A Highly Divergent Hepacivirus Identified in Domestic Ducks Further Reveals the Genetic Diversity of Hepaciviruses.

Hepaciviruses represent a group of viruses that pose a significant threat to the health of humans and animals. During the last decade, new members of the genus have been identified in various host species worldwide, indicating the widespread distribution of genetically diversified hepaciviruses among animals. By applying unbiased high-throughput sequencing, a novel hepacivirus, provisionally designated , was discovered in duck liver samples collected in Guangdong province of China. Genetic analysis revealed that the complete polyprotein of shares 23.9-46.6% amino acid identity with other representatives of the genus . Considering the species demarcation criteria for hepaciviruses, should be regarded as a novel hepacivirus species of the genus within the family . Phylogenetic analyses also indicate the large genetic distance between and other known hepaciviruses. Molecular detection of this novel hepacivirus showed an overall prevalence of 15.9% in duck populations in partial areas of Guangdong province. These results expand knowledge about the genetic diversity and evolution of hepaciviruses and indicate that genetically divergent hepaciviruses are circulating in duck populations in China.