The molecular mechanism of interaction between pathogens contributing to the exacerbation of bovine respiratory disease complex

2023 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 20K15665
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Early-Career Scientists
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Review Section: Basic Section 42020:Veterinary medical science-related
• Research Institution: Kitasato University
• Principal Investigator: YAMAMOTO Satomi 北里大学, 獣医学部, 助教 (70801364)
• Project Period (FY): 2021-02-01 – 2024-03-31
• Keywords: 牛RSウイルス / 牛呼吸器病症候群

Outline of Final Research Achievements

The presence of interaction between the respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) and bacteria was examined by the efficiency of bacterial cell adhesion with or without BRSV infection. The results revealed that BRSV infection enhances the adhesion of multiple bacterial species to cells. Furthermore, it was observed that one viral protein contributes to the enhanced adhesion in certain bacteria, which can be inhibited by the antibody against the protein. The enhancement of bacterial adhesion was not limited to specific BRSV genotypes, bacterial strains, and cell types. These findings suggest that BRSV infection may exacerbate respiratory infections in cattle caused by bacteria.

Free Research Field

ウイルス学

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

国内の飼養牛、特に肉用牛における肺炎等の呼吸器病は、ウイルス、細菌、マイコプラズマ等の混合感染と、それに様々な環境的な要因が重なって発症する複合病である。しかし、ウシの呼吸器感染症における混合感染時の重篤化の原因とその分子機構については不明な点が多い。本研究成果により、BRSV感染が複数の細菌の細胞接着を増強し、牛の常在細菌による感染症の重篤化を引き起こす可能性が強く示唆された。本研究成果を発展させその詳細な機構を解明することで、これまでに対応しきれていなかったBRDCに対する新たな治療戦略へと繋がる可能性がある。