Molecular cloning, characterization, and expression analysis of the Muscovy duck Toll-like receptor 3 (MdTLR3) gene

TLR3 and MDA5 Knockout DF-1 cells Enhance Replication of Avian Orthoavulavirus 1

Despite the essential role of innate immunity in defining the outcome of viral infections, the roles played by different components of the avian innate immune system are poorly delineated. Here, we investigated the potential implication of avian toll-like receptor (TLR) 3 (TLR3) and melanoma differentiation-associated (MDA) gene 5 (MDA5) receptors of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) in induction of the interferon pathway and avian orthoavulavirus 1 (AOAV-1) replication in chicken-origin DF-1 fibroblast cells. TLR3 and MDA5 knockout (KO) DF-1 cells were generated using our avian-specific CRISPR/Cas9 system and stimulated with a synthetic dsRNA ligand polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid [poly(I:C)] or infected with AOAV-1 (previously known as Newcastle disease virus). Poly(I:C) treatment in cell culture media resulted in significant upregulation of interferon (IFN)α, IFNβ, and Mx1 gene expression in wild type (WT) DF-1 cells but not in TLR3-MDA5 double KO cells. Interestingly, poly(I:C) treatment induced rapid cell degeneration in WT and MDA5 KO cells, but not in TLR3 knockout or TRL3-MDA5 double knockout (DKO) cells, directly linking poly(I:C)-induced cell degeneration to TLR3-mediated host response. The double knockout cells supported significantly higher replication of AOAV-1 virus than did the WT cells. However, no correlation between the level of virus replication and type I IFN response was observed. Our study suggests that innate immune response is host- and pathogen specific, and further investigation is needed to understand the relevance of dsRNA receptor-mediated immune responses in viral replication and pathogenesis in avian species.

Expression profiles of toll like receptors, MHC and cytokine genes along with viral load in organs of ducklings infected with an Indian isolate of duck enteritis virus

A comprehensive study on the pathogenicity and host immune response was conducted in White Pekin ducklings after experimental infection with an Indian isolate of duck enteritis virus (DEV). The virus was found to be highly pathogenic and pantropic, which rapidly multiplied in various organs, mainly in the spleen and liver showing higher viral load with severe pathological lesions and caused 100% mortality. Expression profiles of immune gene transcripts in tissues (liver, spleen, brain) revealed upregulation of proinflammatory cytokines IFN-α, IFN- β, IL-1β, IL-6 and also iNOS with stimulation of TLRs (TLR-2, 3, 21). IFN-α was robustly upregulated (p < 0.05) especially in liver, might be playing role in antiviral innate immunity. Further, massive upregulation of MHC class-I (p < 0.01), expression of Th1 cytokines (IFN-γ & IL-2) and certain Th2 cytokines (IL-4 & IL-10) suggests stimulation of cell mediated as well as humoral immunity. To our knowledge, we are reporting first time about the robust upregulation of MHC class-I in spleen, liver and brain along with expression of certain cytokines in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) during experimental DEV infection.

Evolution of RNA sensing receptors in birds

Birds are important hosts for many RNA viruses, including influenza A virus, Newcastle disease virus, West Nile virus and coronaviruses. Innate defense against RNA viruses in birds involves detection of viral RNA by pattern recognition receptors. Several receptors of different classes are involved, such as endosomal toll-like receptors and cytoplasmic retinoic acid-inducible gene I-like receptors, and their downstream adaptor proteins. The function of these receptors and their antagonism by viruses is well established in mammals; however, this has received less attention in birds. These receptors have been characterized in a few bird species, and the completion of avian genomes will permit study of their evolution. For each receptor, functional work has established ligand specificity and activation by viral infection. Engagement of adaptors, regulation by modulators and the supramolecular organization of proteins required for activation are incompletely understood in both mammals and birds. These receptors bind conserved nucleic acid agonists such as single- or double-stranded RNA and generally show purifying selection, particularly the ligand binding regions. However, in birds, these receptors and adaptors differ between species, and between individuals, suggesting that they are under selection for diversification over time. Avian receptors and signalling pathways, like their mammalian counterparts, are targets for antagonism by a variety of viruses, intent on escape from innate immune responses.

RIGI, TLR7, and TLR3 Genes Were Predicted to Have Immune Response Against Avian Influenza in Indigenous Ducks

Avian influenza is a disease with every possibility to evolve as a human-to-human pandemic arising out of frequent mutations and genetic reassortment or recombination of avian influenza (AI) virus. The greatest concern is that till date, no satisfactory medicine or vaccines are available, leading to massive culling of poultry birds, causing huge economic loss and ban on export of chicken products, which emphasizes the need to develop an alternative strategy for control of AI. In the current study, we attempt to explore the molecular mechanism of innate immune potential of ducks against avian influenza. In the present study, we have characterized immune response molecules such as duck TLR3, TLR7, and RIGI that are predicted to have potent antiviral activities against the identified strain of avian influenza through in silico studies (molecular docking) followed by experimental validation with differential mRNA expression analysis. Future exploitation may include immunomodulation with the recombinant protein, and transgenic or gene-edited chicken resistant to bird flu.

Molecular characterization of Toll-like receptor type-3 in mallard duck and its response to Newcastle disease virus infection

Toll-like receptors (TLRs), type I transmembrane pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), are composed of the extracellular domain that is implicated in the recognition of microbial products and initiates the innate and adaptive immune response. Previous reports on TLRs in birds showed significant levels of inter- and intraspecific genetic variation. Little is known about the structure and function of the avian immune system, especially waterfowl species. This work aimed to identify and clone Anas platyrhynchos (mallard duck) TLR-3 (dTLR-3) and its expression level following challenge with velogenic Newcastle disease virus (NDV) as a model for waterfowl species. The mallard duck TLR-3 full-length cDNA sequence had been cloned, which consisted of 2457 nucleotides. The translated amino acid sequence showed identity degree as 97% with Muscovy duck, 95% with geese, 89% with helmeted guineafowls, 88% with the chickens TLR-3 gene, 82% with turkey TLR-3, and 79% with zebra finch, while it showed 54% with human one; the analysis data suggested that the new sequence is probably homologous to vertebrates' TLR-3. The predicted protein encoded by the duck dTLR-3 mRNA sequence is composed of 819 amino acids. Analysis of the deduced amino acid sequence indicated that dTLR-3 has typical structural features and contains the main components of proteins in the TLR family. The dTLR-3 expressed in almost all examined tissues of mallard duck following quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analysis and using B-actin as a housekeeping gene. To check the functionality of the receptor and its role in viral infection, we evaluate the expression level in different tissues and its changes following NDV infection. The results showed significant (P < 0.05) upregulated in the brain at 24 h (1.84-fold), reached a peak at 48 h (4.82-fold), and recovered to normal levels at 72 h post-infection. These results indicate a complete and functional dTLR-3 that is orthologous to other vertebrate receptors with its potential role in early response against viral infection in mallard duck species.

Pattern-recognition receptors in duck (Anas platyrhynchos): identification, expression and function analysis of toll-like receptor 3

1. Innate immunity provides the first line of defence against pathogenic organisms through a myriad of germline encoded receptors called pattern-recognition receptors (PRRs). Toll-like receptor (TLR) 3, as an important member of PRRs, is indispensable for host defence against viral infection by recognising virus-derived RNAs. However, little is known about the structure and function of TLR3 in ducks (Anas platyrhynchos), a natural host for the avian influenza virus.2. This study cloned the full-length cDNA of duck TLR3 using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) with rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE). The cDNA sequence of duck TLR3 was 4046 bp in length and encoded 895 amino acids. Multiple sequence alignment showed that duck TLR3 shared high similarity with that from other vertebrates.3. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis suggested that TLR3 mRNA was constitutively expressed in all tissues tested, having higher levels in the kidney, liver, breast muscle, ovary and heart. After stimulation with viral- or bacterial-mimics, including LPS, poly(I:C), pam3CSK4, FLS-1, FLA-ST and R848, the TLR3 transcript was significantly upregulated. Meanwhile, overexpression of duck TLR3 significantly promoted the transcription of IFN-β, IRF7, TRIF, Mx, STAT1 and STAT2 mRNA after stimulation with poly(I:C).4. These results suggested that TLR3 play an important role in resistance against viral and bacterial infections in ducks.

In vitro effects of 5 recombinant antigens of Eimeria maxima on maturation, differentiation, and immunogenic functions of dendritic cells derived from chicken spleen

Eimeria maxima possesses integral families of immunogenic constituents that promote differentiation of immune cells during host-parasite interactions. Dendritic cells (DCs) have an irreplaceable role in the modulation of the host immunity. However, the selection of superlative antigen with immune stimulatory efficacies on host DCs is lacking. In this study, 5 recombinant proteins of E. maxima (Em), including Em14-3-3, rhomboid family domain containing proteins (ROM) EmROM1 and EmROM2, microneme protein 2 (EmMIC2), and Em8 were identified to stimulate chicken splenic derived DCs in vitro. The cultured populations were incubated with recombinant proteins, and typical morphologies of stimulated DCs were obtained. DC-associated markers major histocompatibility complex class II, CD86, CD11c, and CD1.1, showed upregulatory expressions by flow cytometry assay. Immunofluorescence assay revealed that recombinant proteins could bind with the surface of chicken splenic derived DCs. Moreover, quantitative real-time PCR results showed that distinct gene expressions of Toll-like receptors and Wnt signaling pathway were upregulated after the coincubation of recombinant proteins with DCs. The ELISA results indicated that the DCs produced a significant higher level of interleukin (IL)-12 and interferon-γ secretions after incubation with recombinant proteins. While transforming growth factor-β was significantly increased with rEmROM1, rEmROM2, and rEmMIC2 as compared to control groups, and IL-10 did not show significant alteration. Taken together, these results concluded that among 5 potential recombinant antigens, rEm14-3-3 could promote immunogenic functions of chicken splenic derived DCs more efficiently, which might represent an effective molecule for inducing the host Th1-mediated immune response against Eimeria infection.

Innate immune responses to duck Tembusu virus infection

The disease caused by duck Tembusu virus (DTMUV) is characterized by severe egg-drop in laying ducks. Currently, the disease has spread to most duck-raising areas in China, leading to great economic losses in the duck industry. In the recent years, DTMUV has raised some concerns, because of its expanding host range and increasing pathogenicity, as well as the potential threat to public health. Innate immunity is crucial for defending against invading pathogens in the early stages of infection. Recently, studies on the interaction between DTMUV and host innate immune response have made great progress. In the review, we provide an overview of DTMUV and summarize current advances in our understanding of the interaction between DTMUV and innate immunity, including the host innate immune responses to DTMUV infection through pattern recognition receptors (PRRs), signaling transducer molecules, interferon-stimulated genes (ISGs), and the immune evasion strategies employed by DTMUV. The aim of the review is to gain an in-depth understanding of DTMUV pathogenesis to facilitate future studies.

Pattern Recognition Receptor Signaling and Innate Responses to Influenza A Viruses in the Mallard Duck, Compared to Humans and Chickens

Mallard ducks are a natural host and reservoir of avian Influenza A viruses. While most influenza strains can replicate in mallards, the virus typically does not cause substantial disease in this host. Mallards are often resistant to disease caused by highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses, while the same strains can cause severe infection in humans, chickens, and even other species of ducks, resulting in systemic spread of the virus and even death. The differences in influenza detection and antiviral effectors responsible for limiting damage in the mallards are largely unknown. Domestic mallards have an early and robust innate response to infection that seems to limit replication and clear highly pathogenic strains. The regulation and timing of the response to influenza also seems to circumvent damage done by a prolonged or dysregulated immune response. Rapid initiation of innate immune responses depends on viral recognition by pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) expressed in tissues where the virus replicates. RIG-like receptors (RLRs), Toll-like receptors (TLRs), and Nod-like receptors (NLRs) are all important influenza sensors in mammals during infection. Ducks utilize many of the same PRRs to detect influenza, namely RIG-I, TLR7, and TLR3 and their downstream adaptors. Ducks also express many of the same signal transduction proteins including TBK1, TRIF, and TRAF3. Some antiviral effectors expressed downstream of these signaling pathways inhibit influenza replication in ducks. In this review, we summarize the recent advances in our understanding of influenza recognition and response through duck PRRs and their adaptors. We compare basal tissue expression and regulation of these signaling components in birds, to better understand what contributes to influenza resistance in the duck.

Avian Pattern Recognition Receptor Sensing and Signaling

Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) are a class of immune sensors that play a critical role in detecting and responding to several conserved patterns of microorganisms. As such, they play a major role in the maintenance of immune homeostasis and anti-microbial defense. Fundamental knowledge pertaining to the discovery of PRR functions and their ligands continue to advance the understanding of immune system and disease resistance, which led to the rational design and/or application of various PRR ligands as vaccine adjuvants. In addition, the conserved nature of many PRRs throughout the animal kingdom has enabled the utilization of the comparative genomics approach in PRR identification and the study of evolution, structural features, and functions in many animal species including avian. In the present review, we focused on PRR sensing and signaling functions in the avian species, domestic chicken, mallard, and domestic goose. In addition to summarizing recent advances in the understanding of avian PRR functions, the present review utilized a comparative biology approach to identify additional PRRs, whose functions have been well studied in mammalians but await functional characterization in avian.

Goose toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) mediated IFN-γ and IL-6 in anti-H5N1 avian influenza virus response

Induction of the innate immune pathways is critical for early anti-viral defense. How geese recognize viral molecules and activate these pathways is not well understood. In mammals, Toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) recognizes double-stranded RNA. Activation of TLR3 induces the activation of NF-кB and the production of type-I interferon. In this study, the goose TLR3 gene was cloned using rapid amplification of cDNA ends. Goose TLR3 encoded an 896-amino-acid protein, containing a signal secretion peptide, 14 extracellular leucine-rich repeat domains, a transmembrane domain, a Toll/interleukin-1 receptor signaling domain, and shared 46.7-84.4% homology with other species. Tissue expression of goose TLR3 varied markedly and was highest in the pancreas and lowest in the skin. Human embryonic kidney 293 cells transfected with goose TLR3 and NF-κB-luciferase-containing plasmids responded significantly to poly i:c. The expression of TLR3, IL-6 and IFN-γ mRNA, but not IL-1 mRNA, was significantly upregulated after poly i:c or high pathogenic avian influenza virus (H5N1) stimulation in goose peripheral blood mononuclear cells cultured in vitro. Furthermore, geese infected with H5N1 showed significant upregulation of TLR3, especially in the lung and brain. We conclude that goose TLR3 is a functional TLR3 homologue of the protein in other species and plays an important role in virus recognition.

Innate Immune Responses to Avian Influenza Viruses in Ducks and Chickens

Mallard ducks are important natural hosts of low pathogenic avian influenza (LPAI) viruses and many strains circulate in this reservoir and cause little harm. Some strains can be transmitted to other hosts, including chickens, and cause respiratory and systemic disease. Rarely, these highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) viruses cause disease in mallards, while chickens are highly susceptible. The long co-evolution of mallard ducks with influenza viruses has undoubtedly fine-tuned many immunological host–pathogen interactions to confer resistance to disease, which are poorly understood. Here, we compare innate responses to different avian influenza viruses in ducks and chickens to reveal differences that point to potential mechanisms of disease resistance. Mallard ducks are permissive to LPAI replication in their intestinal tissues without overtly compromising their fitness. In contrast, the mallard response to HPAI infection reflects an immediate and robust induction of type I interferon and antiviral interferon stimulated genes, highlighting the importance of the RIG-I pathway. Ducks also appear to limit the duration of the response, particularly of pro-inflammatory cytokine expression. Chickens lack RIG-I, and some modulators of the signaling pathway and may be compromised in initiating an early interferon response, allowing more viral replication and consequent damage. We review current knowledge about innate response mediators to influenza infection in mallard ducks compared to chickens to gain insight into protective immune responses, and open questions for future research.

Virologic and Immunologic Characteristics in Mature Ducks with Acute Duck Hepatitis A Virus 1 Infection

Duck hepatitis A virus 1 (DHAV-1) infection in mature ducks has previously been proposed as a small-animal model for human hepatitis A. However, basic research on the outcome of DHAV-1 infection in mature ducks is limited. Here, we examined the course of viremia, the characteristics of antibody responses, and the profiles of plasma cytokines in mature ducks infected with DHAV-1. During the course of infection, the viremia was detectable soon after infection and persisted for 196 days, however, the ducks presented as clinically asymptomatic. Specific and timely immunoglobulin G (IgG), IgM, and IgA1 responses were elicited. At the same time, extensive inhibition of viral replication was observed with increasing IgG concentration. With respect to pattern-recognition receptors, TLR-7 was mainly involved in triggering the innate defense against the DHAV-1 infection. In addition, plasma immune analytes were measured and were determined to have bidirectional roles in virus clearance. It was concluded that DHAV-1 spreads quickly in blood. The spontaneous clearance of DHAV-1 during asymptomatic infection in mature ducks depends on the cooperation of timely antibody responses and alert innate immune responses. Moreover, the delayed clearance may be associated with a weak interferon-γ-producing CD8+ T cell response. This study allows us to reveal the mechanism of clearance and persistence of DHAV-1 infection in mature ducks. We anticipate that it will provide a basis for future studies focused on defining the nature mechanisms involved in the clearance and persistence of human hepatitis virus.

Age-related changes and distribution of T cell markers (CD3 and CD4) and toll-like receptors(TLR2, TLR3,TLR4 and TLR7) in the duck lymphoid organs

T lymphocytes and Toll-like receptors have been confirmed to have correlation with the ability to resistance to pathogenic challenges and play an important role in duck immune system. However, the information of ontogeny of T lymphocytes and Toll-like receptors is scarcely in duck. Therefore, to address these questions, we report the development and distribution of CD3 and CD4 by immunocytochemistry and the age-related mRNA level of duck T cell markers (CD3 and CD4) and Toll-like receptors (TLR2, TLR3, TLR4 and TLR7) by real time quantitative PCR in duck lymphoid organs (thymus, bursa of Fabricius and spleen). Results indicated that CD3 and CD4 positive cells can be observed in all test organs and partly change in an age-related way. CD4 positive T cell of duck spleen mainly distributed in periarterial lymphatic sheaths and red pulp, not in white pulp. Both of CD3 and CD4 were experienced significant increased wave twice in duck lymphoid organs and T cell dependent cellular immunity of duck may well established until 5 weeks old. The mRNA expression levels of duck TLRs were age and organ dependent, and duck TLR3 and TLR7 were significantly lower abundance in the spleen but higher in thymus and bursa of Fabricius, respectively. This study provide the essential knowledge of the ontogeny of T cells and Toll-like receptors in duck, which may shed lights on the T-cell mediate immunity and innate immunity in duck.

Molecular cloning and functional analysis of the duck TIR domain-containing adaptor inducing IFN-β (TRIF) gene

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) trigger the innate immune response by responding to specific components of microorganisms. The TIR domain-containing adaptor inducing IFN-β (TRIF) plays an essential role in mammalian TLR-mediated signaling. The role of TRIF in ducks (duTRIF) remains poorly understood. In this study, we cloned and characterized the full-length coding sequence of duTRIF from duck embryo fibroblasts (DEFs). In healthy ducks, duTRIF transcripts were broadly expressed in different tissues, with higher expression levels in the spleen and liver. Using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR), we demonstrated the upregulation of duTRIF in DEFs infected with AIV or DTMUV, and DEFs treated with Poly I:C or LPS. Overexpression of duTRIF was able to induce the NF-κB and IFN-β expression. Furthermore, the IFN induction function of duTRIF was impaired when Ala517 was mutated to Pro or His. Taken together, these results suggested that duTRIF regulated duck innate immune responses.

Molecular cloning and functional analysis of duck ubiquitin-specific protease 18 (USP18) gene

In mammals, ubiquitin-specific protease 18 (USP18) is an interferon (IFN)-inducible gene and is a negative regulator of Toll-like receptor-mediated nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) activation. The role of USP18 in ducks (duUSP18) remains poorly understood. In the present study, we cloned and characterized the full-length coding sequence of duUSP18 from duck embryo fibroblasts (DEFs). In healthy ducks, duUSP18 transcripts were broadly expressed in different tissues, with higher expression levels in the spleen, lung and kidney. Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis revealed that duUSP18 could be induced by treatment with Poly(I:C) or LPS. Overexpression of duUSP18 inhibited NF-κB and IFN-β expression. Furthermore, deletion mutant analysis revealed that the duUSP18 region between aa 75 and 304 was essential for inhibiting NF-κB. In addition, overexpression of duUSP18 also suppressed the secretion of NF-κB-dependent proinflammatory cytokines. Taken together, these results suggest that duUSP18 regulates duck innate immune responses.

Pathogenicity of duck plague and innate immune responses of the Cherry Valley ducks to duck plague virus

Duck plague caused by duck plague virus (DPV) is an acute and contagious disease. To better understand the pathogenic mechanism of duck plague virus in ducklings, an infection experiment was performed. Our results showed that typical symptoms were observed in the infected ducklings. DPV could replicate quickly in many tissues, leading to pathological lesions, especially on the spleen. Real-time quantitative PCR demonstrated that expression of many innate immune-related genes was mostly up-regulated in the brain, and the antiviral innate immune response was established, but not sufficient to restrict viral replication. In contrast, although the expression of many major pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) increased in the spleen, the expression of most cytokines was declined. Our study indicates that DPV is a pantropic virus that can replicate rapidly in tissues, causing serious pathological lesions but the immune responses are different in the spleen and brain. To our knowledge, this is the first report to systematically explore the expression profiles of the immune genes in the DPV-infected ducks. Our data provide a foundation for further study of the pathogenicity of duck plague.

The pathogenicity of novel duck reovirus in Cherry Valley ducks

The novel duck reovirus (NDRV) is an emerging, contagious infection. To better realize the pathogenic mechanism of NDRV in ducks, an infection experiment was conducted. The resulting data demonstrated that typical gross lesions were observed in the infected ducks. NDRV was able to replicate in various tissues, leading to these pathological lesions, especially on the liver and spleen. Real-time quantitative PCR showed that the expression of most innate immune-related genes was up-regulated and the antiviral innate immune response could be established in both the liver and spleen. This study indicates that NDRV is a pantropic virus. To resist viral infection, several pathogen recognition receptors can cooperatively recognize NDRV and initiate innate immunity, but the responses are different between different tissues. As far as we know, this is the first systematic investigation of the pathogenicity of NDRV in Cherry Valley ducks based on the host's innate immunity, and these data will provide new insights into the further study of the disease.

Expression of Immune-Related Genes of Ducks Infected with Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC)

Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) can cause severe disease in ducks, characterized by perihepatitis, pericarditis, and airsacculitis. Although the studies of bacteria isolation and methods of detection have been reported, host immune responses to APEC infection remain unclear. In response, we systemically examined the expression of immune-related genes and bacteria distribution in APEC-infected ducks. Results demonstrated that APEC can quickly replicate in the liver, spleen, and brain, with the highest bacteria content at 2 days post infection. The expression of toll-like receptors (TLRs), avian β-defensins (AvBDs) and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) were tested in the liver, spleen, and brain of infected ducks. TLR2, TLR4, TLR5, and TLR15 showed different expression patterns, which indicated that they all responded to APEC infection. The expression of AvBD2 was upregulated in all tested tissues during the 3 days of testing, whereas the expression of AvBD4, AvBD5, AvBD7, and AvBD9 were downregulated, and though MHC-I was upregulated on all test days, MHC-II was dramatically downregulated. Overall, our results suggest that APEC can replicate in various tissues in a short time, and the activation of host immune responses begins at onset of infection. These findings thus clarify duck immune responses to APEC infection and offer insights into its pathogenesis.

Newcastle disease virus infection in chicken embryonic fibroblasts but not duck embryonic fibroblasts is associated with elevated host innate immune response

Background

Chickens and ducks are major hosts of Newcastle disease virus (NDV) with distinct responses to infection. However, whereas ducks are generally asymptomatic or exhibit only mild symptoms following NDV infection and are thus regarded as potential long-term reservoirs of the virus, chickens exhibit severe clinical lesions, transient infections and even death due to NDV infection. These differences may in part result from the host innate immune response to NDV infection.

Methods

To better understand the host innate immune response to NDV infection in avian species, by using the quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction method we examined the messenger RNA expression levels of immune-related genes in chicken embryonic fibroblasts (CEFs) and duck embryonic fibroblasts (DEFs) when infected with NDV of different pathogenicities.

Results

Gene expression profiles showed that the expression of IL-1beta, TNF-α-like factor (LITAF) and interferon (IFN)-beta was upregulated in both CEFs and DEFs infected with SS-10 and NH-10 viruses or treated with polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid [poly(I:C)], as well as that expression levels were greater in CEFs than in DEFs. The expression of TLR3, TLR7, IL-6, IFN-alpha, IFN-gamma, MHC-I and MHC-II, except for IL-8, were also greater in CEFs than in DEFs in response to infection to both viruses or treatment with poly(I:C). However, unlike moderate virulent NH-10, highly virulent SS-10 induced greater pattern recognition receptors and cytokines, except for IFNs, in CEFs and DEFs.

Conclusion

Results show distinct expression patterns of cytokines, Toll-like receptors and IFNs associated with inflammatory immune responses to NDV between species and by virulence.

Two myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) isoforms identified in ducks

MyD88 is an adaptor protein involved in the interleukin-1 receptor-induced and Toll-like receptor (TLR)-induced activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). In this study, we identified two isoforms of MyD88 gene, designated DuMyD88-X1 and DuMyD88-X2, from duck cells. Both variants were determined to have a death domain at the N-terminal and a Toll/IL-1R (TIR) domain at the C-terminal; however, the TIR domain of DuMyD88-X2 was incomplete and was 81 amino acids shorter than DuMyD88-X1. Quantitative real-time reverse transcription PCR revealed broad expression of both MyD88s. During Newcastle disease virus (NDV) challenge experiments, expression of the two genes increased significantly, with DuMyD88-X1 having a larger amplitude and longer duration. Overexpression of DuMyD88-X1 and DuMyD88-X2 induced the activation of NF-κB and IL-6 in vitro, suggesting that DuMyD88-X1 and DuMyD88-X2 may be important in the innate immune response. The results verify the existence of a MyD88-dependent signaling pathway in ducks and contribute to understanding the potential role of MyD88s in the innate immune response.

Molecular characterization and functional analysis of duck TRAF6

Tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factor 6 (TRAF6) plays a pivotal role in activating various signaling cascades as an intracellular signal transducer. Although significant progress has been made clarifying TRAF6 function in mammals, the role of TRAF6 in ducks (duTRAF6) remains poorly understood. In the present study, we cloned the full-length duTRAF6 cDNA from duck embryo fibroblasts (DEFs) for the first time. Real-time quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction assays showed that duTRAF6 was widely expressed in different tissues. Overexpression of duTRAF6 activated nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and induced interferon-β expression. Furthermore, a deletion mutant analysis revealed that the duTRAF6 region between aa 115 and 375 was essential for activating NF-κB. In addition, duTRAF6 knockdown by RNA interference significantly reduced poly(I:C)- and Sendai virus-induced NF-κB activation in DEFs. Taken together, our results demonstrate that duTRAF6 plays a crucial immunoregulatory role in the duck innate immune response.

Characterization of cytokine expression induced by avian influenza virus infection with real-time RT-PCR

Knowledge of how birds react to infection from avian influenza virus is critical to understanding disease pathogenesis and host response. The use of real-time (R) RT-PCR to measure innate immunity, including cytokine and interferon gene expression, has become a standard technique employed by avian immunologists interested in examining these responses. This technique utilizes nucleotide primers and fluorescent reporter molecules to measure amplification of the gene of interest. The use of RRT-PCR negates the need for northern blot analysis or DNA sequencing. It is simple, specific and sensitive for the gene of interest. However, it is dependent on knowing the target sequence prior to testing so that the optimal primers can be designed. The recent publication of genomic sequences of Gallus gallus, Meleagris gallopavo, and Anas platyrhynchos species makes it possible to measure cytokine expression in chicken, turkey, and duck species, respectively. Although these tests do not measure functionally expressed protein, the lack of antibodies to identify and quantify avian cytokines from different avian species makes this technique critical to any characterization of innate immune responses through cytokine and interferon activation or repression.

Effect of age on the pathogenesis of DHV-1 in Pekin ducks and on the innate immune responses of ducks to infection

Duck hepatitis virus (DHV) affects 1-week-old but not 3-week-old ducks, and it causes a more severe disease in the younger ducks. These differences may be partially due to the host response to DHV infection. In order to understand this difference, we characterized the pathobiology of and innate immune response to DHV infection in 1-day-old (1D) and 3-week-old (3 W) ducks. Viral RNA was detected in duck livers at 24, 36 and 72 h after inoculation with DHV at a dose of 10(3) LD50. Virus-induced pathology ranged from no clinical signs to severe disease and death, and it was more severe in the 1D ducks. Infection with DHV induced up-regulation of gene expression of Toll-like receptor (TLR)-7, TLR3, retinoic-acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I), melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 (MDA-5), interleukin (IL)-6, interferon (IFN)-α, interferon-induced transmembrane protein 1 (IFITM1), interferon-stimulated gene 12 (ISG12), and 2'-5' oligoadenylate synthetase-like gene (OASL) in the livers of 3 W ducks. Of these, IL-6, OASL and ISG12 mRNA levels were more than 100-fold higher in infected 3 W ducks than in mock-infected ducks of the same age. These genes were induced much less in infected 1D ducklings. We present evidence that a lower level of viral replication in the hepatocytes of 3 W ducks, whose basal level of cytokines is higher than that in 1D ducklings, may be related to the strong innate immunity induced. From our data, we conclude that duck age plays an important role in the pathogenicity of and innate immune responses to DHV.

Innate sensing of viruses by pattern recognition receptors in birds

Similar to mammals, several viral-sensing pattern recognition receptors (PRR) have been identified in birds including Toll-like receptors (TLR) and retinoic acid-inducible gene I (RIG-I)-like receptors (RLR). Avian TLR are slightly different from their mammalian counterparts, including the pseudogene TLR8, the absence of TLR9, and the presence of TLR1La, TLR1Lb, TLR15, and TLR21. Avian TLR3 and TLR7 are involved in RNA virus recognition, especially highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV), while TLR15 and TLR21 are potential sensors that recognize both RNA viruses and bacteria. However, the agonist of TLR15 is still unknown. Interestingly, chickens, unlike ducks, geese and finches, lack RIG-I, however they do express melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 (MDA5) which functionally compensates for the absence of RIG-I. Duck RIG-I is the cytosolic recognition element for HPAIV recognition, while chicken cells sense HPAIV through MDA5. However, the contributions of MDA5 and RIG-I to IFN-β induction upon HPAIV infection is different, and this may contribute to the chicken’s susceptibility to highly pathogenic influenza. It is noteworthy that the interactions between avian DNA viruses and PRR have not yet been reported. Furthermore, the role for avian Nod-like receptors (NLR) in viral immunity is largely unknown. In this review, recent advances in the field of viral recognition by different types of PRR in birds are summarized. In particular, the tissue and cellular distribution of avian PRR, the recognition and activation of PRR by viruses, and the subsequent expression of innate antiviral genes such as type I IFN and proinflammatory cytokines are discussed.

Host immune responses of ducks infected with H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses of different pathogenicities

Our previous studies have illustrated three strains of duck-origin H5N1 highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses (HPAIVs) had varying levels of pathogenicity in ducks (Sun et al., 2011). However, the host immune response of ducks infected with those of H5N1 HPAIVs was unclear. Here, we compared viral distribution and mRNA expression of immune-related genes in ducks following infection with the two HPAIV (A/Duck/Guangdong/212/2004, DK212 and A/Duck/Guangdong/383/2008, DK383). DK383 could replicate in the tested tissue of ducks (brain, spleen, lungs, cloacal bursa, kidney, and pancreas) more rapid and efficiently than DK212 at 1 and 2 days post-inoculation. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis showed that the expression levels of TLR3, IL-6, IL-8, and MHC class II in brains were higher than those of respective genes in lungs during the early stage of post infection. Furthermore, the expression levels of IL-6 and IL-8 in the brain of ducks following infection with DK383 were remarkably higher than those of ducks infected with DK212, respectively. Our results suggest that the shift in the H5N1 HPAIVs to increased virulence in ducks may be associated with efficient and rapid replication of the virus, accompanied by early destruction of host immune responses. These data are helpful to understand the underlying mechanism of the different outcome of H5N1 HPAIVs infection in ducks.

Interspecies transmission and emergence of novel viruses: lessons from bats and birds. Trends Microbiol. 2013;21:544-555. [PMID: 23770275 PMCID: PMC7126491 DOI: 10.1016/j.tim.2013.05.005]

As exemplified by coronaviruses and influenza viruses, bats and birds are natural reservoirs for providing viral genes during evolution of new virus species and viruses for interspecies transmission. These warm-blooded vertebrates display high species biodiversity, roosting and migratory behavior, and a unique adaptive immune system, which are favorable characteristics for asymptomatic shedding, dissemination, and mixing of different viruses for the generation of novel mutant, recombinant, or reassortant RNA viruses. The increased intrusion of humans into wildlife habitats and overcrowding of different wildlife species in wet markets and farms have also facilitated the interspecies transmission between different animal species.