Canine adenovirus type 1 antigens (CAV-1 antigens)

Canine adenovirus type 1 (CAV-1) antigens are the immunogenic proteins of the virus responsible for infectious canine hepatitis (ICH), a multi-systemic disease primarily affecting the liver, kidneys, and vascular endothelium in canids [1]. The major structural antigens include the hexon, penton base, and fiber proteins, which facilitate viral attachment to the host cell's coxsackievirus and adenovirus receptor (CAR) and subsequent internalization [2,3]. These antigens are critical targets for the host's immune system; neutralizing antibodies directed against the fiber and hexon proteins can prevent infection [3]. In clinical practice, these antigens are used in diagnostic assays to detect viral presence or exposure. While CAV-1 antigens were initially used in modified-live vaccines, their association with type III hypersensitivity reactions, such as "blue eye" (corneal edema) and interstitial nephritis, led to the widespread adoption of CAV-2 vaccines, which provide cross-protective immunity without these adverse effects [1,4].

Other names

CAV-1 antigensInfectious canine hepatitis virus antigensCanine adenovirus type 1 proteinsCAV-1 structural proteins

Vaccines containing these antigens or cross-reactive antigens (CAV-2) induce the production of neutralizing antibodies and prime the cellular immune system to recognize and eliminate the virus upon exposure [1,4].