MOLECULAR PROFILING AND GENETIC DIVERSITY OF SHEEP POX AND LUMBY SKIN DISEASE VIRUS

Abstract

The objective of this research was to investigate the molecular genetic similarities between LSDV and SPV, which have spread extensively in Egypt. The aim was to identify these viruses through the propagation of LSDV on MDBK cells and SPV on VERO cells, as well as through PCR analysis and sequencing for G-protein-coupled chemokine receptor (GPCR) specific for LSDV and viral envelope protein gene (P32) specific for SPV of the isolated viruses. The obtained sequences were then compared using a phylogenetic tree to determine any immunogenic factors that could explain why cattle exhibit immunity when vaccinated with the sheep pox vaccine rather than the traditional vaccine prepared using LSDV. The study was conducted as follows: 1-LSDV and SPV were isolated from the clinical cases. 2-The isolated virus was propagated through five passages on MDBK cells for LSDV and VERO cells for SPV until cytopathic effects (CPE) were observed. 3-Determination of the viral titer for the isolated viruses. 4-Conducting antigenic characterization for the isolated viruses. 5-DNA extraction of the isolated viruses, followed by PCR amplification for genes GPCR and p32 and sequencing for the purified fragments using an automated sequencer. 6-Phylogenetic analysis using the partial sequences of the amplified genes. The analysis of the sequences obtained and the antigenic characterization revealed the high degree of relatedness between LSDV and SPV. This information, along with the phylogenetic analysis, supports the possibility of vaccinating cattle with sheep pox vaccine.