Is feline foamy virus really apathogenic

摘要: Abstract Feline foamy virus (FFV) is a retrovirus commonly found in cats. It generally thought to be apathogenic, making it suitable candidate as gene therapy vector. However, there have been reports of association FFV with chronic progressive arthritis and cofactor effect feline immunodeficiency virus. This study investigated experimental infection whether this was associated signs disease. Eight young specific pathogen free cats were inoculated intramuscularly FFV. The examined twice weekly blood pharyngeal samples taken. Haematology, biochemistry quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) performed. Tissue also collected throughout the six month period. initially detected by qPCR within first two weeks viraemia persisted study. Two peaks observed, at day 20 (80–170 FFU/ml blood) 155 (332–415 FFU/ml blood). consistently oropharyngeal after 36. Anti-FFV IgG all ELISA; antibody levels had an early peak around 35 then increased again following second rise circulating viral load. All remained clinically normal, except for one cat unrelated gingivitis. None developed pyrexia. biochemical profile cell counts normal limits persistent eosinophilia. Initial fluctuations white settled three did not deviate outside ranges. tissue contained DNA; lymphoreticular tissues, salivary gland lung highest loads. Although no gross pathological lesions on post mortem examination, histologically mild glomerulonephritis moderate interstitial pneumonia observed We conclude that during period infection, although appeared histopathological changes lungs kidneys. Further investigation significance these warranted before vector delivery.