circovirus (PCV)-2 induces apoptosis in PK15 cells. Here we report that cell death is induced in PCV2b-infected PK15 cells that express Capsid (Cap) protein and this effect is enhanced in interferon gamma (IFN-γ)-treated cells. We further show that transient PCV2a and 2b-Cap protein expression induces cell death in PK15 cells at rate similar to PCV2 infection, regardless of Cap protein localization. These data suggest that Cap protein may have the capacity to trigger different signaling pathways involved in cell death. Although further investigation is needed to gain deeper insights into the nature of the pathways involved in Cap-induced cell death, this study provides evidence that PCV2-induced cell death in kidney epithelial PK15 cells can be mapped to the Cap protein and establishes the need for future research regarding the role of Cap-induced cell death in PCV2 pathogenesis.

PCV2 on the spot-A new method for the detection of single porcine circovirus type 2 secreting cells

A porcine circovirus type 2 SPOT (PCV2-SPOT) assay was established to enumerate virus-secreting lymphocytes obtained from naturally infected pigs. The assay is based on the same principle as general ELISPOT assays but instead of detecting cytokine or immunoglobulin secretion, PCV2 particles are immobilized and detected as filter spots. The method was used to evaluate the influence of various cell activators on the PCV2 secretion in vitro and was also applied to study the PCV2 secretion by lymphocytes obtained from pigs in healthy herds and in a herd afflicted by postweaning multisystemic wasting disease (PMWS). Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained from a pig with severe PMWS produced PCV2-SPOTs spontaneously whereas PBMCs obtained from pigs infected subclinically only generated PCV2-SPOTs upon in vitro stimulation. The PCV2 secretion potential was related to the PCV2 DNA content in the PBMCs as determined by two PCV2 real-time PCR assays, developed to differentiate between Swedish PCV2 genogroups 1 (PCV2a) and 3 (PCV2b). Besides the current application these qPCRs could simplify future epidemiological studies and allow genogroup detection/quantitation in dual infection experiments and similar studies. The developed PCV2-SPOT assay offers a semi-quantitative approach to evaluate the potential of PCV2-infected porcine cells to release PCV2 viral particles as well as a system to evaluate the ability of different cell types or compounds to affect PCV2 replication and secretion.

Cultivation of PCV2 in swine testicle cells using the shell vial technique and monitoring of viral replication by qPCR and RT-qPCR

Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) is difficult to isolate. Currently, no published articles have used the shell vial technique to isolate PCV2. In addition, the action of d-glucosamine on swine testicle cells (ST) has not been evaluated properly. Thus, the aim of this study was to determine an optimal concentration of d-glucosamine and to test the shell vial technique for PCV2 propagation in ST cells. The optimal concentration of d-glucosamine was determined to be 100mM. Because PCV2 is noncytopathic, the traditional adsorption was compared to the shell vial technique for 15 passages by qPCR, and RT-qPCR for passages 12 through 15. The quantities of viral DNA (P=0.013) and ORF1-mRNA detected with the shell vial technique were two-fold higher than the obtained with traditional adsorption. The levels of ORF2-mRNA were similar for both methods; however, by passage 15, a six-fold increase in levels was observed with the shell vial technique. Therefore, the shell vial technique was more efficient for the cultivation of PCV2, and qPCR/RT-qPCR can be used to monitor viral replication. In addition, a high viral load (>2.7×10(10) DNA copies/ml) and high levels of viral mRNA expression indicated that the ST cells were persistently infected.

Genetic and biological characterisation of an avian-like H1N2 swine influenza virus generated by reassortment of circulating avian-like H1N1 and H3N2 subtypes in Denmark

Background

The influenza A virus subtypes H1N1, H1N2 and H3N2 are the most prevalent subtypes in swine. In 2003, a reassorted H1N2 swine influenza virus (SIV) subtype appeared and became prevalent in Denmark. In the present study, the reassortant H1N2 subtype was characterised genetically and the infection dynamics compared to an “avian-like” H1N1 virus by an experimental infection study.

Methods

Sequence analyses were performed of the H1N2 virus. Two groups of pigs were inoculated with the reassortant H1N2 virus and an “avian-like” H1N1 virus, respectively, followed by inoculation with the opposite subtype four weeks later. Measurements of HI antibodies and acute phase proteins were performed. Nasal virus excretion and virus load in lungs were determined by real-time RT-PCR.

Results

The phylogenetic analysis revealed that the reassorted H1N2 virus contained a European “avian-like” H1-gene and a European “swine-like” N2-gene, thus being genetically distinct from most H1N2 viruses circulating in Europe, but similar to viruses reported in 2009/2010 in Sweden and Italy. Sequence analyses of the internal genes revealed that the reassortment probably arose between circulating Danish “avian-like” H1N1 and H3N2 SIVs. Infected pigs developed cross-reactive antibodies, and increased levels of acute phase proteins after inoculations. Pigs inoculated with H1N2 exhibited nasal virus excretion for seven days, peaking day 1 after inoculation two days earlier than H1N1 infected pigs and at a six times higher level. The difference, however, was not statistically significant. Pigs euthanized on day 4 after inoculation, had a high virus load in all lung lobes. After the second inoculation, the nasal virus excretion was minimal. There were no clinical sign except elevated body temperature under the experimental conditions.

Conclusions

The “avian-like” H1N2 subtype, which has been established in the Danish pig population at least since 2003, is a reassortant between circulating swine “avian-like” H1N1 and H3N2. The Danish H1N2 has an “avian-like” H1 and differs from most other reported H1N2 viruses in Europe and North America/Asia, which have H1-genes of human or “classical-swine” origin, respectively. The variant seems, however, also to be circulating in countries like Sweden and Italy. The infection dynamics of the reassorted “avian-like” H1N2 is similar to the older “avian-like” H1N1 subtype.

Cellular pathogenesis of porcine circovirus type 2 infection

Porcine circovirus associated disease (PCVAD) and the associated histological lesions are thought to appear due to an increase in the amount of porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) present in an infected animal. However, examination of the cellular and molecular pathogenesis of PCVAD is complicated by the lack of a consistent cell culture model that replicates the animal phenotypes of persistent, asymptomatic infection, and acute, pathological disease typified by lymphocyte depletion. The porcine fetal retina cell line, VR1BL, shows a high permissiveness to PCV2 infection, 40 times higher than the alternative PK15 culture model, allowing for high titer viral production, with PCV2b growth higher than PCV2a growth. Cytopathic effect due to apoptosis is observed after challenge with high amounts of PCV2, but at low levels, infection is maintained in passaged cells. Thus, VR1BL cells may be used as a model system to examine both acute viral pathogenesis and cellular innate defense, as well as persistent PCV2 infection.

A polyvalent influenza A DNA vaccine induces heterologous immunity and protects pigs against pandemic A(H1N1)pdm09 virus infection

The composition of current influenza protein vaccines has to be reconsidered every season to match the circulating influenza viruses, continuously changing antigenicity. Thus, influenza vaccines inducing a broad cross-reactive immune response would be a great advantage for protection against both seasonal and emerging influenza viruses. We have developed an alternative influenza vaccine based on DNA expressing selected influenza proteins of pandemic and seasonal origin. In the current study, we investigated the protection of a polyvalent influenza DNA vaccine approach in pigs. We immunised pigs intradermally with a combination of influenza DNA vaccine components based on the pandemic 1918 H1N1 (M and NP genes), pandemic 2009 H1N1pdm09 (HA and NA genes) and seasonal 2005 H3N2 genes (HA and NA genes) and investigated the protection against infection with virus both homologous and heterologous to the DNA vaccine components. We found that pigs challenged with a virus homologous to the HA and NA DNA vaccine components were well protected from infection. In addition, heterologous challenge virus was cleared rapidly compared to the unvaccinated control pigs. Immunisation by electroporation induced HI antibodies >40 HAU/ml seven days after second vaccination. Heterologous virus challenge as long as ten weeks after last immunisation was able to trigger a vaccine antibody HI response 26 times higher than in the control pigs. The H3N2 DNA vaccine HA and NA genes also triggered an effective vaccine response with protective antibody titres towards heterologous H3N2 virus. The described influenza DNA vaccine is able to induce broadly protective immune responses even in a larger animal, like the pig, against both heterologous and homologous virus challenges despite relatively low HI titres after vaccination. The ability of this DNA vaccine to limit virus shedding may have an impact on virus spread among pigs which could possibly extend to humans as well, thereby diminishing the risk for epidemics and pandemics to evolve.

Experimental airborne transmission of porcine postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome

The objective of these studies was to investigate if porcine postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS) could be induced in healthy pigs following contact with air from pigs with clinical signs of PMWS. The pigs were housed in different units. Either 31 (study I) or 25 (study II) pigs with clinical symptoms of PMWS from a PMWS-affected herd and 25 healthy pigs from a PMWS-free, but PCV2-positive, herd were housed in unit A. Fifty pigs from a PMWS-free herd were housed in unit B, which were connected by pipes to unit A. In unit C, 30 pigs from a PMWS-free herd were housed as controls. In study II, the pigs in units A and B from the PMWS-free herd developed clinical signs of PMWS 2-3 weeks after arrival. PMWS was confirmed at necropsy and the diseased pigs had increased PCV2 load and increased antibody titers against PCV2 in serum that coincided with the development of clinical signs typical of PMWS. Sequence analysis revealed that the PCV2 isolate belonged to genotype 2b. In conclusion, the present study showed that PMWS can be induced in pigs from a PMWS-free herd by airborne contact with pigs from a PMWS-affected herd.

Single-tube multiplexed molecular detection of endemic porcine viruses in combination with background screening for transboundary diseases

Detection of several pathogens with multiplexed real-time quantitative PCR (qPCR) assays in a one-step setup allows the simultaneous detection of two endemic porcine and four different selected transboundary viruses. Reverse transcription (RT)-qPCR systems for the detection of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) and porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2), two of the most economically important pathogens of swine worldwide, were combined with a screening system for diseases notifiable to the World Organization of Animal Health, namely, classical and African swine fever, foot-and-mouth disease, and Aujeszky's disease. Background screening was implemented using the identical fluorophore for all four different RT-qPCR assays. The novel multiplex RT-qPCR system was validated with a large panel of different body fluids and tissues from pigs and other animal species. Both reference samples and clinical specimens were used for a complete evaluation. It could be demonstrated that a highly sensitive and specific parallel detection of the different viruses was possible. The assays for the notifiable diseases were even not affected by the simultaneous amplification of very high loads of PRRSV- and PCV2-specific sequences. The novel broad-spectrum multiplex assay allows in a unique form the routine investigation for endemic porcine pathogens with exclusion diagnostics of the most important transboundary diseases in samples from pigs with unspecific clinical signs, such as fever or hemorrhages. The new system could significantly improve early detection of the most important notifiable diseases of swine and could lead to a new approach in syndromic surveillance.

Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2): pathogenesis and interaction with the immune system

Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) is the primary causative agent of porcine circovirus-associated disease (PCVAD). The virus preferentially targets the lymphoid tissues, which leads to lymphoid depletion and immunosuppression in pigs. The disease is exacerbated by immunostimulation or concurrent infections with other pathogens. PCV2 resides in certain immune cells, such as macrophage and dendritic cells, and modulates their functions. Upregulation of IL-10 and proinflammatory cytokines in infected pigs may contribute to pathogenesis. Pig genetics influence host susceptibility to PCV2, but the viral genetic determinants for virulence remain unknown. PCV2 DNA and proteins interact with various cellular genes that control immune responses to regulate virus replication and pathogenesis. Both neutralizing antibodies and cell-mediated immunity are important immunological correlates of protection. Despite the availability of effective vaccines, variant strains of PCV2 continue to emerge. Although tremendous progress has been made toward understanding PCV2 pathogenesis and immune interactions, many important questions remain.

Obtencao de animais negativos para Circovirus suino 2 oriundos de granjas positivas: estrategia de manejo

O objetivo do trabalho é descrever uma estratégia para a obtenção de animais negativos para o PCV2 oriundos de uma granja positiva para este vírus. Dezesseis leitões foram obtidos de fêmeas que tiveram os títulos de IgG anti-PCV2 e o DNA viral testados durante a gestação. Esses leitões, aos sete e dez dias de idade, foram transferidos para a unidade de pesquisa. Durante o período de 7 e 10 aos 49 e 52 dias de idade, amostras de soro, suabes nasal e fecal foram coletadas, a cada sete dias. Após esse período, três animais permaneceram na unidade de pesquisa e foram acompanhados dos 49 aos 114 dias de idade, com coletas realizadas a cada 28 dias. Não houve diferença significativa (p = 0,317) de viremia entre marrãs (n = 6) e porcas (n = 10). Com relação aos níveis de IgG, observou-se diferença significativa (p = 0,0213) entre porcas e marrãs. Os leitões (n = 16), obtidos de duas fêmeas, foram transferidos para a unidade de pesquisa. Os animais entre 7 e 10 dias e aos 49 e 52 dias de idade apresentaram queda de IgG e ausência de IgM anti-PCV2; e as amostras de soro, suabe nasal e fecal foram negativos para o DNA de PCV2. Após os 49 dias, nos três animais mantidos isolados, a detecção de IgG, IgM e DNA para PCV2 permaneceu negativa. Concluindo, a estratégia de manejo utilizada permitiu obter suínos negativos para PCV2 oriundo de granjas positivas para o agente.

Reduction of porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) viremia by a reformulated inactivated chimeric PCV1-2 vaccine-induced humoral and cellular immunity after experimental PCV2 challenge

Background

The objective of the present study was to elucidate the humoral and cellular immune response mechanisms by which a reformulated inactivated chimeric PCV1-2 vaccine reduces the PCV2 viremia. Forty PCV2 seronegative 3-week-old pigs were randomly divided into the following four groups: vaccinated challenged (T01), vaccinated non-challenged (T02), non-vaccinated challenged (T03), and non-vaccinated non-challenged (T04) animals. The pigs in groups T01 and T02 were immunized with a reformulated inactivated chimeric PCV1-2 vaccine (Fostera™ PCV; Pfizer Animal Health) administered as a 2.0 ml dose at 21 days of age. At 35 days of age (0 days post-challenge), the pigs in groups T01 and T03 were inoculated intranasally with 2 ml each of PCV2b.

Results

A reduction of PCV2 viremia coincided with the appearance of both PCV2-specific neutralizing antibodies (NA) and interferon-γ-secreting cells (IFN-γ-SCs) in the vaccinated animals. However, the presence of anti-PCV2 IgG antibodies did not correlate with the reduction of PCV2 viremia. Lymphocyte subset analysis indicated that the numbers of CD3⁺ and CD4⁺ cells increased in vaccinated animals but the numbers of CD4⁺ cells decreased transiently in non-vaccinated animals. The observation of a delayed type hypersensitivity response in only the vaccinated animals also supports a CD4⁺ cell-associated protective cellular immune response induced by the reformulated inactivated chimeric PCV1-2 vaccine.

Conclusions

The induction of PCV2-specific NA and IFN-γ-SCs, and CD4⁺ cells by the reformulated inactivated chimeric PCV1-2 vaccine is the important protective immune response leading to reduction of the PCV2 viremia and control of the PCV2 infection. To our knowledge this is the first demonstration of protective humoral and cellular immunity induced by the reformulated inactivated chimeric PCV1-2 vaccine and its effect on reduction of PCV2 viremia by vaccination.

Preliminary findings of a previously unrecognized porcine primary immunodeficiency disorder

Weaned pigs from a line bred for increased feed efficiency were enrolled in a study of the role of host genes in the response to infection with Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus (PRRSV). Four of the pigs were euthanatized early in the study due to weight loss with illness and poor body condition; 2 pigs before PRRSV infection and the other 2 pigs approximately 2 weeks after virus inoculation. The 2 inoculated pigs failed to produce PRRSV-specific antibodies. Gross findings included pneumonia, absence of a detectable thymus, and small secondary lymphoid tissues. Histologically, lymph nodes, spleen, tonsils, and Peyer's patches were sparsely cellular with decreased to absent T and B lymphocytes.

Infectious risk factors for individual postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS) development in pigs from affected farms in Spain and Denmark

Two prospective longitudinal studies in 13 postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS)-affected farms from Spain (n=3) and Denmark (n=10) were performed. Blood samples from pigs were longitudinally collected from 1st week until the occurrence of the PMWS outbreak. Wasted and healthy age-matched pigs were euthanized, necropsied and histopathologically characterised. PMWS diagnosis was confirmed by means of lymphoid lesions and detection of porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) in these tissues by in situ hybridization or immunohistochemistry. Serological analyses were performed in longitudinally collected serum samples to detect antibodies against, PCV2, porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), porcine parvovirus (PPV), swine influenza virus (SIV) and Lawsonia intracellularis (law), Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, Aujeszky's disease virus (ADV) and Salmonella spp. A Cox proportional hazards model was used to investigate the simultaneous effects of seroconversion and maternal immunity against the studied pathogens. Results showed that high levels of maternal immunity against PCV2 had a protecting effect in farms from both countries. Moreover, for the Danish dataset, seroconversion against law had an overall protecting effect, but for animals with very low levels of maternal antibody levels against this pathogen, the effect appeared neutral or aggravating. Otherwise, for the Spanish dataset, maternal immunity against PPV and PRRSV gave protective and aggravating effects, respectively. In conclusion, the present study reflects the complex interaction among different pathogens and their effects in order to trigger PMWS in PCV2 infected pigs.

Current State of Knowledge on Porcine Circovirus Type 2-Associated Lesions

Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2), a small single-stranded DNA virus, was initially discovered in 1998 and is highly prevalent in the domestic pig population. Disease manifestations associated with PCV2 include postweaning multisystemic wasting disease (PMWS), enteric disease, respiratory disease, porcine dermatitis and nephropathy syndrome (PDNS), and reproductive failure. Although these clinical manifestations involve different organ systems, there is considerable overlap in clinical expression of disease and presence of lesions between pigs and within herds. It is now widely accepted that PCV2 can be further subdivided into different types, of which PCV2a and PCV2b are present worldwide and of greatest importance. This review will focus on PCV2-associated lesions in different organ systems.

Effects of DNA extraction method on Porcine circovirus-2 real-time polymerase chain reaction quantification in swine lymph node samples

Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has become an important tool for Porcine circovirus-2 (PCV-2) research and diagnosis. However, significant differences in detection limit and quantification data, among laboratories and quantitative real-time PCR methods, have been demonstrated. New efforts are required for providing more accurate and comparable results. The current study is an evaluation of the effects of DNA extraction procedures on PCV-2 quantification in lymph node samples. Differences, greater than 1 log(10) copies/g, were shown among PCV-2 loads detected after different extraction procedures. The work highlighted the critical role of the DNA extraction method in PCV-2 quantification by quantitative real-time PCR. This important aspect should be evaluated when comparing data from different laboratories or different studies. The PCV-2 quantification data should not be considered comparable before demonstrating the equivalence of the DNA extraction methods performed.

Immunology of porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2)

The emergence of porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) associated diseases and particularly postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS) was a shock for the swine industry and formulated a considerable challenge for researchers in the area of viral immunology in swine. The unique features of PMWS of which emaciation and lymphoid depletion were the most evident indicated a deep involvement of the immune system of the pig in the pathogenesis of this condition and indicated that PCV2 was a singular pathogen. Also, the multifactorial nature of the disease complicated the understanding of PMWS pathogenesis. Nowadays, it is known that PCV2 deeply affects the functionality of the immune system of the pig but also the industry has been able to produce efficacious vaccines. In the present paper some of the most relevant immunological features of PMWS and of PCV2 infection in general will be reviewed.

Profiles of seroconversion to porcine circovirus type 2 in herds affected and not affected by postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome

The aim of the present study was to explore the usefulness of serological methods in the diagnosis of postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS). The study was carried out in 4 PMWS-affected and 6 control farms. Based on the serological profiles, infection with porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) was determined to take place at 3-7 weeks of age in the PMWS-affected and at 3-11 weeks of age in the control farms. To compare the dynamics of seroconversion to PCV2 among farms, cross-sectional serological profiles were normalised in relation to the inferred age of infection. The results indicated that the proportion of seropositive pigs increased significantly slower in the affected herds. The most pronounced difference was observed about 4 weeks after infection, when the proportion of seropositive pigs ranged from 0 to 53.3% and from 70 to 100% in PMWS-affected and control herds, respectively. Mean antibody titres at that age were also significantly lower in the affected farms. These observations suggest a delay in the production of PCV2-specific antibodies and indicate that serological methods may be helpful in identifying herds with a high risk of PMWS.

Use of PCR-based assays for the detection of the adventitious agent porcine circovirus type 1 (PCV1) in vaccines, and for confirming the identity of cell substrates and viruses used in vaccine production

Safety and quality are important issues for vaccines. Whereas reversion to virulence poses a safety risk with live attenuated vaccines, the potential for the presence of adventitious agents is also an issue of vaccine quality. The recent detection or porcine circovirus type 1 (PCV1) in human vaccines has further highlighted the importance of quality control in vaccine production. The purpose of this study was to use a novel conventional PCR to detect PCV1, and subsequently screen materials used in the manufacture of vaccines at Bharat Biotech International Limited, India. The genome or gene fragments of PCV1 were not detected in any of the vaccines and materials tested, including the live attenuated rotavirus vaccine candidate ROTAVAC(®). Further, the identity of the cells and the viruses used as starting materials in the manufacture of these vaccines was confirmed by species-specific PCR or virus-specific RT-PCR, and no cross-contamination was detected in any case. The methods can be applied for regular in-house quality control screening of raw materials and seeds/banks, as well as formulated vaccines.

Concurrent infections are important for expression of porcine circovirus associated disease

Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2) is the essential component of porcine circovirus disease (PCVD) as the disease syndrome is referred to in Europe and porcine circovirus associated disease (PCVAD) as it is referred to in North America. Singular PCV2 infection rarely results in clinical disease; however, PCVAD is often accelerated in onset, enhanced in severity and prolonged in duration by concurrent viral or bacterial infections. Due to its effect on the immune system, PCV2 has also been shown to enhance protozoal, metazoal, and fungal infections. Several retrospective or cross-sectional studies have investigated the presence and prevalence of various infectious agents associated with PCVAD under field conditions. Experimental models confirm that PCV2 replication and associated lesions can be enhanced by concurrent infection with other viruses or bacteria. The exact mechanisms by which concurrent pathogens upregulate PCV2 are unknown. Co-infections may promote PCV2 infection by increasing immune host cell replication and accumulation in tissues thereby enhancing targets for PCV2 replication. It has also been proposed that co-infections interfere with PCV2 clearance by alteration of cytokine production and profiles. The outcome of differences in timing of co-infections in PCV2-infected pigs is also likely very important and is an area where more research is needed. Given the current knowledge base, it is important that veterinarians do a thorough diagnostic investigation on herds where PCVAD is a recurrent problem in order to implement the most appropriate and cost effective intervention strategies.