Abstract: Objective Generation of an H9N2 avian influenza virus with reverse genetics and characterization of its replication properties in different cells. Methods Eight genes of avian influenza virus A/Quail/HongKong/G1/97(H9N2) were amplified by RT-PCR technique and inserted into the pHW2000 vectors. The recombinant virus was rescued by cell transfection and the virus replication properties were analyzed in A549, MDCK and Vero cells. Results Using eight plasmid-based reverse genetics, the recombinant Avian H9N2 influenza virus was rescued. It is observed that A549 cells were more suitable for the H9N2 virus replication than MDCK cells and Vero cells. The molecular virulence markers of the virus were also summarized with bioinformatics technology. Conclusion The eight plasmid-based reverse genetic system is successfully set up for the avian H9N2 virus. The system could not only facilitate genetic manipulation of the H9N2 virus but also provide a platform in studying the virus and developing avian influenza vaccine.

Key words: Avian influenza virus, Reverse genetics, Growth property