Viral Antigens
Product List
FeLV
Feline Leukemia Virus p27 Recombinant
Introduction
Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) is a retrovirus that infects cats, causing a range of health issues from immune suppression to cancer. It belongs to the family Retroviridae and the genus Gammaretrovirus . FeLV is classified into four subgroups: A, B, C, and T, with each subgroup having distinct pathogenic properties .
FeLV is an enveloped virus with a positive-sense single-stranded RNA genome. It relies on a double-stranded DNA intermediate for replication . The virus is primarily found in saliva, blood, urine, feces, milk, and nasal discharge . It targets the immune system, particularly the bone marrow, leading to immunosuppression and increased susceptibility to other infections .
FeLV’s primary function is to replicate within the host cells. It weakens the immune system by attacking the bone marrow, which produces infection-fighting cells . This makes it difficult for infected cats to combat even common illnesses. FeLV can also lead to cancers such as lymphoma and leukemia .
FeLV infects cats through close contact, often via saliva during grooming or biting . Once inside the host, the virus integrates its RNA genome into the host’s DNA using reverse transcriptase . This integration allows the virus to replicate and spread within the host. FeLV can cause cellular proliferation or myelosuppression, leading to immune dysregulation .
FeLV uses its reverse transcriptase enzyme to create a DNA copy of its RNA genome, which is then inserted into the host’s DNA . The virus can establish persistent infections by interfering with the host immune response, particularly through the immunosuppressive domain of its envelope glycoprotein . This allows the virus to evade the immune system and persist in the host.
FeLV has significant implications in biomedical research, particularly in understanding retroviral infections and cancer development . Diagnostic tools such as the FeLV Quant RealPCR™ Test help assess the stage of infection and inform treatment decisions . Therapeutic strategies focus on supportive care to manage symptoms and prevent secondary infections .
FeLV plays a critical role throughout the life cycle of infected cats. It can cause severe health issues from a young age, including anemia, immune suppression, and cancer . The virus’s ability to integrate into the host genome allows it to persist for the cat’s lifetime, leading to chronic health problems and reduced lifespan .
