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Olivares RWI, Bass LG, Sáenz-Bräutigam A, Sandí-Carmiol J, Villada-Rosales AM, Dolz G, Solórzano-Morales A, Zúniga-Moya MJ, Granados-Solano R, McHale B, Zúñiga-Cortés DS, Uzal FA. Psittacine beak and feather disease in 2 free-living great green macaws: a case report and literature review. J Vet Diagn Invest 2025:10406387251333410. [PMID: 40237412 PMCID: PMC12003325 DOI: 10.1177/10406387251333410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/18/2025] Open
Abstract
Psittacine beak and feather disease (PBFD) is caused by the psittacine beak and feather disease virus (PBFDV; Circoviridae, Circovirus parrot). This disease affects mainly young captive birds, inducing lesions mainly in the skin adnexa and lymphoid organs. Here we report PBFD in 2 free-living great green macaws (Ara ambiguus). The birds were depressed and had lost feathers and body condition. The diagnosis was confirmed by gross lesions and PCR testing in one bird, and by gross and microscopic lesions, PCR testing, viral sequencing, and in situ hybridization in the other bird. Gross lesions in both birds included mild beak discoloration and feather loss. Microscopic lesions in the bird whose tissues were examined histologically included bronchopneumonia and severe lymphoid depletion with intracytoplasmic and intranuclear botryoid inclusion bodies in the cloacal bursa. Sequences of the viral DNA obtained from paraffin-embedded cloacal bursa tissue had 100% nucleotide and 100% amino acid identity with several strains of PBFDV isolated from captive birds in multiple countries. To our knowledge, PBFD has not been reported previously in free-living great green macaws.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto W. I. Olivares
- Servicio de Patología Diagnóstica LAPAVET-ESFA, Cátedra de Patología e Histología, Escuela de Medicina y Cirugía Veterinaria San Francisco de Asís, Universidad Veritas, Vázquez de Coronado, San José, Costa Rica
| | - Laura G. Bass
- Cátedra de Microbiología e Inmunología, Escuela de Medicina y Cirugía Veterinaria San Francisco de Asís, Universidad Veritas, Vázquez de Coronado, San José, Costa Rica
- Maestría en Enfermedades Tropicales, Posgrado Regional en Ciencias Veterinarias Tropicales (PCVET), Universidad Nacional (UNA), Heredia, Costa Rica
| | | | | | | | - Gaby Dolz
- Laboratorio de Zoonosis y Entomología, Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad Nacional (UNA), Heredia, Costa Rica
| | - Antony Solórzano-Morales
- Laboratorio de Zoonosis y Entomología, Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad Nacional (UNA), Heredia, Costa Rica
| | - María J. Zúniga-Moya
- Laboratorio de Zoonosis y Entomología, Escuela de Medicina Veterinaria, Universidad Nacional (UNA), Heredia, Costa Rica
| | - Roxana Granados-Solano
- Maestría en Enfermedades Tropicales, Posgrado Regional en Ciencias Veterinarias Tropicales (PCVET), Universidad Nacional (UNA), Heredia, Costa Rica
| | - Brittany McHale
- Infectious Diseases Laboratory, University of Georgia, College of Veterinary Medicine, Athens, GA, USA
| | - Diego S. Zúñiga-Cortés
- Servicio de Patología Diagnóstica LAPAVET-ESFA, Cátedra de Patología e Histología, Escuela de Medicina y Cirugía Veterinaria San Francisco de Asís, Universidad Veritas, Vázquez de Coronado, San José, Costa Rica
| | - Francisco A. Uzal
- California Animal Health & Food Safety Laboratory, San Bernardino Branch, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California–Davis, Davis, CA, USA
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Neef A, Nath BK, Das T, Luque D, Forwood JK, Raidal SR, Das S. Recombinantly expressed virus-like particles (VLPs) of canine circovirus for development of an indirect ELISA. Vet Res Commun 2024; 48:1121-1133. [PMID: 38163840 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-023-10290-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Canine circovirus (CanineCV) is an emerging pathogen in domestic dogs, detected in multiple countries in association with varying clinical and pathological presentations including diarrhoea, vasculitis, granulomatous inflammation, and respiratory signs. Understanding the pathology of CanineCV is confounded by the fact that it has been detected in asymptomatic dogs as well as in diseased dogs concurrently infected with known pathogens. Recombinantly expressed self-assembling Virus-like particles (VLPs) lack viral genomic material but imitate the capsid surface conformations of wild type virion, allowing arrays of biological applications including subunit vaccine development and immunodiagnostics. In this study, full length CanineCV capsid gene was expressed in Escherichia coli followed by two-step purification process to yield soluble capsid protein in high concentration. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirmed the capsid antigen self-assembled into 17-20 nm VLPs in glutathione S-transferase (GST) buffer, later utilised to develop an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (iELISA). The respective sensitivity and specificity of the proposed iELISA were 94.10% and 88.40% compared with those obtained from Western blot. The mean OD450 value for western blot positive samples was 1.22 (range 0.12-3.39) and negative samples was 0.21 (range 0.07-0.41). An optimal OD450 cut-off of 0.35 was determined by ROC curve analysis. Median inter-assay and intra-assay validation revealed that the iELISA test results were reproducible with coefficients of variation 7.70 (range 5.6-11.9) and 4.21 (range 1.2-7.4). Our results demonstrated that VLP-based iELISA is a highly sensitive method for serological diagnosis of CanineCV infections in dogs, suitable for large-scale epidemiological studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison Neef
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Science and Health, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia
| | - Babu Kanti Nath
- Biosecurity Research Program and Training Centre, Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia.
| | - Tridip Das
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Science and Health, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia
| | - Daniel Luque
- Electron Microscope Unit, Mark Wainwright Analytical Centre, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052, Australia
| | - Jade K Forwood
- Biosecurity Research Program and Training Centre, Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia
- School of Dentistry and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Health, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia
- Training Hub Promoting Regional Industry and Innovation in Virology and Epidemiology, Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia
| | - Shane R Raidal
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Science and Health, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia
- Training Hub Promoting Regional Industry and Innovation in Virology and Epidemiology, Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia
| | - Shubhagata Das
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Science and Health, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia
- Training Hub Promoting Regional Industry and Innovation in Virology and Epidemiology, Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2678, Australia
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Nath BK, Das T, Peters A, Gupta SD, Sarker S, Forwood JK, Raidal SR, Das S. Australasian Pigeon Circoviruses Demonstrate Natural Spillover Infection. Viruses 2023; 15:2025. [PMID: 37896802 PMCID: PMC10611180 DOI: 10.3390/v15102025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Pigeon circovirus (PiCV) is considered to be genetically diverse, with a relatively small circular single-stranded DNA genome of 2 kb that encodes for a capsid protein (Cap) and a replication initiator protein (Rep). Australasia is known to be the origin of diverse species of the Order Columbiformes, but limited data on the PiCV genome sequence has hindered phylogeographic studies in this species. To fill this gap, this study was conducted to investigate PiCV in 118 characteristic samples from different birds across Australia using PCR and sequencing. Eighteen partial PiCV Rep sequences and one complete PiCV genome sequence were recovered from reservoir and aberrant hosts. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that PiCV circulating in Australia was scattered across three different subclades. Importantly, one subclade dominated within the PiCV sequenced from Australia and Poland, whereas other PiCV sequenced in this study were more closely related to the PiCV sequenced from China, USA and Japan. In addition, PiCV Rep sequences obtained from clinically affected plumed whistling duck, blue billed duck and Australian magpie demonstrated natural spillover of PiCV unveiled host generalist characteristics of the pigeon circovirus. These findings indicate that PiCV genomes circulating in Australia lack host adapted population structure but demonstrate natural spillover infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babu Kanti Nath
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Science and Health, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia; (T.D.); (A.P.); (S.R.R.); (S.D.)
- Biosecurity Research Program and Training Centre, Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia; (S.D.G.); (J.K.F.)
| | - Tridip Das
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Science and Health, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia; (T.D.); (A.P.); (S.R.R.); (S.D.)
| | - Andrew Peters
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Science and Health, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia; (T.D.); (A.P.); (S.R.R.); (S.D.)
- Biosecurity Research Program and Training Centre, Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia; (S.D.G.); (J.K.F.)
| | - Suman Das Gupta
- Biosecurity Research Program and Training Centre, Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia; (S.D.G.); (J.K.F.)
| | - Subir Sarker
- Biomedical Sciences & Molecular Biology, College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD 4814, Australia;
| | - Jade K. Forwood
- Biosecurity Research Program and Training Centre, Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia; (S.D.G.); (J.K.F.)
- School of Dentistry and Medical Sciences, Faculty of Science and Health, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
- Training Hub Promoting Regional Industry and Innovation in Virology and Epidemiology, Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
| | - Shane R. Raidal
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Science and Health, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia; (T.D.); (A.P.); (S.R.R.); (S.D.)
| | - Shubhagata Das
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Faculty of Science and Health, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia; (T.D.); (A.P.); (S.R.R.); (S.D.)
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Immunogenicity and Protective Activity of Pigeon Circovirus Recombinant Capsid Protein Virus-Like Particles (PiCV rCap-VLPs) in Pigeons ( Columba livia) Experimentally Infected with PiCV. Vaccines (Basel) 2021; 9:vaccines9020098. [PMID: 33525416 PMCID: PMC7912323 DOI: 10.3390/vaccines9020098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Pigeon circovirus (PiCV) is the most recurrent virus diagnosed in pigeons and is among the major causative agents of young pigeon disease syndrome (YPDS). Due to the lack of an established laboratory protocol for PiCV cultivation, development of prophylaxis is hampered. Alternatively, virus-like particles (VLPs), which closely resemble native viruses but lack the viral genetic material, can be generated using a wide range of expression systems and are shown to have strong immunogenicity. Therefore, the use of VLPs provides a promising prospect for vaccine development. In this study, transfected human embryonic kidney (HEK-293) cells, a mammalian expression system, were used to express the PiCV capsid protein (Cap), which is a major component of PiCV and believed to contain antibody epitopes, to obtain self-assembled VLPs. The VLPs were observed to have a spherical morphology with diameters ranging from 12 to 26 nm. Subcutaneous immunization of pigeons with 100 µg PiCV rCap-VLPs supplemented with water-in-oil-in-water (W/O/W) adjuvant induced specific antibodies against PiCV. Observations of the cytokine expression and T-cell proliferation levels in spleen samples showed significantly higher T-cell proliferation and IFN- γ expression in pigeons immunized with VLPs compared to the controls (p < 0.05). Experimentally infected pigeons that were vaccinated with VLPs also showed no detectable viral titer. The results of the current study demonstrated the potential use of PiCV rCap-VLPs as an effective vaccine candidate against PiCV.
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Influence of pigeon interferon alpha (PiIFN-α) on pigeon circovirus (PiCV) replication and cytokine expression in Columba livia. Vet Microbiol 2020; 242:108591. [PMID: 32122595 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetmic.2020.108591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Revised: 12/31/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Pigeon circovirus (PiCV) is the most diagnosed virus in pigeons (Columba livia) and have been studied and reported globally. PiCV infections can lead to immunosuppression and pigeons infected with PiCV can result to lymphocyte apoptosis and atrophy of immune organs. Young pigeon disease syndrome (YPDS) is a complex disease and believed that PiCV could be one of the agents leading to this syndrome. An effective treatment regimen is needed to control the spread of PiCV in pigeons. In this study pigeon interferon alpha (PiIFN-α) was cloned and expressed and its antiviral effects were tested against fowl adenovirus type 4 (FAdV-4) in vitro and PiCV in vivo. No detectable levels of FAdV-4 viral genome in LMH cells stimulated with 300 μg/mL PiIFN-α were found. Additionally, PiIFN-α was stable at different temperature and pH for 4 h, and no reduction in antiviral activity was observed in untreated and treated cells. In pigeons naturally and experimentally infected by PiCV, no detectable levels of PiCV virus titers were found after treatment with PiIFN-α. Cytokine and ISG expression levels in liver and spleen samples were detected and IFN-γ and Mx1 genes were dominantly up-regulated following PiIFN-α treatment (p < 0.05). This study demonstrated that PiCV can be inhibited by administration of PiIFN-α and PiFN-α can be used as a therapeutic approach to prevent the spread of PiCV in pigeons.
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Ma Y, Chen X, Chen K, Zeng X, Yang S, Chang W, Tang Y, Chen X, Wang S, Chen JL. Identification and Characterization of a Distinct Strain of Beak and Feather Disease Virus in Southeast China. Virol Sin 2019; 35:43-51. [PMID: 31552609 DOI: 10.1007/s12250-019-00159-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) is an infectious agent responsible for feather degeneration and beak deformation in birds. In March 2017, an epidemic of psittacine beak and feather disease (PBFD) struck a farm in Fuzhou in the Fujian Province of southeast China, resulting in the death of 51 parrots. In this study, the disease was diagnosed and the pathogen was identified by PCR and whole genome sequencing. A distinct BFDV strain was identified and named as the FZ strain. This BFDV strain caused severe disease symptoms and pathological changes characteristic of typical PBFD in parrots, for example, loss of feathers and deformities of the beak and claws, and severe pathological changes in multiple organs of the infected birds. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the FZ strain was more closely related to the strain circulating in New Caledonia than the strains previously reported in China. Nucleotide homology between the FZ strain and other 43 strains of BFDV ranged from 80.0% to 92.0%. Blind passage experiment showed that this strain had limited replication capability in SPF Chicken Embryos and DF-1 Cells. Furthermore, the capsid (Cap) gene of this FZ strain was cloned into the pGEX-4T-1 expression vector to prepare the polyclonal anti-Cap antibody. Western blotting analysis using the anti-Cap antibody further confirmed that the diseased parrots were infected with BFDV. In this study, a PBFD and its pathogen was identified for the first time in Fujian Province of China, suggesting that future surveillance of BFDV should be performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanmei Ma
- Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Xiaoyong Chen
- Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Keyuan Chen
- Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Xiancheng Zeng
- Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Shili Yang
- Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Wei Chang
- Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Yao Tang
- Fuzhou Zoo, Fuzhou, 350012, China
| | | | - Song Wang
- Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China
| | - Ji-Long Chen
- Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou, 350002, China. .,CAS Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Beijing, 100101, China.
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Das S, Smith K, Sarker S, Peters A, Adriaanse K, Eden P, Ghorashi SA, Forwood JK, Raidal SR. Assessing circovirus gene flow in multiple spill-over events. Virus Genes 2019; 55:802-814. [PMID: 31463770 DOI: 10.1007/s11262-019-01702-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The establishment of viral pathogens in new host environments following spillover events probably requires adaptive changes within both the new host and pathogen. After many generations, signals for ancient cross-species transmission may become lost and a strictly host-adapted phylogeny may mimic true co-divergence while the virus may retain an inherent ability to jump host species. The mechanistic basis for such processes remains poorly understood. To study the dynamics of virus-host co-divergence and the arbitrary chances of spillover in various reservoir hosts with equal ecological opportunity, we examined structural constraints of capsid protein in extant populations of Beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) during known spillover events. By assessing reservoir-based genotype stratification, we identified co-divergence defying signatures in the evolution BFDV which highlighted primordial processes of cryptic host adaptation and competing forces of host co-divergence and cross-species transmission. We demonstrate that, despite extensive surface plasticity gathered over a longer span of evolution, structural constraints of the capsid protein allow opportunistic host switching in host-adapted populations. This study provides new insights into how small populations of endangered psittacine species may face multidirectional forces of infection from reservoirs with apparently co-diverging genotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shubhagata Das
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Boorooma Street, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2650, Australia
| | - Kate Smith
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Boorooma Street, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2650, Australia
| | - Subir Sarker
- Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Microbiology, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Melbourne, 3086, Australia
| | - Andrew Peters
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Boorooma Street, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2650, Australia
| | - Katherine Adriaanse
- Healesville Sanctuary, Zoos Victoria, Badger Creek Road, Healesville, VIC, 3777, Australia
| | - Paul Eden
- Healesville Sanctuary, Zoos Victoria, Badger Creek Road, Healesville, VIC, 3777, Australia
| | - Seyed A Ghorashi
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Boorooma Street, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2650, Australia
| | - Jade K Forwood
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Boorooma Street, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2650, Australia
| | - Shane R Raidal
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Boorooma Street, Wagga Wagga, NSW, 2650, Australia.
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Stenzel T, Dziewulska D, Śmiałek M, Tykałowski B, Kowalczyk J, Koncicki A. Comparison of the immune response to vaccination with pigeon circovirus recombinant capsid protein (PiCV rCP) in pigeons uninfected and subclinically infected with PiCV. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0219175. [PMID: 31251772 PMCID: PMC6599111 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0219175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Infections with immunosuppressive pigeon circovirus (PiCV) pose the most severe health problem to the global pigeon breeding. The vaccination with immunogenic PiCV recombinant capsid protein (PiCV rCP) is a potential tool for disease control. Because of the high prevalence of PiCV asymptomatic infections, the subclinically infected pigeons will be vaccinated in practice. The aim of this study was to answer a question if vaccination of asymptomatic, infected with PiCV pigeons induces a similar immune response to PiCV rCP as in uninfected birds. One hundred and twenty 6-week-old carrier pigeons were divided into 4 groups (2 groups of naturally infected and uninfected with PiCV individuals). Birds from groups V and V1 were vaccinated twice with PiCV rCP mixed with an adjuvant, whereas pigeons from groups C and C1 were immunized with an adjuvant only. The expression of genes encoding IFN-γ, CD4, and CD8 T lymphocyte receptors; the number of anti-PiCV rCP IgY-secreting B cells (SBC) and anti-PiCV rCP IgY were evaluated 2, 21, 39 and 46 days post vaccination (dpv). Study results showed that the expression of CD8 and IFN-γ genes was higher in both groups of infected pigeons than in the uninfected birds, irrespective of vaccination. In the uninfected birds, the expression of these genes was insignificantly higher in the vaccinated pigeons. The anti-PiCV rCP IgY-SBC were detected on 2 and 23 dpv and seroconversion was noted on 23 and 39 dpv in V and V1 groups, respectively. In the light of the results obtained, it could be concluded that pigeon circovirus recombinant capsid protein elicits the immune response in both naturally infected and uninfected pigeons, but its rate varies depending on PiCV infectious status. The infection with PiCV masks the potential cellular immune response to the vaccination with PiCV rCP and leads to the suppression of humoral immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Stenzel
- Department of Poultry Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Daria Dziewulska
- Department of Poultry Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Marcin Śmiałek
- Department of Poultry Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Bartłomiej Tykałowski
- Department of Poultry Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Joanna Kowalczyk
- Department of Poultry Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Andrzej Koncicki
- Department of Poultry Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
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Immunogenicity of Pigeon Circovirus Recombinant Capsid Protein in Pigeons. Viruses 2018; 10:v10110596. [PMID: 30384424 PMCID: PMC6265742 DOI: 10.3390/v10110596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 10/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Pigeon circovirus (PiCV) is the most frequently diagnosed virus in pigeons and is thought to be one of the causative factors of a complex disease called the young pigeon disease syndrome (YPDS). The development of a vaccine against this virus could be a strategy for YPDS control. Since laboratory culture of PiCV is impossible, its recombinant capsid protein (rCP) can be considered as a potential antigen candidate in sub-unit vaccines. The aim of this basic research was to evaluate the immune response of pigeons to PiCV rCP. Sixty six-week-old carrier pigeons were divided into two groups (experimental immunized with PiCV rCP mixed with an adjuvant, and control immunized with an adjuvant only), and immunized twice in a 21-day interval. On the day of immunization and on two, 23, 39, and 46 days post first immunization (dpv), samples of blood, spleen, and bursa of Fabricius were collected from six birds from each group to examine anti-PiCV rCP IgY, anti-PiCV rCP IgY-secreting B cells (SBC), IFN-γ gene expression, and percentage of T CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and B IgM+ lymphocytes. The results indicated a correct immune response to PiCV rCP both in humoral and cell-mediated immunity, which was manifested by seroconversion since 23 dpv, by a significantly higher anti-PiCV rCP IgY-SBC number on two and 23 dpv, and significantly higher IFN-γ gene expression since two dpv. There were no significant differences or trends noted between particular T and B lymphocyte subpopulations. To conclude, PiCV rCP may be deemed immunogenic and could be considered as an antigen candidate in sub-unit vaccines against PiCV infections in pigeons.
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MacDonald J. History and Promise of Plant-Made Vaccines for Animals. PROSPECTS OF PLANT-BASED VACCINES IN VETERINARY MEDICINE 2018. [PMCID: PMC7122757 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-90137-4_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Abstract
Researchers have generated an array of potential avian antiviral vaccines. However, vaccine and viral complexity, small profit margins, the cost of development and manufacturing, and the small population at risk relegate most avian vaccine use to commercial species. Some vaccines designed for use in nonavian species are used to prevent or ameliorate disease in exotic and companion birds. This article highlights newly developed vaccines that may be used in exotic and pet birds. Information pertinent to vaccine choice and strategy is provided, including disease lethality, species affected, and previous knowledge regarding vaccine safety and efficacy. Other avian species of concern are also included.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Jill Heatley
- Veterinary Pathobiology, Schubot Exotic Bird Health Center, College of Veterinary, Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 668 Raymond Stotzer Parkway, VIDI Building 1813, College Station, TX 77843-4467, USA
| | - Susan Payne
- Veterinary Pathobiology, Schubot Exotic Bird Health Center, College of Veterinary, Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 668 Raymond Stotzer Parkway, VIDI Building 1813, College Station, TX 77843-4467, USA
| | - Ian Tizard
- Veterinary Pathobiology, Schubot Exotic Bird Health Center, College of Veterinary, Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 668 Raymond Stotzer Parkway, VIDI Building 1813, College Station, TX 77843-4467, USA.
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12
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Stenzel T, Koncicki A. The epidemiology, molecular characterization and clinical pathology of circovirus infections in pigeons - current knowledge. Vet Q 2017; 37:166-174. [PMID: 28463055 DOI: 10.1080/01652176.2017.1325972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The first cases of circovirus infections in pigeons were documented less than 25 years ago. Since then, circovirus infections have been reported on nearly all continents. The specificity of pigeon breeding defies biosecurity principles, which could be the reason for the high prevalence of PiCV infections. PiCV infections in pigeons lead to atrophy of immune system organs and lymphocyte apoptosis. Infected birds could be more susceptible to infections of the respiratory and digestive tract. PiCV has been associated with the young pigeon disease syndrome (YPDS). PiCVs are characterized by high levels of genetic diversity due to frequent point mutations, recombination processes in the PiCV genome and positive selection. Genetic recombinations and positive selection play the key role in the evolution of PiCV. A protocol for culturing PiCV under laboratory conditions has not yet been developed, and traditional vaccines against the infection are not available. Recombinant capsid proteins for detecting anti-PiCV antibodies have been obtained, and these antigens can be used in the production of diagnostic tests and subunit vaccines against PiCV infections. However, YPDS has complex etiology, and it remains unknown whether immunization against PiCV alone will contribute to effective control of YPDS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Stenzel
- a Department of Poultry Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine , University of Warmia and Mazury , Olsztyn , Poland
| | - Andrzej Koncicki
- a Department of Poultry Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine , University of Warmia and Mazury , Olsztyn , Poland
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Regnard GL, Rybicki EP, Hitzeroth II. Recombinant expression of beak and feather disease virus capsid protein and assembly of virus-like particles in Nicotiana benthamiana. Virol J 2017; 14:174. [PMID: 28893289 PMCID: PMC5594603 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-017-0847-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) is an important disease causing agent affecting psittacines. BFDV is highly infectious and can present as acute, chronic or subclinical disease. The virus causes immunodeficiency and is often associated with secondary infections. No commercial vaccine is available and yields of recombinant BFDV capsid protein (CP) expressed in insect cells and bacteria are yet to be seen as commercially viable, although both systems produced BFDV CP that could successfully assemble into virus-like particles (VLPs). Plants as expression systems are increasingly becoming favourable for the production of region-specific and niche market products. The aim of this study was to investigate the formation and potential for purification of BFDV VLPs in Nicotiana benthamiana. METHODS The BFDV CP was transiently expressed in N. benthamiana using an Agrobacterium-mediated system and plant expression vectors that included a bean yellow dwarf virus (BeYDV)-based replicating DNA vector. Plant-produced BFDV CP was detected using immunoblotting. VLPs were purified using sucrose cushion and CsCl density gradient centrifugation and visualised using transmission electron microscopy. RESULTS In this study we demonstrate that the BFDV CP can be successfully expressed in N. benthamiana, albeit at relatively low yield. Using a purification strategy based on centrifugation we demonstrated that the expressed CP can self-assemble into VLPs that can be detected using electron microscopy. These plant-produced BFDV VLPs resemble those produced in established recombinant expression systems and infectious virions. It is possible that the VLPs are spontaneously incorporating amplicon DNA produced from the replicating BeYDV plant vector. CONCLUSIONS This is the first report of plant-made full-length BFDV CP assembling into VLPs. The putative pseudovirions could be used to further the efficacy of vaccines against BFDV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guy L. Regnard
- Biopharming Research Unit, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Edward P. Rybicki
- Biopharming Research Unit, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, Cape Town, South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Observatory 7925, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Inga I. Hitzeroth
- Biopharming Research Unit, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, Cape Town, South Africa
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14
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Regnard GL, de Moor WRJ, Hitzeroth II, Williamson AL, Rybicki EP. Xenogenic rolling-circle replication of a synthetic beak and feather disease virus genomic clone in 293TT mammalian cells and Nicotiana benthamiana. J Gen Virol 2017; 98:2329-2338. [PMID: 28885140 DOI: 10.1099/jgv.0.000915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The preparation of infectious beak and feather disease circovirus virions (BFDV) has until now relied on the extraction of virus from whole tissue of deceased or euthanized parrots known to be infected with the virus. Extraction from diseased tissue is necessary, as the virus has yet to be grown in vitro using tissue-cultured cells from any source. While infectious DNA clones have been synthesized for porcine and duck circoviruses, and both replicate in host cells and result in active viral infection in animals, this has not been shown for BFDV. The aim of this study was to prepare an infectious BFDV genomic clone that could be used as challenge material in birds for vaccine testing. A putatively infectious BFDV genomic clone was designed and tested in mammalian cell culture, and in the plant Nicotiana benthamiana in the presence of plant-specific ssDNA geminivirus replication components. Replication was assessed using rolling-circle amplification, qPCR, replication-deficient clones and rescue plasmids. We showed that a synthetic partially dimeric BFDV genomic clone self-replicated when transfected into 293TT mammalian cells, and was also replicated in N. benthamiana in the presence of geminivirus replication elements. This is the first report of a BFDV genome replicating in any cell system, and the first report of a circovirus replicating with the aid of a geminivirus in a plant. Both of these developments could open up possibilities for making reagents and vaccines for BFDV, testing vaccine efficacy and investigating viral replication using rationally designed artificial genomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guy L Regnard
- Biopharming Research Unit, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Warren R J de Moor
- Division of Medical Virology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Observatory 7925, Cape Town, South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Observatory 7925, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Inga I Hitzeroth
- Biopharming Research Unit, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Anna-Lise Williamson
- National Health Laboratory Service, Groote Schuur Hospital, Observatory 7925, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Medical Virology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Observatory 7925, Cape Town, South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Observatory 7925, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Edward P Rybicki
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Observatory 7925, Cape Town, South Africa
- Biopharming Research Unit, Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, Cape Town, South Africa
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15
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Raidal SR, Sarker S, Peters A. Review of psittacine beak and feather disease and its effect on Australian endangered species. Aust Vet J 2016; 93:466-70. [PMID: 26769072 DOI: 10.1111/avj.12388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2014] [Revised: 04/23/2015] [Accepted: 06/16/2015] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since it was first described in the early 1980s, psittacine beak and feather disease (PBFD) has become recognised as the dominant viral pathogen of psittacine birds in Australia. Our aim was to evaluate and review the effect of PBFD and its position as a key threatening process to Australian psittacine bird species. We review the origin/evolutionary pathways and potential threat of PBFD to endangered psittacine bird populations and captive-breeding flocks. CONCLUSIONS The most recent beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) phylogenetic analyses indicate that all endangered Australian psittacine bird species are susceptible to, and equally likely to be infected by, BFDV genotypes from a range of host psittacine species. Management of the disease in captive-breeding programs has relied on testing and culling, which has proven costly. The risk of PBFD should be considered very carefully by management teams contemplating the establishment of captive-breeding flocks for endangered species. Alternative disease prevention tools, including vaccination, which are increasingly being used in wildlife health, should be considered more seriously for managing and preventing PBFD in captive flocks of critically endangered species.
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Affiliation(s)
- S R Raidal
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia. .,Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation (NSW Department of Primary Industries and Charles Sturt University), Wagga Wagga, NSW, Australia.
| | - S Sarker
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia.,Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation (NSW Department of Primary Industries and Charles Sturt University), Wagga Wagga, NSW, Australia
| | - A Peters
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales, Australia.,Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation (NSW Department of Primary Industries and Charles Sturt University), Wagga Wagga, NSW, Australia
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16
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Altan E, Eravci E, Cizmecigil UY, Yildar E, Aydin O, Turan N, Ozsoy S, Tekelioglu KB, Kurt T, Gerbaga Ozsemir K, Altan E, Yilmaz H. Detection and Phylogeny of Beak and Feather Disease Virus and Avian Polyomavirus in Psittacine Pet Birds in Turkey. J Exot Pet Med 2016. [DOI: 10.1053/j.jepm.2016.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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17
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Stenzel T, Woźniakowski G, Pestka D, Choszcz D, Tykałowski B, Śmiałek M, Koncicki A. Application of pigeon circovirus recombinant capsid protein for detecting anti-PiCV antibodies in the sera of asymptomatic domestic pigeons and the potential use of a combination of serological and molecular tests for controlling circovirus infections in pigeon breeding flocks. Poult Sci 2016; 96:303-308. [PMID: 27578880 DOI: 10.3382/ps/pew266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 03/04/2016] [Accepted: 06/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the serologic status of domestic pigeons not infected and asymptomatically infected with the pigeon circovirus (PiCV) with the use of an enzyme-linked assay based on PiCV recombinant capsid protein as a plate antigen. Recombinant PiCV capsid protein was produced by transforming E. coli BL21 (DE3) Rosetta colonies with expression plasmids.Blood samples and cloacal swabs were collected from 171 asymptomatic pigeons. The birds were divided into two groups (infected and not infected with PiCV) based on the results of Sybr Green real time PCR screening for the presence of PiCV genetic material. Approximately 70% of the pigeons tested positive for anti-PiCV antibodies regardless of their infection status. Antibody levels, the coefficient of variation and standard deviation were significantly higher in the group of infected pigeons.The results indicate that ELISA is a highly useful test that complements molecular methods in evaluations of PiCV infection status in domestic pigeons. The spread of pigeon circovirus infections can be controlled by keeping breeding flocks free of PiCV, which can only be achieved by subjecting birds to real time PCR and serological tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Stenzel
- Department of Poultry Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, ul. Oczapowskiego 13, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | | | - Daria Pestka
- Department of Poultry Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, ul. Oczapowskiego 13, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Dariusz Choszcz
- Department of Heavy Duty Machines and Research Methodology, Faculty of Technical Sciences, University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Bartłomiej Tykałowski
- Department of Poultry Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, ul. Oczapowskiego 13, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Marcin Śmiałek
- Department of Poultry Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, ul. Oczapowskiego 13, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Andrzej Koncicki
- Department of Poultry Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury, ul. Oczapowskiego 13, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
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18
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Fogell DJ, Martin RO, Groombridge JJ. Beak and feather disease virus in wild and captive parrots: an analysis of geographic and taxonomic distribution and methodological trends. Arch Virol 2016; 161:2059-74. [PMID: 27151279 PMCID: PMC4947100 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-016-2871-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2016] [Accepted: 04/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Psittacine beak and feather disease (PBFD) has emerged in recent years as a major threat to wild parrot populations and is an increasing concern to aviculturists and managers of captive populations. Pathological and serological tests for screening for the presence of beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) are a critical component of efforts to manage the disease and of epidemiological studies. Since the disease was first reported in the mid-1970s, screening for BFDV has been conducted in numerous wild and captive populations. However, at present, there is no current and readily accessible synthesis of screening efforts and their results. Here, we consolidate information collected from 83 PBFD- and BFDV-based publications on the primary screening methods being used and identify important knowledge gaps regarding potential global disease hotspots. We present trends in research intensity in this field and critically discuss advances in screening techniques and their applications to both aviculture and to the management of threatened wild populations. Finally, we provide an overview of estimates of BFDV prevalence in captive and wild flocks alongside a complete list of all psittacine species in which the virus has been confirmed. Our evaluation highlights the need for standardised diagnostic tests and more emphasis on studies of wild populations, particularly in view of the intrinsic connection between global trade in companion birds and the spread of novel BFDV strains into wild populations. Increased emphasis should be placed on the screening of captive and wild parrot populations within their countries of origin across the Americas, Africa and Asia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah J Fogell
- Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology, University of Kent, Canterbury, CT2 7NZ, UK.
| | - Rowan O Martin
- World Parrot Trust, Glanmor House, Hayle, Cornwall, TR27 4HB, UK.,Percy FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST/NRF Centre of Excellence, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jim J Groombridge
- Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology, University of Kent, Canterbury, CT2 7NZ, UK
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Wellehan • JF, Lierz • M, Phalen • D, Raidal • S, Styles • DK, Crosta • L, Melillo • A, Schnitzer • P, Lennox • A, Lumeij JT. Infectious disease. CURRENT THERAPY IN AVIAN MEDICINE AND SURGERY 2016. [PMCID: PMC7158187 DOI: 10.1016/b978-1-4557-4671-2.00011-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
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20
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Araújo AV, Andery DA, Ferreira Jr. FC, Ortiz MC, Marques MVR, Marin SY, Vilela DAR, Resende JS, Resende M, Donatti RV, Martins NRS. Molecular Diagnosis of Beak and Feather Disease in Native Brazilian Psittacines. BRAZILIAN JOURNAL OF POULTRY SCIENCE 2015. [DOI: 10.1590/1516-635x1704451-458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- AV Araújo
- Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - DA Andery
- Instituto Estadual de Florestas, Brazil
| | | | - MC Ortiz
- Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | | | - SY Marin
- Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - DAR Vilela
- Instituto Brasileiro de Meio Ambiente e Recursos Naturais Renováveis, Brazil
| | - JS Resende
- Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - M Resende
- Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - RV Donatti
- Federal University of Minas Gerais, Brazil
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21
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Evidence of a deep viral host switch event with beak and feather disease virus infection in rainbow bee-eaters (Merops ornatus). Sci Rep 2015; 5:14511. [PMID: 26411487 PMCID: PMC4585972 DOI: 10.1038/srep14511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2015] [Accepted: 09/02/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the characterization of psittacine beak and feather disease (PBFD) in 1984, a wide range of avian circoviruses have been discovered with varying pathogenic effects amongst a diverse range of avian hosts. Until recently these circovirus species were thought to be restricted to within avian Orders such as the Psittaciformes for beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) and Columbiformes for pigeon circovirus with little evidence of cross-family transmission or replication. We report evidence of a naturally occurring novel host switch event with self-limiting BFDV infection in a group of rainbow bee-eaters (Merops ornatus) a species of Coraciiformes unrelated to parrots and not previously known to be susceptible to any avian circovirus. The outbreak highlights important and unexpected aspects of disease emergence and host-switching pertinent to other situations when viruses might cross species boundaries as well as the potential of avian circoviruses to infect disparate host species.
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22
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Sarker S, Ghorashi SA, Swarbrick CM, Khandokar YB, Himiari Z, Forwood JK, Raidal SR. An efficient approach for recombinant expression and purification of the viral capsid protein from beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) in Escherichia coli. J Virol Methods 2015; 215-216:1-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2015.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2014] [Revised: 02/09/2015] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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23
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Beak and feather disease virus: correlation between viral load and clinical signs in wild Cape parrots (Poicepahlus robustus) in South Africa. Arch Virol 2014; 160:339-44. [PMID: 25193072 DOI: 10.1007/s00705-014-2225-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2014] [Accepted: 08/30/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Psittacine beak and feather disease (PBFD), the most prevalent viral disease affecting psittacines, is caused by beak and feather disease virus (BFDV). This study assessed viral load using qPCR in a wild Cape parrot population affected by PBFD and compared it to overall physical condition based on clinical signs attributable to PBFD. A significant inverse correlation between viral load and overall physical condition was found, which confirmed that clinical signs may confidently be used to diagnose the relative severity of BFDV infections in wild populations. This is the first assessment of BFDV viral load in a wild psittacine population.
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24
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Stenzel T, Pestka D. Occurrence and genetic diversity of pigeon circovirus strains in Poland. Acta Vet Hung 2014; 62:274-83. [PMID: 24659711 DOI: 10.1556/avet.2014.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Pigeon circovirus (PiCV) is an immunosuppressive agent widespread throughout the world, which causes a disease in pigeons called Young Pigeon Disease Syndrome. The aim of the study was to evaluate the prevalence of PiCV in Poland and investigate the genetic diversity relative to other known PiCV isolates. Samples from 152 pigeon flocks (88 flocks of racing pigeons and 64 flocks of fancy pigeons) from various regions of Poland were tested by polymerase chain reaction and an approximately 326-base fragment of the capsid protein gene (Cap gene) of the virus was amplified. The average viral prevalence was found to be 70.3% (76.13% in racing pigeons and 62.5% in fancy pigeons). Among the obtained positive samples, 21 were selected for sequencing and a phylogenetic analysis was performed. It was found that the majority of Polish PiCV isolates, to varying degrees, are related to isolates occurring in Europe. It was also observed that the Cap gene is variable and mutations often occur in it, which impacts the amino acid sequences in the capsid protein (nucleotide similarity averaged 86.57%, amino acid similarity averaged 89.02%).
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Stenzel
- 1 University of Warmia and Mazury Department of Poultry Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Oczapowskiego 13 10-719 Olsztyn Poland
| | - Daria Pestka
- 1 University of Warmia and Mazury Department of Poultry Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine Oczapowskiego 13 10-719 Olsztyn Poland
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Sarker S, Ghorashi SA, Forwood JK, Bent SJ, Peters A, Raidal SR. Phylogeny of beak and feather disease virus in cockatoos demonstrates host generalism and multiple-variant infections within Psittaciformes. Virology 2014; 460-461:72-82. [PMID: 25010272 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2014.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2013] [Revised: 01/09/2014] [Accepted: 04/17/2014] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Phylogenetic analyses of the highly genetically diverse but antigenically conserved, single-stranded circular, DNA genome of the avian circovirus, beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) from cockatoo species throughout Australia demonstrated a high mutation rate for BFDV (orders of magnitude fall in the range of 10(-4) substitutions/site/year) along with strong support for recombination indicating active cross-species transmission in various subpopulations. Multiple variants of BFDV were demonstrated with at least 30 genotypic variants identified within nine individual birds, with one containing up to 7 variants. Single genetic variants were detected in feathers from 2 birds but splenic tissue provided further variants. The rich BFDV genetic diversity points to Australasia as the most likely geographical origin of this virus and supports flexible host switching. We propose this as evidence of Order-wide host generalism in the Psittaciformes characterised by high mutability that is buffered by frequent recombination and slow replication strategy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subir Sarker
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Boorooma Street, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales 2678, Australia; Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation, NSW Department of Primary Industries and Charles Sturt University, Boorooma Street, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales 2678, Australia.
| | - Seyed A Ghorashi
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Boorooma Street, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales 2678, Australia; Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation, NSW Department of Primary Industries and Charles Sturt University, Boorooma Street, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales 2678, Australia.
| | - Jade K Forwood
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Boorooma Street, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales 2678, Australia; Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation, NSW Department of Primary Industries and Charles Sturt University, Boorooma Street, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales 2678, Australia.
| | - Stephen J Bent
- Molecular and Biomedical Science, Faculty of Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Australia.
| | - Andrew Peters
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Boorooma Street, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales 2678, Australia; Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation, NSW Department of Primary Industries and Charles Sturt University, Boorooma Street, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales 2678, Australia.
| | - Shane R Raidal
- School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Boorooma Street, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales 2678, Australia; Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation, NSW Department of Primary Industries and Charles Sturt University, Boorooma Street, Wagga Wagga, New South Wales 2678, Australia.
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26
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Lai GH, Lin YC, Tsai YL, Lien YY, Lin MK, Chen HJ, Chang WT, Tzen JTC, Lee MS. High yield production of pigeon circovirus capsid protein in the E. coli by evaluating the key parameters needed for protein expression. BMC Vet Res 2014; 10:115. [PMID: 24886262 PMCID: PMC4046012 DOI: 10.1186/1746-6148-10-115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2014] [Accepted: 05/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pigeon circovirus (PiCV) is considered to be a viral agent central to the development of young pigeon disease syndrome (YPDS). The Cap protein, a structural protein encoded by the cap (or C1) gene of PiCV, has been shown to be responsible for not only capsid assembly, but also has been used as antigen for detecting antibody when the host is infected with PiCV. The antigenic characteristics of the Cap protein potentially may allow the development of a detection kit that could be applied to control PiCV infection. However, poor expression and poor protein solubility have hampered the production of recombinant Cap protein in the bacteria. This study was undertaken to develop the optimal expression of recombinant full-length Cap protein of PiCV using an E. coli expression system. Results The PiCV cap gene was cloned and fused with different fusion partners including a His-tag, a GST-tag (glutathioine-S-transferase tag) and a Trx-His-tag (thioredoxin-His tag). The resulting constructs were then expressed after transformation into a number of different E. coli strains; these then had their protein expression evaluated. The expression of the recombinant Cap protein in E. coli was significantly increased when Cap protein was fused with either a GST-tag or a Trx-His tag rather than a His-tag. After various rare amino acid codons presented in the Cap protein were optimized to give the sequence rCapopt, the expression level of the GST-rCapopt in E. coli BL21(DE3) was further increased to a significant degree. The highest protein expression level of GST-rCapopt obtained was 394.27 ± 26.1 mg/L per liter using the E. coli strain BL21(DE3)-pLysS. Moreover, approximately 74.5% of the expressed GST-rCapopt was in soluble form, which is higher than the soluble Trx-His-rCapopt expressed using the BL21(DE3)-pLysS strain. After purification using a GST affinity column combined with ion-exchange chromatography, the purified recombinant GST-rCapopt protein was found to have good antigenic activity when tested against PiCV-infected pigeon sera. Conclusions These findings shows that the E. coli-expressed full-length PiCV Cap protein has great potential in terms of large-scaled production and this should allow in the future the development of a serodiagnostic kit that is able to clinically detect PiCV infection in pigeons.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Jason T C Tzen
- Graduate Institute of Biotechnology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung, Taiwan.
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27
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Duvenage L, Hitzeroth II, Meyers AE, Rybicki EP. Expression in tobacco and purification of beak and feather disease virus capsid protein fused to elastin-like polypeptides. J Virol Methods 2013; 191:55-62. [PMID: 23578703 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2013.03.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2012] [Revised: 03/20/2013] [Accepted: 03/25/2013] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Psittacine beak and feather disease, caused by beak and feather disease virus (BFDV), is a threat to endangered psittacine species. There is currently no vaccine against BFDV, which necessitates the development of safe and affordable vaccine candidates. A subunit vaccine based on BFDV capsid protein (CP), the major antigenic determinant, expressed in the inexpensive and highly scalable plant expression system could satisfy these requirements. Full-length CP and a truncated CP (ΔN40 CP) were transiently expressed in tobacco (Nicotiana benthamiana) as fusions to elastin-like polypeptide (ELP). These two proteins were fused to ELPs of different lengths in order to increase expression levels and to provide a simple means of purification. The ELP fusion proteins were purified by inverse transition cycling (ITC) and it was found that a membrane filtration-based ITC method improved the recovery of ΔN40 CP-ELP51 fusion protein relative to a centrifugation-based method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucian Duvenage
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7700, South Africa
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Patterson EI, Swarbrick CMD, Roman N, Forwood JK, Raidal SR. Differential expression of two isolates of beak and feather disease virus capsid protein in Escherichia coli. J Virol Methods 2013; 189:118-24. [PMID: 23403150 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2013.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2012] [Revised: 01/07/2013] [Accepted: 01/28/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Expression of recombinant beak and feather disease virus (BFDV) capsid-associated protein (Cap) has relied on inefficient techniques that typically produce low yields or use specialized expression systems, which greatly increase the cost and expertise required for mass production. An Escherichia coli system was used to express recombinant BFDV Cap derived from two isolates of BFDV, from a Long-billed Corella (Cacatua tenuirostris) and an Orange-bellied parrot (OBP; Neophema chrysogaster). Purification by affinity and size exclusion chromatography was optimized through an iterative process involving screening and modification of buffer constituents and pH. A buffer containing glycerol, β-mercaptoethanol, Triton X-100, and a high concentration of NaCl at pH 8 was used to increase solubility of the protein. The final concentration of the corella-isolated BFDV protein was fifteen- to twenty-fold greater than that produced in previous publications using E. coli expression systems. Immunoassays were used to confirm the specific antigenicity of recombinant Cap, verifying its validity for use in continued experimentation as a potential vaccine, a reagent in diagnostic assays, and as a concentrated sample for biological discoveries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward I Patterson
- Charles Sturt University, School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Boorooma St., Wagga Wagga, New South Wales 2678, Australia
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Katoh H, Ogawa H, Ohya K, Fukushi H. A review of DNA viral infections in psittacine birds. J Vet Med Sci 2010; 72:1099-106. [PMID: 20424393 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.10-0022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
To date, several DNA viral infections have been reported in psittacine birds. Psittacine beak and feather disease (PBFD) is characterized by symmetric feather dystrophy and loss and development of beak deformities. PBFD is caused by beak and feather virus, which belongs to the Circoviridae, and is the most important infection in psittacine birds worldwide. Avian polyomavirus infection causes acute death, abdominal distention, and feather abnormalities. Pacheco's disease (PD), which is caused by psittacid herpesvirus type 1, is an acute lethal disease without a prodrome. Psittacine adenovirus infections are described as having a clinical progression similar to PD. The clinical changes in psittacine poxvirus-infected birds include serious ocular discharge, rhinitis, and conjunctivitis, followed by the appearance of ulcerations on the medial canthi of the eyes. Internal papillomatosis of parrots (IPP) is a tumor disease characterized by progressive development of papillomas in the oral and cloacal mucosa. IPP has been suggested to caused by papillomavirus or herpesvirus. However, information about these diseases is limited. Here we review the etiology, clinical features, pathology, epidemiology, and diagnosis of these DNA viruses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Katoh
- Department of Applied Veterinary Sciences, United Graduate School of Veterinary Sciences, Gifu University, Gifu, Japan
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Shearer PL, Sharp M, Bonne N, Clark P, Raidal SR. A quantitative, real-time polymerase chain reaction assay for beak and feather disease virus. J Virol Methods 2009; 159:98-104. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2009.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2008] [Revised: 03/02/2009] [Accepted: 03/09/2009] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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Shearer PL, Sharp M, Bonne N, Clark P, Raidal SR. A blocking ELISA for the detection of antibodies to psittacine beak and feather disease virus (BFDV). J Virol Methods 2009; 158:136-40. [PMID: 19428582 DOI: 10.1016/j.jviromet.2009.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2008] [Revised: 01/28/2009] [Accepted: 02/05/2009] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Currently, the only diagnostic test available routinely for the sero-diagnosis of BFDV is the haemagglutination-inhibition (HI) assay. This test, whilst useful and applicable to samples from a wide range of psittacine birds, is not an ideal assay; it requires erythrocytes from live animals, virus purified from the feathers of infected birds and polyclonal antibody preparations in order to perform the assay. Variations in these reagents make consistency between tests difficult to achieve, underscoring the need for a new test with standardised reagents for the sero-diagnosis of BFDV infection which has led to the development of an antibody response. The methods used to develop a novel "blocking" (or "competitive") ELISA (bELISA) for the detection of anti-BFDV antibodies in psittacine sera are presented in this paper. The assay was developed using a baculovirus-expressed recombinant BFDV capsid protein and a newly developed monoclonal antibody raised against this protein. The assay was then validated with 160 samples from eastern long-billed corellas (Cacatua tenuiostris) vaccinated with the recombinant capsid protein and challenged with live virus and samples from 82 cockatiels known to be HI negative. The bELISA described in this study is a sensitive and specific diagnostic test and should have wide application for the sero-diagnosis of BFDV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick L Shearer
- Murdoch University, School of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Murdoch Drive, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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