Molecular characterization of three Avian Infectious Bronchitis Virus isolates from Uzbekistan revealed clustering within genotypes GI-1, GI-13, and GI-23, with pronounced antigenic divergence.
Observational (n=3)
The first molecular characterization of Avian Infectious Bronchitis Virus in Uzbekistan identified GI-1, GI-13, and GI-23 genotypes, providing a reference framework for region-specific vaccination strategies.
Avian Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV) is a highly contagious Gammacoronavirus that poses a significant threat to the global poultry industry. Despite its worldwide prevalence, a critical knowledge gap exists regarding the genetic diversity of IBV in Central Asia, particularly in Uzbekistan. This study is the first comprehensive molecular characterization of IBV in Uzbekistan. This study also provides a unique and informative bioinformatic analysis of the detected strains. Three IBV strains were isolated and identified from chickens suspected of IBV infection. The isolates were identified and subjected to S1 gene sequencing, phylogenetic analysis, recombination screening, selective pressure mapping, and in silico structural and antigenic profiling. Phylogenetic inference revealed that the isolates clustered within the established genotypes GI-1, GI-13, and GI-23. Comparative alignments revealed distinct nucleotide and amino acid substitutions relative to global reference strains. The evolutionary patterns are consistent with a predominantly clonal mode of evolution. Structural modeling and B-cell epitope prediction revealed pronounced antigenic and topological divergence among the Uzbek isolates. Genotype-specific substitutions, particularly in solvent-exposed regions of the spike protein, were associated with altered epitope profiles, implying potential impacts on vaccine cross-protection. These findings contribute to current knowledge of IBV molecular characterization and provide the first reference framework for the Central Asian region. The study highlights the importance of continuous molecular surveillance, region-specific vaccination strategies, and integrated genomic monitoring for novel IBV variants.
ARDIÇLI et al. (2026) conducted an observational in Avian Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV) infection (n=3). Avian Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV) strains from Uzbekistan vs. Global reference strains was evaluated on Phylogenetic clustering and structural/antigenic profiling. Molecular characterization of three Avian Infectious Bronchitis Virus isolates from Uzbekistan revealed clustering within genotypes GI-1, GI-13, and GI-23, with pronounced antigenic divergence.