International Journal of Molecular Veterinary Research, 2024, Vol.14, No.5, 185-193 http://animalscipublisher.com/index.php/ijmvr 185 Feature Review Open Access Dissecting the Role of Virulence Genes in ASFV: A Molecular Perspective Xiaofang Lin Tropical Animal Medicine Research Center, Hainan Institute of Tropical Agricultural Resources, Sanya, 572000, Hainan, China Corresponding author: xiaofang.lin@hitar.org International Journal of Molecular Veterinary Research, 2024, Vol.14, No.5 doi: 10.5376/ijmvr.2024.14.0021 Received: 03 Sep., 2024 Accepted: 05 Oct., 2024 Published: 16 Oct., 2024 Copyright © 2024 Lin, This is an open access article published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited. Preferred citation for this article: Lin X.F., 2024, Dissecting the role of virulence genes in ASFV: a molecular perspective, International Journal of Molecular Veterinary Research, 14(5): 185-193 (doi: 10.5376/ijmvr.2024.14.0021) Abstract This study aims to dissect the molecular mechanisms behind ASFV virulence by focusing on its genome, key virulence factors, and interactions with host immune systems. Through an extensive review of current literature, we examine the structure and replication mechanisms of ASFV, along with the identification of critical virulence genes and their roles in immune modulation, apoptosis inhibition, and pathogenesis. Special attention is given to the A179L gene, a prominent virulence factor in ASFV, through a case study that highlights its impact on immune evasion. Additionally, the study explores the genetic variation of ASFV strains, their virulence properties, and the host's resistance mechanisms. Diagnostic tools, potential biomarkers for virulence assessment, and future directions for vaccine and antiviral development are also discussed. The findings provide essential insights into the genetic and molecular factors that contribute to ASFV virulence, with an emphasis on developing more effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to control ASF outbreaks. This study anticipates further advancements in ASFV research, ultimately leading to improved public health interventions and economic stability in the swine industry. Keywords African swine fever virus; Virulence genes; Immune evasion; A179L gene; ASFV pathogenesis 1 Introduction African swine fever virus (ASFV) is a highly contagious and lethal virus affecting domestic and wild pigs, causing significant economic losses in the swine industry worldwide. ASFV is characterized by its complex multilayered structure and large genome, which encodes numerous genes involved in immune evasion and virulence (Gallardo et al., 2018; Ju et al., 2021). The virus is known for its ability to cause nearly 100% mortality in naive pig populations, making it one of the most devastating pathogens in the swine industry. Despite extensive research, no effective commercial vaccine is currently available, complicating efforts to control outbreaks (O'Donnell et al., 2015; Li et al., 2023). The global spread of ASFV has had a profound impact on the swine industry, particularly in regions such as Eastern Europe, Asia, and parts of Africa. The introduction of highly virulent strains, such as ASFV Georgia 2007, has led to widespread epizootics, severely affecting pig production and trade (O'Donnell et al., 2015; Vuono et al., 2022). The economic repercussions are significant, with losses not only in livestock but also in associated industries. Furthermore, ASFV poses a potential threat to food security and public health, as it disrupts the supply chain and increases the risk of zoonotic spillover, although ASFV does not currently infect humans (Gallardo et al., 2018; Reis et al., 2023). This study attempts to dissect the role of virulence genes in ASFV from a molecular perspective, discuss the functions and contributions of specific virulence genes such as I196L, 9GL, and MGF-360-10L, and provide an overview of their potential as targets for developing live attenuated vaccines (LAVs) and other control strategies. By examining these genes, the research seeks to understand their impact on the virus's pathogenicity and explore ways to mitigate ASFV’s effects on the global swine industry. Through detailed molecular analysis, the study aims to offer insights into the mechanisms of ASFV virulence and contribute to future vaccine development efforts.
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