Project Number: 5348-32000-018-00
Project Type: Appropriated

Start Date: Oct 01, 2001
End Date: Sep 30, 2006

Objective:
Develop and improve diagnostic tests for the malignant catarrhal fever (MCF) virus group. Define the etiology and epidemiology of MCF. Isolate ovine herpesvirus 2 (OvHV-2), the sheep-associated MCF agent. Initiate studies to define the pathogenesis of clinical MCF disease. In collaboration with Washington State University and the U.S. Sheep Experiment Station, USDA-ARS, Dubois, Idaho, conduct research that will lead to the development of a vaccine to eradicate MCF from sheep and other susceptible ruminants.

Approach:
Improve the sensitivity and efficiency of the current serological test for MCF viral antibody by developing a recombinant test antigen and a direct conjugated monoclonal antibody and will develop a consensus PCR for detect MCF group viruses in ruminants by using degenerate primers targeting gene sequences that are conserved among all MCF group viruses. Define the shedding pattern of OvHV-2 from domestic sheep by using quantitative and reverse transcriptase PCR and definitively determine whether or not cattle and bison can transmit OvHV-2 to other members of their own species. Identify sites of productive viral replication in sheep and will develop an in vitro propagation system for OvHV-2. Initiate studies on MCF pathogenesis aimed at defining the phenotype and spatial pattern of cells involved in lesions, identifying primary host cells, and identifying genes that are active in initiation of MCF lymphoproliferation and inflammation. BSL1; 9/04/02. FY03 Program Increase $178,830.

Project Team

Li, Hong Taus, Naomi Knowles, Donald - Don

Project Annual Reports

FY 2003   FY 2002