We identified a Norwalk-like calicivirus (CV) whose genome likely was derived from naturally occurring recombination. This
strain (Arg320) was detected by the EIA developed against recombinant Mexico virus (rMxV) capsids, but the viral RNA polymerase
sequence was closer to Lordsdale virus, in a separate genetic cluster of Norwalk-like viruses. A 3.3 kb cDNA from the RNA
polymerase region to the 3′ end of the genome of Arg320 was cloned and sequenced. The sequence demonstrated that the capsid
region of Arg320 shared 95% amino acid identity with MxV, but 68% identity with Lordsdale virus, while the RNA polymerase
region shared 95% identity with Lordsdale virus, but 87% identity with MxV. Pair-wise sequence comparisons identified a potential
recombination site at the polymerase/capsid junction. This is the first example of a naturally occurring recombinant in the
CV family. Further studies to search for and characterize other strains may be necessary for understanding the genetic diversity
of the family.
Received April 26, 1999/Accepted July 15, 1999