Project Number: 3625-32000-074-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: Aug 20, 2004
End Date: Mar 19, 2007

Objective:
Investigate the genetic and biochemical characteristics of porcine circovirus that are related to virulence with the anticipated goal of applying this information towards control and prevention of PCV 2 associated diseases. Study swine influenza virus (SIV) virulence mechanisms utilizing a reverse genetics approach. Develop and validate rapid diagnostic assays for the detection of (SIV) and evaluate an adenovirus-vectored SIV vaccine in young pigs.

Approach:
Genetic analysis and gene expression of porcine circovirus (PCV) type 1 (nonpathogenic) and PCV type 2 (pathogenic) will be conducted. Comparison between these two virus types will provide insight into the virulence mechanisms of PCV type 2. Mutations of the NS 1 gene of swine influenza virus (SIV) will be done and the effect of these mutations on the virulence of SIV will be evaluated in vitro and in vivo. It is anticipated that these mutations will produce a less-virulent SIV that could be tested as a modified live vaccine. A real-time PCR assay will be developed that can detect influenza A viruses and differentiate them by hemagglutinin and neuraminidase gene subtypes. The efficacy of an adenovirus-vectored SIV vaccine will be evaluated in pigs as well as the potential for this vaccine to circumvent the negative effects of colostral antibody on vaccinating young pigs. BSL-2/BSL-2N; Recertified 10/17/06 IBC# 0244 BSL-Exempt; Recertified 10/17/06 IBC# 0254 BSL-2; Recertified 10/17/06 IBC# 0255 BSL-2/BSL-2N; Recertified 08/27/06 IBC# 0274 BSL-2/BSL-2N; Certified 03/13/06 IBC# 0279A