Key result
Virulent Marek's disease virus causes mortality and nerve lesions in ~50%, whereas vaccine strains cause neither.
Why the study?
The pathogenic effects and macroscopical lesions caused by virulent and vaccine strains of Marek's disease virus in chickens were not fully characterized.
Population
Day-old SPF White Leghorn chickens
Comparison
Virulent MDV strains JM and K vs vaccine strains CVI 988, HVT FC 126 and PB-THV 1 vs uninfected cells
Design
Experimental infection study with autopsy and pathological assessment
Follow-up
Up to 20 weeks
Authors
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Establishes clear pathogenicity differences in Marek's disease models; leaves open translation to enhanced poultry vaccination strategies.
Virulent Marek's disease virus strains cause significant mortality and macroscopical lesions in chickens compared to vaccine strains which are safe.
Maas et al. (1978) studied Marek's disease. Virulent and vaccine strains of Marek's disease virus vs. Uninfected cells was evaluated on Onset and duration of clinical symptoms, mortality, bird weight and macroscopical lesions. Virulent Marek's disease virus strains caused mortality and macroscopical lesions (in nerves in ~50% of birds), whereas vaccine strains caused no mortality or macroscopical lesions.
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