Changes in Endogenous and Exogenous Koala Retrovirus Subtype Expression over Time Reflect Koala Health Outcomes.

ABSTRACT: Koala retrovirus (KoRV) is unique in that it exists as both an exogenous and actively endogenizing gamma retrovirus of koalas. While nine subtypes of KoRV have been recognized, focused study of these subtypes in koalas over time and with different health outcomes has been lacking. Therefore, in this study, three wild koala cohorts were established and monitored to examine KoRV proviral and expression data from koalas that either remained healthy over time, began healthy before developing chlamydial cystitis, or presented with chlamydial cystitis and were treated with antibiotics. Deep sequencing of the proviral KoRV envelope gene revealed KoRV-A, -B, -D, and -F to be the major subtypes in this population and allowed for subtype-specific assays to be created. Quantification of KoRV transcri

SUBMITTER: Quigley BL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6714790 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature