Evolution, Virulence and Pathogenesis of Viruses in Domestic Birds

Poultry is an important and economical source of protein for humans and a major source of income for farmers in most developing countries. Due to inadequate biosecurity measures and ever-increasing virus evolution, viral poultry diseases are causing huge economic losses to the industry. Key viral diseases of poultry include avian influenza, Newcastle disease, infectious bronchitis virus, and adenovirus infection amongst others. Additionally, live poultry markets, poultry products, and migratory birds have enhanced the transmission of avian viruses amongst susceptible birds, across the globe. Intriguingly, owing to vaccine-induced selection pressure and the cross-transmission of the virus between different poultry birds, the mutation of the virus is accelerated. This has further complicated the implementation of prevention and control strategies. Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen surveillance and gain molecular insights into the evolution, pathogenicity, and pathogenesis of poultry viral diseases in domesticated birds.

This Research Topic aims to focus on the epidemiology, genomic evolution, virulence, and pathogenesis of poultry viruses to alleviate disease burden and to improve prevention and control strategies against major poultry viral diseases.

We welcome submissions focusing, but not limited to, the following topics:
- Re-emerging and emerging viruses from domestic birds
- Virus evolution
- Vaccine induced mutations and vaccine escape.
- Virulence factors influencing viral diseases in domesticated birds
- Host-virus interaction and immunology