Mouse Hepatitis Virus (MHV) refers to a family of enveloped, single-stranded RNA viruses that primarily infect laboratory mice, causing a wide range of diseases. MHV belongs to the Coronaviridae family and is considered a prototype member of the Betacoronavirus genus. The virus gained its name due to its initial discovery in the liver cells of infected mice, which presented inflammation that resembled human hepatitis.
MHV has a diverse genetic makeup, consisting of multiple strains or subtypes, including the well-characterized MHV-2 and MHV-3. These viruses have been extensively studied due to their ability to infect various organ systems, including the central nervous system, liver, lungs, and intestines, leading to a range of pathologies.
In mice, MHV infections can manifest as acute or chronic hepatitis, encephalitis, respiratory disease, or intestinal inflammation. Many symptoms may be observed, such as weight loss, jaundice, diarrhea, meningitis, and seizures, depending on the strain and target organs involved. MHV can be transmitted through direct contact, aerosols, feces, or contaminated fomites, making it highly contagious within mouse populations.
Mouse Hepatitis Virus is indispensable as a research tool, especially in studying viral pathogenesis, host immune responses, and developing animal models for human coronavirus infections. Although this virus predominantly affects mice and does not pose a direct risk to human health, its genetic similarities with human coronaviruses, such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS-CoV) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV), highlight its importance in advancing our understanding of these human pathogens.
