Detection and molecular characterization of infectious laryngotracheitis virus in laying hens in Brazil

Villarreal, LYBBrandão, PEBChacón, JLVDoretto Junior, LIto, NGama, NSIshizuka, MMLuchese, ABuchala, FAstolfi-Ferreira, CSFerreira, AJP

Avian Infectious Laryngotracheitis, caused by Infectious Laryngotracheitis Virus (ILTV), has been reported for decades in Brazilian laying and broiler flocks. More recently, outbreaks have occurred in São Paulo State. This study reports the application of PCR and DNA sequencing targeted to the p32 gene of ILTV using laying chicken samples from Bastos, São Paulo, Brazil. Three out of four field samples were positive by PCR. DNA sequencing of two samples evidenced homology of the amplified fragments with the p32 gene of ILTV. The results definitely confirmed the presence of ILTV in the birds during the outbreak. Further studies are needed to establish the sources of infection and to determine whether the detected virus was originated from vaccine or field virus strains.

1. p32
2. Brazil
3. PCR
4. Avian infectious laryngotracheitis
5. sequencing