How to translate text using browser tools
1 June 2016 KOALA RETROVIRUS: A REVIEW
Matthew E. Kinney, Geoffrey W. Pye
Author Affiliations +
Abstract

Koala retrovirus (KoRV) is a gammaretrovirus that has been identified in both captive and free-ranging koalas (Phascolarctos cinereus) with variable geographic distribution in Australia. KoRV is capable of both exogenous and endogenous transmission, which provides an interesting research platform for scientists to study active retrovirus endogenization into a host genome and offers veterinary scientists an opportunity to examine the clinical consequences of KoRV infection in koalas. Causation between KoRV and frequently recognized clinical conditions associated with immune suppression and neoplasia in koalas has not been definitively established, however research continues to evaluate a potential association. Three KoRV variants, KoRV-A, KoRV-B, and KoRV-J, have been the most thoroughly described and preliminary evidence suggests KoRV variability may be fundamental in host pathogenicity. In addition to reviewing what is currently known about KoRV, this article discusses treatment, management, and future research directions.

Copyright 2016 by American Association of Zoo Veterinarians
Matthew E. Kinney and Geoffrey W. Pye "KOALA RETROVIRUS: A REVIEW," Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine 47(2), 387-396, (1 June 2016). https://doi.org/10.1638/2015-0185.1
Received: 17 August 2015; Published: 1 June 2016
KEYWORDS
endogenization
koala
KoRV
Phascolarctos cinereus
retrovirus
RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS
Get copyright permission
Back to Top