Significance of Coronavirus Mutants in Feces and Diseased Tissues of Cats with Feline Infectious Peritonitis
Author Information
Author(s): Pedersen Niels C., Liu Hongwei, Dodd Kimberly A., Pesavento Patricia A.
Primary Institution: Center for Companion Animal Health, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, CA, USA
Hypothesis
The study tests the internal FECV→FIPV mutation theory and its correlates in a diverse group of cats.
Conclusion
The study found that deleterious mutations in the 3c gene of feline coronaviruses are associated with FIP, but not all FIPVs have these mutations.
Supporting Evidence
- All eight cats with FIP had mutations in the 3c gene.
- Fecal isolates generally had intact 3c genes.
- Deleterious mutations in the 3c gene were unique to each cat.
- Significant genetic drift was observed among isolates from geographically distinct regions.
Takeaway
This study looked at sick cats and found that the virus causing their illness had special changes that made it different from the virus found in their poop.
Methodology
The study involved sequencing structural and accessory genes from coronaviruses isolated from feces and diseased tissues of cats with FIP.
Limitations
The study did not determine the biotypes of some fecal virus isolates due to amplification issues.
Participant Demographics
The study included four related Scottish Fold kittens and four unrelated cats from different geographic regions.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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