Genetic identification and molecular characterization of Torque teno
neovison virus, a novel Anelloviridae of mink in China
Abstract
A novel virus, designated mink Torque teno virus (mink TTV), was
identified in mink. Mink TTV possesses a typical genomic organization
that is consistent with those of reported anelloviruses. Phylogenetic
analysis indicates that mink TTV is genetically most closely related to,
but distinct from, giant panda anellovirus and swine TTV strains. This
virus differs significantly from currently known members of the family
Anelloviridae and represents a new species. Host-specific adaptation
analysis indicates that TTVs are highly adapted to humans and primates,
and observed incongruence suggests that the emergence of mink TTV was
likely the result of a recent host switch from giant panda into mink.
Co-infection detection indicates that mink TTV can potentially enhance
the pathogenic effects of Aleutian mink disease virus and mink
circovirus to cause disease.