PARVOVIRUS INFECTIONS OF MICE AND RATS

The recent discovery of new rodent parvoviruses indicate that the prop erties and effects of these viruses are more diverse than previously t hought. They include virus and host-dependent effects on. pathogenicit y, persistent infection, immunomodulation and oncosuppression. The div ersity and prevalence of rodent parvoviruses and their potential for i nterference with animal-based research present compelling reasons for investigating parvoviral-host interactions in vivo. Such studies shoul d also improve understanding of parvoviral biology for the benefit of both human and animal health.