Porcine astrovirus: a review

Abstract

Porcine astrovirus (PAstV) is a small, non-enveloped virus of the genus Mamastrovirus within the family Astroviridae. Its genome consists of a positive-sense, single-stranded RNA of approximately 6.4-7.3 kb in length. PAstV displays considerable genetic diversity and is presently categorized into five distinct genotypes. While primarily recognized as an enteropathogen linked to varying degrees of gastroenteritis in pigs, its precise role in inducing diarrhea remains uncertain, as it has been detected in both diarrheic and healthy pigs with a similar prevalence. In addition to gastrointestinal disease, PAstV has recently been detected in pigs with respiratory and nervous disorders. The current review provides a comprehensive summary of the published literature on the PAstV genome, viral replication, epidemiology, geographical distribution, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, diagnostic methods, co-infections, and probable cross-species transmission. Furthermore, it underscores the gaps in the current understanding, serving as a valuable reference for future investigations into the PAstV.