Cottontail rabbit papillomavirus (CRPV) is a viral infection that affects cottontail rabbits, which are small mammals found in North America. It belongs to the family Papillomaviridae, which includes various viruses that cause papillomas or warts in different animal species.
CRPV is specifically associated with the development of cutaneous papillomas, or benign tumors, in cottontail rabbits. The virus is transmitted through direct contact with infected animals or their lesions, and it primarily affects the skin and mucous membranes of the rabbits.
The papillomavirus has a specific affinity for keratinocytes, the main type of skin cells, and it can cause these cells to divide rapidly, leading to the formation of wart-like growths. These papillomas may vary in size and appearance, and they often develop on the ears, eyelids, nose, or feet of the infected rabbits. In some cases, they can become inflamed, ulcerated, or even secondarily infected.
Cottontail rabbit papillomavirus is generally considered to be species-specific, meaning it predominantly affects cottontail rabbits and has limited transmission potential to other species. However, the virus exhibits genetic diversity, and some strains have been found to infect other rabbit species, such as hares.
Research on CRPV has provided valuable insights into the biology of papillomaviruses and their association with the development of tumors. Additionally, studying this virus has contributed to a broader understanding of the factors influencing the transmission, pathogenesis, and treatment options for papillomavirus infections in both animals and humans.
