Determining genetic diversity of prevalent G and P genotype of Bovine Rotavirus A from neonatal calves of Gujarat, India

Abstract

Importance Neonatal calf diarrhea is a major cause of mortality in newborn calves worldwide, posing a significant challenge in bovine herds. Group A Bovine Rotaviruses ( BRVA ) are the primary contributors to severe gastroenteritis in calves under two months old. Objectives This study examined the prevalence and molecular characterization of BRVA in neonatal calves in Gujarat, India. Methods Sixty-nine diarrheic fecal samples were collected and subjected to various molecular methods of BRVA detection, isolation, and characterization. Results The latex agglutination test (LAT), electropherotyping (RNA-PAGE), and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction revealed positivity rates of 39.13%, 20.30%, and 37.70%, respectively. RNA-PAGE identified 11 bands with a 4:2:3:2 migration pattern, indicative of the segmented genome of BRVA . BRVA was successfully isolated from LAT-positive samples, with 26 samples exhibiting clear cytopathic effects upon passage in MA-104 cell lines. Genotyping identified G10 as the predominant G genotype, with P[11] genotypes comprising 76.92% of the isolates. The most common G/P combination was G10P[11], highlighting its zoonotic potential. Conclusions and Relevance These findings underscore the importance of molecular detection and genotyping for effective vaccine development. This study provides crucial insights into the prevalent G and P genotypes of BRVA in Gujarat, India, aiding in the development of targeted control measures.