The Molecular Genetic Peculiarities of Genomic Structure of Members of the <i>Ebolavirus</i> Genus

The molecular genetic peculiarities of genomic structure of the Ebolavirus genus members are viewed in the review. The Ebola virus disease outbreaks in West African countries constitute a threat not only for Africa, but for the whole world in view of possible introduction of the agent in non-endemic regions. The members of the Ebolavirus genus have different pathogenicity for humans, thus differ severity and mortality of the disease they cause. There is a significant genetic divergence among members of the Ebolavirus genus. The differences of pathogenic potential of members of the Ebolavirus genus may be explained as the result of mutations in the genes of virus structural proteins. It is possible, that some of these mutations may affect virulence of strains within one virus species. So far as most effective modern medicines for specific prophylaxis and treatment of Ebola fever are target-oriented, genotyping of the agent will promote elaboration of strategy of such preparations development

Primary Postnatal Dorsal Root Ganglion Culture from Conventionally Slaughtered Calves

Neurological disorders in ruminants have an important impact on veterinary health, but very few host-specific in vitro models have been established to study diseases affecting the nervous system. Here we describe a primary neuronal dorsal root ganglia (DRG) culture derived from calves after being conventionally slaughtered for food consumption. The study focuses on the in vitro characterization of bovine DRG cell populations by immunofluorescence analysis. The effects of various growth factors on neuron viability, neurite outgrowth and arborisation were evaluated by morphological analysis. Bovine DRG neurons are able to survive for more than 4 weeks in culture. GF supplementation is not required for neuronal survival and neurite outgrowth. However, exogenously added growth factors promote neurite outgrowth. DRG cultures from regularly slaughtered calves represent a promising and sustainable host specific model for the investigation of pain and neurological diseases in bovines