Complete nucleotide sequence of Newcastle disease virus:: evidence for the existence of a new genus within the subfamily Paramyxovirinae

We have completely sequenced the genome of Newcastle disease virus (NDV) vaccine strain LaSota. The sequences of the 3'- and 5'-terminal ends of the RNA genome were determined by sequencing cDNA fragments generated by rapid amplification of cDNA ends. The entire genomic sequence, which was established by sequencing cDNA fragments generated by high-fidelity RT-PCR, consists of 15 186 nt. Comparison of the 5'-terminal sequence of NDV LaSota with the 5'-terminal sequences of ten members of the Paramyxovirinae showed that NDV LaSota has an unusually long 5' untranscribed region. Comparison of the entire genomic sequences showed that NDV is only distantly related to the other members of the genus Rubulavirus, to which NDV has been assigned. In this paper we present data which suggest that NDV should not be classified in the genus Rubulavirus, but instead should be considered as a member of a new genus within the subfamily Paramyxovirinae.