Pathogenesis of Infectious in Swine with Pathogenic Avian Influenza Viruses

Iowa State University, Ames IA

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

[unreadable] DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The objective of this project is to define the permissiveness of swine to infection with highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses and to define the specific sites, adaptability, and timing of replication of these viruses in swine. The hypothesis of this proposal is that permissiveness of swine to infection with Asian strains of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 viruses is based on level of virus exposure. The project will also define the antibody response of pigs to these viruses and assist in the development and validation of serologic diagnostic tests that can later be used in surveillance activities against introduction of these viruses to the United States. Viruses recovered from pigs infected in this project will be available for further study to evaluate mutations that may occur when these avian viruses cross the species boundary into swine. These studies will meet the criteria for RFA-CI-06-005, "Replication of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Viruses in Swine", by evaluating the degree of risk associated with infection of swine with HPAI viruses toward the appearance of pandemic influenza. The proposed studies will assess infectious dose, viral shedding, and transmissibility in swine to three different HPAI isolates. All key personnel are uniquely qualified due to their combined extensive experience working with influenza viruses in swine. The three institutions involved in this project have missions that include surveillance against foreign animal and zoonotic diseases that could have a direct impact on the health of the human population. [unreadable] [unreadable] [unreadable] [unreadable]