Multi-organ expression of viral entry receptor-related genes in feline fetal tissues

Abstract

Abstract Viral receptors play a key role in determining viral organ tropism and host susceptibility to infection. However, distribution of viral receptor expression across feline organs, particularly during the fetal stage, remains poorly understood. In this study, we examined the expression patterns of multiple viral receptor–related genes across fetal cat organs using quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Gene expression levels were quantified as delta cycle threshold values and analyzed using a linear mixed-effects model to account for repeated measurements from the same individual. Initial data visualization showed considerable variation in delta cycle threshold values across different organs and receptors, along with interindividual variability. Statistical analysis using mixed-effects modeling confirmed significant differences in expression patterns among organs and receptors. Notably, several receptors exhibited pronounced organ-specific expression patterns, whereas others showed broader distributions across tissues. In addition, variability among individuals was observed across organ–receptor combinations, highlighting heterogeneity in receptor expression among fetal samples. These findings indicate that viral receptor expression in feline fetal tissues is both organ-specific and subject to interindividual variation. Overall, these results provide a foundational dataset for understanding routes of viral entry and organ tropism in cats and may support future research into feline viral pathogenesis and vertical transmission.