Abstract
<jats:p>This study focused on the isolation, cultural characterization, and molecular identification of bovine herpesvirus type 1 (BoHV-1) from biological samples collected in various regions of the Republic of Kazakhstan. A total of 645 samples were analyzed using PCR, and the BoHV-1 genome was detected in 44 of them. Seventeen samples with a high viral load were selected for inoculation onto Vero cell lines. Infected cells exhibited characteristic cytopathic effects, including cell rounding, detachment, and syncytium formation. Further molecular characterization was performed by amplification of specific regions of the gB gene, confirming the viral genotype and ensuring the specificity of detection. The successful isolation and propagation of the virus in cell culture indicate the suitability of the applied methodology for obtaining infectious viral material and for its further use in laboratory diagnostics. In addition, the study provides new data on the prevalence and distribution of BoHV-1 in different regions of Kazakhstan, highlighting the ongoing circulation of the virus in cattle populations. The obtained results demonstrate the effectiveness of combining molecular and virological methods for comprehensive diagnostics and confirm the importance of early detection of infected animals. The findings contribute to the understanding of the epizootic situation of infectious bovine rhinotracheitis in Kazakhstan and have significant practical implications. They can be applied to improve surveillance programs, optimize diagnostic protocols, and support the development of targeted preventive measures, including vaccination strategies. Furthermore, the isolated viral strains may serve as a valuable resource for future research, including vaccine development and molecular epidemiology studies aimed at controlling the spread of BoHV-1.</jats:p>