Detection of porcine circovirus type 3 DNA in serum and semen samples of boars from a German boar stud

Porcine circovirus type 3 (PCV3) is regularly reported in association with various clinical presentations, including porcine dermatitis and nephropathy syndrome (PDNS)-like lesions, respiratory signs, congenital tremor, and reproductive disorders. To investigate the epidemiology of PCV3 in a boar stud, we analysed fresh boar semen and matching sera from 181 boars from a German stud supplying semen for artificial insemination (AI) to approximately 740 breeder farms for PCV3 DNA. PCV3 DNA was detected in 1.7% semen samples and 24.3% sera. Spearman rho correlation demonstrated a significant positive correlation between boar age and quantitative DNA (by PCR quantification cycles [Cq] values) in serum samples (r = 0.636; P < 0.001). Sera from boars up to 12 months of age had higher viral loads (P < 0.001) and were PCV3-positive significantly more often (P < 0.01) than older boars. Detection of PCV3 DNA was not associated with breed (P > 0.05). PCV3 DNA was detected sporadically in fresh boar semen. Based on the assumption that processing fresh semen reduces viral load in semen used for AI, it is likely that the risk of sexual transmission of PCV3 during AI in is low. However, young boars may contribute to the maintenance of PCV3 infection in boar studs.

Automated summary

Porcine circovirus type 3 (PCV3) is frequently associated with various clinical presentations in pigs. Young boars are more likely to be infected with PCV3 and have higher viral loads in their blood. PCV3 DNA can also be sporadically detected in fresh boar semen.