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Genetic research

Avian Metapneumovirus in Thailand: Molecular Detection, Genetic Diversity, and Its Potential Threat to Poultry

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Researchers from Kasetsart University in Thailand have identified a significant threat to the poultry industry in the region, highlighting the molecular heterogeneity and ongoing diversification of avian metapneumovirus subtype B (aMPV/B). According to the study, the virus has a positivity rate of 34.13% in commercial poultry farms across Thailand, with two distinct lineages identified: one genetically similar to vaccine strains and another of unknown origin. The study's findings suggest that the circulating Thai aMPV/B strains likely stem from limited introduction events followed by local evolution, underscoring the need for sustained genomic surveillance and regionally tailored vaccination strategies.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study identified a positivity rate of 34.13% for avian metapneumovirus subtype B (aMPV/B) in commercial poultry farms across Thailand.
  • Two distinct lineages of aMPV/B were identified: one genetically similar to vaccine strains and another of unknown origin.
  • The circulating Thai aMPV/B strains likely stem from limited introduction events followed by local evolution.
  • The study highlights the molecular heterogeneity and ongoing diversification of aMPV/B in Thailand.
  • The researchers emphasize the need for sustained genomic surveillance and regionally tailored vaccination strategies to mitigate the threat of aMPV/B.
  • The study's findings have significant implications for the poultry industry in Thailand and the broader region.

Statistics:

  • 167 clinical samples were collected from commercial poultry farms across Thailand.
  • The positivity rate for aMPV/B was 34.13% (57/167).
  • The study identified two distinct Thai lineages of aMPV/B: one genetically similar to vaccine strains and another of unknown origin.
  • The divergence time analysis using a Bayesian framework estimated the time to the most recent common ancestor (tMRCA) of these lineages around 2006.
  • The study identified lineage-specific amino acid substitutions within the G gene, which may affect antigenic properties and immune recognition.

Sources:

  • NewsRx. Researchers from Kasetsart University Describe Findings in Metapneumovirus (Avian Metapneumovirus in Thailand: Molecular Detection, Genetic Diversity, and Its Potential Threat to Poultry). Vaccine Weekly. August 13, 2025; p 6653.
  • Kasetsart University. Avian Metapneumovirus in Thailand: Molecular Detection, Genetic Diversity, and Its Potential Threat to Poultry. Viruses, 2025,17(7):965. (Viruses - http://www.mdpi.com/journal/viruses)
  • Viruses. Publisher: MDPI AG.

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