Bovine alphaherpesvirus 1 (BoHV-1)

Infectious bovine rhinotracheitis virus (BoHV-1) is a highly contagious, enveloped DNA virus belonging to the Alphaherpesvirinae subfamily that causes acute inflammation of the upper respiratory tract in cattle of all ages. The virus is classified into subtypes BoHV-1.1 and BoHV-1.2 based on genetic and antigenic characteristics, with BoHV-1.2 subtypes potentially showing reduced virulence. Following primary infection, the virus establishes latent infections in nerve tissue, persisting for the lifetime of infected animals and capable of reactivation under stress. BoHV-1 enters host cells through initial binding to heparan sulfate via envelope glycoproteins gB and gC, followed by fusion-mediated entry. The disease manifests with high morbidity rates during outbreaks but relatively low mortality, though it can cause secondary complications including reproductive tract disease and bacterial superinfection. This pathogen is not a therapeutic target molecule but rather the causative agent of disease; control strategies focus on vaccination and biosecurity measures rather than direct molecular targeting.

Other names

Infectious bovine rhinotracheitis virusIBR virusBovine herpesvirus 1BHV-1Infectious pustular vulvovaginitis virusIPV virusInfectious balanoposthitis virusRed-nose virus