Re-examination of feline leukemia virus: host relationships using real-time PCR.
The mechanisms responsible for effective vs. ineffective viral containment are central to immunoprevention and therapies of retroviral infections. Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) infection is unique as a naturally occurring, diametric example of effective vs. ineffective retroviral containment by the host. We developed a sensitive quantitative real-time DNA PCR assay specific for exogenous FeLV to further explore the FeLV-host relationship. By assaying p27 capsid antigen in blood and FeLV DNA in blood and tissues of successfully vaccinated, unsuccessfully vaccinated, and unvaccinated pathogen-free cats, we defined four statistically separable classes of FeLV infection, provisionally designated as abortive, regressive, latent, and progressive. These host-virus relationships were established by 8 weeks post-challenge and could be maintained for years. Real-time PCR methods offer promise in gaining deeper insight into the mechanisms of FeLV infection and immunity.
Torres
Andrea N
AN
Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, Colorado State University, 1619 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO, 80523-1619, USA.
Mathiason
Candace K
CK
Hoover
Edward A
EA
D000818:Animals; D002371:Cat Diseases / Q000821:virology*; D002415:Cats; D005256:Leukemia Virus, Feline / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism*; D016133:Polymerase Chain Reaction / Q000379:methods*; D018809:Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen / Q000276:immunology; D012367:RNA, Viral / Q000032:analysis / Q000302:isolation & purification; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D014611:Vaccination / Q000662:veterinary*; D014765:Viral Vaccines / Q000276:immunology*
D018809:Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen; D012367:RNA, Viral; D014765:Viral Vaccines; C413374:p27 antigen