1
|
Biek R, Drummond AJ, Poss M. A virus reveals population structure and recent demographic history of its carnivore host. Science 2006; 311:538-41. [PMID: 16439664 DOI: 10.1126/science.1121360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Directly transmitted parasites often provide substantial information about the temporal and spatial characteristics of host-to-host contact. Here, we demonstrate that a fast-evolving virus (feline immunodeficiency virus, FIV) can reveal details of the contemporary population structure and recent demographic history of its natural wildlife host (Puma concolor) that were not apparent from host genetic data and would be impossible to obtain by other means. We suggest that rapidly evolving pathogens may provide a complementary tool for studying population dynamics of their hosts in "shallow" time.
Collapse
|
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S. |
19 |
106 |
2
|
Cunningham MW, Brown MA, Shindle DB, Terrell SP, Hayes KA, Ferree BC, McBride RT, Blankenship EL, Jansen D, Citino SB, Roelke ME, Kiltie RA, Troyer JL, O'Brien SJ. Epizootiology and management of feline leukemia virus in the Florida puma. J Wildl Dis 2008; 44:537-52. [PMID: 18689639 PMCID: PMC3167064 DOI: 10.7589/0090-3558-44.3.537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) was not detected in Florida pumas (Puma concolor coryi) in almost 20 yr of surveillance; however, the finding of two FeLV antigen-positive pumas during the 2002-2003 capture season led to an investigation of FeLV in the population. Between January 1990 and April 2007, the proportion of pumas testing FeLV antibody positive increased, with antibody-positive pumas concentrated in the northern portion of puma range. Five of 131 (4%) pumas sampled between July 2000 and April 2007 were viremic, with all cases clustered in Okaloacoochee Slough (OKS). Clinical signs and clinical pathology at capture were absent or included lymphadenopathy, moderate-to-severe anemia, and lymphopenia. All viremic pumas died; causes of death were septicemia (n=2), intraspecific aggression (n=2), and anemia/dehydration (n=1). Outcome after FeLV exposure in pumas was similar to that in domestic cats, with evidence of regressive, latent, and persistent infections. Management of the epizootic included vaccination, and as of April 2007, 52 free-ranging pumas had received one or more inoculations. Vaccinations were concentrated in OKS and in a band between OKS and the remainder of the puma population. There have been no new cases since July 2004; however, the potential for reintroduction of the virus remains.
Collapse
|
Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural |
17 |
55 |
3
|
Brown MA, Cunningham MW, Roca AL, Troyer JL, Johnson WE, O’Brien SJ. Genetic characterization of feline leukemia virus from Florida panthers. Emerg Infect Dis 2008; 14:252-9. [PMID: 18258118 PMCID: PMC2600209 DOI: 10.3201/eid1402.070981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
From 2002 through 2005, an outbreak of feline leukemia virus (FeLV) occurred in Florida panthers (Puma concolor coryi). Clinical signs included lymphadenopathy, anemia, septicemia, and weight loss; 5 panthers died. Not associated with FeLV outcome were the genetic heritage of the panthers (pure Florida vs. Texas/Florida crosses) and co-infection with feline immunodeficiency virus. Genetic analysis of panther FeLV, designated FeLV-Pco, determined that the outbreak likely came from 1 cross-species transmission from a domestic cat. The FeLV-Pco virus was closely related to the domestic cat exogenous FeLV-A subgroup in lacking recombinant segments derived from endogenous FeLV. FeLV-Pco sequences were most similar to the well-characterized FeLV-945 strain, which is highly virulent and strongly pathogenic in domestic cats because of unique long terminal repeat and envelope sequences. These unique features may also account for the severity of the outbreak after cross-species transmission to the panther.
Collapse
|
Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural |
17 |
52 |
4
|
Filoni C, Catão-Dias JL, Bay G, Durigon EL, Jorge RSP, Lutz H, Hofmann-Lehmann R. First Evidence of Feline Herpesvirus, Calicivirus, Parvovirus, and Ehrlichia Exposure in Brazilian Free-ranging Felids. J Wildl Dis 2006; 42:470-7. [PMID: 16870878 DOI: 10.7589/0090-3558-42.2.470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Serum samples from 18 pumas (Puma concolor), one ocelot (Leopardus pardalis), and two little spotted cats (Leopardus tigrinus) collected from free-ranging animals in Brazil between 1998 and 2004 were tested by indirect immunofluorescence (IFA) for antibodies to feline herpesvirus 1 (FHV 1), calicivirus (FCV), coronavirus (FCoV), parvo-virus (FPV), Ehrlichia canis, Anaplasma pha-gocytophilum, and Bartonella henselae. Serum samples also were tested, by Western blot and ELISA, for feline leukemia virus (FeLV) specific antibodies and antigen, respectively, by Western blot for antibodies to feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), and by indirect ELISA for antibodies to puma lentivirus (PLV). Antibodies to FHV 1, FCV, FCoV, FPV, FeLV, FIV, PLV or related viruses, and to B. henselae were detected. Furthermore, high-titered antibodies to E. canis or a closely related agent were detected in a puma for the first time.
Collapse
|
|
19 |
50 |
5
|
Lee J, Malmberg JL, Wood BA, Hladky S, Troyer R, Roelke M, Cunningham M, McBride R, Vickers W, Boyce W, Boydston E, Serieys L, Riley S, Crooks K, VandeWoude S. Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Cross-Species Transmission: Implications for Emergence of New Lentiviral Infections. J Virol 2017; 91:e02134-16. [PMID: 28003486 PMCID: PMC5309969 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.02134-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2016] [Accepted: 12/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Owing to a complex history of host-parasite coevolution, lentiviruses exhibit a high degree of species specificity. Given the well-documented viral archeology of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) emergence following human exposures to simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV), an understanding of processes that promote successful cross-species lentiviral transmissions is highly relevant. We previously reported natural cross-species transmission of a subtype of feline immunodeficiency virus, puma lentivirus A (PLVA), between bobcats (Lynx rufus) and mountain lions (Puma concolor) for a small number of animals in California and Florida. In this study, we investigate host-specific selection pressures, within-host viral fitness, and inter- versus intraspecies transmission patterns among a larger collection of PLV isolates from free-ranging bobcats and mountain lions. Analyses of proviral and viral RNA levels demonstrate that PLVA fitness is severely restricted in mountain lions compared to that in bobcats. We document evidence of diversifying selection in three of six PLVA genomes from mountain lions, but we did not detect selection among 20 PLVA isolates from bobcats. These findings support the hypothesis that PLVA is a bobcat-adapted virus which is less fit in mountain lions and under intense selection pressure in the novel host. Ancestral reconstruction of transmission events reveals that intraspecific PLVA transmission has occurred among panthers (Puma concolor coryi) in Florida following the initial cross-species infection from bobcats. In contrast, interspecific transmission from bobcats to mountain lions predominates in California. These findings document outcomes of cross-species lentiviral transmission events among felids that compare to the emergence of HIV from nonhuman primates.IMPORTANCE Cross-species transmission episodes can be singular, dead-end events or can result in viral replication and spread in the new species. The factors that determine which outcome will occur are complex, and the risk of new virus emergence is therefore difficult to predict. We used molecular techniques to evaluate the transmission, fitness, and adaptation of puma lentivirus A (PLVA) between bobcats and mountain lions in two geographic regions. Our findings illustrate that mountain lion exposure to PLVA is relatively common but does not routinely result in communicable infections in the new host. This is attributed to efficient species barriers that largely prevent lentiviral adaptation. However, the evolutionary capacity for lentiviruses to adapt to novel environments may ultimately overcome host restriction mechanisms over time and under certain ecological circumstances. This phenomenon provides a unique opportunity to examine cross-species transmission events leading to new lentiviral emergence.
Collapse
|
Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural |
8 |
36 |
6
|
Chiu ES, Kraberger S, Cunningham M, Cusack L, Roelke M, VandeWoude S. Multiple Introductions of Domestic Cat Feline Leukemia Virus in Endangered Florida Panthers. Emerg Infect Dis 2019; 25:92-101. [PMID: 30561312 PMCID: PMC6302599 DOI: 10.3201/eid2501.181347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The endangered Florida panther (Puma concolor coryi) had an outbreak of infection with feline leukemia virus (FeLV) in the early 2000s that resulted in the deaths of 3 animals. A vaccination campaign was instituted during 2003-2007 and no additional cases were recorded until 2010. During 2010-2016, six additional FeLV cases were documented. We characterized FeLV genomes isolated from Florida panthers from both outbreaks and compared them with full-length genomes of FeLVs isolated from contemporary Florida domestic cats. Phylogenetic analyses identified at least 2 circulating FeLV strains in panthers, which represent separate introductions from domestic cats. The original FeLV virus outbreak strain is either still circulating or another domestic cat transmission event has occurred with a closely related variant. We also report a case of a cross-species transmission event of an oncogenic FeLV recombinant (FeLV-B). Evidence of multiple FeLV strains and detection of FeLV-B indicate Florida panthers are at high risk for FeLV infection.
Collapse
|
Comparative Study |
6 |
31 |
7
|
Lee JS, Bevins SN, Serieys LEK, Vickers W, Logan KA, Aldredge M, Boydston EE, Lyren LM, McBride R, Roelke-Parker M, Pecon-Slattery J, Troyer JL, Riley SP, Boyce WM, Crooks KR, VandeWoude S. Evolution of puma lentivirus in bobcats (Lynx rufus) and mountain lions (Puma concolor) in North America. J Virol 2014; 88:7727-37. [PMID: 24741092 PMCID: PMC4097783 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00473-14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2014] [Accepted: 03/31/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Mountain lions (Puma concolor) throughout North and South America are infected with puma lentivirus clade B (PLVB). A second, highly divergent lentiviral clade, PLVA, infects mountain lions in southern California and Florida. Bobcats (Lynx rufus) in these two geographic regions are also infected with PLVA, and to date, this is the only strain of lentivirus identified in bobcats. We sequenced full-length PLV genomes in order to characterize the molecular evolution of PLV in bobcats and mountain lions. Low sequence homology (88% average pairwise identity) and frequent recombination (1 recombination breakpoint per 3 isolates analyzed) were observed in both clades. Viral proteins have markedly different patterns of evolution; sequence homology and negative selection were highest in Gag and Pol and lowest in Vif and Env. A total of 1.7% of sites across the PLV genome evolve under positive selection, indicating that host-imposed selection pressure is an important force shaping PLV evolution. PLVA strains are highly spatially structured, reflecting the population dynamics of their primary host, the bobcat. In contrast, the phylogeography of PLVB reflects the highly mobile mountain lion, with diverse PLVB isolates cocirculating in some areas and genetically related viruses being present in populations separated by thousands of kilometers. We conclude that PLVA and PLVB are two different viral species with distinct feline hosts and evolutionary histories. Importance: An understanding of viral evolution in natural host populations is a fundamental goal of virology, molecular biology, and disease ecology. Here we provide a detailed analysis of puma lentivirus (PLV) evolution in two natural carnivore hosts, the bobcat and mountain lion. Our results illustrate that PLV evolution is a dynamic process that results from high rates of viral mutation/recombination and host-imposed selection pressure.
Collapse
|
research-article |
11 |
30 |
8
|
Biek R, Ruth TK, Murphy KM, Anderson CR, Johnson M, DeSimone R, Gray R, Hornocker MG, Gillin CM, Poss M. Factors associated with pathogen seroprevalence and infection in Rocky Mountain cougars. J Wildl Dis 2007; 42:606-15. [PMID: 17092891 DOI: 10.7589/0090-3558-42.3.606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Serological and genetic material collected over 15 years (1990-2004) from 207 cougars (Puma concolor) in four populations in the Rocky Mountains were examined for evidence of current or prior exposure to feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), feline parvovirus (FPV), feline coronavirus (FCoV), feline calicivirus (FCV), canine distemper virus (CDV), feline herpesvirus (FHV), and Yersinia pestis. Serologic data were analyzed for annual variation in seroconversions to assess whether these pathogens are epidemic or endemic in cougars, and to determine whether family membership, age, sex, or location influence risk of exposure. FIV and FPV were clearly endemic in the studied populations, whereas exposure to FCoV, FCV, CDV, and Y. pestis was more sporadic. No evidence was found for FHV. Age was the most consistent predictor of increased exposure risk, often with no other important factors emerging. Evidence for transmission within family groups was limited to FIV and FCoV, whereas some indication for host sex affecting exposure probability was found for FIV and Y. pestis. Overall, cougar populations exhibited few differences in terms of pathogen presence and prevalence, suggesting the presence of similar risk factors throughout the study region.
Collapse
|
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S. |
18 |
27 |
9
|
Terwee JA, Yactor JK, Sondgeroth KS, Vandewoude S. Puma lentivirus is controlled in domestic cats after mucosal exposure in the absence of conventional indicators of immunity. J Virol 2005; 79:2797-806. [PMID: 15708998 PMCID: PMC548441 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.79.5.2797-2806.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A high percentage of free-ranging pumas (Felis concolor) are infected with feline lentiviruses (puma lentivirus, feline immunodeficiency virus Pco [FIV-Pco], referred to here as PLV) without evidence of disease. PLV establishes productive infection in domestic cats following parenteral exposure but, in contrast to domestic cat FIV, it does not cause T-cell dysregulation. Here we report that cats exposed to PLV oro-nasally became infected yet rapidly cleared peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) proviral load in the absence of a correlative specific immune response. Two groups of four specific-pathogen-free cats were exposed to PLV via the mucosal (oro-nasal) or parenteral (i.v.) route. All animals were PBMC culture positive and PCR positive within 3 weeks postinfection and seroconverted without exhibiting clinical disease; however, three or four oro-nasally infected animals cleared circulating proviral DNA within 3 months. Antibody titers reached higher levels in animals that remained persistently infected. PLV antigen-induced proliferation was slightly greater in mucosally inoculated animals, but no differences were noted in cytotoxic T-lymphocyte responses or cytokine profiles between groups. The distribution of virus was predominantly gastrointestinal as opposed to lymphoid in all animals in which virus was detected at necropsy. Possible mechanisms for viral clearance include differences in viral fitness required for crossing mucosal surfaces, a threshold dose requirement for persistence, or an undetected sterilizing host immune response. This is the first report of control of a productive feline or primate lentivirus infection in postnatally exposed, seropositive animals. Mechanisms underlying this observation will provide clues to containment of immunodeficiency disease and could prompt reexamination of vaccine-induced immunity against human immunodeficiency virus and other lentiviruses.
Collapse
|
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S. |
20 |
25 |
10
|
Payne N, Kraberger S, Fontenele RS, Schmidlin K, Bergeman MH, Cassaigne I, Culver M, Varsani A, Van Doorslaer K. Novel Circoviruses Detected in Feces of Sonoran Felids. Viruses 2020; 12:v12091027. [PMID: 32942563 PMCID: PMC7551060 DOI: 10.3390/v12091027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2020] [Revised: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Sonoran felids are threatened by drought and habitat fragmentation. Vector range expansion and anthropogenic factors such as habitat encroachment and climate change are altering viral evolutionary dynamics and exposure. However, little is known about the diversity of viruses present in these populations. Small felid populations with lower genetic diversity are likely to be most threatened with extinction by emerging diseases, as with other selective pressures, due to having less adaptive potential. We used a metagenomic approach to identify novel circoviruses, which may have a negative impact on the population viability, from confirmed bobcat (Lynx rufus) and puma (Puma concolor) scats collected in Sonora, Mexico. Given some circoviruses are known to cause disease in their hosts, such as porcine and avian circoviruses, we took a non-invasive approach using scat to identify circoviruses in free-roaming bobcats and puma. Three circovirus genomes were determined, and, based on the current species demarcation, they represent two novel species. Phylogenetic analyses reveal that one circovirus species is more closely related to rodent associated circoviruses and the other to bat associated circoviruses, sharing highest genome-wide pairwise identity of approximately 70% and 63%, respectively. At this time, it is unknown whether these scat-derived circoviruses infect felids, their prey, or another organism that might have had contact with the scat in the environment. Further studies should be conducted to elucidate the host of these viruses and assess health impacts in felids.
Collapse
|
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't |
5 |
13 |
11
|
Abstract
The cougar (Puma concolor) is a large predatory feline found widely in the Americas that is susceptible to feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), a fast-evolving lentivirus found in wild feline species that is analogous to simian immunodeficiency viruses in wild primates and belongs to the same family of viruses as human immunodeficiency virus. FIV infection in cougars can lead to a weakened immune system that creates opportunities for other infecting agents. FIV prevalence and lineages have been studied previously in several areas in the western United States, but typically without spatially explicit statistical techniques. To describe the distribution of FIV in a sample of cougars located in the northern Rocky Mountain region of North America, we first used kernel density ratio estimation to map the log relative risk of FIV. The risk surface showed a significant cluster of FIV in northwestern Montana. We also used Bayesian cluster models for genetic data to investigate the spatial structure of the feline immunodeficiency virus with virus genetic sequence data. A result of the models was two spatially distinct FIV lineages that aligned considerably with an interstate highway in Montana. Our results suggest that the use of spatial information and models adds novel insight when investigating an infectious animal disease. The results also suggest that the influence of landscape features likely plays an important role in the spatiotemporal spread of an infectious disease within wildlife populations.
Collapse
|
Comparative Study |
15 |
13 |
12
|
Burkala E, Poss M. Evolution of feline immunodeficiency virus Gag proteins. Virus Genes 2007; 35:251-64. [PMID: 17265140 DOI: 10.1007/s11262-006-0058-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2006] [Accepted: 11/13/2006] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
We evaluated the predicted biochemical properties of Gag proteins from a diverse group of feline immunodeficiency viruses (FIV) to determine how different evolutionary histories of virus and host have changed or constrained these important structural proteins. Our data are based on FIV sequences derived from domestic cat (FIVfca), cougar (FIVpco), and lions (FIVple). Analyses consisted of determining the selective forces acting at each position in the protein and the comparing predictions for secondary structure, charge, hydrophobicity and flexibility for matrix, capsid and nucleocapsid, and the C-terminal peptide, which comprise the Gag proteins. We demonstrate that differences among the FIV Gag proteins have largely arisen by neutral evolution, although many neutrally evolving regions have maintained biochemical features. Regions with predicted differences in biochemical features appear to involve intramolecular interactions and structural elements that undergo conformational changes during particle maturation. In contrast, the majority of sites involved in intermolecular contacts on the protein surface are constrained by purifying selection. There is also conservation of sites that interact with host proteins associated with cellular trafficking and particle budding. NC is the only protein with evidence of positive selection, two of which occur in the N-terminal region responsible for RNA binding and interaction with host proteins.
Collapse
|
Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural |
18 |
11 |
13
|
Bruen TC, Poss M. Recombination in feline immunodeficiency virus genomes from naturally infected cougars. Virology 2007; 364:362-70. [PMID: 17445856 PMCID: PMC1934564 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2007.03.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2006] [Revised: 01/18/2007] [Accepted: 03/15/2007] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Recombination contributes significantly to diversity within virus populations and ultimately to viral evolution. Here we use a recently developed statistical test to perform exploratory analysis of recombination in fourteen feline immunodeficiency virus (FIVpco) genomes derived from a wild population of cougars. We use both the global and local Phi statistical test as an overall guide to predict where recombination may have occurred. Further analyses, including similarity plots and phylogenetic incongruence tests, confirmed that three FIVpco lineages were derived from recombinant events. Interestingly, the regions of mosaic origin were clustered in the area encoding lentiviral accessory genes and largely spared the viral structural genes. Because some of the mosaic strains are currently geographically disparate, our data indicate that the dispersal of cougars infected with these strains was preceded by recombination events. These results suggest that recombination has played an important role in the evolution of FIVpco for this wild population of cougars.
Collapse
|
Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural |
18 |
9 |
14
|
Lewis JS, Logan KA, Alldredge MW, Carver S, Bevins SN, Lappin M, VandeWoude S, Crooks KR. The effects of demographic, social, and environmental characteristics on pathogen prevalence in wild felids across a gradient of urbanization. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0187035. [PMID: 29121060 PMCID: PMC5679604 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0187035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Transmission of pathogens among animals is influenced by demographic, social, and environmental factors. Anthropogenic alteration of landscapes can impact patterns of disease dynamics in wildlife populations, increasing the potential for spillover and spread of emerging infectious diseases in wildlife, human, and domestic animal populations. We evaluated the effects of multiple ecological mechanisms on patterns of pathogen exposure in animal populations. Specifically, we evaluated how ecological factors affected the prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii (Toxoplasma), Bartonella spp. (Bartonella), feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), and feline calicivirus (FCV) in bobcat and puma populations across wildland-urban interface (WUI), low-density exurban development, and wildland habitat on the Western Slope (WS) and Front Range (FR) of Colorado during 2009-2011. Samples were collected from 37 bobcats and 29 pumas on the WS and FR. As predicted, age appeared to be positively related to the exposure to pathogens that are both environmentally transmitted (Toxoplasma) and directly transmitted between animals (FIV). In addition, WS bobcats appeared more likely to be exposed to Toxoplasma with increasing intraspecific space-use overlap. However, counter to our predictions, exposure to directly-transmitted pathogens (FCV and FIV) was more likely with decreasing space-use overlap (FCV: WS bobcats) and potential intraspecific contacts (FIV: FR pumas). Environmental factors, including urbanization and landscape covariates, were generally unsupported in our models. This study is an approximation of how pathogens can be evaluated in relation to demographic, social, and environmental factors to understand pathogen exposure in wild animal populations.
Collapse
|
research-article |
8 |
8 |
15
|
Kechejian SR, Dannemiller N, Kraberger S, Ledesma-Feliciano C, Malmberg J, Roelke Parker M, Cunningham M, McBride R, Riley SPD, Vickers WT, Logan K, Alldredge M, Crooks K, Löchelt M, Carver S, VandeWoude S. Feline Foamy Virus is Highly Prevalent in Free-Ranging Puma concolor from Colorado, Florida and Southern California. Viruses 2019; 11:E359. [PMID: 31010173 PMCID: PMC6521117 DOI: 10.3390/v11040359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 04/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Feline foamy virus (FFV) is a retrovirus that has been detected in multiple feline species, including domestic cats (Felis catus) and pumas (Puma concolor). FFV results in persistent infection but is generally thought to be apathogenic. Sero-prevalence in domestic cat populations has been documented in several countries, but the extent of viral infections in nondomestic felids has not been reported. In this study, we screened sera from 348 individual pumas from Colorado, Southern California and Florida for FFV exposure by assessing sero-reactivity using an FFV anti-Gag ELISA. We documented a sero-prevalence of 78.6% across all sampled subpopulations, representing 69.1% in Southern California, 77.3% in Colorado, and 83.5% in Florida. Age was a significant risk factor for FFV infection when analyzing the combined populations. This high prevalence in geographically distinct populations reveals widespread exposure of puma to FFV and suggests efficient shedding and transmission in wild populations.
Collapse
|
research-article |
6 |
7 |
16
|
Blake DJ, Graham J, Poss M. Quantification of Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIVpco) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells, lymph nodes and plasma of naturally infected cougars. J Gen Virol 2006; 87:967-975. [PMID: 16528047 DOI: 10.1099/vir.0.81450-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Infection of domestic cats with Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) results in a fatal immunodeficiency disease, similar to Human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1) in humans. Elevated plasma viral loads in domestic cats are correlated to decreased survival time and disease progression. However, FIV is also maintained as an apathogenic infection in other members of the family Felidae including cougars, Puma concolour (FIVpco). It is not known whether the lack of disease in cougars is a result of diminished virus replication. A real-time PCR assay was developed to quantify both FIVpco proviral and plasma viral loads in naturally infected cougars. Proviral loads quantified from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) ranged from 2.90 x 10(1) to 6.72 x 10(4) copies per 10(6) cells. Plasma viral loads ranged from 2.30 x 10(3) to 2.81 x 10(6) RNA copies ml(-1). These data indicate that FIVpco viral loads are comparable to viral loads observed in endemic and epidemic lentivirus infections. Thus, the lack of disease in cougars is not due to low levels of virus replication. Moreover, significant differences observed among cougar PBMC proviral loads correlated to viral lineage and cougar age (P=0.014), which suggests that separate life strategies exist within FIVpco lineages. This is the first study to demonstrate that an interaction of lentivirus lineage and host age significantly effect proviral loads.
Collapse
|
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't |
19 |
7 |
17
|
Zheng X, Carver S, Troyer RM, Terwee JA, VandeWoude S. Prior virus exposure alters the long-term landscape of viral replication during feline lentiviral infection. Viruses 2011; 3:1891-908. [PMID: 22069521 PMCID: PMC3205387 DOI: 10.3390/v3101891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2011] [Revised: 09/30/2011] [Accepted: 09/30/2011] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
We developed a feline model of lentiviral cross-species transmission using a puma lentivirus (PLV or FIVPco) which infects domestic cats but does not cause disease. Infection with PLV protects cats from CD4+ T-cell decline caused by subsequent infection with virulent feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV). Previous studies implicate innate immune and/or cellular restriction mechanisms for FIV disease attenuation in PLV-infected cats. In this study, we evaluated viral infection and cytokine mRNA transcription in 12 different tissue reservoirs approximately five months post infection. We quantitated tissue proviral load, viral mRNA load and relative transcription of IL-10, IL-12p40 and IFNγ from tissues of cats exposed to FIV, PLV or both viruses and analyzed these parameters using a multivariate statistical approach. The distribution and intensity of FIV infection and IFNγ transcription differed between single and co-infected cats, characterized by higher FIV proviral loads and IFNγ expression in co-infected cat tissues. Variability in FIV mRNA load and IFNγ was significantly more constrained in co-infected versus singly infected cat tissues. Single-infected:co-infected ratios of FIV mRNA load compared to FIV proviral load indicated that active viral transcription was apparently inhibited during co-infection. These results indicate that previous PLV infection increases activation of tissue innate immunity and constrains the ability of FIV to productively infect tissue reservoirs of infection for months, independent of FIV proviral load, supporting a model in which innate immunity and/or modulation of target cell susceptibility play a key role in PLV-induced protection from FIV disease.
Collapse
|
Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural |
14 |
5 |
18
|
Sondgeroth K, Leutenegger C, Vandewoude S. Development and validation of puma (Felis concolor) cytokine and lentivirus real-time PCR detection systems. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2005; 104:205-13. [PMID: 15734541 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2004.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/30/2004] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Studies of immune correlates of disease outcome associate humoral immune response mediated by T-helper 2 cytokines (IL-4, IL-10) with more virulent disease relative to a cell-mediated response driven by T-helper 1 cytokines (IL-2, IFN-gamma), particularly in viral and other intra-cellular infections. Specifically, the kinetics of both human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infection are closely associated with Type 1 versus Type 2 cytokine profiles. Puma (Felis concolor) lentivirus (PLV) is closely related to FIV, but based on phylogenetic and clinical studies, is more ancient and less pathogenic. The aims of this study were to validate feline real-time PCR primer/probe systems for puma cytokines and PLV as sensitive, quantitative assays for use in investigations of PLV pathogenicity. We demonstrate that primer/probe systems for IL-4, IL-10, IFN-gamma, TNF-alpha, GAPDH, and the pol region of PLV-1695 amplify puma cytokines and PLV-1695 with high amplification efficiency and sensitivity. Detection of PLV-1695 provirus in experimentally inoculated domestic cats proved to be of equivalent sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive value to co-culture of one million peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Evaluation of cytokine induction during naturally occurring PLV infection will allow insight into mechanisms of host control associated with apathogenic infection. In addition, determination of viral loads during different stages of PLV infection or in different tissues from domestic cats or pumas will further elucidate capacity of these viruses to replicate and establish infection.
Collapse
|
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S. |
20 |
5 |
19
|
Poss M, Ross H, Rodrigo A, Terwee J, Vandewoude S, Biek R. The molecular biology and evolution of feline immunodeficiency viruses of cougars. Vet Immunol Immunopathol 2008; 123:154-8. [PMID: 18295904 PMCID: PMC2490721 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetimm.2008.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) is a lentivirus that has been identified in many members of the family Felidae but domestic cats are the only FIV host in which infection results in disease. We studied FIVpco infection of cougars (Puma concolor) as a model for asymptomatic lentivirus infections to understand the mechanisms of host-virus coexistence. Several natural cougar populations were evaluated to determine if there are any consequences of FIVpco infection on cougar fecundity, survival, or susceptibility to other infections. We have sequenced full-length viral genomes and conducted a detailed analysis of viral molecular evolution on these sequences and on genome fragments of serially sampled animals to determine the evolutionary forces experienced by this virus in cougars. In addition, we have evaluated the molecular genetics of FIVpco in a new host, domestic cats, to determine the evolutionary consequences to a host-adapted virus associated with cross-species infection. Our results indicate that there are no significant differences in survival, fecundity or susceptibility to other infections between FIVpco-infected and uninfected cougars. The molecular evolution of FIVpco is characterized by a slower evolutionary rate and an absence of positive selection, but also by proviral and plasma viral loads comparable to those of epidemic lentiviruses such as HIV-1 or FIVfca. Evolutionary and recombination rates and selection profiles change significantly when FIVpco replicates in a new host.
Collapse
|
Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural |
17 |
5 |
20
|
Petch RJ, Gagne RB, Chiu E, Mankowski C, Rudd J, Roelke-Parker M, Vickers TW, Logan KA, Alldredge M, Clifford D, Cunningham MW, Onorato D, VandeWoude S. Feline Leukemia Virus Frequently Spills Over from Domestic Cats to North American Pumas. J Virol 2022; 96:e0120122. [PMID: 36374109 PMCID: PMC9749473 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01201-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a gammaretrovirus with horizontally transmitted and endogenous forms. Domestic cats are the primary reservoir species, but FeLV outbreaks in endangered Florida panthers and Iberian lynxes have resulted in mortalities. To assess prevalence and interspecific/intraspecific transmission, we conducted an extensive survey and phylogenetic analysis of FeLV infection in free-ranging pumas (n = 641) and bobcats (n = 212) and shelter domestic cats (n = 304). Samples were collected from coincident habitats across the United States between 1985 and 2018. FeLV infection was detected in 3.12% of the puma samples, 0.47% of the bobcat samples, and 6.25% of the domestic cat samples analyzed. Puma prevalence varied by location, with Florida having the highest rate of infection. FeLV env sequences revealed variation among isolates, and we identified two distinct clades. Both progressive and regressive infections were identified in cats and pumas. Based on the time and location of sampling and phylogenetic analysis, we inferred 3 spillover events between domestic cats and pumas; 3 puma-to-puma transmissions in Florida were inferred. An additional 14 infections in pumas likely represented spillover events following contact with reservoir host domestic cat populations. Our data provide evidence that FeLV transmission from domestic cats to pumas occurs widely across the United States, and puma-to-puma transmission may occur in genetically and geographically constrained populations. IMPORTANCE Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a retrovirus that primarily affects domestic cats. Close interactions with domestic cats, including predation, can lead to the interspecific transmission of the virus to pumas, bobcats, or other feline species. Some infected individuals develop progressive infections, which are associated with clinical signs of disease and can result in mortality. Therefore, outbreaks of FeLV in wildlife, including the North American puma and the endangered Florida panther, are of high conservation concern. This work provides a greater understanding of the dynamics of the transmission of FeLV between domestic cats and wild felids and presents evidence of multiple spillover events and infections in all sampled populations. These findings highlight the concern for pathogen spillover from domestic animals to wildlife but also identify an opportunity to understand viral evolution following cross-species transmissions more broadly.
Collapse
|
Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural |
3 |
2 |
21
|
Miller DL, Taylor SK, Rotstein DS, Pough MB, Barr MC, Baldwin CA, Cunningham M, Roelke M, Ingram D. Feline immunodeficiency virus and puma lentivirus in Florida panthers (Puma concolor coryi): epidemiology and diagnostic issues. Vet Res Commun 2009; 30:307-17. [PMID: 16437306 PMCID: PMC7089169 DOI: 10.1007/s11259-006-3167-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/06/2004] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
This study documents the seroprevalence of feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and puma lentivirus (PLV) in free-ranging and captive Florida panthers (Puma concolor coryi) (n = 51) and translocated Texas cougars (P. concolor stanleyana) (n = 10) from 1985 to 1998. The sera were tested for anti-FIV antibodies by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Western blot tests. The ELISAs were read kinetically (KELA) and the sera were retrospectively examined by PLV peptide ELISA. Eleven panthers and one cougar were positive by KELA; 4 panthers and 4 cougars were equivocal; 35 panthers and 5 cougars were negative; and 1 panther had no data. Seven of the 11 KELA-positive panthers were also positive by Western blot tests and all but one were positive by PLV peptide ELISA. Ten KELA-negative and Western blot-negative cats, were positive by PLV peptide ELISA. KELA results varied within cats from one sample period to the next, but PLV peptide ELISA results were consistent. Territorial sympatry and mating behaviour, noted from radiotelemetry location data on the cats, may have contributed to viral transmission between seropositive animals. These findings suggest that Florida panthers and the introduced Texas cougars have been exposed to FIV and/or PLV.
Collapse
|
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't |
16 |
2 |
22
|
Poss M, Ross H. Evolution of the long terminal repeat and accessory genes of feline immunodeficiency virus genomes from naturally infected cougars. Virology 2008; 370:55-62. [PMID: 17904608 PMCID: PMC2215318 DOI: 10.1016/j.virol.2007.08.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2007] [Revised: 06/29/2007] [Accepted: 08/21/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
FIVpco is a member of the feline immunodeficiency virus family that is endemic in wild cougar populations. Virus replication is robust in FIVpco-infected cougars but there are no consequences of infection to cougar survival, fecundity or susceptibility to other infections. Unlike pathogenic lentiviruses, there is no evidence for positive selection on FIVpco gag or env. To better understand how lentivirus genomes evolve in natural infections, we evaluated the regulatory region and accessory genes from fourteen full-length FIVpco genomes, which represent the FIVpco diversity in the Northern Rockies Ecosystem. Our data demonstrate that the two sister groups of FIVpco have each acquired binding sites for different interferon response factors (IRF). The most variable gene in the FIVpco genome encodes OrfA, although there is no indication that it, or any other accessory gene, is under positive selection. There is a single-splice acceptor site for vif expression, which is conserved among all FIVpco genomes. However, there are several putative means to express rev and orfA, which differ between the phylogenetic groups of FIVpco. Our comparative study on divergent FIVpco genomes indicates that variation in potential gene regulation mechanisms, not changes in structural proteins, characterize the evolution of FIVpco in natural infections.
Collapse
|
research-article |
17 |
2 |
23
|
Fox KA, Breithaupt A, Beer M, Rubbenstroth D, Pfaff F. Rustrela Virus in Wild Mountain Lion (Puma concolor) with Staggering Disease, Colorado, USA. Emerg Infect Dis 2024; 30:1664-1667. [PMID: 39043429 PMCID: PMC11286059 DOI: 10.3201/eid3008.240411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
We identified a rustrela virus variant in a wild mountain lion (Puma concolor) in Colorado, USA. The animal had clinical signs and histologic lesions compatible with staggering disease. Considering its wide host range in Europe, rustrela virus should be considered as a cause for neurologic diseases among mammal species in North America.
Collapse
|
Case Reports |
1 |
|