Murine hepatitis viruses (MHV) are a group of infectious agents that belong to the Coronaviridae family. They primarily infect rodents, such as mice and rats, causing a wide range of diseases. MHV variants have been isolated from different rodent species, but most studies have focused on MHV mouse strains.
MHV is classified into different serotypes based on their ability to cause hepatitis in infected mice. These serotypes have variable pathogenicity, with some strains causing mild or subclinical infections, while others lead to severe hepatitis and even death.
The virus primarily targets the liver and gastrointestinal tract of infected rodents. It spreads through various routes, including direct contact, aerosol droplets, and fecal-oral transmission. In rodent populations, MHV can cause outbreaks, especially in densely populated environments such as animal facilities or wildlife habitats.
Clinical signs of MHV infection in mice can vary depending on the virulence of the strain. Common symptoms include weight loss, jaundice, lethargy, and diarrhea. MHV may also cause respiratory and neurological symptoms in some cases.
Research on MHV has been crucial in the field of virology, as it serves as a model for studying the molecular mechanisms of coronavirus infection and pathogenesis. MHV shares similarities with other coronaviruses, including SARS-CoV (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) and MERS-CoV (Middle East Respiratory Syndrome).
Understanding the biology and molecular mechanisms of MHV infection is essential for the development of anti-viral drugs and vaccines against coronaviruses, including those that pose a threat to human health.
