[Genome analysis with restriction endonucleases recognizing 4- or 5-base pair sequences of adenovirus type 4].

PURPOSE: To ascertain the chronological change of subgenome types of adenovirus type 4 (Ad 4) through DNA analysis.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

We evaluated sixteen Ad 4 strains from patients with acute viral conjunctivitis at four eye clinics in Sapporo, northern Japan. Seven strains were obtained from December 1993 through March 1994 (first period). Nine strains were obtained from March through May in 1995 (second period). These strains were analysed using DNA restriction endonucleases recognizing 4- or 5-base-pair sequences, Taq I and Hin f I.

RESULTS

The genome type of sixteen strains was Ad 4 a. Seven strains in the first period showed the same subgenome type. Nine strains in the second period showed two subgenome types: five strains showing the same subgenome type as in the first period, and four showing a different subgenome type. The two subgenome types were similar in DNA pattern, suggesting that both were derivatives of a common subgenome type. All the sixteen strains were a new subgenome type which was different from those previously isolated during 1985-1989.

CONCLUSION

The subgenome types of Ad 4 in 1993-1995 have changed from those in 1985-1989.