Interspecies Transmission, Genetic Diversity, and Evolutionary Dynamics of Pseudorabies Virus

Abstract Background Pseudorabies virus (PRV) causes Aujeszky’s disease in pigs and can be transmitted to other mammals, including humans. In the current study, we systematically studied the interspecies transmission and evolutionary history of PRV. Methods We performed comprehensive analysis on the phylodynamics, selection, and structural biology to summarize the phylogenetic and adaptive evolution of PRV based on all available full-length and major glycoprotein sequences. Results PRV can be divided into 2 main clades with frequent interclade and intraclade recombination. Clade 2.2 (variant PRV) is currently the most prevalent genotype worldwide, and most commonly involved in cross-species transmission events (including humans). We also found that the population size of clade 2.2 has increased since 2011, and the effective reproduction number was >1 from 2011 to 2016, indicating that PRV may be still circulating in swine herds and is still a risk in relation with cross-species transmission in China. Of note, we identified amino acid sites in some important glycoproteins gB, gC, gD, and gE that may be associated with PRV adaptation to new hosts and immune escape to vaccines. Conclusions Our study provides important genetic insight into the interspecies transmission and evolution of PRV within and between different hosts that warrant additional surveillance. Pseudorabies virus (PRV) causes Aujeszky disease in animals, including humans. The interspecies transmission mechanism and evolutionary dynamics of PRV are currently poorly understood. Our study provides needed knowledge to understand the precise risk of PRV transmission to humans and animals.