Phylogenetic Characterization of Partial Spike Gene Sequences of Canine Coronavirus from Shelter Dogs in the Republic of Korea.

Korean shelter CCoV strains show regional genetic differentiation warranting ongoing molecular surveillance.

This molecular epidemiological study characterized canine coronavirus (CCoV) strains circulating in Korean animal shelters through phylogenetic analysis of partial spike gene sequences. Researchers analyzed 339 rectal swabs and identified 20 CCoV-I and 13 CCoV-IIa samples, with one co-infection case detected. The spike gene, critical for viral host cell recognition and immune response generation, was selected as the molecular marker for strain differentiation. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that Korean CCoV isolates demonstrated distinct sequence variations compared to globally distributed reference strains, clustering into regionally differentiated groups. This geographic genetic differentiation suggests either independent evolutionary pathways or population-specific selective pressures affecting viral evolution in Korean shelter environments. The findings establish baseline molecular data for Korean CCoV strains and emphasize the importance of continuous surveillance for detecting potential recombination events between CCoV types. Regional monitoring is particularly relevant in high-density shelter populations where viral transmission and genetic exchange may be enhanced, informing both infection control strategies and understanding of coronavirus epidemiology in canine populations.

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