Molecular characterization of the type I IFN receptor in two woodchuck species and detection of its expression in liver samples from woodchucks infected with woodchuck hepatitis virus (WHV)

► The complete or partial IFNAR sequences of the two woodchuck species were obtained. ► RNA interference was performed to verify the biological functions of the IFNAR. ► IFNAR expression was significantly up-regulated by stimulation with IFN in vitro. ► IFNAR expression in liver of chronically WHV-infected woodchuck was down-regulated. ► This work provides a basis for studying type I IFN system in the woodchuck model.