Avian Myeloblastosis Viruses (AMVs) are a group of oncogenic retroviruses that primarily infect and cause malignancies in birds. They belong to the retroviridae family and fall under the alpharetrovirus genus. AMVs are characterized by their ability to induce the transformation and proliferation of myeloblasts, which are immature white blood cells involved in the formation of granulocytes, a type of immune cell.
The transmission of AMVs primarily occurs through horizontal transmission, where viral particles are transferred between birds through close contact, such as through respiratory secretions or contaminated surfaces. However, vertical transmission from infected female birds to their offspring is also possible.
Upon infection, AMVs can cause myeloblastosis, a condition characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation of myeloblasts in the bone marrow and spleen. This can lead to the development of solid tumors or leukemia-like cancers in affected birds, resulting in various clinical signs including weight loss, fever, anemia, and impaired immune function.
Research on AMVs has contributed significantly to our understanding of viral oncogenesis and the mechanisms underlying cancer development. AMVs have been extensively studied as model systems for investigating the molecular basis of leukemia and exploring potential therapeutic targets.
While AMVs pose a significant threat to avian health, they do not generally infect or cause disease in humans or other mammals. However, due to the potential for interspecies transmission and the risk of zoonotic infections, continuous surveillance and biosecurity measures are crucial in controlling AMV outbreaks and minimizing the risk of viral spread.
