Experimental infection with equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) induces chorioretinal lesions

[Statement on the efficacy and immunological safety of EHV vaccines in horses]

In February 2021, a serious EHV-1 outbreak occurred at an international jumping competition in Valencia, with several subsequent outbreaks in various European countries. As a consequence, several equestrian associations introduced compulsory vaccination against EHV-1, and in the immediate aftermath of the outbreak, demand for EHV vaccinations increased sharply. The initial concern has now dissipated. One equestrian association has abolished the compulsory vaccination that had only been introduced a year before, and a general debate began questioning the efficacy and safety of EHV-vaccines. This discussion has been fueled by international meta-studies that systematically re-evaluated published efficacy studies on EHV-vaccines. The meta-studies applied evidence criteria that were originally designed for preclinical studies in human medicine. It was concluded that the quality of the published data was not sufficient to prove the efficacy of EHV vaccines. Naturally, lack of evidence does not prove the opposite! Hence, one of the two author teams of these meta-studies upholds the notion that vaccination is a centerpiece of comprehensive EHV management strategies.StIKo Vet has carefully followed the discussions and the meta-studies. It cannot be expected that other infection studies on horses meeting the evidence criteria will be conducted in the near future, as EHV infection studies on horses pose considerable ethical, logistical and economic challenges. Therefore, StIKo Vet has undertaken an own re-evaluation of the existing efficacy studies. In addition, outbreak investigations were reviewed with regard to the role of EHV vaccination as a risk factor for the development of severe clinical courses.StIKo Vet concludes that, even if vaccination against EHV-1 does not confer absolute protection to the vaccinated individual, the re-evaluated studies show highly significant differences between vaccinated and unvaccinated animals: Vaccination reduces the severity of clinical symptoms and the duration and level of virus excretion. Herd vaccination can reduce overall viral loads and thus interrupt infection chains. There is ample reason to assume vaccine efficacy, but no compelling evidence was found for a correlation between EHV vaccination and severe EHV symptoms. By contrast, a comprehensive analysis of several different outbreaks shows that a herd immunity over 40 % is able to significantly reduce the risk for neurological symptoms. In addition, it has to be emphasized that the safety and efficacy of EHV-vaccines is stringently evaluated during the marketing authorization process. Only facts that have appropriately been proven in licensing studies are documented in the summary of product characteristics, e.g. the packaging leaflet. StIKo Vet therefore upholds EHV as a core-vaccination for horses. Every horse should be vaccinated and protected against EHV-1 at all times. It is likewise clear that with high viral loads and additional predisposing factors, EHV outbreaks occur despite vaccination. So, vaccination is only one component: A comprehensive prevention strategy additionally includes transparent outbreak communication, general hygiene measures, avoiding shared housing in insufficiently ventilated stables, especially at competition events, separating animals of different origin wherever possible and, above all, isolating horses that are already sick or at particular risk of infection.

First Molecular and Phylogenetic Characterization of Equine Herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) and Equine Herpesvirus-4 (EHV-4) in Morocco

This study aimed to investigate the molecular prevalence and genetic characterization of EHV-1 and EHV-4 in equid populations in Morocco. A total of 154 equids (114 horses, 9 donkeys, and 31 mules) were sampled, with nasal swabs and tissue samples subjected to multiplex real-time PCR for the detection of EHV-1 and EHV-4. Additionally, an isolate from the tissue of an aborted horse fetus was included in the analysis. A subset of EHV-positive samples underwent virus isolation followed by whole-genome sequencing. PCR assays revealed that 42 samples (27%) tested positive for EHV-4, while only 3 samples (1.94%) were positive for EHV-1. Attempts to isolate the virus from EHV-4-positive samples were unsuccessful. However, virus isolation was successful in an EHV-1-positive nasopharyngeal sample from a donkey. Phylogenetic and molecular characterization reclassified the EHV-1 isolated from the donkey as an EHV-8. Meanwhile, the EHV-1 isolated from the aborted fetal tissue was classified as a clade 1 EHV-1 virus. This study is the first to report the molecular prevalence and genetic characterization of EHV-1 and EHV-4 in equid populations in Morocco, providing valuable insights into the distribution and genetic diversity of these viruses in the region.

Ocular toxicity, distribution, and shedding of intravitreal AAV-eqIL-10 in horses

Non-infectious uveitis (NIU) is a painful recurrent disease affecting 2%-5% of horses. Current treatments require frequent administration with associated adverse events. In a previous study, intravitreal (IVT) adeno-associated virus (AAV) harboring equine interleukin-10 (eqIL-10) cDNA inhibited experimental uveitis in rats. The goal of this study was to evaluate the ocular tolerability, vector genome (vg) distribution, and vector shedding following an IVT injection of AAV8-eqIL-10 in normal horses with the hypothesis that it would be well tolerated in a dose-dependent manner in horses. Injections were well tolerated with mild transient signs of ocular inflammation; however, horses receiving the highest dose developed keratic precipitates. The vgs were not detected in the tears 3 days after injection, or in urine or feces at any time. Aqueous and vitreous humor eqIL-10 levels increased to higher than 1.5 ng/mL, more than 20 times higher than reported effective endogenous and induced levels. The vgs were detected in ocular tissues, and systemic distribution was identified only in the liver and kidney. No systemic effects were identified 86 days after dosing with IVT AAV-eqIL-10. Further investigation of lower doses of IVT AAV8-eqIL-10 therapy is an important next step toward a safe and effective single-dose treatment of equine uveitis with broader implications for treating NIU in humans.

A survey of ocular pathology in Warmblood horses in South Africa

BACKGROUND

Warmblood horses are a popular breed around the world for equestrian sports. Previous studies have investigated ocular findings in other breeds of horses; however, no studies exist for the Warmblood breed.

OBJECTIVES

To determine the prevalence of ocular abnormalities in a convenience sample of Warmblood horses in South Africa and to determine if the prevalence of lens and chorioretinal lesions increase with age.

STUDY DESIGN

Descriptive, observational study.

METHODS

Warmblood horses underwent a full ophthalmic examination which included a Schirmer tear test (STT), tonometry, fluorescein dye testing, slit lamp biomicroscopy and indirect ophthalmoscopy. Age was categorised into three groups namely <8 years old, 8-13 years old and 14+ years old for statistical analysis. Prevalence of lens and chorioretinal lesions were compared between age categories.

RESULTS

One hundred and four horses (208 eyes) were examined. The age range was 5 months to 30 years (mean 11 years, standard deviation [SD] 6 years). Ocular pathology was noted in 125 eyes (60.1%) and 79 horses (76%). The highest number of lesions were noted in the choroid and retina, iris and lens. Chorioretinal lesions were seen in 100 eyes (48.1%) and in 65 horses (62.5%). Iridial lesions were seen in 19 eyes (9.1%) and 12 horses (11.5%). Cataracts were seen in 19 eyes (9.1%) and in 13 horses (12.5%). The presence of total chorioretinal lesions (eye level [p = 0.002]; horse level [p = 0.004]), focal chorioretinal lesions (eye level [p = 0.004]; horse level [p = 0.008]) and cataract (eye [p = 0.03]; horse level [p = 0.02]) were all shown to statistically increase with age.

MAIN LIMITATIONS

A small sample size and limited geographic area.

CONCLUSIONS

There was a high prevalence of ocular pathology in this population of Warmblood horses in South Africa. This reiterates the importance of an ocular examination as a part of routine health checks, as well as during prepurchase examinations.

Relationship between equine herpesvirus-1 viremia and abortion or equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy in domesticated horses: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Equine herpes virus type 1 (EHV-1) infection in horses is associated with upper respiratory disease, neurological disease, abortions, and neonatal death.

OBJECTIVE

To determine if there is an association between the level and duration of EHV-1 viremia and either abortion or equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM) in domesticated horses?

METHODS

A systematic review was performed searching numerous databases to identify peer reviewed reports that evaluated viremia and EHM, or viremia and abortion published before January 19, 2021. Randomized controlled trials and observational studies were assessed for risk of bias or publication quality.

RESULTS

A total of 189 unique studies were identified, of which 34 met the inclusion criteria. Thirty studies evaluated viremia and neurologic outcomes including 4 observational studies. Eight experimental studies examined viremia and abortion, which used the Ab4 and OH03 virus strains or recombinant Ab4 derivatives. Incidence rates for both EHM and abortion in experimental studies varied among the studies as did the level of evidence. Viremia was generally detectable before the onset of either EHM or abortion. Risk of bias was generally low to moderate, sample sizes were small, and multiple studies reported negative outcome data.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE

The results of this study support that viremia is regularly present before EHM or abortion occurs. However, no inferences could be made about the relationship between the occurrence of either neurological signs or abortion and the magnitude or duration of viremia.

Viremia and nasal shedding for the diagnosis of equine herpesvirus-1 infection in domesticated horses

BACKGROUND

Equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) infection is associated with upper respiratory disease, EHM, abortions, and neonatal death.

RESEARCH QUESTIONS

Are nasal secretions a more sensitive biological sample compared to blood for the detection of EHV-1 infection? How long is EHV-1 detectable after primary infection by PCR?

METHODS

MedLine and Web of Science searches identified original peer-reviewed reports evaluating nasal shedding and viremia using virus isolation methods or PCR published in English before October 9, 2023.

RESULTS

Sixty experimental and 20 observational studies met inclusion criteria. EHV-1 detection frequency by qPCR in nasal secretions and blood from naturally-infected horses with fever and respiratory signs were 15% and 9%, respectively; qPCR detection rates in nasal secretions and blood from horses with suspected EHM were 94% and 70%, respectively. In experimental studies the sensitivity of qPCR matched or exceeded that seen for virus isolation from either nasal secretions or blood. Detection of nasal shedding typically occurred within 2 days after EHV-1 inoculation with a detection period of 3 to 7 days. Viremia lasted 2 to 7 days and was usually detected ≥1 days after positive identification of EHV-1 in nasal secretions. Nasal shedding and viremia decreased over time and remained detectable in some horses for several weeks after inoculation.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE

Under experimental conditions, blood and nasal secretions have similar sensitivity for the detection of EHV-1 when horses are sampled on multiple consecutive days. In contrast, in observational studies detection of EHV-1 in nasal secretions was consistently more successful.

Updated ACVIM consensus statement on equine herpesvirus-1

Equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) is a highly prevalent and frequently pathogenic infection of equids. The most serious clinical consequences of infection are abortion and equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM). The previous consensus statement was published in 2009 and considered pathogenesis, strain variation, epidemiology, diagnostic testing, vaccination, outbreak prevention and control, and treatment. A recent survey of American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine large animal diplomates identified the need for a revision to this original consensus statement. This updated consensus statement is underpinned by 4 systematic reviews that addressed key questions concerning vaccination, pharmaceutical treatment, pathogenesis, and diagnostic testing. Evidence for successful vaccination against, or effective treatment of EHV-1 infection was limited, and improvements in experimental design and reporting of results are needed in future studies of this important disease. This consensus statement also updates the topics considered previously in 2009.

Impact of the host immune response on the development of equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy in horses

Herpesviruses establish a well-adapted balance with their host's immune system. Despite this co-evolutionary balance, infections can lead to severe disease including neurological disorders in their natural host. In horses, equine herpesvirus 1 (EHV-1) causes respiratory disease, abortions, neonatal foal death and myeloencephalopathy (EHM) in ~10 % of acute infections worldwide. Many aspects of EHM pathogenesis and protection from EHM are still poorly understood. However, it has been shown that the incidence of EHM increases to >70 % in female horses >20 years of age. In this study we used old mares as an experimental equine EHV-1 model of EHM to identify host-specific factors contributing to EHM. Following experimental infection with the neuropathogenic strain EHV-1 Ab4, old mares and yearling horses were studied for 21 days post-infection. Nasal viral shedding and cell-associated viremia were assessed by quantitative PCR. Cytokine/chemokine responses were evaluated in nasal secretions and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) by Luminex assay and in whole blood by quantitative real-time PCR. EHV-1-specific IgG sub-isotype responses were measured by ELISA. All young horses developed respiratory disease and a bi-phasic fever post-infection, but only 1/9 horses exhibited ataxia. In contrast, respiratory disease was absent in old mares, but all old mares developed EHM that resulted in euthanasia in 6/9 old mares. Old mares also presented significantly decreased nasal viral shedding but higher viremia coinciding with a single fever peak at the onset of viremia. According to clinical disease manifestation, horses were sorted into an EHM group (nine old horses and one young horse) and a non-EHM group (eight young horses) for assessment of host immune responses. Non-EHM horses showed an early upregulation of IFN-α (nasal secretions), IRF7/IRF9, IL-1β, CXCL10 and TBET (blood) in addition to an IFN-γ upregulation during viremia (blood). In contrast, IFN-α levels in nasal secretions of EHM horses were low and peak levels of IRF7, IRF9, CXCL10 and TGF-β (blood) coincided with viremia. Moreover, EHM horses showed significantly higher IL-10 levels in nasal secretions, peripheral blood mononuclear cells and CSF and higher serum IgG3/5 antibody titres compared to non-EHM horses. These results suggest that protection from EHM depends on timely induction of type 1 IFN and upregulation cytokines and chemokines that are representative of cellular immunity. In contrast, induction of regulatory or TH-2 type immunity appeared to correlate with an increased risk for EHM. It is likely that future vaccine development for protection from EHM must target shifting this 'at-risk' immunophenotype.

Ocular findings in a population of geriatric equids in the United Kingdom

BACKGROUND

There are a growing number of horses, ponies, and donkeys aged 15 years or older in the United Kingdom, yet there have been no studies utilising a complete ophthalmic examination to investigate the prevalence of ophthalmic pathology within this population.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the prevalence of ophthalmic pathology and associations with signalment, in a convenience sample of geriatric equids in the United Kingdom.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross sectional.

METHODS

Horses, ponies, and donkeys aged 15 years or older based at The Horse Trust charity underwent a full ophthalmic examination including slit lamp biomicroscopy and indirect ophthalmoscopy. Relationships between signalment and pathology were assessed using Fisher's exact and Mann-Witney U tests.

RESULTS

Fifty animals were examined ranging from 15 to 33 years (median 24, interquartile range [IQR] 21, 27). The prevalence of ocular pathology was 84.0% (95% confidence interval [CI] 73.8, 94.2%; n = 42). Four animals (8.0%) had adnexal pathology, while 37 (74.0%) and 22 (44.0%) had at least one form of anterior or posterior segment pathology, respectively. Of those with anterior segment pathology, 26 animals (52.0%) had cataract in at least one eye, with the most common location being anterior cortical (65.0% of those animals with cataract). Animals with posterior segment pathology included 21 animals (42.0%) with fundic pathology, with senile retinopathy being the most common (42.9% of all animals with fundic pathology). Despite the high prevalence of ocular pathology, all eyes examined remained visual. The most common breeds were Irish Draught (24.0%, n = 12), Shetland (18.0%, n = 9) and Thoroughbred (10%, n = 5); the majority were geldings (74.0%, n = 37). There was a statistically significant relationship between the presence of anterior segment pathology and breed (p = 0.006), with all Cobs and Shetlands examined having anterior segment pathology. The presence of posterior segment pathology and senile retinopathy were associated with older median age (posterior segment pathology: 26.0 years [interquartile range {IQR} 24.0, 30.0 years] vs. 23.5 years [IRQ 19.5, 26.5 years], p = 0.03; senile retinopathy: 27.0 years [IQR 26.0, 30 years] vs. 24.0 years [IQR 20.0, 27.0], p = 0.04). None of the pathologies investigated were more prone to affect one versus both eyes (p > 0.05; 71.4% of ocular pathologies were bilateral while 28.6% were unilateral).

MAIN LIMITATIONS

Data were obtained from a relatively small sample size of a single cohort of animals that lacked a control group.

CONCLUSIONS

There was a high prevalence and wide range of ocular lesions in this subset of geriatric equids.

Phylogenomic assessment of 23 equid alphaherpesvirus 1 isolates obtained from USA-based equids

BACKGROUND

Equid alphaherpesvirus 1 (EHV-1) is a global viral pathogen of domestic equids which causes reproductive, respiratory and neurological disease. Few isolates acquired from naturally infected USA-based hosts have been fully sequenced and analyzed to date. An ORF 30 (DNA polymerase) variant (A2254G) has previously been associated with neurological disease in host animals. The purpose of this study was to perform phylogenomic analysis of EHV-1 isolates acquired from USA-based hosts and compare these isolates to previously sequenced global isolates.

METHODS

EHV-1 was isolated from 23 naturally infected USA-based equids (6 different states, 15 disease outbreaks) with reproductive (22/23) or neurological disease (1/23). Following virus isolation, EHV-1 DNA was extracted for sequencing using Illumina MiSeq. Following reference-based assembly, whole viral genomes were annotated and assessed. Previously sequenced EHV-1 isolates (n = 114) obtained from global host equids were included in phylogenomic analyses.

RESULTS

The overall average genomic distance was 0.0828% (SE 0.004%) for the 23 newly sequenced USA isolates and 0.0705% (SE 0.003%) when all 137 isolates were included. Clade structure was predominantly based on geographic origin. Numerous nucleotide substitutions (mean [range], 179 [114-297] synonymous and 81 [38-120] non-synonymous substitutions per isolate) were identified throughout the genome of the newly sequenced USA isolates. The previously described ORF 30 A2254G substitution (associated with neurological disease) was found in only one isolate obtained from a host with non-neurological clinical signs (reproductive disease), six additional, unique, non-synonymous ORF 30 substitutions were detected in 22/23 USA isolates. Evidence of recombination was present in most (22/23) of the newly sequenced USA isolates.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, the genomes of the 23 newly sequenced EHV-1 isolates obtained from USA-based hosts were broadly similar to global isolates. The previously described ORF 30 A2254G neurological substitution was infrequently detected in the newly sequenced USA isolates, most of which were obtained from host animals with reproductive disease. Recombination was likely to be partially responsible for genomic diversity in the newly sequenced USA isolates.

Development of multiplex gold nanoparticles biosensors for ultrasensitive detection and genotyping of equine herpes viruses

Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) biosensors can detect low viral loads and differentiate between viruses types, enabling early diagnosis and effective disease management. In the present study, we developed GNPs biosensors with two different capping agent, citrate-GNPs biosensors and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)-GNPs biosensors for detection of EHV-1 and EHV-4 in multiplex real time PCR (rPCR). Citrate-GNPs and PVP-GNPs biosensors can detect dilution 1010 of EHV-1 with mean Cycle threshold (Ct) 11.7 and 9.6, respectively and one copy as limit of detection, while citrate-GNPs and PVP-GNPs biosensors can detect dilution 1010 of EHV-4 with mean Ct 10.5 and 9.2, respectively and one copy as limit of detection. These findings were confirmed by testing 87 different clinical samples, 4 more samples were positive with multiplex GNPs biosensors rPCR than multiplex rPCR. Multiplex citrate-GNPs and PVP-GNPs biosensors for EHV-1 and EHV-4 are a significant breakthrough in the diagnosis of these virus types. These biosensors offer high sensitivity and specificity, allowing for the accurate detection of the target viruses at very low concentrations and improve the early detection of EHV-1 and EHV-4, leading to faster control of infected animals to prevent the spread of these viruses.

Risk factors for insidious uveitis in the Knabstrupper breed

BACKGROUND

Equine recurrent uveitis (ERU) is the leading cause of blindness for horses; previous research implicated the leopard complex spotting allele (LP) as a genetic risk factor for insidious uveitis in the Appaloosa. There is limited information about risk in the Knabstrupper.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate clinical manifestations, disease frequency and potential risk factors for ERU in Knabstrupper horses.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional study.

METHODS

Ocular examinations were performed on 116 horses, and based on identified anomalies, horses were classified as suspect, ERU-affected or having no clinical signs. Microagglutination testing (MAT) of serum assessed exposure to Leptospira spp. Clinical signs, age, sex, base colour, coat pattern, LP and PATN1 genotypes, percent white at birth, progressive roaning and Leptospira were assessed as risk factors using multivariable exact logistic regression, accounting for clustering at the barn level. Additionally, a pedigree analysis was performed (n = 20 cases and 21 controls), and coefficients of coancestry (CC) and inbreeding were calculated.

RESULTS

Prevalence of insidious uveitis in this sample of Knabstruppers was 20.7%. Similar to findings for Appaloosas, LP homozygotes had higher odds of uveitis compared with true solid (N/N) horses (LP/LP OR = 7.64, 95% CI [0.8 to +INF], p = 0.04) and age was also identified as a risk factor. After accounting for LP, the 16-20 age group had higher odds compared with the youngest group (OR = 13.36, 95% CI [1.4-213.4], p = 0.009). The distributions of average CC were significantly different between cases and controls (p = 0.01).

MAIN LIMITATIONS

A relatively small sample size decreased the power for detecting additional associations. The progressive nature of insidious uveitis may have prevented identification of younger affected horses.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data support genotyping for LP to assess risk of ERU in Knabstruppers. Additional studies are necessary to develop more robust risk models across LP breeds for earlier detection and improved clinical management.

Equine Herpesvirus-1 Myeloencephalopathy

Although equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM) is a relatively uncommon manifestation of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) infection, it can cause devastating losses during outbreaks. Antemortem diagnosis of EHM relies mainly on the molecular detection of EHV-1 in nasal secretions and blood. Management of horses affected by EHM is aimed at supportive nursing and nutritional care, at reducing central nervous system inflammation and preventing thromboembolic sequelae. Horses exhibiting sudden and severe neurologic signs consistent with a diagnosis of EHM pose a definite risk to the surrounding horse population. Consequently, early intervention to prevent the spread of infection is required.

A review of investigated risk factors for developing equine recurrent uveitis

Equine recurrent uveitis (ERU) is an ocular inflammatory disease that can be difficult to manage clinically. As such, it is the leading cause of bilateral blindness for horses. ERU is suspected to have a complex autoimmune etiology with both environmental and genetic risk factors contributing to onset and disease progression in some or all cases. Work in recent years has aimed at unraveling the primary triggers, such as infectious agents and inherited breed-specific risk factors, for disease onset, persistence, and progression. This review has aimed at encompassing those factors that have been associated, implicated, or substantiated as contributors to ERU, as well as identifying areas for which additional knowledge is needed to better understand risk for disease onset and progression. A greater understanding of the risk factors for ERU will enable earlier detection and better prognosis through prevention and new therapeutics.

Contribution of the immune response to the pathogenesis of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1): Are there immune correlates that predict increased risk or protection from EHV-1 myeloencephalopathy?

Equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) myeloencephalopathy (EHM) is a devastating consequence of EHV-1 infection that has significant economic consequences. However, clinical EHM is relatively rare and occurs in only approximately 10% of infected horses. While there is a positive correlation between the duration and magnitude of viremia and incidence of EHM, it is likely that a combination of host and viral factors determine whether EHM occurs. The identification of these factors is of high interest for the equine community and has been the topic of much research for vaccine development and to predict which horses might be most at risk for developing EHM. The aim of this review is to highlight host immunity contributions to EHM pathogenesis at different sites of EHV-1 infection to shed light on the different aspects and interdependence of the response to EHV-1 in the time course of infection.

Assessment of listing and categorisation of animal diseases within the framework of the Animal Health Law (Regulation (EU) No 2016/429): infection with Equine Herpesvirus-1

Equine Herpesvirus-1 infection has been assessed according to the criteria of the Animal Health Law (AHL), in particular criteria of: Article 7 on disease profile and impacts, Article 5 on the eligibility of the disease to be listed, Article 9 for the categorisation of the disease according to disease prevention and control measures as in Annex IV and Article 8 on the list of animal species related to Equine Herpesvirus-1 infection. The assessment has been performed following a methodology composed of information collection and compilation, and expert judgement on each criterion at individual and collective level. The outcome is the median of the probability ranges provided by the experts, which indicates whether the criterion is fulfilled (66-100%) or not (0-33%), or whether there is uncertainty about fulfilment (33-66%). For the questions where no consensus was reached, the different supporting views are reported. According to the assessment performed, Equine Herpesvirus-1 infection can be considered eligible to be listed for Union intervention according to Article 5 of the Animal Health Law with 33-90% certainty. According to the criteria as in Annex IV of the AHL related to Article 9 of the AHL for the categorisation of diseases according to the level of prevention and control, it was assessed with less than 1% certainty that EHV-1 fulfils the criteria as in Section 1 (category A), 1-5% for the criteria as in Section 2 (category B), 10-66% for the criteria as in Section 3 (category C), 66-90% for the criteria as in Section 4 (category D) and 33-90% for the criteria as in Section 5 (category E). The animal species to be listed for EHV-1 infection according to Article 8(3) criteria are the species belonging to the families of Equidae, Bovidae, Camelidae, Caviidae, Cervidae, Cricetidae, Felidae, Giraffidae, Leporidae, Muridae, Rhinocerontidae, Tapiridae and Ursidae.

Ocular abnormalities in the Icelandic horse with a focus on equine recurrent uveitis: 112 Icelandic horses living in Denmark and 26 Icelandic horses living in the United States

PURPOSE

To describe the most common ocular abnormalities in the Icelandic horse with focus on equine recurrent uveitis (ERU) and association between ocular abnormalities and summer eczema and coat colors.

METHODS

A descriptive cross-sectional study. A complete physical and ophthalmic examination as well as measurement of serum titers for Leptospira serovariants was performed on Icelandic horses from Denmark (DK) and the United States (USA).

RESULTS

One hundred and twelve Icelandic horses living in DK and 26 Icelandic horses living in the United States were included in this study (total of 138 horses, 274 eyes). The three most common ocular abnormalities were follicular conjunctivitis (55.8%, 153/274 eyes), cataracts (27.4%, 75/274 eyes), and multifocal chorioretinopathy ("bullet holes"; 19%, 52/274 eyes). The prevalence for ERU among Icelandic horses aged "eight years and older" was 8% (6/75 horses). The "insidious ERU" type was found in 83% of the ERU cohort (5/6 horses), while "classic ERU" was found in 17% (1/6 horses). A correlation between ERU and cataracts was found in the population (p < .01). Leptospiral serology results were not associated with ERU in either DK or US-Icelandic horses (p = 1.00, p = 1.00, respectively). ERU was not associated with summer eczema (p = .49), and no coat colors were associated with the ocular abnormalities found in the Icelandic horse (all p-values > .05).

CONCLUSION

Follicular conjunctivitis, cataracts, and multifocal chorioretinopathy were the three most common ocular abnormalities findings. Icelandic horses who were 8 years or older had an 8% prevalence for ERU. Summer eczema and coat color were not associated with evidence of ERU or other ocular abnormalities.

The Pathogenesis and Immune Evasive Mechanisms of Equine Herpesvirus Type 1

Equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) is an alphaherpesvirus related to pseudorabies virus (PRV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV). This virus is one of the major pathogens affecting horses worldwide. EHV-1 is responsible for respiratory disorders, abortion, neonatal foal death and equine herpes myeloencephalopathy (EHM). Over the last decade, EHV-1 has received growing attention due to the frequent outbreaks of abortions and/or EHM causing serious economical losses to the horse industry worldwide. To date, there are no effective antiviral drugs and current vaccines do not provide full protection against EHV-1-associated diseases. Therefore, there is an urgent need to gain a better understanding of the pathogenesis of EHV-1 in order to develop effective therapies. The main objective of this review is to provide state-of-the-art information on the pathogenesis of EHV-1. We also highlight recent findings on EHV-1 immune evasive strategies at the level of the upper respiratory tract, blood circulation and endothelium of target organs allowing the virus to disseminate undetected in the host. Finally, we discuss novel approaches for drug development based on our current knowledge of the pathogenesis of EHV-1.

Transcriptomic Profiling of Equine and Viral Genes in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells in Horses during Equine Herpesvirus 1 Infection

Equine herpesvirus 1 (EHV-1) affects horses worldwide and causes respiratory disease, abortions, and equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM). Following infection, a cell-associated viremia is established in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). This viremia is essential for transport of EHV-1 to secondary infection sites where subsequent immunopathology results in diseases such as abortion or EHM. Because of the central role of PBMCs in EHV-1 pathogenesis, our goal was to establish a gene expression analysis of host and equine herpesvirus genes during EHV-1 viremia using RNA sequencing. When comparing transcriptomes of PBMCs during peak viremia to those prior to EHV-1 infection, we found 51 differentially expressed equine genes (48 upregulated and 3 downregulated). After gene ontology analysis, processes such as the interferon defense response, response to chemokines, the complement protein activation cascade, cell adhesion, and coagulation were overrepresented during viremia. Additionally, transcripts for EHV-1, EHV-2, and EHV-5 were identified in pre- and post-EHV-1-infection samples. Looking at micro RNAs (miRNAs), 278 known equine miRNAs and 855 potentially novel equine miRNAs were identified in addition to 57 and 41 potentially novel miRNAs that mapped to the EHV-2 and EHV-5 genomes, respectively. Of those, 1 EHV-5 and 4 equine miRNAs were differentially expressed in PBMCs during viremia. In conclusion, this work expands our current knowledge about the role of PBMCs during EHV-1 viremia and will inform the focus on future experiments to identify host and viral factors that contribute to clinical EHM.

Identification of a New Equid Herpesvirus 1 DNA Polymerase (ORF30) Genotype with the Isolation of a C2254/H752 Strain in French Horses Showing no Major Impact on the Strain Behaviour

Equid herpesvirus 1 is one of the most common viral pathogens in the horse population and is associated with respiratory disease, abortion and still-birth, neonatal death and neurological disease. A single point mutation in the DNA polymerase gene (ORF30: A2254G, N752D) has been widely associated with neuropathogenicity of strains, although this association has not been exclusive. This study describes the fortuitous isolation of a strain carrying a new genotype C₂₂₅₄ (H₇₅₂) from an outbreak in France that lasted several weeks in 2018 and involved 82 horses, two of which showed neurological signs of disease. The strain was characterised as U_L clade 10 using the equid herpesvirus 1 (EHV-1) multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) classification but has not been identified or isolated since 2018. The retrospective screening of EHV-1 strains collected between 2016 and 2018 did not reveal the presence of the C₂₂₅₄ mutation. When cultured in vitro, the C₂₂₅₄ EHV-1 strain induced a typical EHV-1 syncytium and cytopathic effect but no significant difference was observed when compared with A₂₂₅₄ and G₂₂₅₄ EHV-1 strains. An experimental infection was carried out on four Welsh mountain ponies to confirm the infectious nature of the C₂₂₅₄ strain. A rapid onset of marked respiratory disease lasting at least 2 weeks, with significant virus shedding and cell-associated viraemia, was observed. Finally, an in vitro antiviral assay using impedance measurement and viral load quantification was performed with three antiviral molecules (ganciclovir (GCV), aciclovir (ACV) and aphidicolin (APD)) on the newly isolated C₂₂₅₄ strain and two other A/G₂₂₅₄ field strains. The three strains showed similar sensitivity to ganciclovir and aphidicolin but both C₂₂₅₄ and A₂₂₅₄ strains were more sensitive to aciclovir than the G₂₂₅₄ strain, based on viral load measurement.

Molecular Detection and Genetic Characteristics of Equine Herpesvirus in Korea

Respiratory diseases cause significant economic losses (especially in the horse racing industry). The present study describes the detection and genetic characteristics of equine herpesvirus (EHV) from a total of 1497 samples from clinically healthy horses in Korea, including 926 blood samples, 187 lung tissues, and 384 nasal swabs. EHV-2 and EHV-5 were detected in 386 (41.7%; 95% CI: 38.5–44.9) and 201 (21.7%; 95% CI: 19.1–24.4) blood samples, respectively, and in 25 (13.4%; 95% CI: 8.5–18.2) and 35 (18.7%; 95% CI: 13.1–24.3) lung tissues, respectively. EHV-1 and EHV-4 were not detected in either blood or lung tissues. EHV-1, EHV-2, and EHV-5 were detected in 46 (12.0%; 95% CI: 8.7–15.2), 21 (5.5%; 95% CI: 3.2–7.7), and 43 (11.2%; 95% CI: 8.0–14.4) nasal swabs, respectively. EHV-4 was not detected in nasal swabs. Co-infection with EHV-2 and EHV-5 was detected in 11.6% (107/926) of the blood samples and 6.4% (12/187) of lung tissues. In nasal swabs, co-infection with EHV-1, EHV-2, and EHV-5 was detected in 0.8% (3/384) of samples. Phylogenetic analysis of the glycoprotein B gene showed that EHV-1, EHV-2, and EHV-5 strains demonstrated significant genetic diversity in Korea, with a nucleotide sequence identity among them that ranged from 95.7% to 100% for EHV-1, 96.2–100% for EHV-2, and 93.8–99.3% for EHV-5. These results are the first phylogenetic analyses of EHV-1 in Korea in nasal swabs from a nationwide population of clinically healthy horses. Both EHV-2 and EHV-5 from blood, lung tissues, and nasal swabs were also detected.

EHV-1: A Constant Threat to the Horse Industry

Equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) is one of the most important and prevalent viral pathogens of horses and a major threat to the equine industry throughout most of the world. EHV-1 primarily causes respiratory disease but viral spread to distant organs enables the development of more severe sequelae; abortion and neurologic disease. The virus can also undergo latency during which viral genes are minimally expressed, and reactivate to produce lytic infection at any time. Recently, there has been a trend of increasing numbers of outbreaks of a devastating form of EHV-1, equine herpesviral myeloencephalopathy. This review presents detailed information on EHV-1, from the discovery of the virus to latest developments on treatment and control of the diseases it causes. We also provide updates on recent EHV-1 research with particular emphasis on viral biology which enables pathogenesis in the natural host. The information presented herein will be useful in understanding EHV-1 and formulating policies that would help limit the spread of EHV-1 within horse populations.

An Equine Herpesvirus Type 1 (EHV-1) Ab4 Open Reading Frame 2 Deletion Mutant Provides Immunity and Protection from EHV-1 Infection and Disease

Equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) outbreaks continue to occur despite widely used vaccination. Therefore, development of EHV-1 vaccines providing improved immunity and protection is ongoing. Here, an open reading frame 2 deletion mutant of the neuropathogenic EHV-1 strain Ab4 (Ab4ΔORF2) was tested as a vaccine candidate. Three groups of horses (n = 8 each) were infected intranasally with Ab4ΔORF2 or the parent Ab4 virus or were kept as noninfected controls. Horses infected with Ab4ΔORF2 had reduced fever and nasal virus shedding compared to those infected with Ab4 but mounted similar adaptive immunity dominated by antibody responses. Nine months after the initial infection, all horses were challenged intranasally with Ab4. Previously noninfected horses (control/Ab4) displayed clinical signs, shed large amounts of virus, and developed cell-associated viremia. In contrast, 5/8 or 3/8 horses previously infected with Ab4ΔORF2 or Ab4, respectively, were fully protected from challenge infection as indicated by the absence of fever, clinical disease, nasal virus shedding, and viremia. All of these outcomes were significantly reduced in the remaining, partially protected 3/8 (Ab4ΔORF2/Ab4) and 5/8 (Ab4/Ab4) horses. Protected horses had EHV-1-specific IgG4/7 antibodies prior to challenge infection, and intranasal antibodies increased rapidly postchallenge. Intranasal inflammatory markers were not detectable in protected horses but quickly increased in control/Ab4 horses during the first week after infection. Overall, our data suggest that preexisting nasal IgG4/7 antibodies neutralize EHV-1, prevent viral entry, and thereby protect from disease, viral shedding, and cell-associated viremia. In conclusion, improved protection from challenge infection emphasizes further evaluation of Ab4ΔORF2 as a vaccine candidate.IMPORTANCE Nasal equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) shedding is essential for virus transmission during outbreaks. Cell-associated viremia is a prerequisite for the most severe disease outcomes, abortion and equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM). Thus, protection from viremia is considered essential for preventing EHM. Ab4ΔORF2 vaccination prevented EHV-1 challenge virus replication in the upper respiratory tract in fully protected horses. Consequently, these neither shed virus nor developed cell-associated viremia. Protection from virus shedding and viremia during challenge infection in combination with reduced virulence at the time of vaccination emphasizes ORF2 deletion as a promising modification for generating an improved EHV-1 vaccine. During this challenge infection, full protection was linked to preexisting local and systemic EHV-1-specific antibodies combined with rapidly increasing intranasal IgG4/7 antibodies and lack of nasal type I interferon and chemokine induction. These host immune parameters may constitute markers of protection against EHV-1 and be utilized as indicators for improved vaccine development and informed vaccination strategies.

Histopathologic Findings Following Experimental Equine Herpesvirus 1 Infection of Horses

Histopathological differences in horses infected with equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) of differing neuropathogenic potential [wild-type (Ab4), polymerase mutant (Ab4 N752), EHV-1/4 gD mutant (Ab4 gD4)] were evaluated to examine the impact of viral factors on clinical disease, tissue tropism and pathology. Three of 8 Ab4 infected horses developed Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy (EHM) requiring euthanasia of 2 horses on day 9 post-infection. None of the other horses showed neurologic signs and all remaining animals were sacrificed 10 weeks post-infection. EHM horses had lymphohistiocytic vasculitis and lymphocytic infiltrates in the lungs, spinal cord, endometrium and eyes. EHV-1 antigen was detected within the eyes and spinal cord. In 3/6 of the remaining Ab4 infected horses, 4/9 Ab4 N752 infected horses, and 8/8 Ab4 gD4 infected horses, choroiditis was observed. All males had interstitial lymphoplasmacytic and/or histiocytic orchitis and EHV-1 antigen was detected. In conclusion, only animals sacrificed due to EHM developed overt vasculitis in the CNS and the eye. Mild choroiditis persisted in many animals and appeared to be more common in Ab4 gD4 infected animals. Finally, we report infiltrates and changes in the reproductive organs of all males associated with EHV-1 antigen. While the exact significance of these changes is unclear, these findings raise concern for long-term effects on reproduction and prolonged shedding of virus through semen.

Absence of relationship between type-I interferon suppression and neuropathogenicity of EHV-1

Equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) infection is an important and highly prevalent disease in equine populations worldwide. Previously we have demonstrated that a neuropathogenic strain of EHV-1, T953, suppresses the host cell's antiviral type-I interferon (IFN) response in vitro. Whether or not this is unique to EHV-1 strains possessing the neuropathogenic genotype has been undetermined. Here, we examined whether there is any direct relationship between neuropathogenic genotype and the induced IFN-β response in equine endothelial cells (EECs) infected with 10 different strains of EHV-1. The extent of virus cell-to-cell spread following infection in EECs was also compared between the neuropathogenic and the non-neuropathogenic genotype of EHV-1. We then compared IFN-β and the total type-I IFN protein suppression between T953, an EHV-1 strain that is neuropathogenic and T445, an EHV-4 strain mainly associated only with respiratory disease. Data from our study revealed no relationship between the neuropathogenic genotype of EHV-1 and the induced IFN-β mRNA by the host cell. Results also indicate no statistically significant difference in plaque sizes of both genotypes of EHV-1 produced in EECs. However, while the T953 strain of EHV-1 was able to suppress IFN-β mRNA and type-I IFN biological activity at 12 h post-infection (hpi), EHV-4 weakly induces both IFN-β mRNA and type-I IFN biological activity. This finding correlated with a statistically significant difference in the mean plaque sizes produced by the two EHV subtypes in EECs. Our data help illuminate how EHV-1, irrespective of its genotype, evades the host cell's innate immune response thereby enabling viral spread to susceptible cells.

Coagulation parameters following equine herpesvirus type 1 infection in horses

BACKGROUND

Equine herpesvirus type 1 (EHV-1) is the cause of respiratory disease, abortion storms, and outbreaks of herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM). Infection of the spinal cord is characterised by multifocal regions of virally infected vascular endothelium, associated with vasculitis, thrombosis and haemorrhage that result in ischaemia and organ dysfunction. However, the mechanism of thrombosis in affected horses is unknown.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate tissue factor (TF) procoagulant activity and thrombin-antithrombin complex (TAT) levels in horses following infection with EHV-1.

STUDY DESIGN

In vitro and in vivo studies following experimental EHV-1 infection.

METHODS

Horses were infected with EHV-1 and levels of peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC)-associated TF activity; plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-derived microvesicle (MV)-associated TF activity and TAT complexes in plasma were examined.

RESULTS

EHV-1 infection increased PBMC TF procoagulant activity in vitro and in vivo. In infected horses, this increase was observed during the acute infection and was most marked at the onset and end of viraemia. However, no significant differences were observed between the horses that showed signs of EHM and the horses that did not develop EHM. Significant changes in MV-associated TF procoagulant activity and TAT complexes were not observed in infected horses.

MAIN LIMITATIONS

A small number of horses typically exhibit clinical EHM following experimental infection.

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that EHV-1 infection increases PBMC-associated TF procoagulant activity in vivo and in vitro. Additional in vivo studies are needed to better understand the role of TF-dependent coagulation during EHM pathogenesis in horses.

New Paradigms for the Study of Ocular Alphaherpesvirus Infections: Insights into the Use of Non-Traditional Host Model Systems

Ocular herpesviruses, most notably human alphaherpesvirus 1 (HSV-1), canid alphaherpesvirus 1 (CHV-1) and felid alphaherpesvirus 1 (FHV-1), infect and cause severe disease that may lead to blindness. CHV-1 and FHV-1 have a pathogenesis and induce clinical disease in their hosts that is similar to HSV-1 ocular infections in humans, suggesting that infection of dogs and cats with CHV-1 and FHV-1, respectively, can be used as a comparative natural host model of herpesvirus-induced ocular disease. In this review, we discuss both strengths and limitations of the various available model systems to study ocular herpesvirus infection, with a focus on the use of these non-traditional virus-natural host models. Recent work has demonstrated the robustness and reproducibility of experimental ocular herpesvirus infections in dogs and cats, and, therefore, these non-traditional models can provide additional insights into the pathogenesis of ocular herpesvirus infections.

Advanced Imaging of the Equine Eye

This article reviews the literature for studies describing advanced imaging of the equine eye as a reference for practitioners to help in the selection of image modalities, describe how to use the instruments, and help interpret the image findings. Indications for, technique of, and image interpretation of advanced image modalities such as ultrasound, computed tomography, MRI, optical coherence tomography, confocal microscopy, and angiography are reviewed. The article is organized anatomically, not by instrument, so that the reader will be able to quickly research ways to image specific disease entities or anatomic locations that are affecting their equine patients.

Effect of a single point mutation on equine herpes virus 9 (EHV-9) neuropathogenicity after intranasal inoculation in a hamster model

This study aimed to investigate the neuropathogenesis of equine herpes virus 9 (EHV-9) by studying the effects of a single point mutation introduced in two different EHV-9 genes. The two EHV-9 mutants, 14R and 19R, were generated carrying a point mutation in two separate EHV-9 genes. These mutants, along with the wild-type EHV-9, were used to infect a hamster model. The EHV-9- and 19R-infected groups showed earlier and more severe clinical signs of infection than the 14R-infected group. The white blood cells (WBCs) count was significantly increased in both EHV-9- and 19R-infected groups compared to the 14R-infected group at the 4th day post infection (DPI). Viremia was also detected earlier in both EHV-9- and 19R-infected groups than 14R-infected group. There were differences in the anterograde transmission pattern of both EHV-9 and 19R compared to 14R inside the brain. Serum TNF-α, IL-6 and IFN-γ levels were significantly increased in both EHV-9- and 19R-infected groups compared to the 14R-infected group. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses revealed that the mean group scores for the entire brain were significantly higher in both EHV-9- and 19R- infected groups than 14R-infected group. Collectively, these results confirm that the gene product of Open Reading Frame 19 (ORF19) plays an important role in EHV-9 neuropathogenicity and that the mutation in ORF19 is responsible for the attenuation of EHV-9.

Detection of Equine Herpesvirus (EHV) -1, -2, -4 and -5 in Ethiopian Equids with and without Respiratory Problems and Genetic Characterization of EHV-2 and EHV-5 Strains

Infections with equine herpesviruses (EHVs) are widespread in equine populations worldwide. Whereas both EHV-1 and EHV-4 produce well-documented respiratory syndromes in equids, the contribution of EHV-2 and EHV-5 to disease of the respiratory tract is still enigmatic. This study describes the detection and genetic characterization of EHVs from equids with and without clinical respiratory disease. Virus-specific PCRs were used to detect EHV-1, -2, -4 and -5. From the total of 160 equids with respiratory disease, EHV-5 was detected at the highest prevalence (23.1%), followed by EHV-2 (20.0%), EHV-4 (8.1%) and EHV-1 (7.5%). Concurrent infections with EHV-2 and EHV-5 were recorded from nine (5.2%) diseased horses. Of the total of 111 clinically healthy equids, EHV-1 and EHV-4 were never detected whereas EHV-2 and EHV-5 were found in 8 (7.2%) and 18 (16.2%) horses, respectively. A significantly higher proportion of EHV-2-infected equids was observed in the respiratory disease group (32/160, 20.0%; P = 0.005) compared to those without disease (8/111; 7.2%). EHV-2-positive equids were three times more likely to display clinical signs of respiratory disease than EHV-2-negative equids (OR 3.22, 95% CI: 1.42-7.28). For EHV-5, the observed difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.166). The phylogenetic analysis of the gB gene revealed that the Ethiopian EHV-2 and EHV-5 strains had a remarkable genetic diversity, with a nucleotide sequence identity among each other that ranged from 94.0 to 99.4% and 95.1 to 100%, respectively. Moreover, the nucleotide sequence identity of EHV-2 and EHV-5 with isolates from other countries acquired from GenBank ranged from 92.9 to 99.1% and 95.1 to 99.5%, respectively. Our results suggest that besides EHV-1 and EHV-4, EHV-2 is likely to be an important contributor either to induce or predispose equids to respiratory disease. However, more work is needed to better understand the contribution of EHV-2 in the establishment of respiratory disease.

Anti-inflammatory drugs decrease infection of brain endothelial cells with EHV-1 in vitro

BACKGROUND

Equine herpesvirus-associated myeloencephalopathy is the result of endothelial cell infection of the spinal cord vasculature with equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1) during cell-associated viraemia. Endothelial cell infection requires contact between infected peripheral blood mononuclear and endothelial cells. Inflammation generated during viraemia likely upregulates adhesion molecule expression on both cell types increasing contact and facilitating endothelial cell infection.

OBJECTIVES

Evaluating the role of anti-inflammatory drugs in decreasing endothelial cell infection with EHV-1.

STUDY DESIGN

In vitro assay, crossover design, multiple drug testing.

METHODS

In vitro modified infectious centre assay using immortalised carotid artery endothelial cells or primary brain endothelial cells with plaque counts per well as outcome. Cells were either anti-inflammatory drug treated or left untreated.

RESULTS

Significant reduction of plaque count when cells were treated compared with untreated cells. No dose-dependent effect when drug concentrations were increased to 10× dose. Treatment of both peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and endothelial cells (EC) is required for significant plaque count reduction.

MAIN LIMITATIONS

In vitro study.

CONCLUSIONS

Anti-inflammatory drugs decrease infection of endothelial cells likely by reducing contact between EHV-1 infected PBMC and endothelial cells in vitro. The role of adhesion molecules in this process needs further investigation. In vitro results suggest anti-inflammatory drug therapy during EHV-1 infection and viraemia in horses could be clinically relevant.

Translation of a laboratory-validated equine herpesvirus-1 specific real-time PCR assay into an insulated isothermal polymerase chain reaction (iiPCR) assay for point-of-need diagnosis using POCKIT™ nucleic acid analyzer

Equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM), a major problem for the equine industry in the United States, is caused by equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1). In addition, EHV-1 is associated with upper respiratory disease, abortion, and chorioretinal lesions in horses. Here we describe the development and evaluation of an inexpensive, user-friendly insulated isothermal PCR (iiPCR) method targeting open reading 30 (ORF30) to detect both neuropathogenic and non-neuropathogenic strains on the field-deployable POCKIT™ device for point-of-need detection of EHV-1. The analytical sensitivity of the EHV-1 iiPCR assay was 13 genome equivalents per reaction. The assay did not cross react with ten non-target equine viral pathogens. Performance of the EHV-1 iiPCR assay was compared to two previously described real-time PCR (qPCR) assays in two laboratories by using 104 archived clinical samples. All 53 qPCR-positive and 46 of the 51 qPCR-negative samples tested positive and negative, respectively, by the iiPCR. The agreement between the two assays was 95.19% (confidence interval 90.48-99.90%) with a kappa value of 0.90. In conclusion, the newly developed EHV-1 iiPCR assay is robust to provide specificity and sensitivity comparable to qPCR assays for the detection of EHV-1 nucleic acid in clinical specimens.

Replication characteristics of equine herpesvirus 1 and equine herpesvirus 3: comparative analysis using ex vivo tissue cultures

Replication kinetics and invasion characteristics of equine herpesvirus-1 and -3 (EHV-1/-3) in nasal and vaginal mucosae were compared using explants. The explants were cultured during 96 h with little change in viability. The tissues were inoculated with EHV-1 03P37 (neuropathogenic), 97P70 (abortigenic) and EHV-3 04P57, collected at 0, 24, 48 and 72 h post inoculation (pi) and stained for viral antigens. Both EHV-1 and EHV-3 replicated in a plaquewise manner. The plaques were already observed at 24 h pi, their size increased over time and did not directly cross the basement membrane (BM). However, EHV-1 infected the monocytic cells (MC) and hijacked these cells to invade the lamina propria. In contrast, EHV-3 replication was fully restricted to epithelial cells; the virus did not breach the BM via a direct cell-to-cell spread nor used infected MC. EHV-1-induced plaques were larger in nasal mucosa compared to vaginal mucosa. The opposite was found for EHV-3-induced plaques. Both EHV-1 strains replicated with comparable kinetics in nasal mucosa. However, the extent of replication of the abortigenic strain in vaginal mucosa was significantly higher than that of the neuropathogenic strain. Two-to-five-fold lower numbers of EHV-1-infected MC underneath the BM were found in vaginal mucosa than in nasal mucosa. Our study has shown that (i) EHV-1 has developed in evolution a predisposition for respiratory mucosa and EHV-3 for vaginal mucosa, (ii) abortigenic EHV-1 replicates better in vaginal mucosa than neuropathogenic EHV-1 and (iii) EHV-3 demonstrated a strict epithelial tropism whereas EHV-1 in addition hijacked MC to invade the lamina propria.

Equine Herpesvirus-1 Myeloencephalopathy, an Emerging Threat of Working Equids in Ethiopia

Although equine herpesvirus myeloencephalopathy (EHM) is a sporadic and relatively uncommon manifestation of equine herpesvirus-1 (EHV-1), it has the potential for causing devastating outbreaks in horses. Up till now, there were no reported EHM outbreaks in donkeys and mules. This study describes the isolation and molecular characterization of EHV-1 from clinically EHM-affected horses (n = 6), mules (n = 3) and donkeys (n = 82) in Ethiopia during outbreaks from May 2011 to December 2013. The incidence of EHM cases was higher from April to mid-June. EHM in donkeys was more severe and death without clinical signs of paralysis, and recumbency was frequently observed. The main age of affected equines ranged from 7 to 10 years (n = 51; 56.0%), and females (n = 58; 63.7%) were more affected than males. The incidence of neuropathogenic (D₇₅₂ ) and non-neuropathogenic (N₇₅₂ ) variants of EHV-1 from EHM-affected equines in Ethiopia was assessed by sequencing the DNA polymerase gene (ORF30) of the EHV-1 isolates. The results indicated that from the total of 91 clinically affected equines, 90 (98.9%) of them had an ORF30 D₇₅₂ genotype. An ORF30 N₇₅₂ variant was only found in one donkey. Analysis of ORF68 as grouping marker for geographical differences showed that the Ethiopian EHV-1 isolates belong to geographical group 4. Due to the fatal nature of EHV-1 in donkeys, it would be interesting to examine the pathogenesis of EHM in this species. At present, there is no vaccine available in Ethiopia, and therefore, outbreaks of EHV-1 should be controlled by proper management adaptations. In addition, it is important to test the efficacy of the commercial vaccines not only in horses, but also in donkeys and mules.