Viruses (Apr 2024)

Molecular and Serological Detection of Bovine Coronaviruses in Marmots (<i>Marmota marmota</i>) in the Alpine Region

  • Ana Moreno,
  • Sabrina Canziani,
  • Davide Lelli,
  • Anna Castelli,
  • Alessandro Bianchi,
  • Irene Bertoletti,
  • Federica Maccarinelli,
  • Marco Carlomagno,
  • Matteo Paini,
  • Marzia Rossato,
  • Massimo Delledonne,
  • Stefano Giacomelli,
  • Antonella Cordedda,
  • Sandro Nicoloso,
  • Enrica Bellinello,
  • Anna Campagnoli,
  • Tiziana Trogu

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/v16040591
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 16, no. 4
p. 591

Abstract

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In this study, virological surveillance focused on coronaviruses in marmots in the Alpine region in 2022, captured as part of a population control reduction program in the Livigno area. Seventy-six faecal samples were randomly collected from marmots at the time of capture and release and tested for genome detection of pan-coronavirus, pan-pestivirus, canine distemper virus, and influenza A and D virus. Nine faecal samples were positive in the Pan-CoV RT-PCR, while all were negative for the other viruses. Pan-coronavirus positives were further identified using Illumina’s complete genome sequencing, which showed the highest homology with Bovine Coronavirus previously detected in roe deer in the Alps. Blood samples (n.35) were collected randomly from animals at release and tested for bovine coronavirus (BCoV) antibodies using competitive ELISA and VNT. Serological analyses revealed that 8/35 sera were positive for BCoV antibodies in both serological tests. This study provides molecular and serological evidence of the presence of BCoV in an alpine marmot population due to a likely spillover event. Marmots share areas and pastures with roe deer and other wild ruminants, and environmental transmission is a concrete possibility.

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