Molecular Detection and Phylogenetic Analysis of Lumpy Skin Disease Virus in Iran

BACKGROUND: Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is a significant viral disease of cattle sometimes found in Iran. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was the molecular detection of LSD virus (LSDV) and the determination of their relationship with other Iranian isolates. Moreover, the origin and spread of these viruses were evaluated. METHODS: The lymph node samples taken from clinically affected cattle from the Kurdistan province of Iran were tested for LSDV using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). RESULTS: The partial P32 gene of LSDV was detected by PCR, sequenced, and phylogenetically analyzed. The LSDVs detected in the present study were 42.98%-100% similar to other LSDVs of Iran. CONCLUSIONS: Iranian LSDV isolates in this research had the highest similarity to the isolates found in the Indian regions. However, they showed the lowest nucleotide identity with the countries located in the west and southwest of Iran, namely Turkey and Saudi Arabia LSDVs. It could be concluded that these viruses have entered Iran from the eastern borders. It seems that the monitoring of the country borders should be taken into consideration. Further studies should be carried out on LSDV pathogenesis and molecular epidemiology.