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Imprint
Characterization of the zoonotic potential of rotaviruses in poultry
Project
Project code: BfR-BIOS-08-1350-006
Contract period: 01.01.2009
- 31.12.2010
Purpose of research: Basic research
Rotaviruses are important agents of gastroenteritis of humans and various animal species. Transmission between humans and animals has been described repeatedly. Many different rotavirus types exist, which continuously evolve due to mutations and exchange of genome segments. The efficacy of the newly introduced rotavirus vaccines against the variety of circulating rotavirus types is not known so far; however, a selection of resistant viruses can be expected. In contrast to the mammalian rotaviruses, the rotaviruses of birds have been only scarcely investigated so far. Our preliminary investigations show that they are only distantly related to human rotaviruses, but they are able to exchange genome segments with other avian rotaviruses. In the project, further poultry rotaviruses should be characterized. Using a novel reverse genetics system it should be tested, whether an exchange of genome segments between avian and mammalian rotaviruses is possible and whether new rotavirus types can originate, which efficiently infect mammals and humans. The results should be a basis for an estimation of the zoontic potential of poultry rotaviruses. In addition, relevant avian rotaviruses should be identified, which may contribute to the development of more broadly reactive vaccines.
Section overview
Subjects
- Animal health
