Agricultural Research Service

Date Issued:

October 20, 1998

Abstract:

The invention is a genetically engineered virus that can be formulated into an effective vaccine for preventing foot-and-mouth disease in cattle and swine. The DNA sequence containing the genetic information for a virus protein is removed, allowing the scientist to produce a weakened version of the virus that can be used as a vaccine. This method produces a deleted virus which is able to assemble and grow in cells in culture.

The genetically engineered foot-and-mouth disease virus induces an FMDV-specific antibody response in inoculated animals that protects them against disease. The invention can be used to combat foot-and-mouth disease which causes painful blisters on the tongue, nose or snout, and feet of livestock, which results in severe economic losses.

Inventors:

Marvin J. Grubman Foot and Mouth Disease Research Greenport, NY 11944-0848 (631) 323-3329 / Fax: (631) 323-2798 E-mail: mgrubman@piadc.ars.usda.gov	Peter W. Mason (Same as first inventor) (631) 323-3177 / Fax: (631) 323-2798 E-mail: pwmason@piadc.ars.usda.gov
Maria Elisa Piccone (Formerly with ARS)	Elizabeth Rieder (Formerly with ARS)