Genomic characterization of orthobunyavirus of veterinary importance in America.

This research conducted genomic characterization of strains of Orthobunyavirus, specifically within the Bunyamwera serogroup, which were isolated in 2013 from horses with encephalitis and an aborted equine fetus in Argentina, in order to understand their genetic relation and evolutionary history.

Genomic Characterization of the Virus

The research describes the genomic characterization of three new strains of serogroup Bunyamwera virus. These were isolated from two horses suffering from encephalitis and an aborted equine fetus in Argentina in 2013. The genetic characterization process involved examining the genetic make-up of these viral strains to understand their structure and properties.

• The researchers sequenced the complete genome of these strains – the entire set of DNA, including all of its genes.
• This allows them to determine the genes responsible for the virus’s ability to infect and cause disease, and potentially identify targets for antiviral drugs.

Phylogenetic Analysis and Evolutionary History

In addition to characterizing their genomes, the researchers also carried out a phylogenetic analysis. This is a method used to infer the evolutionary relationships and history between different species (or in this case, viral strains).

• By comparing the genomes of the new strains to those of existing strains, they were able to create a ‘family tree’ for the Bunyamwera serogroup virus.
• This helps to understand how the newly isolated strains relate to previously known strains.
• Identifying the relationships between different strains of the virus can provide insight into how it may have evolved and spread, and how it might change in the future.

Overall, this research contributes to the scientific understanding of the Bunyamwera serogroup virus, particularly concerning its genetics and evolution. This has potential implications for the development of treatments and vaccines in veterinary medicine, especially for diseases affecting horses.