By comparing the pathogenicity of recPEDV-MN (with intact ORF3) with recPEDV-MN-ΔpartORF3 (with interrupted ORF3), there was no noticeable difference in any recorded parameter (viral load, clinical score, body weight, body temperature, histology, immunohistochemistry) following the infection of piglets with 104 PFU (Fig. 6). This evidence concerns the gene ASZ1 and infection.