Genetic and serologic analysis of feline cell-associated herpesvirus-induced infection of the urinary tract in conventionally reared cats.
The genetic and antigenic nature of feline cell-associated herpesvirus (FeCAHV) was characterized by use of DNA restriction endonuclease analysis, and direct and indirect fluorescent antibody (FA) techniques. Serologic responses of 6 conventionally reared cats with induced FeCAHV urinary tract infection were retrospectively evaluated, using an indirect FA test. The EcoRI, HindIII, and Pst I restriction endonuclease cleavage patterns of FeCAHV DNA were similar to those of bovid herpesvirus 4 (BHV-4; DN599 strain) DNA. Specific fluorescence was observed when FeCAHV-inoculated cell monolayers were reacted with fluorescein-conjugated BHV-4 (DN599 strain) antiserum. Conversely, specific fluorescence was also observed when feline anti-FeCAHV serum and fluorescein-conjugated caprine anti-feline IgG was reacted with BHV-4 (DN599 strain)-infected cell monolayers. At postinoculation week 10, serum antibody titer in cats with FeCAHV-induced urinary tract infection ranged from 1:2,560 to 1:10,240, as measured by use of indirect FA testing. It was concluded that FeCAHV is a member of the BHV-4 group. In addition, the FeCAHV indirect FA test provides a sensitive and specific means of evaluating FeCAHV antibody concentration in exposed cats.
Kruger
J M
JM
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St Paul 55108.
Osborne
C A
CA
Whetstone
C A
CA
Goyal
S M
SM
Semlak
R A
RA
D000818:Animals; D000914:Antibodies, Viral / Q000032:analysis; D002371:Cat Diseases / Q000235:genetics* / Q000276:immunology; D002415:Cats; D004262:DNA Restriction Enzymes / Q000032:analysis; D005455:Fluorescent Antibody Technique; D006564:Herpesviridae / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology*; D006566:Herpesviridae Infections / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology / Q000662:veterinary*; D007668:Kidney / Q000166:cytology / Q000276:immunology; D014552:Urinary Tract Infections / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology / Q000662:veterinary*
D000914:Antibodies, Viral; D004262:DNA Restriction Enzymes